Shows
Cinema To The LetterToy Story - Full Franchise [Cinema To The Letter Patreon Unlock]
You've got a Full Franchise in me! For Cinema To The Letter's bonus podcast for this month, you can hear Thomas & Bryan's Full Franchise discussion of the Toy Story franchise in honor of the first film's 30th anniversary! Listen as our duo answers the crucial questions. How did Pixar innovate animation by debuting the first computer animated film? Who is our favorite Toy Story side character? What is up with the Best Original Song Academy Award? Well, put down your Buzz Lightyear & Woody for a second so you can listen to find out!
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2025-11-252h 55Cinema To The LetterUniversal Monster Drive-In Special [Patreon Unlock]To celebrate 100 years of Universal Monsters, this Halloween is going with a classic spooky Patreon unlock! Hear Bryan and Thomas celebrate the spooky season back in 2023 with a little drive-in marathon of some classic Universal Monster films! All of which Bryan saw for the first time! Listen to their live reactions to all five films (Dracula, Frankenstein, Bride of Frankenstein, The Wolf Man & Frankenstein Meets The Wolf Man) as well as the other entries in the Universal Monster canon.
oin our Patreon for $1 to hear monthly audio reviews of new releases which you can vote on at p...
2025-10-281h 44Cinema To The LetterSpaced 25th Anniversary Retrospective [Patreon Unlock]
Cinema To The Letter covering... television? These MOOD SWINGS! As the show proper remains on hiatus, hear this special Patreon unlock bonus podcast from last year where Thomas & Bryan discuss Spaced! Hear them discuss both seasons of this acclaimed cult show while answering the crucial questions. How much of the future work of Edgar Wright & Simon Pegg can be seen in Spaced? Does the geeky satire of the turn of the millennium still hold up today? Will this bonus podcast just be bad British accents? Tune in to find out!
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2025-09-291h 58Cinema To The LetterFantastic Fox (2009) - A for Atypical Animation
No, we're not cussin' with you. It's a new episode of Cinema To The Letter! Specifically, the A for Atypical season finale for our Animation season in which Thomas, Bryan and returning guest Torrey Depina of [marco polo]: An Adult Swim Podcast to discuss Wes Anderson's Fantastic Mr. Fox! Together, our trio will answer the crucial questions. Do we take Wes Anderson for granted? Why does Fantastic Mr. Fox evoke the fall season so well? What witchcraft is responsible for making stop motion puppets have the ability to cry? Well, get in your motorcycle with a sidecar and crank...
2025-08-122h 32Cinema To The LetterNausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984) - M for Masterpiece Animation
What's that gliding into your podcast feeds? It's a new episode of Cinema To The Letter! Join Thomas and Bryan as they discuss the M for Masterpiece choice for their animation season: Hayao Miyazaki's Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind! Together, our duo will answer the crucial questions. Why is this such an underrated work in the Hayao Miyazaki canon? Can the great anime debate of subs or dubs finally be settled? Who will promise an airship in every home if elected? Well, listen in while riding on top of that Ohm bug to find out!
2025-08-052h 33Cinema To The LetterMars Needs Moms (2011) - E for Egregious Animation
Mars Needs Moms, but does Cinema To The Letter need Mars Needs Moms? No. The answer is no. To explain why, hear Bryan, Thomas and special guest Adam Sirdoreus of the Films for Breakfast podcast discuss a disastrous flop that was so E for Egregious it destroyed an entire form of animation! Together, our trio will answer the crucial questions. Why is director/writer Simon Wells the most unique nepo baby in history? Can this fully motion capture style animated movie ever make a comeback? Have we found the worst movie ever covered on the podcast? Well...
2025-07-292h 40Cinema To The LetterTurning Red (2022) - N for New Animation
A new episode of Cinema To The Letter? AWOOOGA! Our animation season continues as Thomas & Bryan discuss the N for New choice of the Pixar film Turning Red! Together, they'll answer the crucial questions. How have Pixar films evolved into the 2020s? Why does this Chinese Canadian story of female coming of age set in 2002 feel so universal? Which dawn of the millennium boy band is the stand out of the era? Well, find your center while listening to this episode so you can transform from a red panda to find out!
Jacob...
2025-07-222h 24Cinema To The LetterThe Secret of NIMH (1982) - I for Indie Animation
Don't scurry too far away from the super intelligent rats of CINEMA To The Letter! As their animation season continues, Thomas & Bryan welcome animation enthusiast Joey Hamilton to discuss Don Bluth's debut feature The Secret of NIMH! Together, our trio will answer the crucial questions. Why is the story of Don Bluth filled with tragic irony? How has The Secret of NIMH helped influence modern animation weirdos? What is the shark of the field? Well, listen to this episode while you're trying to move a cinderblock mouse house so you can find out!
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2025-07-152h 17Cinema To The LetterFantasia (1940) - C for Classic Animation
Cinema To The Letter: A Symphony of Sight and Sound... well mainly just sound. To kick off the animation season, Bryan, Thomas and returning guest Jael Peralta discuss the Walt Disney anthology musical film Fantasia in the longest regular episode of the show yet! Together, they'll answer the crucial questions. How much of a diva is Mickey Mouse on set? Has our understanding of dinosaurs really changed that much in 85 years? Why do the thoughts of Jael Peralta not necessarily reflect the thoughts of Cinema To The Letter? Well, make sure you're listening to this episode in...
2025-07-082h 56Cinema To The LetterCinema To The Letter Season 10: Animation Line Up!For this bonus episode, Thomas & Bryan announce their line up for Season 10: Animation!
Join our Patreon for $1 for monthly bonus episodes and the chance to vote for new podcasts at patreon.com/cinema2letter! Follow us @cinema2letter on socials! Artwork by Michelle Kyle! Music by Burial Grid! We’re a proud member of the TalkFilmSociety podcast network!
2025-07-0115 minCinema To The LetterBest In Show (2000) - A for Atypical SNL Vehicle
Are your paws up and ready for a new episode of Cinema To The Letter? To wrap up their SNL Vehicle Season, Thomas & Bryan dive into the world of dog shows, improvised comedy & mockumentary film with Best In Show! Together, our duo will answer the crucial questions. Does the modern comedy world owe Christopher Guest everything? Who stands out amongst this incredible cast? Which of our two hosts actually has two left feet? Well, grab Busy Bee while you head out to the show floor & listen to find out!
Too Many Tapes' video...
2025-05-062h 08Cinema To The LetterBilly Madison (1995) - M for Masterpiece SNL Vehicle
If listening to podcasts is cool, then we're Cinema To The Letter! For the M for Masterpiece slot for SNL Vehicle season, Thomas, Bryan and special guest Scott Johnson are here to discuss the ultimate kick off for the infamous Adam Sandler Billy Madison! Together, our trio will answer the crucial questions. Did Adam Sandler help kill the studio comedy? What makes Billy Madison stand out amongst other comedies in the 30 years since it was released? Is it too damn hot for a penguin to be running around here? Well, put down that copy of The Puppy...
2025-04-292h 16Cinema To The LetterBewitched (2005) - E for Egregious SNL Vehicle
Prepare for Cinema To The Letter to cast a spell on you! As our SNL Vehicle season reaches the E for Egregious episode, Thomas & Bryan are joined by comedian Sierra Layko to discuss the forgotten disaster Bewitched! Together, our trio will answer the crucial questions. How can Will Ferrell be so miscast during the height of his star career? What did this film from the late great Nora Ephron lack from her much better romcoms? Why is this the only time we'll ever see Nicole Kidman wearing a bucket hat? Well, hop on your broomstick and fly...
2025-04-222h 00Cinema To The LetterBarb and Star Go To Vista Del Mar (2021) - N for New SNL Vehicle
Even if we're only halfway through our SNL Vehicle season, it's time for Cinema To The Letter to go on vacation! For the N for New episode, Thomas & Bryan are discussing the Kristen Wiig broad comedy Barb & Star Go To Vista Del Mar! Together, our duo answer the crucial questions. What makes Kristen Wiig stand out amongst other SNL veterans turned movie stars? Why can't we see more broad comedy films like Barb & Star Go To Vista Del Mar on a big screen? Can the seagulls hear our prayers? Well, hop on that banana boat and glide...
2025-04-152h 26Cinema To The LetterThe Blues Brothers (1980) - C for Classic SNL Vehicle
It's 106 miles to Chicago, we got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it's dark and we're starting a new season of Cinema To The Letter! Yes, it's time to hit it as Thomas & Bryan kick off their new season on Saturday Night Live Vehicles with the first film ever based on a SNL sketch The Blues Brothers! Together, our duo will answer the crucial questions. How have the comedic stylings of Dan Aykroyd & the late John Belushi aged in the half a century since their SNL debuts? How does the casual maximalist style...
2025-04-012h 11Cinema To The LetterBest Movie Monsters March Madness [Patreon Preview]It's March so Cinema To The Letter is getting into the Madness! Every March on the Cinema To The Letter Patreon, Thomas & Bryan devote a massive bonus episode to a March Madness bracket related to a movie topic. To coincide with this year's Patreon drop for the Best Movie Action Sequence, we're releasing last year's March Madness bracket where Thomas, Bryan, Lili Labens, Chrishaun Baker & John Patterson determine the Best Movie Monster on the main feed! Listen in to find out who wins!
Join our Patreon for $1 for monthly bonus episodes (including this year's March...
2025-03-253h 47Cinema To The LetterMonty Python's Life of Brian (1979) - A for Atypical Criterion
Cinema To The Letter encourages you to - even in the worst of times - always look on the bright side of life! To close out the Criterion season, Thomas, the non-Messiah Bryan and very special guest Jael Peralta discuss the out-of-print spine entry that still counts as part of the collection Monty Python's Life of Brian! Together, our trio will answer the crucial questions. Who is their favorite Monty Python member? Why must Criterion selections go out of print? Which zany comedies should become part of the Criterion Collection? Well, grab your gourd or shoe (whichever...
2025-01-212h 35Cinema To The LetterGame of Death (1978) - E for Egregious Criterion
Following a holiday hiatus, Cinema To The Letter kicks back into action! Continuing with their Criterion season, Bryan & Thomas discuss the egregious choice Game of Death! Together, our duo answers the crucial questions. How much does the final version of Game of Death differ from the late Bruce Lee's original vision? Why does this action movie feature so many boring people talking in boardrooms? Did Bruce Lee roll in his grave at turbine speeds when Game of Death was released? Well, listen in as you put on your best yellow jumpsuit and scale that pagoda full of murde...
2025-01-071h 56Cinema To The LetterPerfect Days (2023) - N for New Criterion
Seems like a perfect day to listen to Cinema To The Letter! The Criterion season reaches the halfway point as Thomas & Bryan discuss Wim Wenders' N for New film Perfect Days. Together, they'll answer the crucial questions. How vital is it to protect one's physical media collection? What newer films would they most want to be added to the Criterion Collection? Which Marvel character would make the best post-credit poem reader? Well, put away your cassette player so you can listen to find out!
Join our Patreon for $1 for monthly bonus episodes and...
2024-12-171h 43Cinema To The LetterAll About My Mother (1999) - I for Indie Criterion
Nothing brings a child and mother closer than listen to Cinema To The Letter together! Actually, maybe mom doesn't need to listen with you. Regardless, it's time to hear Thomas, Bryan special guest Manish Mathur of Bollywood Drafts discuss the I for Indie film for this Criterion themed season All About My Mother! Together, our trio answers the crucial questions. What makes the films of Pedro Almodovar so special? How can female representation be complex compared to Strong Female Character™ archetypes? Why are the vibes at a sex worker fire pit so immaculate? Well, look both ways be...
2024-12-102h 14Cinema To The LetterPlaytime (1967) - C for Classic Criterion
Cinema To The Letter: the perfect podcast to listen to while you're stumbling through a steel French hellscape! To kick off their Criterion season, Thomas, Bryan and special guest Megan Robinson are looking at the classic film from director Jacques Tati Playtime! Together, our trio answers the crucial questions. How do Americans pronounce Jacques Tati? Does this message of modernization break the barriers of language and time? How much money does Mr. Bean owe Monsieur Hulot? Well, don't drop your phone into that Greek pillar garbage can so you can listen to find out!
2024-12-032h 07Cinema To The LetterCinema To The Letter Season 8: Criterion Announcement Lineup [Bonus Episode]The home video distribution company The Criterion Collection is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year so Cinema To The Letter is devoting a season to it! Listen in as Thomas & Bryan reveal all six of the films they'll be devoting episodes to from The Criterion Collection!
Join our Patreon for $1 for monthly bonus episodes and the chance to vote for new podcasts at patreon.com/cinema2letter! Follow us @cinema2letter on the socials! Artwork by Michelle Kyle! Music by Burial Grid! We’re a proud member of the TalkFilmSociety podcast network!
2024-11-2623 minCinema To The LetterGhostwatch (1992) - A for Atypical Ghosts
To end their ghost movie season and ring in Halloween, Cinema To The Letter is going truly Atypical. Thomas, Bryan and special guest Emily Slade of the Why This Film Podcast are breaking all the rules of cinema by covering the infamous feature length BBC TV special Ghostwatch! Together, our trio will answer the crucial questions. How did Ghostwatch get banned from British TV for decades while becoming a cult classic? What would the American equivalent of something this unique? Can a podcast itself become an unholy seance? Well, tune in "live" and listen to this episode...
2024-10-292h 07Cinema To The LetterThe Others (2001) - M for Masterpiece GhostsIf you're stuck inside away from the sun and alongside ghosts, nothing will lift your spirits like our newest episode of Cinema To The Letter! For the Masterpiece pick of their Ghosts season, Thomas is introducing one of his favorite films of all time to Bryan: The Others! Together, our duo answers the crucial questions. Why has Nicole Kidman endured all this time? Where did this international crew get their fog guy from? Does heartbreak feel good on a podcast like Cinema To The Letter? Well, light a lantern and listen to this episode to find out!
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2024-10-222h 01Cinema To The LetterCasper (1995) - E for Egregious Ghosts
We've had enough spooky ghosts this season on Cinema To The Letter. Let's meet a friendly one! For the E for Egregious pick, Thomas & Bryan are discussing the very 90s family film adaptation of Casper! Together our duo answers the crucial questions. Is Casper perhaps too friendly? Which cut of Apocalypse Now do the Ghostly Trio prefer? What is with these weird ass cameos? Well, prepare to be resurrected by the Lazarus Machine so you can complete your unfinished business of listening to this episode so you can find out!
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2024-10-151h 51Cinema To The LetterThe Night House (2021) - N for New Ghosts
The house isn't playing tricks on you. This is the N for New episode of Cinema To The Letter's Ghost season! Bryan and Thomas take a look at The Night House, a haunting tale of loss and unpleasant revelations for Rebecca Hall! Together, our duo answers the crucial questions. Why do they consider themselves "Rebecca Hall-ics"? Has the modern age of "Elevated Horror" become stale? How does director David Bruckner recreate the terror of looking over your shoulder at a shape? Well, sit right next to The Nothing on your couch and listen in to find out!
2024-10-081h 51Cinema To The LetterInsidious (2011) - I for Indie Ghosts
What's that behind you? It's the newest episode of Cinema To The Letter! Thomas & Bryan are continuing their Ghosts spooky season with their I for Indie choice of James Wan's Insidious alongside special guest LT! Together, our trio answer the crucial questions. How loving can two parents be if they forget about 2/3rds of their kids? Why is Lin Shaye everyone's horror aunt? How can we keep track of all these comedy stars and horror Barabaras? Well, grab your lantern and enter The Further as you listen to find out!
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2024-10-012h 23Cinema To The LetterHouse on Haunted Hill (1959) - C for Classic Ghosts
How do you kill time while spending the night in a haunted house? By listening to the season premiere of Cinema To The Letter! To kick off their Ghost season, Thomas, Bryan and returning guest Lili Labens will discuss the C for Classic film House on Haunted Hill! Together, our trio will answer all the crucial questions. Who actually deserves the prize money? What makes the premise of House on Haunted Hill so ingeniously simple? How does Vincent Price mange to keep all his scares in check? Well, avoid that walking skeleton so you can listen in...
2024-09-241h 50Cinema To The LetterStarman (1984) - A for Atypical Hard Sci-Fi
What's that waiting in the sky? It's a new episode of Cinema To The Letter! To wrap up their Hard Sci-Fi season, Thomas & Bryan are discussing a very A for Atypical film for hard sci-fi, director John Carpenter and Academy Award nominated performances: Starman! Together, our duo answers the important questions. Why does Bryan prefer this to most fish out of water stories? Do any of John Carpenter's scores have a love theme? How is one Starman cast member directly responsible for one of the greatest moments in cinematic history? Well, grab yourself a slice of dutch...
2024-08-202h 10Cinema To The LetterDeja Vu (2006) - M for Masterpiece Hard Sci-Fi
Are we experiencing Deja Vu? Nope because this is a brand new Cinema To The Letter! For the M for Masterpiece episode of their Hard Sci-Fi season, Thomas & Bryan are joined by special guest Yonathan Habtemichael to discuss Tony Scott's 2006 sci-fi thriller Deja Vu! Together, our trio will answer the crucial questions. Why is Deja Vu a crucial fulcrum point for the career of Denzel Washington? What happened to Paula Patton? Should a sequel to Deja Vu exist just for the perfect sequel title? Well, listen to this episode from four days in the future to find...
2024-08-132h 20Cinema To The LetterI, Robot (2004) - E for Egregious Hard Sci-Fi
There are three laws in podcasting... but we forgot all of them in the adaptation process. For the E for Egregious pick of Cinema To The Letter's Hard Sci-Fi season, Thomas, Bryan & returning guest Adam Thomas are discussing the disastrous Will Smith android thriller I, Robot! Together, our trio answers the crucial questions. Why did Hollywood break director Alex Proyas? What ridiculous lengths can Will Smith go through to save a cat? How much can one adapt something "suggested by" the work of Isaac Asimov? Well, lace up your Coverse and try to run to your device...
2024-08-061h 59Cinema To The LetterCrimes of the Future (2022) - N for New Hard Sci-Fi
Art takes guts, especially in a plastic soaked nightmare future! For the N for New episode of this season's Hard Sci-Fi theme, Thomas & Bryan are discussing the latest film from David Cronenberg Crimes of the Future! Together, they'll answer the crucial questions. How does an older filmmaker truly embody modern era dread? What animal is Kristen Stewart channeling through her unique performance? Which flavors do plastic bars come in? Well, sit back in your weird digestion bone chair and listen to find out!
Join our Patreon for $1 for monthly bonus episodes and the...
2024-07-302h 11Cinema To The LetterHigh Life (2019) - I for Indie Hard Sci-Fi
In space, no one can hear you scream "CINEMA TO THE LETTER!" For their Hard Sci-Fi season's I for Indie episode, Thomas & Bryan are looking to the stars as they cover Claire Denis' very strange version of an interstellar thriller High Life! Together, our duo answers the crucial questions. How does High Life capture the experience of living in our modern world? Why does Robert Pattinson pick the weirdest projects to be in? Will Andre 3000 get to know what's going inside that peculiar box? Well, head toward that wormhole in your practical spaceship while you listen to...
2024-07-232h 19Cinema To The LetterThe Andromeda Strain (1971) - C for Classic Hard Sci-Fi
Alert! Alert! There's a new season of Cinema To The Letter starting! To kick off our Hard Sci-Fi season, Thomas, Bryan and special guest Kaycee Jarrard are looking back at a true C for Classic of the subgenre The Andromeda Strain! Together, our trio will answer the crucial questions. How integral was heavy smoking to the success of character actors back in the 1970s? Was 6'9" author Michael Crichton too tall to fit in a locker as a nerdy teen? Will we ever return to the beauty of dot matrix printers? Well, use one of those robot...
2024-07-162h 06Cinema To The LetterCinema To The Letter Season 6: Hard Sci-Fi Lineup Announcement [Bonus Episode]
Nothing says "Hot Summer" like "Hard Sci-Fi"! For the upcoming 6th season of Cinema To The Letter, Thomas & Bryan are covering films within the hard sci-fi subgenre. That is to say, science fiction films with a more grounded version of traditional sci-fi concepts. Listen to this bonus episode as they announce all six films they will cover for their latest season!
Join our Patreon for $1 for monthly bonus episodes and the chance to vote for new podcasts at patreon.com/cinema2letter! Follow us @cinema2letter on the socials! Artwork by Michelle Kyle! Mu...
2024-07-0921 minCinema To The LetterGodzilla vs Hedorah (1971) - A for Atypical Godzilla
Godzilla has fought many kaiju, but can he handle one made of smog and sludge? Cinema To The Letter will find the answer as Thomas & Bryan wrap up their Godzilla season with the very A for Atypical choice of Godzilla vs Hedorah! Together, they'll answer the crucial questions. What does Godzilla do in his off time? How weird is this compared to other totally normal films in the later Showa era of Godzilla? Does combining environmental horror and kid's show aesthetics in one film work? Well, prepare to Save The Earth so you can listen to this...
2024-05-282h 01Cinema To The LetterGodzilla, Mothra and King Ghidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out Attack (2001) - M for Masterpiece Godzilla
Giant monsters demand giant titles! The penultimate entry in our Godzilla season sends Thomas & Bryan into the dawn of the new millennium as they cover Godzilla, Mothra and King Ghidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out Attack! Together, they'll answer the crucial questions. How did the Millennium Era of Godzilla reinvent the King of the Monsters and his kaiju buddies for the 21st century? Why did Baragon get left out of this massive title? Would Godzilla make an effective divorce lawyer? Well, stop trying to take pictures of that cute kaiju so you can survive to listen now!
2024-05-212h 05Cinema To The LetterGodzilla vs Mothra (1992) - E for Egregious Godzilla
Godzilla using his atomic breath is the exact kind of flame that attracts moths. Specifically Mothra! As Cinema To The Letter continues to celebrate Godzilla's 70th anniversary, Thomas, Bryan and special guest Chris Luciantonio are here to discuss the 1992 film Godzilla vs Mothra! Together, they'll answer all the crucial questions. What separates Godzilla's late 20th century Heisei era from the classic Showa era? Does this kaiju film have anything to say about the environment in a totally subtle fashion? How fun are ferris wheels once they smack you upside the head thanks to a giant moth monster...
2024-05-142h 05Cinema To The LetterGodzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024) - N for New Godzilla
First Godzilla & King Kong were fighting. Now? They're "x"-ing! For this episode of Cinema To The Letter, Thomas & Bryan discuss Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire as the brand N for New pick for their Godzilla season! Together, our duo answers the crucial questions in spoilery detail. How has the American Monsterverse treated Godzilla, King Kong and their kaiju friends? Why is one of the best movie stars of our time Dan Stevens trapped in mediocre blockbusters? Does Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire confirm the King of the Monsters' status as an honorary Italian? Well...
2024-05-072h 16Cinema To The LetterGodzilla Minus One (2023) - I for Indie Godzilla
Godzilla Minus One equals A Great Movie! That's the kind of math we appreciate at Cinema To The Letter ! Yes, as our Godzilla season's I for Indie pick (don't worry, we explain in the episode) we're covering the recent Academy Award winning sleeper hit from the franchise! Join Thomas, Bryan & special guest Mel Glenn Gore as they answer all the crucial questions. Why did Godzilla Minus One become such a beloved hit? What makes this version of the great kaiju so distinctive? How can anyone compete with director Takashi Yamazaki & his special effects crew's Oscar night Godzilla...
2024-04-302h 06Cinema To The LetterDestroy All Monsters (1968) - C for Classic Godzilla
Godzilla is turning 70, so it's about time we finally try to Destroy All Monsters! As the legendary kaiju reaches this milestone, Cinema To The Letter is looking at six different Godzilla films for this brand new season! This episode, Thomas, Bryan and special guest Bill Mulligan discuss the 9th film to feature Godzilla known as Destroy All Monsters, in which the big G shares the screen with fellow kaiju Mothra, Anguirus and King Ghidorah amongst others! Together, our trio asks the important questions about this C for Classic pick. How was this the ultimate culmination of what...
2024-04-232h 06Cinema To The LetterCinema To The Letter Season 5: Godzilla Lineup Announcement [Bonus Episode]The King of the Monsters is the king kaiju of Cinema To The Letter! For their upcoming fifth season, Cinema To The Letter hosts Thomas & Bryan are tackling their first franchise: Godzilla! That's right, Cinema To The Letter is celebrating this legendary movie monsters' 70th birthday with a full season devoted to covering Godzilla films. Which six Godzilla films will fit the typical acronym programming of Classic, Indie, New, Egregious, Masterpiece and Atypical? Tune into this special bonus episode to find out!
Join our Patreon for $1 for monthly bonus episodes and the chance to vote f...
2024-04-1619 minCinema To The LetterRango (2011) - A for Atypical Won 1 Oscar
It's the last round up for this season of Cinema To The Letter, cowpokes! To close out the Won 1 Oscar season, Bryan, Thomas & special guest Saveydro discuss the unlikely Best Animated Feature winner Rango as their A for Atypical choice! Together, our trio answers the crucial questions. How does Rango stick out in the modern animated film landscape? Why is Gore Verbinski such a visionary filmmaker? Who is the true Spirit of the West? Well, lasso up yourselves some ugly cute critters and have them listen along with you to find out!
Join...
2024-02-272h 16Cinema To The LetterMichael Clayton (2007) - M for Masterpiece Won 1 Oscar
Do we look like we're negotiating? No, we look like we're listening to the latest episode of Cinema To The Letter! For this episode, hosts Thomas & Bryan are joined by special guest Matt Curione to discuss 2007's Michael Clayton as the M for Masterpiece pick of their Won 1 Oscar season! Together, our trio answers the crucial questions. How weird is it that Tilda Swinton won her Oscar for this not-so-weird role? What did director/writer Tony Gilroy bring from Michael Clayton to his eventual Star Wars TV show? How much does Tom Wilkinson make you want to...
2024-02-201h 46Cinema To The LetterThe Greatest Show On Earth (1952) - E for Egregious Won 1 Oscar
Step right up for The Greatest Podcast On Earth! This week, Cinema To The Letter examines the 1952 Best Picture The Greatest Show on Earth, one of the more infamous winners of the biggest Academy Award about life at the circus as the E for Egregious pick for their Won 1 Oscar season. Together, our duo Thomas and Bryan answer the crucial questions. Why did this inspire a young Steven Spielberg to become a filmmaker? How bad can old school rear screen projection get? Where would we be without the keen insights of Buttons, A Clown? Well...
2024-02-131h 41Cinema To The LetterAnother Round (2020) - N for New Won 1 Oscar
Cheers to a new episode of Cinema To The Letter! This week, Thomas & Bryan cover the N for New pick for their Won 1 Oscar season: the 2020 Best International Film winner Another Round! While those Academy Awards might be a blur, the exploits of Mads Mikkelson and his bros attempting to stay consistently inebriated is an incredibly entertaining watch worth looking back at! Together, our duo answer the crucial questions. How does Another Round pull off one of the best endings in modern cinematic history? Why is Mads Mikkelson so uniquely hot? Can dudes both rock and not...
2024-02-061h 50Cinema To The LetterEternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004) - I for Indie Won 1 Oscar
Did you forget there's a new episode of Cinema To The Letter? Don't worry, it's still here for you to discover! For the I for Indie pick for their Won 1 Oscar season, Thomas & Bryan are joined by Lili Labens to remember the 2004 sci-fi romantic drama Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind! Together, they'll answer the crucial questions. Why is screenwriter Charlie Kaufman the king of "Dude Are You Okay" cinema? What made sad clown Jim Carrey perfect for this role? Where did Hollywood lose sight of Michel Gondry's talents? Well, stop dancing around in your underwear and...
2024-01-301h 40Cinema To The LetterRashomon (1950) - C for Classic Won 1 Oscar
No matter what perspective you're following, there's no denying that a new season of Cinema To The Letter has started! To kick off their awards focused Won 1 Oscar season, Thomas, Bryan and special guest John Patterson discuss Rashomon! This C for Classic pick from director Akira Kurosawa won the initial version of what is now known as Best International Feature Academy Award and would lead of an incredible run of acclaimed masterpieces from Kurosawa. Together, our trio answers the crucial questions. Can we find an empirical truth in this cruel world? Why are early Oscar...
2024-01-231h 32Cinema To The LetterCinema To The Letter Season 4: Won 1 Oscar Lineup Announcement [Bonus Episode]
There's Oscar buzz abound and that means Cinema To The Letter is returning for a new season! This time, hosts Thomas and Bryan are looking at six films that have Won 1 Oscar! That's right; this selection is not just Best Picture winners or any of the other major categories. All of them won (at least) one Academy Award in any category! Listen in to find out which specific films will be covered!
Join our Patreon for $1 for monthly bonus episodes and the chance to vote for new podcasts at patreon.com/cinema2letter! F...
2024-01-1613 minCinema To The LetterReturn to Oz (1985) - A for Atypical Disney
We're not in Kansas anymore here on Cinema To The Letter! For the final episode in their Disney season, Bryan and Thomas discuss a truly A for Atypical film from this family friendly studio. While Return to Oz was aimed at a family audience, the intensity of its fantasy imagery was so decried upon release that Oscar winning editor Walter Murch never got to direct a film again. However, does that mean Thomas and Bryan dislike this infamous film from the studio? What separates this L. Frank Baum adaptation from the most famous Oz film of all...
2023-12-261h 41Cinema To The LetterThe Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) - M for Masterpiece Disney
Hi ho and happy holidays from Cinema To The Letter! To get into the festive mood during their Disney season, Bryan and Thomas are dedicating an episode to The Muppet Christmas Carol! Thomas is a lifelong Muppet fan while Bryan hadn't seen a Muppet film until earlier this year. The results may fill you with the spirit of the holiday season! Together, they'll answer the crucial questions. How does this A Christmas Carol adaptation and its Scrooge as played by Michael Caine stick out from the many others? What does the future hold for Jim Henson's Muppets...
2023-12-192h 08Cinema To The LetterTomorrowland (2015) - E for Egregious Disney
There's a great big beautiful tomorrow shining through the end of this episode of Cinema To The Letter! For the E for Egregious pick of the Disney season, Thomas, Bryan and special guest Shakyl Lambert are discussing the 2015 Disney flop Tomorrowland! Yet, not everyone thinks that Brad Bird's live action folly is all that bad! Together, our trio answers the crucial questions. Was this the last of a bygone era for Disney blockbusters? Why is Tomorrowland not on Disney+ in the US? Does donning a baseball cap magically deage you ten years? Well, grab your pin and...
2023-12-121h 58Cinema To The LetterGuardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023) - N for New Disney
The dog days are over. And by "dog days" we mean "days without a new episode of Cinema To The Letter!" For the N for New pick on their Disney series, Bryan and Thomas are discussing the very fresh Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3! Or rather, they discuss their complicated relationships with the Marvel Cinematic Universe as a whole in contrast to their absolute love for the final entry in James Gunn's trilogy at length. Together, our duo answers the crucial questions. What does the future hold for the current rocky status of the MCU? Did we...
2023-12-052h 37Cinema To The LetterClerks (1994) - I for Indie Disney
Unlike some other folks who won't stop talking, Cinema To The Letter IS supposed to be here today! Specifically, Thomas, Bryan and special guest Torrey Depina are here to discuss Clerks! Yes, despite the raunchy independent nature of Kevin Smith's directorial debut, this does fit the Disney season given Miramax was a Disney subsidiary at the time of release. Loopholes, we love'em! Especially as it allows Thomas and Torrey to introduce Bryan to Smith's filmography! Together, our trio answers the crucial questions. Do the three films with Clerks in the title work as a trilogy without other...
2023-11-282h 28Cinema To The LetterSleeping Beauty (1959) - C for Classic Disney
Cinema To The Letter has awoken from its sleep to start Season 3! Bryan and Thomas are kicking off their Disney season with a true C for Classic: Sleeping Beauty! The ambitious animated masterwork that Walt himself envisioned as his daring opus... before he lost interest in favor of his theme parks. However, Thomas and Bryan are here to ask the important questions about this legendary title in the Disney library. How technologically daring was this for animation history? Is this the underrated MVP of the Disney animation canon? Who is the pettiest Disney villain of all? Well...
2023-11-212h 04Cinema To The LetterBONUS: Cinema To The Letter Season 3 Disney Lineup AnnouncementCinema To The Letter is opening the gates for season 3! This time, Thomas and Bryan are getting magical to coincide with Disney's 100th anniversary! Starting November 21st, our two heroes will start covering six Disney films that fit the acronym of C for Classic, I for Indie, N for New, E for Egregious, M for Masterpiece and A for Atypical. Listen in to find out which ones!
Join our Patreon for $1 for monthly bonus episodes and the chance to vote for new podcasts at patreon.com/cinema2letter! Follow us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook! Artwor...
2023-11-1417 minCinema To The LetterThe Exorcist III (1990) - A for Atypical Horror
Happy Halloween from Cinema To The Letter! For this All Hallow's Eve finale to the horror focused Season 2, Thomas, Bryan and special guest Chrishaun Baker have gathered to discuss a very atypical choice of The Exorcist III! Directed by the original Exorcist book/screenwriter William Peter Blatty, this sequel features a serial killer possessing spirit, George C. Scott bellowing and one of the greatest jump scares of all time! Together, our trio answers the crucial questions. Is the theatrical or director's cut of this film better? Which horror villain are they leaving milk and cookies out for...
2023-10-312h 18Cinema To The LetterLet The Right One In (2008) - M for Masterpiece Horror
Watch out for those vampires, kids! For the penultimate episode of their horror season, Bryan and Thomas are taking a look at the 2008 Swedish vampire film Let The Right One In! Together, our duo answers the crucial questions about this modern masterpiece. How do children deal with loneliness? Is Sweden secretly purgatory on Earth? Why does this very serious movie spark many dumb tangents in this episode? Well, take a dip in your heated indoor pool to escape the snow and listen to this episode on your portable radio to find out!
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2023-10-242h 05Cinema To The LetterWish Upon (2017) - E for Egregious Horror
If you wished for a new Cinema To The Letter episode, your wish came true! For the fourth episode of their horror season, Thomas, Bryan & special guest Siobhan Irving are here to discuss the 2017 horror film Wish Upon, a story about magic, death and everything the teens would use an evil music box to bring into existence. Together, our trio answers the crucial questions. What truly makes a film "so bad it's good"? Is the evil music box the greatest modern villain of our time? Which kind of hot sauce best describes a person at peak attractiveness...
2023-10-171h 24Cinema To The LetterSkinamarink (2023) - N for New Horror
Skinamarink is one of the more divisive horror films of 2023. Audiences think it's either a lot of boring long shots of dark hallways or a lot of terrifying long shots of dark hallways. Luckily, Thomas and Bryan are here to set the record straight on Kyle Edward Ball's surreal sleeper hit! Together, our duo answers the crucial questions. What makes for a truly scary horror film? Why did the TikTok generation latch onto this 90s set experimental horror film? Which classic toy deserves more film roles? Well, turn on your box CRTV and listen to this while...
2023-10-101h 24Cinema To The LetterPhantasm (1979) - I for Indie Horror
Cinema To The Letter continues its horror season with the surreal indie darling Phantasm! Joining Bryan and Thomas to discuss this legendary film is former Double Edged Double Bill host and big BOY in his own right Adam Thomas! Together, our trio answers the crucial questions. Why did this very odd movie spawn a long running franchise? What exactly is in those silver balls? How does one survive "the mortician's place"? Well, wipe that mustard colored blood off your hands and step into that dimensional gateso you can listen to find out!
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2023-10-031h 52Cinema To The LetterBlack Sabbath (1963) (C for Classic Horror) - Cinema To The Letter Season 2 PremiereThe Halloween season is fast approaching, so Cinema To The Letter is getting spooky for their next batch of films! Thomas and Bryan kick off their horror themed curation with Mario Bava's anthology film Black Sabbath! Three tales of terror that feature phone based stalkers, Slavic vampires and eerie corpses out to seek their vengeance. Together, our duo answers the crucial questions. What does Boris Karloff mean to the youths? How much did American censorship affect this Italian film's western release? Can Thomas get his ancestors rolling in their graves over his pronunciation of Italian names? Well, watch out...
2023-09-261h 35Cinema To The LetterBONUS: Cinema To The Letter Season 2: Horror Lineup Announcement
Cinema To The Letter is opening the curtain for season 2! This time, Thomas and Bryan are getting spooky to coincide with the Halloween season! Starting September 26th, our two heroes will start covering six horror films that fit the acronym of C for Classic, I for Indie, N for New, E for Egregious, M for Masterpiece and A for Atypical. Listen in to find out the specific films!
Join our Patreon for $1 for monthly bonus episodes and the chance to vote for new podcasts at patreon.com/cinema2letter! Follow us on Instagram, Twi...
2023-09-1213 minCinema To The LetterLast Action Hero (1993) (A for Atypical Blockbuster)
The summer is winding down, so it's time for a close to the Cinema To The Letter's inaugural season on Blockbusters! Thomas, Bryan and their first ever special guest Marcelo J. Pico are here to talk all about the blockbuster to end all action hero runs Last Action Hero! Arnold Schwarzenegger's meta take on the films that created him was met with box office and critical disappointment 30 years ago, but that's not the take of our trio! Together, they'll answer all the crucial questions. How did Arnold Schwarzenegger take this hit? What is up with John McTiernan's...
2023-08-152h 15Cinema To The LetterWho Framed Roger Rabbit (1988) (M for Masterpiece Blockbuster)While a toon and a human try to solve a murder mystery, Bryan and Thomas are here to watch a modern masterpiece of a blockbuster! Yes, the penultimate episode of Cinema to the Letter's Blockbuster mini-series is all about the 1988 Robert Zemeckis film Who Framed Roger Rabbit! Together, our duo answers the crucial questions. Why could Disney only make this film at this specific time? How did Bob Hoskins manage to talk to invisible folks? What is the modern legacy of the Looney Tunes? Well, take Merry Go Round off the record player so you can listen to find...
2023-08-082h 11Cinema To The LetterVan Helsing (2004) (E for Egregious Blockbuster)Sure, Van Helsing can face off against the greatest monsters of all time. However, what can he do against the powers of a terrible script and hideous CG? Thomas and Bryan are here to find out for the fourth episode of their Blockbuster mini-series all about Stephen Sommers' egregiously bad summer 2004 flop Van Helsing! Together, our duo will answer the crucial questions. Could a Dark Universe ever work? How did Shrek clearly influence Van Helsing's visual aesthetic? Who else goes as hard as Richard Roxburgh? Well, stake that vampire through the heart with your crossbow so you can listen...
2023-08-011h 39Cinema To The LetterTenet (2020) (N For New Blockbuster)
While we're still in the radiant glow of Oppenheimer, let's look back at Christopher Nolan's last film Tenet! Together, Thomas and Bryan will answer the crucial questions. Was a global pandemic the only thing that doomed Tenet? What makes a great "vibes" movie? Will Christopher Nolan ever get back with Warner Bros after their relationship with the ultimate toxic boyfriend David Zaslav? Well, put on this episode while you're moving backwards to listen and find out!
Join our Patreon for $1 for monthly bonus episodes and the chance to vote for new podcasts at p...
2023-07-251h 36Cinema To The LetterBlair Witch Project (1999) (I For Indie Blockbuster)
Cinema To The Letter continues the Blockbuster mini-series with the next letter in C.I.N.E.M.A.: I for Indie! Specifically, Bryan and Thomas are covering 1999's very profitable summer blockbuster The Blair Witch Project! Together, our duo answers the crucial questions. What is scary about The Blair Witch Project? How real can found footage horror feel? Should every horror film have a Scooby-Doo parody? Well, don't go on a hike in the woods and just listen to this podcast inside to find out!
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2023-07-181h 42Cinema To The LetterJaws (1975) (C For Classic Blockbuster) - Cinema To The Letter Series Premiere
Welcome to the inaugural episode of the new podcast Cinema To The Letter! To start their Blockbuster mini-series, hosts Thomas and Bryan discuss the C for Classic that kicked off the first ever summer movie season: Steven Spielberg's Jaws! Together, our duo answers the crucial questions. How did young Steven Spielberg ever survive this production? Does the shark still look fake? Which cast members are true salty sea dogs? Well, prepare for the adventure of a lifetime by sinking your Jaws into this episode to find out!
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2023-07-111h 30Cinema To The LetterBONUS: Best Movie Villain March Madness 2021 (From Behind the Patreon Paywall)
Unfortunately, due to recording schedule issues there is no new regular episode of Double Edged Double Bill this week. However, rather than release nothing this week, we decided to release a bonus podcast from behind the paywall of our Patreon on the main feed! Said bonus episode is 2021's March Madness bracket podcast breaking down the best movie villain! Joining our regular hosts Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani are returning guests Shakyl Lambert, Kaycee Jarrard and Caitlin Turner! Listen for all the chaos that will follow!
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2022-03-243h 07Cinema To The Letter167: Jean-Claude Van Damme Is a Timecop with a LionheartFolks, you better practice your splits because this week Double Edged Double Bill is covering Jean-Claude Van Damme films! Yes, Adam and Thomas are looking at two films starring the Muscles from Brussels that speak to all the charming weirdness of his action star persona. First, Van Damme travels to the past with a sweet mullet in Timecop! Then, Van Damme proves he has the heart of a lion and the buttocks of a very fit Belgian in Lionheart! Together, Adam and Thomas answer all the crucial questions. What made Van Damme stick out from other 90s action heroes...
2021-07-271h 27Cinema To The Letter121: Adam Sandler Is Punch Drunk JackHappy Birthday Adam Sandler! From his Saturday Night Live roots to his modern Netflix stardom, there's a much more nuanced comedic journey to the Sandman than most folks would give him credit for. In honor of the comedic powerhouse turning 54 this week, Adam, Thomas and special guest Scott Johnson are taking a look at his highly contested career. First, the gang takes a look at Adam Sandler turning to the dramatic for the first time in Paul Thomas Anderson's Punch Drunk Love. Then, the boys drag their feet through the cinematic low of Jack & Jill. Together, our trio answers...
2020-09-081h 23Cinema To The Letter115: Kathryn Bigelow Gets to the Point Break at Zero Dark ThirtyGrab your surfboards and hang ten with Double Edged Double Bill! Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani take a look at two films from eclectic director Kathryn Bigelow. First, Thomas' good pick of Point Break in which Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze have a sweaty action packed bromance on the beach. Then, Adam's bad pick of Zero Dark Thirty that has Jessica Chastain hunt down Osama Bin Laden in true procedural fashion. Together, our duo answers the important questions. Is Gary Busey ever really acting? Does every Italian watch The Sopranos? Which films will be chosen for next week's episode o...
2020-07-141h 18Cinema To The Letter113: E.T. Lands in CasablancaWith July 4th fast approaching, Double Edged Double Bill is looking at films on the American Film Institute's Top 100 Movies List! Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani bring along returning extra terrestrial guest Kaycee Jarrard to discuss two classic films and whether or not they deserve their stature within the AFI's list. First, Thomas hails the classic adventure, thrills & romance on display in the good pick Casablanca. Then, Adam rages on about his highly controversial bad pick E.T. The Extra Terrestrial. Together, our trio answers crucial questions. Is Humphrey Bogart a fashion icon? What new sound effect from Ben Bu...
2020-06-301h 30Cinema To The Letter88: Best and Worst Films of the 2010s Part 2: Sorry To Bother You With Winter's TaleDouble Edged Double Bill is ringing in the new year with another look back at films of the 2010s! Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani bring along returning guest Kaycee Jarrard to talk an odd double feature as well as counting down their own lists! First up is Winter's Tale, a bad pick where eternal Colin Farrell fall in love while Russell Crowe as a Popeye demon chases after him! Then Sorry to Bother You, a good pick that takes Lakeith Stanfield through a surreal satiric journey with a mind blowing twist! Our trio has so many questions to answer...
2020-01-071h 35Cinema To The Letter87: Best and Worst Films of the 2010s Part 1: The Fanatic of HerThe end of the decade is oncoming. So, Double Edged Double Bill is finishing it with a two part bang! Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani will spend two episodes on the best and worst of the decade. This will include their traditional one good movie and one bad movie as well as their first ever lists! First up is Adam's bad pick of The Fanatic, in which his mortal enemy John Travolta plays a horror fan with boundary issues to unintentionally silly effect. Then Thomas' good pick Her, where Spike Jonze predicts the future of A.I., romance and...
2019-12-311h 36Cinema To The Letter86: The Irishman Finds Serenity In 20192019 is ending, but Double Edged Double Bill wants the last word! Joining Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani is film writer Brianna Zigler to talk two very divergent films from this strange year. First up is the bad pick Serenity, a thriller where Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway realize they may just be playthings in a boring game! Then, the good pick - as chosen by our listeners - The Irishman in which Martin Scorsese examines mob culture and reveals the sad lonely existence it leads to. So fun for the whole family! Plus, our trio answers all sorts of...
2019-12-261h 20Cinema To The Letter83: Holmes and Watson Investigate a Deathtrap MysteryThe game is afoot on Double Edged Double Bill! Inspector Thomas Mariani and Dr. Adam Thomas are on the case investigating two mystery films in honor of Knives Out. First is the bad film Holmes and Watson, a comedy that has mysteriously misplaced its laughs. Then the good film Deathtrap, which throws so many twists at us that one's neck may snap. This prompts our duo to ask many questions. What does Will Ferrell do with his career now? Does Batman run Halliburton? Which two films will they discuss on next week's Disney+ episode? Well stick around before a...
2019-12-031h 09Cinema To The Letter73: Kevin Smith Preaches the Dogma of Yoga HosersGiven Jay & Silent Bob Reboot is near, Adam Thomas & Thomas Mariani dedicated a Double Edged Double Bill to Kevin Smith! Special guest Rafe Telsch of the new podcast Have Not Seen This joins in to talk about all things View Askew! First is Thomas' good pick Dogma, where mixing religious commentary with dick jokes feels natural. Then there's Adam's bad pick of Yoga Hosers, which is the target of universal loathing... except for one of the three people on this episode! Plus, our trio answers the important questions. Is Kevin Smith responsible for this show existing? Is there a...
2019-09-241h 30Cinema To The Letter72: Sylvester Stallone Pays Cash to Tango in Cop LandWith Rambo: Last Blood oncoming, Double Edged Double Bill is doing an episode about Sylvester Stallone! First, Adam & Thomas cover the good pick Cop Land, showing Sly's nuances as an actor. Then, our duo talk the "bad" pick Tango & Cash, where Stallone and Kurt Russell give 1980s excess a grand finale. Together, Adam & Thomas connect the Stallone Cinematic Universe, honor Harvey Keitel keeping it in his pants & pick the films for next week's episode on Kevin Smith! So sit in your cop car and get ready to listen to us while you tango!
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2019-09-181h 06Cinema To The Letter69: Why Don't Vampire & Frankenstein Girls Play Nice In Hell?This week, Double Edged Double Bill is discussing two bizarre films from Japan. First is Thomas' good pick Why Don't You Play In Hell, which combines renegade filmmaking & yakuza ultraviolence to hilarious effect! Then, Adam's bad pick of Vampire Girl Vs. Frankenstein Girl where ultraviolence is the least offensive thing on this film's mind. Together, our heroes paint a house gore red, reveal a tragic origin story involving Meow Mix and pick the films for next week's episode on the late Rutger Hauer. So grab your Japanese to English dictionary and interpret the meaning as you listen in!
2019-08-271h 15Cinema To The Letter68: 1999 - The Year of Ghost Dog Days1999 was a major year for film. Plenty of beloved blockbusters and future cult classics came from this final year in the 20th century. Now, Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani are here to talk two films from this iconic year in cinema with special guest Lance Langford of The Horror Returns podcast! For the good feature, Adam picked Jim Jarmusch's Ghost Dog: Way of the Samurai which features Forest Whitaker fighting the mob with a katana in the chillest way possible. Then, Thomas' bad pick End of Days in which Arnold Schwarzenegger fights the devil in the most baffling way possi...
2019-08-201h 22Cinema To The Letter67: Cate Blanchett in An Ocean of 8 HannasCate Blanchett is one of our greatest working actresses. So in honor of her new film Where'd You Go Bernadette, Double Edged Double Bill hosts Adam Thomas & Thomas Mariani are covering a double bill of two films from her varied filmography. First up is Adam's bad pick Ocean's 8, the heist film spin off which sparks mild disagreement between our duo over how it qualifies for "bad." Then our discusses Thomas' good pick Hanna, the action/fairy tale that displays Cate's talents at deception, manipulation and unspecific Southern accents. So put on your most fabulous outfit and give it a lis...
2019-08-131h 03Cinema To The Letter66: Guillermo del Toro Presents Don't Be Afraid of the CronosDouble Edged Double Bill is dedicating an entire episode to visionary filmmaker Guillermo del Toro! Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani are joined this week by del Toro super fan Alejandra Gonzalez to talk two diverse films from the prolific writer/director/producer. First up is their good feature Cronos, Guillermo del Toro's sparse directorial debut that showcased his love of genre, family & Ron Perlman early on. Then, their bad feature Don't Be Afraid of the Dark, which del Toro only wrote & produced... which shows. Together, our trio are stunned by the amount of puns they can dish out, are hor...
2019-08-071h 04Cinema To The Letter64: Quentin Tarantino Presents A Death Proof Jackie BrownQuentin Tarantino doesn't make films too often. So, to celebrate the release of Once Upon a Time In Hollywood this week, Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani are looking back at the influential filmmaker's filmography with special guest Christian Alvarez! First up is their good pick Jackie Brown, which our trio praises as underrated and nuanced. Then, there's much debate over how bad their bad feature Death Proof is, a highly stylized tribute to 70s exploitation that may be too faithful to its influences. Together, our trio answers all the important questions. Is Jackie Brown peak De Niro face? Is Death Pr...
2019-07-231h 27Cinema To The Letter63: The Island of Dr. Highlander - Films Worth RemakingHollywood keeps remaking movies that don't need to be remade, like a photorealistic The Lion King remake we're getting this week. So, for this week's Double Edged Double Bill, Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani are suggesting two films that would be worth a new take! First up is Highlander, the fantasy action film that Thomas argues could benefit from better action and less miscasting of Frenchmen playing Scottish. Then, Adam argues the 1996 version of The Island of Dr. Moreau has the definitive version of a classic story with a less ego & more empathy for animal/human hybrids. Together, our duo tr...
2019-07-161h 08Cinema To The Letter62: Goonies R Not Good Enough for Strange Days - Overrated vs Underrated Part DeuxAfter their last excursion into the world of overrated & underrated cinema, Adam Thomas & Thomas Mariani are returning to spark controversy with their hot takes on Double Edged Double Bill yet again! This time, the duo is joined by guest Desmond Peel of the Desmond's Flicks Podcast and YouTube channel for this strange randomly decided double header. First up, Adam's underrated choice of Strange Days, the Kathryn Bigelow film where she got the villain of Schindler's List to play a VR used car salesman. Then, Thomas' overrated choice of The Goonies, which will likely send an angry mob of '80s kid...
2019-07-091h 24Cinema To The Letter61: Replicas of Us in 2019 So Far2019 has hit the halfway mark and Double Edged Double Bill is celebrating with a good and not-so-good film from the first six months of the year! First up, Adam Thomas' bad pick that the listeners voted for is Replicas, the Keanu Reeves film from 2019 no one wants to bring up in his modern Keanu-ssance. Then, our good feature that was Thomas Mariani's choice is Jordan Peele's second feature Us, in which Lupita Nyong'o leads a strong double header cast to scary heights. Together, Adam & Thomas wonder how Keanu relates to today's Cardi B obsessed youth, highlight the aristocratic nature of...
2019-07-021h 07Cinema To The Letter57: 50 Shades of Evil Within Troubled ProductionsMaking films can be rough. Budgets inflate, personalities clash, directors are on meth. Movie magic doesn't come easy. That is exactly what Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani are dissecting this week on Double Edged Double Bill! This week, in honor of X-Men: Dark Phoenix shambling to theaters following a delays & reshoots, it's all about films with troubled productions. First up, our good feature The Evil Within, a horror film that took 15 years of production while being made by reclusive billionaire and meth addict Andrew Getty. Then, our bad feature is 50 Shades of Grey, the massively popular yet universally loathed erot...
2019-06-041h 15Cinema To The Letter56: Godzilla vs Ghidorah: All Kaiju Revenge ParadeWith Godzilla: King of the Monsters stomping into theaters this week, Double Edged Double Bill is covering a bizarre kaiju two-fer. Adam Thomas, Thomas Mariani and returning guest Sam Brutuxan are here two discuss two films featuring the massive lizard. First up is the good feature Ghidorah the Three Headed Monster, in which Godzilla, Rodan and Mothra tag team to defeat the titular tri-headed dragon while a princess from Venus is chased by assassins. Then the bad feature Godzilla's Revenge, in which a young boy dreams of hanging out with Godzilla and his son while he is kidnapped from his...
2019-05-281h 10Cinema To The Letter54: Keanu Reeves Is Tai Chi DraculaDouble Edged Double Bill is doing an episode about Keanu Reeves in honor of John Wick Chapter 3 Parabellum coming out? Whoa! Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani bring back returning guest & massive Keanu stan Heather Thomas on to talk two films in Mr. Reeves' extensive and varied filmography. First up is our good feature Man of Tai Chi in which Keanu took his first stab as a director while playing a Bond villain running an underground fighting ring in China. Then, our "bad" feature is Bram Stoker's Dracula, a film all three of our hosts really like... but will fully admi...
2019-05-141h 21Cinema To The Letter52: Marvel Cinematic Universe Will Ragnarok Your Iron, ManWe're all still in the glow of Avengers Endgame blowing our minds (no spoilers here, so don't worry). Yet, there's another major finale to focus on: the end of the first year of Double Edged Double Bill! To celebrate 52 straight weeks of episodes, Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani are returning to the subject of the very first episode with the Marvel Cinematic Universe alongside special guest Ryan Corderman! The good feature for our trio is Thor Ragnarok, the third Thor film that radically reinvented the Thor character by making him fun. Then our "bad" feature is the highly divisive Iron...
2019-04-301h 28Cinema To The Letter51: Escape from Inside Llewyn Davis: A Redemption SongBy the very nature of Double Edged Double Bill's format - in which Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani each have two films & have one from those pairs selected as the good and bad portion of a double feature - many potential films from previous episodes are left by the wayside. Given they've passed the 50 episode mark, our duo has decided to give two previous losers of the draw a chance at the spotlight. First the good feature is Inside Llewyn Davis, Thomas' alternative choice from their Coen Brothers episode. Then the bad feature is Escape from L.A., Adam's al...
2019-04-231h 04Cinema To The Letter46: Nothing But PrestigeAre you watching closely? Do you see double? Well, you certainly are seeing Double Edged Double Bill's new episode! Given Jordan Peele's new film Us is coming out this week, Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani are covering a double header of films where actors play multiple roles. Our good film is Christopher Nolan's The Prestige, in which both Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale play dual roles while dueling with each other in the world of stage magic. Then, our bad feature is Nothing But Trouble, in which Dan Aykroyd directs himself and John Candy in multiple roles for an uni...
2019-03-191h 20Cinema To The Letter39: Avatar of the Hunter - Overrated vs. UnderratedWhile the picks on Double Edged Double Bill tend to be subjective, we've reached a new level with this week's episode. Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani have each picked a film they consider overrated and underrated respectively. The first film is Thomas' underrated film The Night of the Hunter, the 1955 thriller that inspired many a filmmaker yet isn't well known by the general public. Then, the discussion turns to Adam's overrated pick Avatar, the massive highest grossing movie of all time... that's left little cultural impact. Plus, where RL Stine ripped off his story structure, the supervillain origin story of...
2019-01-291h 08Cinema To The Letter38: Star Trek - Wrath of GenerationsThis week, our captains Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani are going where no man has gone before: the Star Trek film franchise! Alright, plenty of Trekkers have been here before, but not our intrepid crew of the USS Double Edged Double Bill! Beaming aboard is returning guest and actual Trekker Kaycee Jarrard who will school Adam and Thomas as they venture into this double bill. First is the good feature Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, which may be so good that it broke the potential of all Trek films to follow. Then, our bad feature is Star Tr...
2019-01-221h 14Cinema To The Letter34: Fatal GoldmemberDouble Edged Double Bill is getting super serious about silliness for the last episode of 2018! Adam Thomas, Thomas Mariani and returning guest Heather Thomas are here to laugh with and at two spoof films in "honor" of the Will Ferrell vehicle Holmes and Watson in theaters! First up is our good feature Fatal Instinct, where comedy legend Carl Reiner takes the early 90s erotic thriller genre down a peg. Then our trio settles in for the bad feature Austin Powers In Goldmember, where Mike Myers mugs as four characters for the third entry in the comedy franchise. All this plus...
2018-12-231h 14Cinema To The Letter27: Barton Fink, You Ladykiller - A Coen Brothers FilmNeed a Coen fix? We got you, Brothers. In honor of The Ballad of Buster Scruggs coming to Netflix soon, Double Edged Double Bill is doing an episode about the Coen Brothers. Our good feature is 1991's Barton Fink, in which every genre blends together as a writer gets writer's block. Our bad feature is their 2004 remake of The Ladykillers, which may not be as bad as some say, though it leaves a lot to be desired. Adam Thomas and Thomas Mariani appreciate all of the Coen Brothers nuances displayed in both films, but also examine how Joel and Ethan...
2018-11-061h 10
Engaging MissionsPartnerships in Missions: How to be Flexible and Humble, with Gena Thomas – EM204Resources & Contact InfoPre-Trip Planning Form + Application (Free Appendix A download from A Smoldering Wick)Partnership Analysis (Free Appendix D download from A Smoldering Wick)Get more of the appendices from A Smoldering Wick by Gena ThomasWalking with the Poor by Bryant MyersA Smoldering Wick by Gena L ThomasWebsite: genathomas.comTwitter: @genaLthomasFacebook: @genaLthomasEmail: connect@genathomas.comShow LinksFacebook: @engagingmissionsMessenger: @engagingmissionsTwitter: @engagingmissionLeave a VoicemailBecome a PatronListen for Free
2017-08-0938 min
Engaging MissionsHow to Hunger and Thirst for Justice in a Community, with Gena Thomas, Author of A Smoldering Wick – EM161Many approach missions and aid work from the foundation of charity. Gena Thomas shares how the foundation of justice is better. Listen for practical tips and powerful concepts to make your next missions trip better.Subscribe to the Show: https://engagingmissions.com/subscribeLearning to seek justice for a community can be extremely messy, but also beautiful and balanced. Gena Thomas joins us to talk about pursuing right relationships with short-term missions and missions in general. The topics throughout the episode come primarily from her new book, A Smoldering Wick, which focuses on charity versus j...
2016-10-1940 min