Tonya Wershow - Podcast Details

Shows

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 57: The Set-UpFor this week’s episode, we watch a very early Robert Wise film, The Set-Up! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because the episode is full of spoilers. The film is available on streaming on iTunes, Vudu, Google Play, and YouTube. If you want to read the poem that this movie was based on, you can enjoy “The Set-Up” by Joseph Moncure March right here. Please also join us again on May 7th, when we take a brief detour into comedy with To Be or Not to Be!

2018-04-2130 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 56: Berlin ExpressFor this week’s episode, we visit bombed-out postwar Germany with Berlin Express! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because the episode is full of spoilers. The film is readily available on streaming on iTunes, Vudu, Google Play, and YouTube. Please also join us again on April 21st, when we follow Robert Ryan to The Set-Up! Berlin Express (1948) Rating: 6.8/10 (3,732 votes)Director: Jacques TourneurWriter: Harold Medford, Curt SiodmakStars: Merle Oberon, Robert Ryan, Charles KorvinRun...

2018-04-0738 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 55: The Third ManFor this week’s episode, we visit one of the great British noir films, The Third Man! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we spoil the heck out if it. The film is readily available on streaming on Netflix, iTunes, Vudu, Google Play, YouTube, and Amazon. Please also join us again on February 21st, when we watch another WWII aftermath noir, Berlin Express! The Third Man (1949) Rating: 8.1/10 (187,102 votes)Director: Carol ReedWriter: Graham Greene, Orson Welles, Alexander Korda...

2018-02-0749 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 54: Rear WindowFor this week’s episode, we conclude our Jimmy Stewart series as we view Hitchcock’s delightful Rear Window! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because there be spoilers ahead. The film is readily available on streaming on Google Play, YouTube, iTunes, Vudu, and Amazon. Please also join us again on February 7th, when we talk about the amazing British classic, The Third Man! Rear Window (1954) Rating: 8.5/10 (538,306 votes)Director: Alfred HitchcockWriter: John Michael Hayes, Cornell WoolrichStars: Ja...

2018-01-2443 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 53: Winchester ’73For this week’s episode, we continue with our Jimmy Stewart series as we visit Anthony Mann’s noir-western, Winchester ’73! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because there be spoilers ahead. The film is readily available on streaming on Google Play, YouTube, iTunes, Vudu, and Amazon. Please also join us again on January 21st, when we return with an episode about Rear Window! Winchester '73 (1950) Rating: 7.6/10 (22,648 votes)Director: Anthony MannWriter: Robert L. Richards, Borden Chase, Stuart N. LakeStars...

2018-01-0756 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 52: Call Northside 777For this week’s episode, we launch into a Jimmy Stewart series, starting with Call Northside 777! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we spoil things. The film is readily available on streaming on Google Play, YouTube, iTunes, and Amazon. Please also join us again on January 7th, when we return with an episode about Winchester 73! Call Northside 777 (1948) Rating: 7.4/10 (10,721 votes)Director: Henry HathawayWriter: Jerome Cady, Jay Dratler, Leonard HoffmanStars: James Stewart, Richard Conte, Lee J. Cob...

2017-12-2242 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 51: Body HeatFor this week’s episode, we delve into Lawrence Kasdan’s steamy 80’s thriller, Body Heat! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because don’t care about spoilers. The film is readily available on streaming on Amazon, iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu. Please also join us again on November 21st, when return with an episode about Call Northside 777! Body Heat (1981) Rating: 7.4/10 (41,610 votes)Director: Lawrence KasdanWriter: Lawrence KasdanStars: William Hurt, Kathleen Turner, Richard CrennaRuntime...

2017-11-0854 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 50: Double IndemnityFINALLY, it’s here! For episode 50, former co-host Windy returns to the podcast for an episode about Billy Wilder’s Double Indemnity! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we dive right into the plot. The film is readily available on streaming with a subscription to FilmStruck, and is available for rental on Amazon, iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu. Please also join us again on October 21st, when return with an episode about Body Heat! Double Indemnity (1944) Rating: 8.3/10 (173,009 votes)Director: Billy WilderWr...

2017-10-071h 03

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 49: DiaboliqueIn this week’s episode, we introduce Tonya to another Henri-Georges Clouzot masterpiece: the truly wicked Diabolique! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because of spoilers. No, really, we are truly, honestly serious this time… you don’t want this one spoiled if you’ve never seen it! The film is readily available on streaming with a subscription to FilmStruck. (They have a free trial deal, too.) Please also join us again on June 7th, when we celebrate our 50th episode with Double Indemnity! Diabolique (1955) Rating: 8.1/10 (71,134 votes)...

2017-05-2143 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 48: GildaThis week, we watch the amazing Rita Hayworth in Gilda! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because Rita Hayworth truly must be witnessed. The film is readily available for rental on streaming services such as Amazon, iTunes, Vudu, Google Play, and YouTube. It is also available with subscription to FilmStruck. Note: as you will soon be able to tell while listening to the episode, our recording session was interrupted by everything. Dogs! Phones! Husbands! Pizza guy! We apologize. In spite of all that, please join us again on May 21st...

2017-05-0741 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 47: VertigoThis week, we go see Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo in 70mm, and then we have a whole lot to say about it! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because oh boy do we spoil all the details. The film is readily available for rental on streaming services such as Amazon, iTunes, Vudu, Google Play, and YouTube. Note: Melissa only introduces Alee during the first segment, because they weren’t sure Tonya wasn’t at the theater yet, and she wasn’t sure she was going to make it in time for th...

2017-04-241h 11

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 46: ChinatownThis week, we are joined by geography professor David Tyler McKay for a discussion about Chinatown! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we spoil the hell out of it. The film is readily available on streaming services such as Amazon, iTunes, Vudu, Google Play, and YouTube. Please join us again on April 21st, when we launch back into the world of Hitchcock with Vertigo! Chinatown (1974) Rating: 8.1/10 (360,756 votes)Director: Roman PolanskiWriter: Robert Towne, Roman PolanskiStars: Jack...

2017-04-071h 12

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 45: Desert FuryThis week, we are joined by Matthew Kessen for a very rare screening of Desert Fury! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode… if you can. This is sadly a very difficult movie to track down right now. We were lucky enough to see an actual film print at The Heights Theater. If you are truly determined, the movie has been released on DVD overseas and copies can often be found on Amazon. You can also probably find downloadable copies online, if you know where to look. Please join us agai...

2017-03-2349 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 44: The Long GoodbyeThis week, we close our Marlowe trilogy with Robert Altman’s The Long Goodbye! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because it’s fascinating. This film can be found for streaming rental from Amazon and Vudu. Please join us again on March 21st, when we continue with another color noir with Desert Fury! The Long Goodbye (1973) Rating: 7.5/10 (39,257 votes)Director: Robert AltmanWriter: Leigh Brackett, Raymond ChandlerStars: Elliott Gould, Nina van Pallandt, Sterling HaydenRuntime: 112 mi...

2017-03-0758 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 43: The Big SleepThis week, we watch Bogey and Bacall in The Big Sleep! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because it should truly be experienced. This film can be found for streaming rental from iTunes, Amazon, Vudu, and several other services. Please join us again on March 3rd, when we finish our Marlowe Marathon with The Long Goodbye! The Big Sleep (1946) Rating: 7.9/10 (92,084 votes)Director: Howard HawksWriter: William Faulkner, Leigh Brackett, Jules FurthmanStars: Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, John Ridgel...

2017-02-2146 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 42: Murder, My SweetThis week, we watch Dick Powell (!) play Philip Marlowe (!!!) in Murder, My Sweet! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because Dick Powell is a delight to behold. This film can be found for streaming rental from iTunes, Amazon, Vudu, and several other services. Please join us again on February 21st, when we continue our Marlowe Marathon with The Big Sleep! Murder, My Sweet (1944) Rating: 7.5/10 (15,271 votes)Director: Edward DmytrykWriter: John Paxton, Raymond ChandlerStars: Dick Powell, Claire Trevor...

2017-02-0740 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 41: The Manchurian CandidateIn this week’s episode, we felt like talking about politics for some reason, so we watched The Manchurian Candidate! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because if you haven’t seen the movie by now, you owe yourself a treat. This film can is a little hard to find on streaming right now, but it is available on Amazon Streaming if you have a Starz account (…or if you sign up for their 7-day free trial, hint hint). Please join us again on February 7th, when we launch into the wo...

2017-01-2041 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 40: Sweet Smell of SuccessIn this week’s episode, we have MANY THINGS TO SAY about Sweet Smell of Success! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because it has one of the sharpest, most cynical scripts in all cinema history. This film can currently be seen streaming on FilmStruck, iTunes, and DirecTV. Please join us again on January 21st, when we take on The Manchurian Candidate! Sweet Smell of Success (1957) Rating: 8.0/10 (37,209 votes)Director: Alexander MackendrickWriter: Clifford Odets, Ernest Lehman, Alexander MackendrickStars:

2017-01-0848 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 39: The Thin ManIn this week’s episode, we lighten up a bit (and drunken up a bit) for the holidays, with The Thin Man! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because it is oh so delightful. This film can currently be seen streaming on iTunes, Vudu, Amazon Video, YouTube, and Google Play. Please join us again on January 7th, when we dive back into the darkness with Sweet Smell of Success! The Thin Man (1934) Rating: 7.9/10 (33,195 votes)Director: W.S. Van DykeWriter: Albert...

2016-12-2142 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 38: Cape Fear (1991)In this week’s episode, we follow up our screening of the original Cape Fear with Martin Scorsese’s 1991 remake! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because DeNiro’s appetite for scenery chewing must be witnessed. This film can currently be seen streaming on Netflix, Vudu, Amazon, iTunes, YouTube, Google Play… just about anywhere. Please join us again on December 21st for a far more cheerful film, the ever-delightful Thin Man! Cape Fear (1991) Rating: 7.3/10 (222,269 votes)Director: Martin ScorseseWriter: John D. MacDonald...

2016-12-1945 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 37: Cape Fear (1962)In this week’s episode, we go back to our Robert Mitchum well with a screening of the original Cape Fear! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because Robert Mitchum demands it. This film can currently be rented from Amazon, YouTube, and iTunes. Please join us again on December 7th when we follow up with Martin Scorsese’s 1991 remake of Cape Fear! Cape Fear (1962) Rating: 7.7/10 (32,902 votes)Director: J. Lee ThompsonWriter: John D. MacDonald, James R. WebbStars: Gregory...

2016-11-2247 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 36: The Long Good FridayIn this week’s episode, we watch a film that made a star out of Bob Hoskins: The Long Good Friday! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because it’s amazing and it has Helen Mirren in it. This film can be a challenge to find right now, since the Criterion Collection DVD has long been out of print (spine #25!), but DVDs and Blu-Rays from various other publishers can be found on Amazon for a reasonable price. (Stray illicit streaming copies can also be found around the internet, but we didn’t see any...

2016-11-0742 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 35: Odd Man OutIn this week’s episode, we get our James Mason on with a viewing of Odd Man Out! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because this film is fascinating. This film can be rented on Amazon Prime, and is available on DVD. Please join us on November 7th when we continue forward in British film history with a film that made a star out of Bob Hoskins: The Long Good Friday! Odd Man Out (1947) Rating: 7.6/10 (11,876 votes)Director: Carol ReedWriter: F.L. Gr...

2016-10-2448 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 34: SorcererIn this week’s episode, we look at William Friedkin’s 1970s remake of Wages of Fear, Sorcerer! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because this is a film to be experienced. This film can be rented in HD on Amazon Prime, and is available on DVD and Blu-Ray in all its restored glory. Please join us on October 21st when we go back into the world of British film noir with Odd Man Out! Sorcerer (1977) Rating: 7.7/10 (29,929 votes)Director: William FriedkinWriter:

2016-10-0756 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 33: The Wages of FearIn this week’s episode, we take a look at Henri-Georges Clouzot’s masterpiece of tension, Le salaire de la peur, aka The Wages of Fear! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because this is a film you have to witness. This film is part of The Criterion Collection, so it can be found streaming on Hulu Plus, iTunes, and Amazon Prime, as well as on an excellent two-DVD/Blu-Ray set. If you are interested in how nitroglycerin actually explodes (or just what a nitroglycerin explosion looks like in slow mot...

2016-09-2145 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 32: Rancho NotoriousIn this week’s episode, we welcome playwright/actor Kelvin Hatle to our table as we discuss what happens when Fritz Lang directs a western: Rancho Notorious! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because you really must witness at least the drinking game scene. This film is available on DVD from Amazon and can probably be found a few other select places. (Beware of the streaming copy on DailyMotion, which is missing scenes.) Please join us on September 21st for an episode about the French masterpiece of tension: The Wages o...

2016-09-1752 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 31: Ministry of FearIn this week’s episode, we have a grand time talking about all that cake in Fritz Lang’s Ministry of Fear! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because it’s loads of fun and we don’t want to spoil it for you. This film is available on DVD from Amazon and elsewhere, and if you’re lucky, there might still be an illicit copy of the whole film hanging out on YouTube. Please join us on September 7th for the third and final movie in our Fritz Lang triple featur...

2016-08-2152 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 30: The Testament of Dr. MabuseIn this week’s episode, we thoroughly enjoy a movie banned personally by Joseph Goebbels: The Testament of Dr. Mabuse! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because the second part of the episode will probably make no sense whatsoever if you don’t. This film is easily available via a great 2-disc set released by Criterion, and is also currently available streaming on Hulu Plus. Please join us on August 21st for second movie in our Fritz Lang triple feature: Ministry of Fear! The Testament of Dr. Mabuse (1933) Rating:

2016-08-0742 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 29: Night of the HunterIn this week’s episode, we take a long look at the only film ever directed by Charles Laughton: Night of the Hunter! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we not only discuss spoilers, but we talk about them at length. This film is easily available on DVD, and is also available on many rental streaming channels (Vudu, Amazon, Google Play, etc.) We apologize for the late delivery of this episode, once again. When you hear our audio on this episode, you’ll understand why. We wound up recordin...

2016-07-261h 04

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 28: The Naked KissIn this week’s episode, we revisit Samuel Fuller’s filmography with a viewing of The Naked Kiss! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we dive straight into discussion. This film is available on Hulu Plus, Amazon, and iTunes. We apologize for the late delivery of this episode. Scheduling issues and a computer changeover are to blame. But fear not! The next episode will arrive on July 21st, just a few days from now. Please join us then for the only film directed by acting legend Charles Laughton: Night of th...

2016-07-1854 min

A Reel Education Episode 73 – 8 1/2We are sad to say goodbye to Jena as a regular co-host and movie non-expert but that means we will have rotating cast of non-experts instead! This episode, Tonya Wershow from our sister podcast, A Reel Education: Noir, joins us for Federico Fellini’s 8 1/2. The movie is surreal and collapses in on itself like … Continue reading The post Episode 73 – 8 1/2 appeared first on A Reel Education.

2016-07-0800 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 27: Pickup on South StreetIn this week’s episode, we go through the pros and cons (heh) of Samuel Fuller’s Pickup on South Street! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we go straight into spoiler territory. This film is sadly not available on any “official” streaming channels at this time, but Dailymotion usually has a copy floating around. If you would like to see a version that is less grey-market, the film is easily available on DVD. Join us on July 7th for second Samuel Fuller film in a row: The Naked Kiss!...

2016-06-2142 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 26: RififiIn this week’s episode, we thoroughly enjoy Jules Dassin’s heist masterpiece, Rififi! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because spoilers abound! This film comes and goes on Hulu Plus, but it is part of the Criterion Collection, so it is easily available on DVD and Blu-Ray. Join us on June 21st for our episode about Samuel Fuller’s great little crime drama named Pickup on South Street! Rififi (1955) Rating: 8.1/10 (37,695 votes)Director: Jules DassinWriter: Auguste Le Breton, Jules Dassin, R...

2016-06-0748 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 25: Kiss Me DeadlyOn this giddy episode, we visit Robert Aldrich’s groundbreaking Mickey Spillane adaptation, Kiss Me Deadly! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we head straight for the spoiler room. This film is a little hard to find on the official streaming channels right now, but Criterion has it on a very nice DVD release, and there is usually an illicit copy available for free on YouTube. During the episode, Melissa mentions that Xanadu Cinema Pleasure Dome recently did two whole episodes encompassing the entire filmography of Robert Aldrich. So, if yo...

2016-05-2155 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 24: Red Rock WestThis week, we head into Nicolas Cage territory with Red Rock West, a mid-1990s noir/western from the folks who later brought us Joy Ride. We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we plunge quickly into the spoiler pool. This film is currently available for streaming rental on iTunes, Vudu, Amazon Prime, and Google Play. Join us on May 21st for our episode on Robert Aldrich’s atomic-age noir, Kiss Me Deadly! Red Rock West (1993) Rating: 7.0/10 (26,133 votes)Director: John DahlWriter:

2016-05-0743 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 23: CagedThis week, we watch the hard-hitting prototype for every women-in-prison film, Caged. We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because it’s a great film. This film is currently available for streaming rental on iTunes, Vudu, and Google Play. Join us on May 7th for our episode on Red Rock West! Caged (1950) Rating: 7.6/10 (5,004 votes)Director: John CromwellWriter: Virginia Kellogg, Bernard C. SchoenfeldStars: Eleanor Parker, Agnes Moorehead, Ellen CorbyRuntime: 97 minRated: A...

2016-04-2146 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 22: Sunset BoulevardThis week, we finally watch one of the greatest films noir that ever noired: Sunset Boulevard. (Yes, dear listeners, we also did a full episode on Sunset Boulevard over on the parent podcast Reel Education back in 2014. The two shows are different. The first one features Melissa’s full barrage of trivia; this one is more dedicated to our raw reactions after seeing the film in a packed theater.) We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because wow, it’s a great movie. This film is currently available pretty much everywher...

2016-04-0751 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 21: Where the Sidewalk EndsThis week, we watch Where the Sidewalk Ends, Otto Preminger’s steely cop drama. We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because it’s a great film, and we spoil the ending. This film is currently available on DirecTV and on DVD. There are also stray free copies of the film on YouTube and on Archive.org, but we’re never sure how long those will hang around. Join us on April 7th for our episode on Sunset Blvd! Where the Sidewalk Ends (1950) Rating: 7.6/10 (10,234 votes)Director:

2016-03-2140 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 20: Gun CrazyThis week, we watch the 1950 bank-robbing love story, Gun Crazy, aka Deadly Is the Female! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because it’s great, and we discuss it at length. This film is currently available on iTunes and on DVD. (There are also a few stray copies streaming online dubbed into various languages, but you’re probably just better off paying three bucks to Apple.) Join us on March 21st for our episode on Where the Sidewalk Ends! Gun Crazy (1950) Rating: 7.6/10 (15,495 votes)Director: Joseph H...

2016-03-0742 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 19: Night and the CityThis week, we watch Jules Dassin’s London-based masterpiece, Night and the City! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because it’s excellent, and we spoil the ending. This film is currently available on DVD, and there is also currently a copy on YouTube with Greek subtitles. Join us on March 7th for our episode on Gun Crazy! Night and the City (1950) Rating: 7.9/10 (15,617 votes)Director: Jules DassinWriter: Jo Eisinger, Gerald Kersh, Austin DempsterStars: Richard Widmark, Gene Ti...

2016-02-2144 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 18: Elevator to the GallowsThis week, we watch the amazing noir/French New Wave hybrid, Elevator to the Gallows! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because, seriously, it’s amazing. This film is currently available on Hulu Plus and on DVD. Join us on February 21st for our episode on Night and the City! Elevator to the Gallows (1958) Rating: 7.9/10 (29,551 votes)Director: Louis MalleWriter: Roger Nimier, Louis Malle, Noël CalefStars: Jeanne Moreau, Maurice Ronet, Georges PoujoulyRuntime: 91 m...

2016-02-0738 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 17: The Public EnemyThis week, we watch the pre-Hayes Code pre-noir gangster classic, The Public Enemy! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because it’s a great gangster flick. This film is currently available for streaming rental on iTunes, Amazon Video, Vudu, and Microsoft, and is also available on DVD. (It’s also currently available for free on YouTube, but the sound on that copy is pretty lousy.) Join us on February 7th for our episode on Elevator to the Gallows! The Public Enemy (1931) Rating: 7.6/10 (23,502 votes)Director: William...

2016-01-2134 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 16: The Asphalt JungleThis week, we watch John Huston’s great heist flick, The Asphalt Jungle! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because it’s a truly fun movie. This film is currently available for streaming rental on iTunes, Amazon Video, Vudu, and Microsoft, and is also available on DVD. Join us on January 21st for our episode on The Public Enemy! The Asphalt Jungle (1950) Rating: 7.8/10 (31,242 votes)Director: John HustonWriter: Ben Maddow, John Huston, W.R. BurnettStars: Sterling Hayden, Lou...

2016-01-0727 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 15: The Big HeatThis week, we watch Fritz Lang’s amazing noir, The Big Heat! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because it is truly great. This film is currently available for streaming rental on iTunes, Amazon Video, Vudu, and Microsoft, and is also available on DVD. Join us on January 7th for our episode on The Asphalt Jungle! The Big Heat (1953) Rating: 7.9/10 (30,700 votes)Director: Fritz LangWriter: Sydney Boehm, William P. McGivernStars: Glenn Ford, Gloria Grahame, Jocelyn BrandoRun...

2015-12-2135 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 14: Johnny GuitarIn this episode, we are joined by special guest Pat Wick and we watch the bizarre noir-western, Johnny Guitar! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because, really, it must be seen to be believed. This film is currently available for streaming rental on iTunes, Amazon Video, Google Play, and Microsoft, and also has an excellent Blu-Ray release. Join us on December 21st for our episode on The Big Heat! Johnny Guitar (1954) Rating: 7.6/10 (20,311 votes)Director: Nicholas RayWriter: Philip Yordan, Roy Chans...

2015-12-0755 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 13: Stray DogIn this episode, we are joined by special guest Pat Wick and we watch Akira Kurosawa’s Stray Dog! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we spoil all the juicy parts. You want to see the movie. This film is currently available streaming on Hulu Plus, and it is easily findable on an excellent DVD from the Criterion Collection. Join us on December 7th for our episode on Johnny Guitar! Stray Dog (1949) Rating: 7.8/10 (19,332 votes)Director: Akira KurosawaWriter: Ryûzô Ki...

2015-11-2244 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 12: Leave Her to HeavenDear listeners, you are in for a real treat this week. Our regular crew is joined by special guest star Sharon Stiteler (aka Birdchick) for our episode about Leave Her to Heaven! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we spoil the film. Like, a lot. You want to see the movie. While this movie isn’t on most of the usual streaming channels, there are a couple copies on YouTube, and it can usually be found for DVD rental. Also, during the episode, we start talking about the Ha...

2015-11-0758 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 11: Nightmare AlleyWe figured you might like something special for the Halloween season, so this week, we give you the dark carnival noir Nightmare Alley! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we spoil the hell out of this film, and I assure you, you don’t want that. While this movie isn’t on most of the usual streaming channels, you can easily find a DVD for under $10, and a search on Google will bring you a dozen probably-illicit copies. (There is currently a copy on YouTube, uploaded in 12 parts.) Join...

2015-10-2152 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 10: Kansas City ConfidentialIt’s been a while since we’ve had a truly sweet-spot criminals-and-dames noir on this podcast, so this week we’re bringing you one of the lesser-known gems of the genre: Kansas City Confidential! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we spoil a lot of the fun bits. In this case, you really won’t have an excuse to not see the film, because it is in the public domain and it is EVERYWHERE online. However, the image and sound quality vary greatly between the digital copies. We found an excelle...

2015-10-0732 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 9: Shadow of a DoubtWe’ve gone far too long in this podcast without visiting the Master of Suspense, so join us this week in watching Alfred Hitchcock’s Shadow of a Doubt! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we spoil a lot of the fun bits. The film can currently be found for rental on iTunes and Amazon Instant as well as various other places. Our next episode will be about Kansas City Confidential, a great little noir that few people have seen. Listen for it on October 7th! Oh, and i...

2015-09-2138 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 8: BrickWe’ve done a seven episodes exploring original films noir, so it is high time we take a look at a modern film that was influenced by noir. Join us for a viewing of Rian Johnson’s directorial debut, Brick! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we spoil the ending and a lot of the fun bits. The film can currently be found for rental on iTunes, Vudu, Amazon Instant, Google Play, and YouTube. Our next episode will be returning to old school noir with a bit of Alfred H...

2015-09-0828 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 7: Key LargoWe’ve gone far too long on this podcast without encountering Humphrey Bogart, so we’re remedying that with an episode about Key Largo! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we spoil the ending. The film can be currently be found for streaming rental on Google Play, iTunes, Amazon, and Vudu. Netflix also has it on DVD if you have their disc delivery service. Our next episode will be our first foray into modern noir: Brick! Listen for it on September 7th! Key Largo (1948) Rating: 7.7/10 (44,749 votes)

2015-08-2129 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 6: Mildred PierceWe’re back with more Joan Crawford, because in this episode, we discuss her Oscar-winning performance in Mildred Pierce! We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we spoil the hell out of it. The film can be currently be found for streaming rental on Google Play, iTunes, Amazon, and Vudu, and Netflix has it on DVD if you still have their disc program. Our next episode will be our first foray into the world of Humphrey Bogart: Key Largo! Look for it on August 21st! Mildred Pierce (1945) Rating...

2015-08-0758 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 5: Possessed In this episode, we discuss the 1947 Joan Crawford psychodrama, Possessed! (This is in contrast to the 1931 Joan Crawford film named Possessed, which is very different.) The film also features the talents of Raymond Massey and Van Heflin, but really, it’s all Joan Crawford’s show. We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because it’s great and we discuss many details about the plot. The film can be currently be found for rental on Google Play and Vudu, and an inexpensive DVD copy can be found on Amazon. Our ne...

2015-07-2138 min

Xanadu Cinema Pleasure Dome Episode 75: AlpacalypticIt is time, dear listeners, for our fifth Off Topic episode! Like our previous Off Topic episodes, this one is constructed of bits that were cut out of the previous 14 episodes: gaffs, giggles, tangents, and other random stuff. Amidst this wandering fray, you will hear the voices of many former guests, including: Tonya Wershow Kate Cornish Kelvin Hatle Pat Harrigan Lewis Lovhaug Cetius Scotchbringer Eric Knight Fes Works Noel Thingvall And, as usual for these things, our subject matter and level of sobriety will vary wildly...

2015-07-161h 31

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 4: Fallen AngelIn this episode, we discuss Otto Preminger’s Fallen Angel! This movie features a number of great actors from the noir era, including Dana Andrews, Linda Darnell, Anne Revere, Charles Bickford, and the ever-present John Carradine. We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we get really detailed about the plot. I mean, really detailed. The film can be found on DVD, but if you are thrifty, there is a free streaming version on archive.org. (That archive.org copy isn’t in the greatest condition, so a DVD is preferable if you wa...

2015-07-0747 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 3: The Postman Always Rings TwiceIn this episode, we discuss the steamy Postman Always Rings Twice! This is the movie that brought Lana Turner’s legs into Hollywood legend, and if that’s not enough to sell you on this film, I’ll add that it also contains prime Hume Cronyn. We highly recommend you watch the film before listening to the episode, because we get really detailed about the plot and because you really should experience this great film. It can easily be obtained on DVD, but if you’re the streaming video type, you’ll also find that it’s currently availa...

2015-06-211h 05

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 2: Out of the PastIn this episode, we discuss Jacques Tourneur’s 1947 thriller, Out of the Past. It stars two of the most famous chin dimples of all time: Kirk Douglas and Robert Mitchum, and they are joined by the fabulous Jane Greer. We highly recommend you watch the film with us, because it’s great. It can be found on DVD, but if you’re a streaming video person, it can also be found for streaming rental on Vudu and iTunes. Our next episode will be about the steamy 1946 version of The Postman Always Rings Twice. Look for it on...

2015-06-0729 min

A Reel Education: Noir Episode 1: Touch of EvilWelcome to the inaugural episode of Reel Education: Noir! Like our parent podcast, A Reel Education, we strive to discuss individual movies in depth, usually with someone who has never seen the film before. But unlike our fellow podcast, we will focus exclusively on films noir. (Really, it’s all just a clever excuse for us to watch a lot of films noir.) Since A Reel Education has already covered several of the basics like Sunset Boulevard and Double Indemnity, we have begun our dark odyssey with Orson Welles’ Touch of Evil. If you...

2015-05-3040 min

Xanadu Cinema Pleasure Dome Episode 68: Punchlines Are So JungianDear listeners, get ready to be bombarded with quotes, because this week our subject of choice is Monty Python! And joining us for our odyssey through absurdity is returning guest and Python fanatic Tonya Wershow! If you would like to gain liver poisoning by drinking at every Python quote we drop, please consider Trepiche Malbec, which is responsible for our tipsy behavior during this episode. Show notes behind the cut! Movies (and other media) mentioned: Monty Python’s Flying Circus (TV) Life of Brian Monty Python and the Hol...

2015-05-281h 10

Xanadu Cinema Pleasure Dome Episode 62: Turtles All the Way Down: Part 2This week, devoted listeners, we bring you the second half of our meta movies discussion with Tonya Wershow! Or perhaps more correctly, this is the final few minutes of the discussion, followed by 20 minutes of tangents and drunken giggling, because that is the quality podcasting that we know you value. Show notes behind the cut! Movies mentioned: Holy Motors Wayne’s World Wayne’s World 2 Attack of the Killer Tomatoes 2 The Muppet Movie The Holy Mountain Monty Python and the Holy Grail Singin’ in the Rain

2015-04-1648 min

Xanadu Cinema Pleasure Dome Episode 61: Turtles All the Way Down: Part 1This week, dear listeners, Tonya Wershow joins us for an in-depth discussion about meta movies! We got so deep into our discussion, in fact, that we had to split it into two halves! (We hereby deny implications that we were too drunk to watch the time while recording.) (…but if we were in such a state, we’d certainly achieve it by drinking something like Trapiche Malbec. Or tiny bottles of Jameson.) Show notes behind the cut! Movies mentioned: Cabin in the Woods Purple Rose of Cairo The Last...

2015-04-091h 01

Obsessed with Joseph Scrimshaw STEPHEN KING: Obsessed Ep 41Clowns! Cocaine! Childhood! This must be an episode about horror author Stephen “Creepypants” King. Joseph’s obsessed guest, Tonya Wershow, spins terrifying tales of writing to Mr. King, Fan Fic, reacting to his face, van accidents, toilet fingers, LARPing, and horror … Continue reading →

2014-01-0746 min