Shows
Detect This!: A True Detective PodcastEpisode #17: Church in Ruins (w/ Gwen Reyes)In this episode, Andrew and Charlie are joined by television critic and author Gwen Reyes to discuss the sixth episode of this season, "Church in Ruins." Did Pizzolatto go "too big" this season? Why do so many characters only exist to serve other characters? Is Frank an ethical guy, or just someone in denial about his actions? Was the much talked-about orgy scene effective? Is Ani feminine enough? Which character is probably going to die soon? And perhaps most importantly: who is Stan?! Plus, Andrew and Charlie go over some listener emails.
SHOW NOTES:
0:25 - Intro...
2015-07-281h 12Detect This!: A True Detective PodcastEpisode #16: Other Lives (w/ Todd VanDerWerff)Special guest Todd VanDerWerff from Vox joins Andrew and Charlie on this episode to talk about the transition into the second half of the season. Among the topics discussed:Is this season's main problem a structural one? What are the consequences of last week's Vinci Massacre? How does True Detective deal with "penis problems" and gender issues? How does this season compare to other California noir stories? And does there need to be a clear directorial "auteur" behind the camera? Plus, Andrew and Charlie go over some listener emails.
SHOW NOTES:
0:25 - Intro and honorary members
2015-07-221h 13Detect This!: A True Detective PodcastEpisode #14: Maybe TomorrowThe third episode of this season, "Maybe Tomorrow," is a bit of a let-down after the previous one. Andrew and Charlie disagree on just how disappointing it is, though. Is Ray's fate a literal cop-out? What's going on with the mayor's family? Do the scenes with Paul clarify anything about his character? How much of this season's "problems" are just tropes of the genre? And has Nic Pizzolatto become his own worst enemy? Plus, Andrew thinks he knows who is wearing the bird mask, and the gang inducts a few honorary members onto the Detect This team.
SHOW...
2015-07-101h 22
Cinema FixEpisode #81: Guardians of the Galaxy (Part 2)I am Groot! As is the custom whenever a new superhero movie is released, Rod Morrow joins Andrew and Monica to debate its merits. Guardians of the Galaxy introduces audience to a whole new side of the Marvel universe. One thing's for certain -- it does have a lot of comic relief and personality. But is that enough to make it a good movie? The gang debates everything from the villains to the characterization to Marvel's overall plan. Is Thanos a compelling threat yet? What's up with Gamora's motivations? How is the movie clearly aimed towards people who are already...
2014-08-091h 20Cinema FixEpisode #81: Calvary, Lucy, Guardians of the Galaxy (Part 2)Andrew and Monica return with spoiler-free thoughts on three of late summer's cinematic offerings. First, they discuss the new film from director John Michael McDonagh, Calvary, which stars Brendan Gleeson as an Irish priest. They then turn their attention to Luc Besson's Lucy and figure out what percentage of your brain should be turned off to enjoy it. And finally, they give some quick thoughts on Marvel's latest superhero installment, Guardians of the Galaxy. Is this movie that will change Andrew's mind about Phase 2, or is it just more of the same? Tune in to find out.
SHOW...
2014-08-0821 minCinema FixEpisode #80: Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (Part 2)Special guest Charlie Nash stopped by for the second part of our Cinema Fix episode on Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, and the resulting discussion was pretty bananas. As great as the visual effects are, is performance capture technology ever going to feel timeless? Is the film's bleak tone an appropriate one given the ridiculous nature of the property? How does Matt Reeves' direction elevate poor writing? And what is it trying to say about the nature of violence, and do the climactic moments undermine the intended message? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
2014-07-301h 01Cinema FixEpisode #80: Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (Part 1)In this episode, Andrew and Monica discuss Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, the second film in the reboot of the popular franchise. Taking place a decade after the events of Rise of the Planet of the Apes, the film follows Caesar and his civilization of super apes when an encounter with humanity's last survivors leads them down the path to war. Does Matt Reeves' direction make it a film worth seeing? What makes a great summer movie, anyway? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:17 - General thoughts on The Hobbit: The De...
2014-07-2813 minCinema FixEpisode #79: Summer Movie ComebackCinema Fix is back! In this episode, Andrew and Monica return after a months-long hiatus to give some quick thoughts on some of the hottest films of the summer. First, Monica gives the lowdown on Maleficent while Andrew reveals his take on Edge of Tomorrow. Then they both discuss X-Men: Days of Future Past, Neighbors, 22 Jump Street, Snowpiercer, and a few more multiplex offerings. Which should you see right away? Which should you avoid? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:15 - Maleficent
6:20 - Edge of Tomorrow
10:48 - X-Men: Days of Future Past
17:58...
2014-07-2440 min
Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.C.A.S.T: An Agents of SHIELD PodcastEpisode #25: Season 1, Ep. 22 -- Beginning of the EndIt's the end of Season 1 of Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.! Is "Beginning of the End" a satisfying conclusion to what by most critics' accounts has been a rocky season? Join Andrew, Rod and Bibbs as they give their thoughts on how the finale played out. Was the FitzSimmons predicament solved too easily? Was the action well-constructed or just confusing? Was Andrew ultimately won over by Paxton's performance? How does everyone feel about the characters overall? Tune in to find out. Plus, listener questions.
SHOW NOTES:
0:50 - Intro
4:40 - General thoughts...
2014-05-271h 06Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.C.A.S.T: An Agents of SHIELD PodcastEpisode #23: Season 1, Ep. 20 -- Nothing PersonalMaria Hill returns to Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. in "Nothing Personal," while May searches for the man behind Project T.A.H.I.T.I. and Skye tries to outsmart Ward. Is Fitz's breakdown appropriate? Is Deathlok's return a welcome one? What's up with General Talbot? Is the reveal about Coulson's brainwashing all that surprising or game-changing? And just what is the deal with that Man-Thing reference, anyway? Tune in to find out. Plus, Andrew, Rod and Bibbs go over some listener emails and questions.
SHOW NOTES:
0:50 - Intro
4:03 - General...
2014-05-061h 06Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.C.A.S.T: An Agents of SHIELD PodcastEpisode #20: Season 1, Ep. 17 -- Turn, Turn, TurnNobody can be trusted in "Turn, Turn, Turn," so can the writers be trusted to deliver a quality episode? This is the second tie-in episode to Captain America: The Winter Soldier, and there are some major events going down. Are there too many twists? What is the future of S.H.I.E.L.D. and our team of agents? Is it possible Ward is still working for Coulson? How should Season 2 be structured around future films? Plus, Andrew and Rod go over listener questions and email.
SHOW NOTES:
0:50 - Intro
6:53 - General thoughts on...
2014-04-141h 09Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.C.A.S.T: An Agents of SHIELD PodcastEpisode #18: Season 1, Ep. 15 -- Yes MenThis week on the SHIELDCAST, Andrew has a few technical difficulties, but Rod and Gwen are here to keep the show going smoothly. Both Lorelai and Lady Sif make an appearance in "Yes Men" -- is the execution of this comic and movie tie-in better than what has come before? Now that the dynamic between May and Ward is getting messy, what does that foreshadow for the future? When will Skye start to question what S.H.I.E.L.D. is doing? How much does Thor: The Dark World impact what happens in this episode? And just what is...
2014-03-161h 04Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.C.A.S.T: An Agents of SHIELD PodcastEpisode #17: Season 1, Ep. 14 -- T.A.H.I.T.I.It's been a month, but Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. is finally back--and with another acronym! Andrew, Rod and Gwen discuss the fourteenth episode of the season and the big reveal about the titular T.A.H.I.T.I. What exactly are The Clairvoyant's powers, anyway? Is Bill Paxton as awesome as we'd hoped? How much will this four-episode arc actually matter in the long run? And what's up with the blue dude? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:50 - Intro
4:55 - General thoughts
14:07 - How do the Clairvoyant's...
2014-03-0955 minCinema FixEpisode #78: The Best and Worst Movies of 2013 (Part 1)Just in time for Oscar night, it's the first part of Cinema Fix's look back at the best and worst movies of 2013! In this part, Andrew and Monica count down their Top 10 films of the year, plus some honorable mentions. What made 2013 such a good year for movies? What gems have people overlooked? And is Blue is the Warmest Color really all that great? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:04 - Honorable Mentions
7:10 - Top 10 of 2013
54:38 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing...
2014-03-0257 minAgents of S.H.I.E.L.D.C.A.S.T: An Agents of SHIELD PodcastEpisode #15: The Set VisitIn this special bonus episode, Andrew and Rod talk to Gwen about her behind-the-scenes visit to the Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. set during the TCA press tour! How do the producers and writers feel about their work on the show so far? What big things are happening in the coming episodes? How is the set organized? Who's the coolest member of the cast? And just what happens when you touch Lola, anyway? Tune in to get the lowdown on the production of the show!
SHOW NOTES:
0:50 - Intro
4:30 - The set...
2014-02-0142 minCinema FixEpisode #77: Winter Movie Wrap-upIt's been a month since the last Cinema Fix episode, but don't worry! Andrew and Monica are back with a vengeance to discuss over a dozen movies that were released over the holidays. They talk everything from potential Oscar winners to movies that January forgot: Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues, Her, American Hustle, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, Saving Mr. Banks, 47 Ronin, Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones, Inside Llewyn Davis, August: Osage County, The Legend of Hercules, Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit and The Wolf of Wall Street. What's worth seeing? What should you avoid? Tune in to find...
2014-01-231h 09Detect This!: A True Detective PodcastEpisode #1: The Long Bright DarkIn the first "real" episode of Detect This, Andrew and Charlie turn their detective skills on the premiere episode of True Detective. Is this a solid start to the show? What role does religion play in the themes and characterization we've seen so far? How do the different worldviews of Cohle and Hart affect their respective approaches to the murder investigation? Is the show's depiction of women sexist? Tune in to find out. Plus, Andrew throws out a couple of crazy theories about who the killer could be.
SHOW NOTES:
0:25 - Intro
11:30 - A theory...
2014-01-2053 minAgents of S.H.I.E.L.D.C.A.S.T: An Agents of SHIELD PodcastEpisode #14: Season 1, Ep. 12 -- SeedsAndrew and Rod are going solo this episode, but that doesn't stop them from having an in-depth discussion about "Seeds" and what it could mean for the future of the show. Is the reveal about Skye's origins a satisfying one? What about everything at SHIELD Academy? What happened to the super storm? And just who is this Blizzard guy, anyway? Tune in to find out. Plus, they discuss listener questions.
SHOW NOTES:
0:50 - Intro
6:31 - General thoughts on the episode
14:40 - Skye's origins, SHIELD as family
29:35 - SHIELD Academy, Fitz and Simmons
37:50...
2014-01-191h 12Detect This!: A True Detective PodcastEpisode #0: Opening The Case FileWelcome to Detect This!, Film Geek Radio's new seasonal weekly podcast about the HBO series True Detective. Podcasting duo Andrew Johnson and Charlie Nash are back to discuss another series brimming with crime, secrets and probably an anti-hero or two. The show will be an anthology series, and the first season stars Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson as two homicide detectives trying to track down a serial killer. In this introductory episode of the podcast, Charlie and Andrew briefly discuss what they're looking forward to about the show. Is this a new great HBO drama? You'll have to tune in...
2014-01-1317 minCinema FixEpisode #76: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (Part 2)Wake up and smell the desolation! In this episode, Andrew and Monica discuss how The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug functions as a standalone film, particularly when compared to the previous movies. Are the additional subplots worthwhile? What’s up with the Ring and the Arkenstone? And how do the Hobbit films differ from the Lord of the Rings movies on a visual level? Tune in for all that and more!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
4:00 - Smaug!
6:45 - Tauriel and additional conflict
11:24 - Ending on a cliffhanger, multiple story arcs
13:25 - The Ri...
2013-12-2437 minCinema FixEpisode #76: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (Part 1)Andrew and Monica both had mixed feelings about the first installment in the Hobbit film series, and they also agree about the second installment. Is it an improvement over its predecessor? Does the new material not taken from the source material feel relevant? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:58 - General thoughts on The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
12:37 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
2013-12-1814 minCinema FixBonus Episode: The Cinematic States of Gareth HigginsIn this special bonus episode, Andrew and Monica have a casual interview with author, activist and film critic Gareth Higgins about life, movies and his new book, Cinematic States. In the book, Higgins examines American cultural myths through the lens of its movies, going state-by-state throughout the U.S. and exploring what films set in those states reveal. They discuss the process of writing the book, the state of film criticism, the inherent morality of art, the need for non-violent forms of conversation, why The Lone Ranger is the best film of the year, and a lot more!
2013-12-1646 minCinema FixEpisode #75: Dallas Buyers Club (Part 2)Special guest Gareth Higgins, the author of Cinematic States, joins Andrew and Monica to discuss what makes Dallas Buyers Club so much better than it could have been. In what ways is the film restrained? How is it different from films that aim to elicit a cathartic emotional response? What single type of shot reveals that the director knows what he's doing?
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
6:16 - Gareth's overall thoughts on Dallas Buyers Club
8:43 - Staying restrained, avoiding cathartic tears
15:42 - How to tell when a director knows what he's doing
21:10 - Re...
2013-12-1437 minCinema FixEpisode #75: Dallas Buyers Club (Part 1)In this episode, Andrew and Monica give some general thoughts on Dallas Buyers Club. The film stars Matthew McConaughey as Ron Woodroof, a man diagnosed with AIDS who decides to fight FDA regulations and smuggle illegal medications into the country. Does it deserve all the acclaim? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:21 - General thoughts on Dallas Buyers Club
9:51 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
2013-12-1212 minAgents of S.H.I.E.L.D.C.A.S.T: An Agents of SHIELD PodcastEpisode #10: Season 1, Ep. 9 -- Repairs (w/ Scott Meslow)Sorry for the delay, everyone! Some crazy holiday happenings prevented Andrew from editing and releasing the episode on time, but now you can finally hear what the gang had to say about Episode 9 of the show, "Repairs." Special guest Scott Meslow from Vulture stopped by to discuss how Melinda May's backstory was handled and the show's progression as a whole. Was the use of horror-themed atmosphere and tropes satisfying? What did we really learn about Melinda May? Was the show's depiction of religion offensive? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:50 - Intro
10:56 - General...
2013-12-071h 15Cinema FixEpisode #74: The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (Part 2)Are the odds in Catching Fire's favor? In this episode, Andrew and Monica discuss the difficulties of adapting a series like the Hunger Games books to the big screen, and how the film industry by its nature ends up undermining the themes of the film. Is Katniss a good feminist figure? Does the film effectively convey the book's critique of the media? Do these films practice what they preach, or are they just another example of Capitol-esque propaganda? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:28 - Katniss as a feminist fi...
2013-12-0237 minCinema FixEpisode #74: The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (Part 1)In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their general thoughts on the second installment of the Hunger Games film adaptations. Does Catching Fire improve upon the first film in any ways? Does it live up to the book? Tune to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
1:55 - Feedback on 12 Years A Slave
6:20 - General thoughts on The Hunger Games: Catching Fire
14:48 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
2013-12-0217 minAgents of S.H.I.E.L.D.C.A.S.T: An Agents of SHIELD PodcastEpisode #9: Season 1, Ep. 8 -- The WellThere has been a coup! Bibbs takes over from Andrew as lead anchor and really gets into it. This week, the SHIELDCAST discusses "The Well," which supposedly acts as a tie-in to Thor: The Dark World. Is it an effective piece of cross-promotion? Is Ward developed in an interesting way? What about those final moments with Melinda May? And just how creepy is Peter MacNicol, anyway? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:50 - Intro
5:07 - General thoughts on the episode
8:54 - Functioning as a tie-in to Thor: The Dark World
13:58 - Norse paganist...
2013-11-231h 09Cinema FixEpisode #73: 12 Years A Slave (Part 1)Sometimes it's hard to figure out the context in which to critique a film that's deemed "important" for whatever reason, but Andrew and Monica do their best. Is Steve McQueen's 12 Years A Slave the great film about slavery we need? Is that even a fair question? Tune in to hear their general thoughts on the film.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:00 - General thoughts on 12 Years A Slave
14:48 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
2013-11-1816 minCinema FixEpisode #72: Thor: The Dark World (Part 2)For the second part of their Thor: The Dark World review, Andrew and Monica are joined by Rod Morrow to discuss Marvel mythology and whether the film competently expands it. If you thought their Man of Steel discussion got heated, you haven't seen anything yet. Andrew gets snarky, Rod bites back, and Monica just tries to stay out of it. Are the Dark Elves' motives and background adequately explained? Does the Aether makes sense? Has Loki been completely watered-down as a character? Does Thor have an arc, and if so, what is it? Tune to find out.
SHOW...
2013-11-131h 47Cinema FixEpisode #72: Thor: The Dark World (Part 1)The latest installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is here! Is Thor: The Dark World a fun superhero romp that builds on the mythology, or just a confusing mess of ideas and plot devices? In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts on the film. Also: Monica really hates Dutch angles, apparently.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:25 - General thoughts on Thor: The Dark World
15:00 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
2013-11-1116 minCinema FixEpisode #71: Ender's Game (Part 2)In this episode, Andrew and Monica discuss the weighty events of Ender's Game and how well they're communicated in the film. What stuff from the book didn't make the cut? Are the Battle Room sequences effectively portrayed? Does the movie do a good job of getting inside Ender's head? How is Ender different in the film, and is it a good change? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:54 - Lack of weight, unclear passage of time
7:16 - The Mind Game, Ender's psychology, the ending
19:20 - Speaking for the dead
22:05 - Bo...
2013-11-0636 minCinema FixEpisode #71: Ender's Game (Part 1)After spending 25 years in development hell, the film adaptation of Orson Scott Card's bestselling sci-fi novel Ender's Game is finally in theaters! In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their general spoiler-free thoughts on the translation from page to screen. Monica hasn't read the book, but Andrew is a big fan--does that impact how they each responded to the film? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:03 - General thoughts on Ender's Game
13:44 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving...
2013-11-0515 minCinema FixEpisode #70: The Counselor (Part 2)Cormac McCarthy's work is always bleak and pessimistic, but that's not always a bad thing. Is The Counselor a subversive masterpiece or too distant to be effective? In the second part of their review, Andrew and Monica discuss everything from the depiction of women to whether or not there's political subtext. Is there anything special about how Ridley Scott presents violence? Is the Counselor a symbol of America? And does Andrew's response towards some of the dialogue reveal some unintentional racism? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:46 - Malkina vs. Laura
6:40...
2013-10-3034 minCinema FixOverdose: Sex Not IncludedCinema Fix Overdose is back with an extra bonus set of reviews! Monica and Andrew discuss a variety of films both old and new, and offer some recommendations for films that were released on DVD/Blu-Ray during the month of October. Plus, they also get into a small discussion about target demographics and how to treat a film aimed at a group to which you don’t belong. Titles discussed include: The Naked City, Baggage Claim, Instructions Not Included, Rush, The Canyons, Masters of Sex and a whole lot more!
SHOW NOTES:
1:42 - Intro
3:23 - Na...
2013-10-3058 minCinema FixEpisode #70: The Counselor (Part 1)The Counselor is the latest film directed by Ridley Scott, and the first theatrical screenplay written by Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Cormac McCarthy. It also boasts an ensemble cast including Michael Fassbender, Brad Pitt, Penelope Cruz, Cameron Diaz and Javier Bardem. But is it worthy of all the talent involved? Tune in to hear Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:54 - General thoughts on The Counselor
10:30 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509...
2013-10-2912 minCinema FixEpisode #69: Carrie (Part 2)Special guest Charlie Nash stops by to help Monica argue with Andrew about Kimberly Peirce's version of Carrie. Is the film really a total waste of time? How is Carrie different in this version? What are the main themes it's exploring this time? Are the supporting characters better drawn in this version or the original? Tune in to find out. NOTE: There's a lot of talk about the De Palma film, so beware of a few spoilers if you haven't seen it!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
4:06 - Comparisons to Let Me In
11:40 - On re...
2013-10-221h 09Cinema FixEpisode #69: Carrie (Part 1)There have now been three screen adaptations of Stephen King's debut novel, Carrie, most notably a 1976 version from director Brian De Palma. The latest one is directed by Kimberly Peirce and stars Chloe Grace Moretz in the role famously performed by Sissy Spacek. How does this version compare? Is it even fair to judge it in light of the De Palma movie? Andrew and Monica give their general thoughts.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
1:47 - Listener feedback/question
4:57 - General thoughts on Carrie
13:15 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the...
2013-10-2215 minCinema FixEpisode #68: Captain Phillips (Part 2)Andrew and Monica are joined by special guest Kenji Fujishima from In Review Online to discuss how Captain Phillips depicts true events and the degree to which an artist should be judged for how a film touches on (or doesn't touch on) real-life issues. Is Paul Greengrass' approach an objective one? Is not taking the stand actually a stand itself? Does the film fully humanize all of its characters? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:00 - Intro and clip
4:05 - Kenji's thoughts on Captain Phillips
7:36 - Paul Greengrass' style and approach to real...
2013-10-1528 minCinema FixEpisode #68: Captain Phillips (Part 1)In this episode, Andrew and Monica give some spoiler-free thoughts on Captain Phillips, the new film directed by Paul Greengrass that stars Tom Hanks as a commercial shipping boat captain whose vessel is hijacked. Does it do the real-life story justice? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:46 - General thoughts on Captain Phillips
12:48 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com or leaving a voicemail at 336-793-2509. Thanks for listening!
2013-10-1514 minCinema FixEpisode #67: Gravity (Part 2)In this episode, Andrew and Monica analyze the different themes running through Gravity. There's a lot of religious symbolism and rebirth imagery. Does that fit with the primary arc? Is it a movie about hope or coming to terms with death? Is there such a thing as too intense? Tune in to find out. Plus, they pitch some pretty artsy ideas for a sequel in Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:20 - Too intense? Not knowing how it will end
5:50 - The primary character arc
9:29 - Themes of rebirth and evolution
13:26...
2013-10-0932 minCinema FixEpisode #67: Gravity (Part 1)It's been seven years since Alfonso Cuarón's last film, Children of Men. His new film Gravity follows two astronauts (Sandra Bullock and George Clooney) who find themselves floating in space after a debris storm cuts off their communications and destroys their shuttle. Is it another masterpiece? In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:50 - General thoughts on Gravity
13:07 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
2013-10-0714 min
Navigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #23: Season 2 Wrap-UpSeason 2 of The Newsroom may have finished, but Navigating The Newsroom still has one more episode to go! In this jam-packed finale, an all-star ensemble of guests are back to give their thoughts on how the season ultimately turned out. Andrew and Andrew call up Inkoo Kang, Sam Fragoso, and to discuss what went right and what wrong. Was it a good decision to focus on Operation Genoa? Is Jerry Dantana a problematic character? Was the ending satisfying? And was the Maggie in Africa subplot really so awful? Plus, a lot more.
ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Inkoo...
2013-09-2956 minCinema FixEpisode #66: Prisoners (Part 2)Prisoners clearly wants to be viewed as a "serious" movie with "serious" performances in order to attract awards attention, but Andrew and Monica aren’t sure it’s deserving of that recognition. In fact, they aren’t really sure they can explain the convoluted plot of the film. In this episode, they break it down and try to figure out the multiples layers on which it’s attempting to function. Is there any political subtext commenting on post-9/11 America? Does the Bob Taylor subplot make any sense at all? And what’s up with all the religious imagery? Tune in to find ou...
2013-09-2829 min
Avenging Angels: A Dexter PodcastEpisode #13: Remember The Monsters?Tonight's the night. Or rather, a few nights ago was the night. But now Dexter has come to an end, and Andrew and Charlie are here to give their thoughts on the finale of its eight-season run and this season as a whole. The finale has been met with a lot of mocking contempt online, but does it deserve all the hate? Is Debra's fate a satisfying one? What about the supporting characters? And has Dexter evolved in a compelling way over the course of the season? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:28 - Intro...
2013-09-261h 02Cinema FixEpisode #66: Prisoners (Part 1)If there's one thing you should never do, it's kidnap the daughter of Wolverine. In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts on Prisoners, the new drama from director Denis Villeneuve starring Hugh Jackman and Jake Gyllenhaal. This has the look and feel of a prestigious award-worthy drama, but does its quality extend beyond the surface? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
3:49 - General thoughts on Prisoners
10:58 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
2013-09-2512 minAgents of S.H.I.E.L.D.C.A.S.T: An Agents of SHIELD PodcastEpisode #0: Agents Assemble!If you're a fan of Marvel superheroes and Joss Whedon, you'll love Film Geek Radio's latest weekly podcast! Tune in every week to hear in-depth analysis of the new ABC television series Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. from a panel of professional critics and comics enthusiasts. In this pilot episode, Andrew Johnson is joined by William Bibbiani, Gwen Reyes and Rod Morrow to discuss what they're hoping to see in the series and the potential for Marvel to bring some of their lesser-known characters to the small screen.
SHOW NOTES:
0:50 - Intro...
2013-09-2338 minNavigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #22: Election Night, Part 2It’s the end of Season 2 of The Newsroom! Andrew Robinson still isn’t back--don’t worry, he’ll return for our season wrap-up episode--but Brian Roan from The Film Stage is once again able to fill in. He and Andrew debate just how messy of an ending this turned out to be. Is rejecting the Petraeus story a good choice? How is the Will/Mac relationship indicative of a larger problem regarding Sorkin’s expectations and the audience’s reality? Is Maggie the new Jim? And just how great was The Kiss?! Plus, Lisa is back, Neal is wasted, new media ge...
2013-09-191h 09Cinema FixEpisode #65: Insidious Chapter 2 (Part 2)If you thought the third act of the first Insidious was too over-the-top, you might not be ready for Chapter 2. In this episode, Andrew and Monica try to figure out just what exactly is going on. How does Josh’s possession work? Is The Further a time machine, an Inception-style dream machine, or a bit of both? What’s up with all the gender identity issues and ghost psychology? Tune in to find out. Plus, Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:30 - What’s going on with Josh, exactly?
7:22 - Figuring out how The Furthe...
2013-09-1935 minCinema FixEpisode #65: Insidious Chapter 2 (Part 1)James Wan has already released one critically-acclaimed horror film this year in The Conjuring. Now, he's back with the sequel to his 2010 film Insidious. Josh Lambert (Patrick Wilson) isn't acting the same since he returned from The Further--has something evil come back with him? Tune in to hear Andrew and Monica give their general, spoiler-free thoughts.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
1:46 - Brief thoughts on Riddick
3:10 - General thoughts on Insidious: Chapter 2
11:46 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
2013-09-1918 minNavigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #21: Election Night, Part 1Andrew Robinson is away in Toronto this week, but don't worry! Special guest Joanna Robinson from Pajiba and The Ones Who Knock is here to discuss the first part of this season's finale. Is the Will/Mac relationship handled well? Why do these characters keep screwing up? How come Leona won't let them resign? And does the ending imply "Preachy Will" is going to return? Tune in to find out. Also, there's a brief tangent about people falling down, which is always fun.
ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Joanna Robinson is the Features Editor at Pajiba and a...
2013-09-1249 minCinema FixOverdose: Face/Off With A Bling-Ringed InvaderJust when you thought Film Geek Radio couldn't get any cooler... we did. This is the first of a monthly series of bonus episodes of Cinema Fix! Are you a true movie addict looking for recommendations on what to check out and what to avoid? Don't worry: Andrew and Monica OD'd on movies so you don't have to. In Cinema Fix Overdose episodes, they'll discuss other movies they've seen over the past 30 days, plus provide some DVD recommendations for the upcoming month. This month, they discuss Face/Off, Day For Night, Mud, The Invader, I Declare War, Purple Rain and...
2013-09-061h 01Cinema FixEpisode #64: Getaway (Part 2)Ethan Hawke and Selena Gomez star in Getaway, which follows Brent Magna, an ex-racer who is forced to follow the instructions of a mysterious stranger when his wife is kidnapped. He races through the streets of Bulgaria, destroying everything in sight, but is this movie as fun as it sounds? Tune in to hear Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:15 - Wait, that's not Jon Voight's voice?
4:35 - A Cabin in the Woods-style genre critique?
7:30 - The one shot that has everyone talking
10:13...
2013-09-0336 minCinema FixEpisode #64: Getaway (Part 1)Ethan Hawke and Selena Gomez star in Getaway, which follows Brent Magna, an ex-racer who is forced to follow the instructions of a mysterious stranger when his wife is kidnapped. He races through the streets of Bulgaria, destroying everything in sight, but is this movie as fun as it sounds? Tune in to hear Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:18 - General thoughts on Getaway
11:46 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
2013-09-0313 minCinema FixEpisode #63: You're Next and The World's End (Part 2)You know it's gonna be a good episode when Monica starts dusting off her sociology textbooks. In Part 2 of their discussion on You're Next and The World's End, she and Andrew dive into all the various layers of subtext that exist beneath both films. Is You're Next a critique of the political left? Are Adam Wingard and his filmmaking buddies trying to make a statement about the state of the industry? Is The World's End a critique of Hollywood remake culture? How does it critique free-market capitalism while also celebrating individualism, and how does that get a bit messy when...
2013-08-3055 minNavigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #20: Red Team IIISpecial guest Inkoo Kang from Film School Rejects and Village Voice joins Andrew and Andrew on this episode to discuss "Red Team III." The Operation Genoa fallout is finally commencing, but is it satisfying? Was Jerry's tape-editing scandal really necessary? What's up with all the Benghazi stuff? And what's up with Leona's change of heart? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
00:20 - Intro
4:34 - General thoughts
19:06 - Jerry's fault, or institutional failure?
27:13 - Charlie's source and nepotism in the industry
33:48 - Sorkin's style, finding the right tone
41:50 - Reporting vs...
2013-08-301h 03Cinema FixEpisode #63: You're Next and The World's End (Part 1)Andrew and Monica are doing something new this week--they're giving you two movie discussions instead of one! In this episode, they give their general thoughts on the home invasion horror film You're Next before moving on to the new comedy from Edgar Wright, The World's End. Which of these films is worth your time to see? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:08 - General thoughts on You're Next
12:00 - General thoughts on The World's End
22:58 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by...
2013-08-2824 minAvenging Angels: A Dexter PodcastEpisode #9: Are We There Yet?Well, that was creepy. In this episode, Andrew and Charlie discuss the weirdest family dinner ever, Dexter's affection for Hannah and whether the return of The Brain Surgeon is something to be excited about. Charlie thinks "Are We There Yet?" is a total waste, but Andrew isn't so sure. Is Hannah a compelling character? Who is the Brain Surgeon? How could Season 8 have been structured more efficiently? Tune in to find out. Plus, Andrew and Charlie pitch some crazy theories as to how the season could end.
SHOW NOTES:
0:28 - Intro and clip
6:07 - Deb...
2013-08-221h 20Cinema FixEpisode #62: Kick-Ass 2 (Part 2)Film critic Simon Abrams from RogerEbert.com joins Andrew and Monica to discuss the original Kick-Ass comics and how the film adaptations compare. Does Millar succeed in making a satirical point? Is the film version of Kick-Ass 2 an improvement in any way? What's up with the class warfare allegory? And is Hit Girl an example of a strong female character? Tune in as they try to find the answers to all these questions and much more. Plus, you'll definitely want to hear what Simon pitches for a prequel in Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and...
2013-08-211h 05Cinema FixEpisode #62: Kick-Ass 2 (Part 1)In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their general thoughts on the sequel to the adaptation of the comic book Kick-Ass, which followed a normal high school student who decides to become a superhero. Is Kick-Ass 2 an effective follow-up? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
13:47 - General thoughts
12:28 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
2013-08-1914 minNavigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #18: News Night With Will McAvoyFor the first time ever, there are two guests joining Andrew and Andrew on Navigating The Newsroom! In this episode, Sam Fragoso and Corey Atad drop by to discuss all the different subplots happening in the fifth episode of Season 2. Is this the best episode of the series so far? What is Sorkin implying about how technology affects relationships? Are the developments with Sloan and Maggie appropriate, or do they suggest Sorkin may be perpetuating some of the same sexism he's critiquing? Tune in to find out. Also, go watch Broadcast News.
SHOW NOTES:
00:20 - Intro
2013-08-151h 02Cinema FixEpisode #60: 2 Guns (Part 2)Andrew and Monica discuss the racial politics of Hollywood and how an interesting script can sometimes get lost in the execution in their spoiler-filled analysis of 2 Guns. What's up with Paula Patton's character and her decision to do nudity? How is the relationship her character has with Denzel's one of the more tragic in recent memory? And is the movie's depiction of Mexicans offensive or just a symptom or a larger institutional problem? Tune in to find out. Plus, Hollywood would be wise to take note of their ideas for a sequel in Reboot This!
SHOW...
2013-08-0736 minCinema FixEpisode #60: 2 Guns (Part 1)Spoiler: There are more than two guns in this movie. In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their general thoughts on 2 Guns, a new buddy-cop thriller starring Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg. Is there anything fresh here, or is it just the same thing we've seen a million times before? Is it possible to be both? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:39 - General thoughts
10:09 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
2013-08-0512 minNavigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #16: Willie PeteAndrew Robinson couldn't make it this week, but don't worry! The insightful Brian Roan from DearFilm and The Film Stage filled in as a co-host to discuss the third episode of the second season, "Willie Pete." There's not as much "relationship stuff" this episode, but what's going on with Will and Nina? Is Jim becoming the new Will? And how is the show both killing off and reviving certain storylines from Season 1 to its advantage? Plus, Andrew and Brian give Aaron Sorkin a few ideas for how to end the season.
SHOW NOTES:
00:20 - Intro
3:05...
2013-08-021h 03Cinema FixEpisode #59: The Wolverine (Part 2)So much of The Wolverine works so well that the parts that don't work well are extra frustrating. In this episode, Andrew and Monica discuss what they liked about the film and then break down the problematic third act beat by beat. Why is the opening scene so effective? How come Yukio disappears so much? Why are people suddenly switching loyalties, and just what was the big conspiracy after all? Tune in to find out. Plus, they examine the mid-credits scene and pitch a few sequels in Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:22 - Th...
2013-07-2953 minCinema FixEpisode #59: The Wolverine (Part 1)In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their spoiler-free thoughts on the latest installment in the X-Men film franchise, The Wolverine. Is it better than his last solo outing? Is the PG-13 rating appropriate? And why does this feel so much different from superhero movies like Iron Man 3 and Man of Steel? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:57 - General thoughts
10:28 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
2013-07-2812 minCinema FixEpisode #58: The Conjuring (Part 2)In this episode, Charlie Nash from Avenging Angels and Your Magazine Emerson stops by to discuss The Conjuring. Or rather, he drops in to help Monica explain to Andrew why he's wrong. Are "rules" necessary for this sort of horror film? Do its parallel character threads fully mesh together? And just why is it called The Conjuring anyway? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:10 - Charlie's general thoughts
5:20 - Andrew nitpicks the title
7:38 - James Wan's technical skills
11:00 - The "rules" of the demons
20:09 - The arc of V...
2013-07-2343 minCinema FixEpisode #57: Pacific Rim (Part 2)In this episode, Andrew and Monica discuss what makes Pacific Rim such an enjoyable summer movie and what could have been done to make it even better. How does the action direction distract from the flaws of the script? What's the one major plot hole? Could the emotional arcs have contributed to some of the tension? Tune in to find out. Plus, they give their ideas for a prequel, sequel or franchise cross-over!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:16 - Fighting through an avatar
5:05 - Drifting, lack of emotional arcs
12:56 - Is the Rale...
2013-07-1633 minNavigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #14: Let's Kill All The LawyersThe Newsroom is back! In this episode, Andrew and Andrew discuss the second season premiere, "First Thing We Do, Let's Kill All The Lawyers." What's up with all the romantic conflict since we last saw these characters? Who's the new guy? Does Will's little stunt on the air make sense? And is the new structure really the best way to approach this show? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:20 - Intro and recap
3:51 - General thoughts, the opening credits
12:51 - All the romantic subplots
20:52 - SOPA stuff
22:34 - Intern!
26:01...
2013-07-1649 minNavigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #13: Back On The AirThe best podcast about The Newsroom on the internet is back! The second season premieres this Sunday, July 14, so Andrew and Andrew decided to kick things off with a short preview podcast. How do they feel about Season 1 of the show now that so much time has passed? What are they looking forward to in Season 2? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:20 - We're back!
3:51 - Andrew R's thoughts on Season 1, hopes for Season 2
10:38 - Andrew J's thoughts on Season 1
15:53 - Season 2 characters and news
23:25 - Shortened season
24:09 - Show...
2013-07-1126 minCinema FixEpisode #56: The Lone Ranger (Part 2)Monica is angry. Very angry. In this episode, she and Andrew have a passionate debate about the extent to which good intentions can save a movie that in certain respects, yeah, is pretty racist. How does The Lone Ranger attempt to package a non-mainstream message in a mainstream movie? Is Johnny Depp's Tonto really a racist and damaging depiction of Native Americans? Why is cannibalism a dominant motif? And can Hollywood please give Armie Hammer another chance? Plus, Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:49 - Johnny Depp and whether this Tonto is racist
2013-07-041h 00Avenging Angels: A Dexter PodcastEpisode #2: A Beautiful DayAndrew and Charlie discuss the Season 8 premiere of Dexter in the first "official" episode of Avenging Angels. Are the supporting characters being set up for important developments, or is it more of the same? Do the challenges offered by the new character of Dr. Vogel seem like a compelling direction for the show to take? Do the writers fully realize how they've developed Dexter's "code" in the past? And perhaps most important of all, is the new Dexter/Debra dynamic an appropriate one? Plus, Andrew and Charlie figure out which characters they'd like to see killed off and come up...
2013-07-0352 minCinema FixEpisode #56: The Lone Ranger (Part 1)Hi-Ho Silver, Away! In this episode, Andrew and Monica give their general thoughts on The Lone Ranger. Armie Hammer and Johnny Depp star as the iconic masked hero and his Native American sidekick, respectively. Has director Gore Versinski made another great popcorn movie in the vein of Pirates of the Caribbean? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:49 - General thoughts
11:39 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
2013-07-0313 minCinema FixEpisode #55: Monsters UniversityIn this episode, Andrew and Monica get their degree in the Scare Program at Monsters University! Is Pixar's latest sequel an improvement from their last few offerings? Does it change how one might view Monsters Inc.? And how is it a radical departure from the vast majority of family entertainment? Tune in to find out. Plus, Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
4:37 - General thoughts
12:12 - Spoilers: The ending
18:30 - Thematically different than most family entertainment
23:57 - College campus bubble
27:32 - Disney and future sequels
33:54 - Reboot This!
2013-06-2940 minCinema FixEpisode #54: Man of Steel (Part 2)In this episode, Rod Morrow from The Black Guy Who Tips joins Andrew and Monica to debate the merits of Man of Steel. How important is it to have character development along with action? What's up with Clark's dad? Is Zack Snyder improving or getting worse? And is this the worst Lois Lane we've ever seen on the big screen? Plus, a tangential conversation about the nature of film criticism, and you won't believe what everyone pitches in this week's edition of Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
6:28 - Impossible White Man movies
2013-06-201h 26Cinema FixEpisode #54: Man of Steel (Part 1)It's a bird, it's a plane... but is it a good movie? In this episode, Andrew and Monica give some quick spoiler-free thoughts on Zack Snyder's reboot of the Superman film series, Man of Steel. Is this a refreshing new take on the DC superhero? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:16 - General thoughts
12:46 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
2013-06-1814 minCinema FixEpisode #53: This Is The End (Part 2)In this segment, Andrew and Monica figure out where This Is The End goes right and wrong. Does the religious stuff work? When is rape humor not offensive? Could they be declaring an end to this type of comedy? Tune in to find out. Plus, as always, Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:04 - General thoughts
12:32 - Rape humor, and when/whether it works
19:56 - On penises and how funny they are
23:00 - References to their previous films
28:02 - Craig Robinson and urine
31:28 - Cameos
33:57 - The...
2013-06-1344 minCinema FixEpisode #50: Star Trek Into Darkness (Part 2)Andrew and Monica have a lot to say about Star Trek Into Darkness. In what may be their longest discussion of a single film ever, they talk everything from character arcs to political subtext. What's up with the super-blood? Does the film's race-bending really matter that much? Is the depiction of Carol Marcus sexist and offensive? Are all the references to a previous Trek film really necessary? And just wait until you hear Andrew's epic pitch for the plot of the sequel!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
4:07 - Khan's exposition dump
12:00 - Remaking Wr...
2013-05-241h 38Cinema FixEpisode #49: The Great GatsbyHey there, old sport! After an unexpected week-long hiatus, Andrew and Monica are back with a review of Baz Luhrmann's adaptation of The Great Gatsby. This episode isn't split into two parts--there's a brief spoiler-free chat followed by the usual in-depth analysis. Does the film do the novel justice? What's up with the framing device? Is the use of modern music on the soundtrack justified? Tune in to find out. Plus, in Reboot This!, Andrew and Monica do the unthinkable and pitch a sequel to what many people consider the greatest American novel of all time.
SHOW NOTES:
2013-05-2246 minCinema FixEpisode #41: The Incredible Burt Wonderstone (Part 2)In this episode, Andrew and Monica try to figure out why a movie about magic doesn't seem very magical. How does the movie's approach to directing disrespect the profession? Does the ending work? Andrew also reveals he perhaps likes magic more than he should. Plus, the return of Reboot This!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
1:58 - Why is Alan Arkin here?
4:50 - A disappointing depiction of magic as an art and profession
10:55 - Explaining how magic tricks are done
14:52 - The funniest scene in the movie
16:25 - The romance, wasting...
2013-03-2133 minCinema FixEpisode #31: Holiday Movie RoundupHappy New Year! In this episode, Andrew and Monica look back at two movies that were released over the holidays: This is 40 and Les Miserables. Andrew also gives some brief thoughts on Jack Reacher. Are any of these films worth your time? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro
2:35 - General thoughts on Jack Reacher
8:26 - This is 40 intro and clip
10:24 - Thoughts on This is 40
25:00 - Les Miserables intro and clip
28:12 - Thoughts on Les Mis
47:17 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the...
2013-01-1049 min
Dispatches From Sainte Marina: A Last Resort PodcastEpisode #8: Nuke It OutIt turns out both Greg and Andrew were right about different things last episode. In "Nuke It Out," the person who stole the launch key is revealed, love triangles get complicated, Sarrat continues to be a total jerk, but much more. Andrew and Greg try to make sense of everything that's happening and talk about what they hope to see from the second half of the season.
SHOW NOTES:
0:45 - Intro, episode synopsis and clip
5:08 - Booth is alive, Cortez has the key
11:00 - Paul and Christine
13:30 - Sophie's screensaver
16:05 - King...
2012-11-3042 min
The Thin PlaceEpisode #23: Grace and Merit in Great ExpectationsGuest host Andrew Johnson joins Ken at the Toronto International Film Festival to discuss Mike Newell’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’s classic novel. What is the difference between grace and random acts of kindness? Which character reminds Ken of the rock opera Chess? Warning: some profanity in this episode.
SHOW NOTES:
0:00 - Intro. What is grace?
05:12 - Grace vs. random acts of kindness
07:25 - Class conflict, Puritan work ethic, and deserving success.
12:20 - "Pity the child, but not forever," the problems with economic determinism
17:40 - Miss Havisham and the culture of victimhood
25:00 - The circle of (moral) life and the...
2012-09-1829 minNavigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #12: Media Scholar Bob ThompsonIn this special bonus episode, Andrew talks with television historian and pop culture expert Robert J. Thompson about The Newsroom. How does the show fit in with Sorkin's previous work? How is it referencing other television shows? Does it really need to be on HBO? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:19 - Intro
3:37 - Interview with Bob Thompson
42:06 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing navigatingnewsroom@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
2012-09-0444 minNavigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #11: The Greater Fool and Season 1The end has come! Andrew and Andrew are joined by a few of their previous guests -- William Bibbiani, Gwen Reyes and Allison Loring -- to discuss the season finale of The Newsroom, and the season as a whole. Has Sorkin succeeded in his mission to civilize? What’s up with Don and Sloan? Is the relationship drama finally at a satisfying place? What are the best and worst things about the show? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:19 - Intro
1:55 - Episode recap
6:02 - William Bibbiani’s thoughts
8:41 - A lack of compelling threat; the character of Leona
13:10 - Th...
2012-08-301h 07Navigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #10: The Blackout, Part 2It's almost over! In this episode, Andrew and Andrew discuss the penultimate installment of The Newsroom, the second half of the self-proclaimed two-part episode. Does the blackout even matter that much? Is the mock debate an example of Sorkin's liberal bias? And what's up with Lisa and the "relationship crap?" Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:19 - Intro
1:36 - Some feedback to feedback
6:32 - Episode recap and clip
9:58 - Andrew J's general thoughts
13:00 - Andrew R's general thoughts
14:46 - Looking at The Newsroom as a workplace comedy
16:46 - Neal's mission to troll
21:11 - The mock debate; too much?
30:30 - The...
2012-08-2350 minNavigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #9: The Blackout, Part 1Special guest Chadwick Matlin from Vulture joins Andrew and Andrew to analyze why the show is just so darn mediocre. What's up with this new character? Are the scenes with Sloan and Don further evidence of Sorkin's sexism? And why is God on Mackenzie's side now? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:19 - Intro
3:00 - Chadwick Matlin gives his general thoughts
7:30 - Andrew R's general thoughts on the episode
9:50 - What's changed from the beginning?
16:15 - The hacking subplot
19:35 - The scene with Sloan; is sexism just a matter of context and tone?
25:50 - The new character of Brian...
2012-08-1856 minNavigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #8: 5/1This week, The Newsroom gets nostalgic and patriotic. Special guest Gwen Reyes from Reel Vixen stops by to discuss the portrayal of the announcement of Osama bin Laden's death. Was it respectful, superficial, or both? Is Sloan still the strongest female character? And is Jim's recent development with Lisa really what the love triangle needs? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:19 - Intro and episode recap
3:35 - Gwen's thoughts on the show and the episode
7:04 - Andrew R's general thoughts on the episode
10:30 - Thoughts on the love triangle; should Jim and Maggie ever end up together?
15:21 - The...
2012-08-1152 minNavigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #7: BulliesFinally, the show gets a female perspective! Special guest Allison Loring from Film School Rejects joins Andrew and Andrew to discuss the latest episode of The Newsroom. Was the Sloan situation handled well, or is it just further evidence of hypocrisy? Is the internet really that evil? Is Will going to turn into another Tony Soprano? And why is Maggie so damn clueless? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:19 - Intro and episode recap
2:45 - General thoughts on the show and the episode
5:00 - How does Maggie still have a job?
10:10 - Will in therapy
19:20 - The internet is evil...
2012-08-011h 05Navigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #6: AmenSpecial guest William Bibbiani from Crave Online joins Andrew and Andrew to discuss the fifth episode of The Newsroom. Has the show recovered from last week's travesty? Is this Neal-centric episode what we had hoped for? And how does the economy work, anyway? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:19 - Intro and episode recap
4:21 - General thoughts on the show and the episode
7:42 - Why does the show continue to humiliate Mackenzie?
13:22 - Bibbs gives more general thoughts on the show and character relationships
27:16 - Back to the show's treatment of women
31:55 - Andrew Robinson's general thoughts on the...
2012-08-011h 12Navigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #5: I'll Try To Fix YouSorry for the delay, folks! Andrew and Andrew are finally back to discuss the fourth episode of The Newsroom, "I'll Try To Fix You." They're joined by special guest Corey Atad from Sound on Sight and the new JustAtadcast. Does this episode deserve all the hate? Is Sorkin succeeding in his "mission to civilize?" Is his attitude towards gossip journalists accurate or unfair? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:19 - Intro and episode recap
3:20 - General thoughts on the show and the episode
9:15 - Back to the issue of sexism; condescending towards female characters
15:38 - Is Sorkin's knowledge of...
2012-07-2455 minNavigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #4: The 112th CongressThe third episode of The Newsroom has a unique structure, but is this a good thing or a step back? Andrew and Andrew discuss Will and Mackenzie's relationship woes, the extent to which characters are actually developing, and whether or not the Tea Party-bashing is effective. Is the show liberal propaganda? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:19 - Intro and episode recap
3:00 - General thoughts
10:15 - By bashing the Tea Party, is the show becoming liberal propaganda?
24:07 - Character development of Don, Jim and Maggie
33:14 - The Will/Mackenzie "date battle"
42:54 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the...
2012-07-1445 minNavigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #3: News Night 2.0Andrew and Andrew discuss the second episode of The Newsroom. Is this an improvement over the pilot or is the show already starting to go downhill? Is Will McAvoy still an intriguing character? What about critics who say the show's depiction of women is sexist? Are Maggie, Mackenzie and Sloan depicted in a positive way? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:06 - Short disclaimer
1:13 - Intro and episode recap
5:05 - General thoughts
7:08 - Characterization of Maggie; the love triangle
19:25 - Sloan Sabbath and the requirement of female news anchors to have "great legs"
24:45 - Will McAvoy and ratings
32:40...
2012-07-0853 minNavigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #2: We Just Decided ToAndrew and Andrew discuss the pilot episode of The Newsroom, "We Just Decided To." How does it compare to Sorkin's other work? Is the use of real-life news going to be a problem? Is Sorkin a brilliant truth-teller or just an arrogant jerk? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:20 - Intro and episode recap
3:24 - Andrew Robinson's general thoughts
7:34 - Andrew Johnson's general thoughts
11:04 - Ripping off "The Office"?
14:28 - Is Will McAvoy a likable character?
23:35 - The show as Aaron Sorkin's soapbox, opinion journalism
34:34 - Using real-life news - is it insulting to real journalists?
39:39 - Character development
45:35...
2012-06-3059 minNavigating The Newsroom: A Podcast on HBO's The NewsroomEpisode #1: An IntroductionWelcome to Navigating The Newsroom! In this pilot episode, hosts Andrew and Andrew introduce themselves and share their expectations for the new HBO series The Newsroom. Will Aaron Sorkin be able to capture the same magic he did with shows like The West Wing and films like The Social Network? Join us for 10 weeks of in-depth discussion and analysis of one of this summer’s most anticipated new shows!
SHOW NOTES:
0:20 - Intro
1:00 - The hosts introduce themselves
2:35 - What we know about The Newsroom
6:00 - Our familiarity with other Sorkin work
7:40 - What we’re excited about, possible concerns
12:05 - Po...
2012-06-2914 minCinema FixEpisode #17: Project X (Part 2)Andrew and Frank have gotten old. In this episode, they discuss why Project X is irresponsible filmmaking at its worst, and how it sets Western culture back a few decades. At what point should consequences matter? How obligated are the filmmakers to promote healthy values? And when will you get off Andrew and Frank's lawn?
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:24 - Ethically unsettling compared to other "party movies"
11:35 - "Real" events with no real consequences, what we see vs. what we don't see
16:00 - A single change that could have made it a brilliant film
21:00 - In the shadow...
2012-03-1146 minCinema FixEpisode #15: Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance (Part 2)Andrew might have to give up his critic card. Critics everywhere are calling Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance a worthless piece of garbage, but is it as bad as that? Tune in as Andrew defends the film (or at least, the filmmakers) and points out signs of creativity. Plus, our hosts unveil a new show segment.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
5:57 - Frank's favorite scene
7:48 - So bad it's good?
9:42 - Elements of the Neveldine/Taylor style; peeing fire and Twinkies
16:22 - A callback to the Wicker Man remake?
19:09 - The Blackout makeup design
20:55 - Unique imagery, or just...
2012-02-2646 minCinema FixEpisode #7: In Time (Part 2)Andrew and Frank discuss the other issues brought up in Andrew Niccol's latest sci-fi film. What if technical problems end up killing people? Why is there no middle class? And how exactly has sex and dating changed in this society? You know, the important questions.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
2:06 - The ending and the Timekeeper
6:35 - The motivation (or lack thereof)
12:07 - The political subtext
22:35 - Other questions raised (like sex!)
29:47 - The ending
32:55 - More questions about how this society works
44:04 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks...
2012-01-0645 minCinema FixEpisode #7: In Time (Part 1)Andrew and Frank discuss the latest sci-fi thriller from Gattaca director Andrew Niccol. Does this film about a futuristic society in which time is literally money make any sense? Tune in to find out.
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Intro and clip
3:43 - General thoughts
13:48 - Show close
DON'T FORGET: You can contact the show by emailing cinemafix@filmgeekradio.com. Thanks for listening!
2012-01-0616 minCinema FixEpisode #1: We'll Be Your DealersWelcome to Cinema Fix! Before you can get your weekly dose of film discussion to satisfy your cinema addiction, you need to meet your dealers. In this episode, Andrew and Storm go over the mission of Film Geek Radio and lay out the details of the show, who they are, and what you can expect. Hang on to your butts. It's going to be a crazy trip!
SHOW NOTES:
0:22 - Info on Film Geek Radio
1:16 - Cinema Fix's focus and format
6:19 - Info on Andrew and Storm
11:55 - How to access the show and contact us
15:30 - Next week on...
2011-09-0917 min