Sean and Amanda field your questions about everything BUT movies (and some movie things). They answer questions about their origin story as friends, fiction and nonfiction book recommendations, death row meals, ‘Industry,’ cocktails, golf, fighting animals, and much more. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Video Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Alex Ross Perry to discuss his new film ‘Pavements’ and the film festival hamster wheel (1:00). They then analyze the state of the slasher film subgenre (10:00) and the year in horror. Later, they run through the decades to build their slasher movie hall of fame (47:00), assessing the merits of stone-cold classics like ‘Halloween’ and ‘Texas Chainsaw Massacre,’ as well as 90s era masterpieces like ‘Scream.’ Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Alex Ross Perry Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Video Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Now that ‘Anora’ has hit select theaters, Sean assesses the state of the Best Picture race by running through a long (emphasis on long) list of 26 films that have a chance to be nominated at the Oscars (1:00). Then, Sean and Amanda discuss ‘Anora,’ Sean Baker’s Palme d’Or–winning drama about a whirlwind romance between a sex worker and the son of a Russian oligarch (30:00). Finally, Sean is joined by John Crowley, the director of the new Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh romance ‘We Live in Time’ (1:15:00). They discuss, among other things, the qualities that attracted Crowley to Garfield and Pugh, how he chooses to work in film vs. theater, his long-running project of sincere romantic dramas, and more. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: John Crowley Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Video Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Chris Ryan to discuss the biggest film at the box office, ‘Terrifier 3,’ the third installment of the independently made horror clown franchise that has become this year’s biggest box office surprise (1:00). After, they talk about another horror franchise that’s become a reliable sensation for moviegoers, ‘Smile 2’ (23:00); they go over the impressive filmmaking but ultimately choppy story. They then transition to each sharing their top five horror movies of the year so far (1:15:00), including some obvious bellwethers like ‘Longlegs’ and some franchise entries like ‘Alien: Romulus’ and ‘The First Omen.’ Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean shares a recap of the best movies he caught at the 62nd New York Film Festival, including the heavy hitters at this upcoming Oscars, the latest installations from old masters and personal favorites, and the biggest surprises of the festival (1:00). Then, Ringer writer and ‘Press Box’ host Bryan Curtis joins to share the myriad successes and failures of ‘The Apprentice,’ Ali Abbasi’s character portrait of early Donald Trump’s rise to power in the New York real estate world and his complex relationship with lawyer and power broker Roy Cohn (50:00). Then, Sebastian Stan, who portrays Trump in the film, joins (1:30:00) to discuss how he chooses projects, what attracts him to playing characters who transform, and the long journey to getting ‘The Apprentice’ in theaters. They also discuss his work in ‘A Different Man,’ Aaron Schimberg’s new A24 movie about an aspiring young actor who undergoes a procedure to drastically alter his appearance in the hopes of improving his career prospects. Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Bryan Curtis and Sebastian Stan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Video Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Chris Ryan to break down ‘Saturday Night,’ Jason Reitman’s quasi-historical exploration of the beginnings of 'Saturday Night Live' (10:00). They discuss the disbelief that needs to be suspended, as well as the more or less knockout cast, before launching into their top five “backstage” movies and discussion of why it’s so interesting to pull back the curtain in cinema (44:00). Then, Sean is joined by New York Times pop critic and ‘Popcast’ host Jon Caramanica to review ‘Piece by Piece,’ the Pharrell Williams biopic told through Lego animation (1:07:00). They discuss the format, the content, the interviews, and how effectively it does or doesn’t capture the totemic career of Williams and his lasting impact on pop music. Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chris Ryan and Jon Caramanica Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Video Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! And Amanda is back! She and Sean are joined by Chris Ryan to pick their faves and foil their pals in a draft of the movies from 1996. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Video Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Van Lathan to discuss ‘Joker: Folie à Deux,’ the off-putting sequel to Todd Phillips’s 2019 ‘Joker,’ starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga (1:00). They discuss the jukebox musical format’s successes and failures, the filmmaking vs. the experience of watching it, and whether they ultimately liked the movie. Then, they zoom out to discuss the state of moviegoing and movie watching (43:00) and explore whether we’re in a uniquely strange place with the reception of movies and the conversation social media inspires about divisive films and filmmakers. Finally, Sean is joined by director Greg Jardin to discuss his debut feature ‘It’s What’s Inside,’ an all-in-one-night sci-fi thriller with some unexpected twists (spoilers!) and fresh filmmaking choices (1:05:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Van Lathan and Greg Jardin Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Video Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda do their best to parse through the messiness of Francis Ford Coppola’s ‘Megalopolis,’ starring, among others, Adam Driver, Nathalie Emmanuel, and Aubrey Plaza (1:00). They discuss the circuitous journey Coppola took to finally making the film, the convoluted plot (and at times lack thereof), and the ambition in comparison to the actual execution of the final product. Then, they launch into the Coppola Hall of Fame, selecting 10 movies to enshrine from his uniquely boom-or-bust career, which features legendary movies like ‘The Godfather’ and ‘Apocalypse Now’ alongside historic financial and qualitative bombs (53:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Video Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda react to some news around the movie world (1:00), before discussing ‘Wolfs,’ the reunion of Brad Pitt and George Clooney in a movie about two lone wolf “fixers” who get assigned to the same job (13:00). They discuss whether the movie is interesting beyond the charisma of its leads and get into the up-and-down CV of Apple Films through 2024 (30:00). Then, they discuss four more movies either available or soon to be available at home or in theaters: ‘The Wild Robot,’ ‘Will & Harper,’ ‘His Three Daughters,’ and ‘Transformers One’ (39:00). Finally, Sean is joined by ‘Transformers One’ director Josh Cooley to discuss his role as director in the process of making an animated movie, his rise through Pixar, his love for Transformers, and what he’s looking to do next (59:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Josh Cooley Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Video Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda react to some news about the Golden Globes being … a lot like they’ve always been (1:00). Then, they discuss Coralie Fargeat’s new body horror film ‘The Substance,’ starring Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley (13:00). Finally, Sean is joined by Fargeat to discuss the first body horror movies she ever watched, the production process for making such a gross film, how she sees the themes of the movie, and more (1:12:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Coralie Fargeat Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Video Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan and Zach Baron to pick their faves and foil their pals in a draft of the movies from Brad Pitt and George Clooney. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan and Zach Baron Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Video Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by film critic, Ringer contributor, and resident “mean pod guy” Adam Nayman to do a speed recap of his favorite (and least favorite) movies out of the Toronto International Film Festival (1:00). Then, they revive the Big Oscar Bet, in which Sean and Amanda predict the nominees and winners of every major category at the 2025 Oscars (37:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Adam Nayman Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Video Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to discuss ‘Speak No Evil,’ James Watkins’s reimagination of the 2022 Danish psychological horror film (1:00). Then, they discuss other movies that inspire the sensation of needing to get the f--- out of danger and share their top five in the subgenre (1:06:00). Finally, Sean is joined by Watkins and ‘Speak No Evil’ star James McAvoy to discuss why they wanted to remake the film, tapping into darker parts of the human psyche, and the physicality that goes into creating a thriller like this (1:40:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan, James McAvoy, and James Watkins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Video Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Chris Ryan to review some news items out of the fall film festival circuit (1:00) before discussing one of their favorite genre movies of 2024, Jeremy Saulnier’s revenge thriller ‘Rebel Ridge’ (17:00). They discuss their delight at having Saulnier back in the director’s chair and Aaron Pierre’s breakout performance, before minting a new subgenre: Garbage Revenge, a.k.a. Trash Justice (49:00). Then, Sean is joined by Saulnier to discuss the production of the movie, what type of writer he is, how exacting type of filmmaking, and what he hopes to do next (1:22:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chris Ryan and Jeremy Saulnier Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by ‘Higher Learning’ and ‘Midnight Boys’ cohost Van Lathan to discuss the successes and shortcomings of ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,’ another mega-sequel that's shaping up to perform well at this weekend’s box office (1:00). They discuss Michael Keaton’s return to the namesake character, how the bloated plot prevents it from reaching the highs of the first, the satisfying return of the original cast, and the refreshing addition of Jenna Ortega. Then, they get into the incredible run Tim Burton kicked his career off with and the precipitous drop-off that followed, before sharing their five favorite Burton movies (1:04:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Van Lathan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda recap the long weekend in film news and discuss the biggest films out of the Telluride Film Festival, including the much-anticipated ‘Anora,’ the 'SNL' origin story ‘Saturday Night,’ the Trump biopic ‘The Apprentice,’ and more (1:00). Then, they react to the Venice Film Festival from afar and take stock of the impact that this weekend’s major festivals have had on the state of the awards race (58:00). Finally, they share the yet-to-be-released movies that they’re most excited for this fall (1:20:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With ‘Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice’ on the horizon, Sean and Amanda enlist the help of Michael Keaton superfan and ‘Blank Check’ cohost Griffin Newman to carve out the Michael Keaton movie Mount Rushmore: an ode to a career with incredible peaks and long, fallow stretches (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by ‘Between the Temples’ writer-director Nathan Silver and producer and star Jason Schwartzman to discuss the unique production style of the movie, how to inject a specific comedic tone into a script, the movie’s inspirations, and more (1:45:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Griffin Newman, Jason Schwartzman, and Nathan Silver Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda return to the feed in triumphant fashion by talking about, among other things, Oasis, the ‘Megalopolis’ trailer, and their weeks away (1:00). Then, they run through five recently released features and their “sicko” natures, measuring the quality of each film and the state of the release calendar in the doldrums of summer (18:00). Finally, Sean is joined by JT Mollner, the director of ‘Strange Darling’, to discuss the long gap between his first feature at Sundance and ‘Strange Darling,’ the twists and turns of his movie, and the way he conceives of making movies within genres that come with audience expectation (1:09:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: JT Mollner Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘The Hollywood Hack’ is a three-part narrative series chronicling the biggest Hollywood heist of all time: In the fall of 2014, a group of cyberterrorists hacked Sony Pictures, stealing hundreds of thousands of documents. The materials were eventually leaked online, causing an international incident that would change Hollywood forever.  In Episode 3, the hackers attempt to halt the release of ‘The Interview’ by threatening to attack theaters—forcing Sony executives to make a difficult last-minute decision. After the dust clears, those involved with the hack reckon with its long-term consequences—both for themselves and for Hollywood. Host: Brian Raftery  Producers: Devon Baroldi, Brian Raftery, and Vikram Patel Sound Design: Devon Renaldo Mixing and Mastering: Scott Somerville  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘The Hollywood Hack’ is a three-part narrative series chronicling the biggest Hollywood heist of all time: In the fall of 2014, a group of cyberterrorists hacked Sony Pictures, stealing hundreds of thousands of documents. The materials were eventually leaked online, causing an international incident that would change Hollywood forever.  In Episode 2, the hackers release hundreds of thousands of top-secret Sony emails—causing a scandal that reaches from Hollywood to the White House and beyond. Meanwhile, Sony’s employees deal with the fallout of having their professional lives upended—and their personal lives exposed.  Host: Brian Raftery  Producers: Devon Baroldi, Brian Raftery, and Vikram Patel Sound Design: Devon Renaldo Mixing and Mastering: Scott Somerville  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘The Hollywood Hack’ is a three-part narrative series chronicling the biggest Hollywood heist of all time: In the fall of 2014, a group of cyberterrorists hacked Sony Pictures, stealing hundreds of thousands of documents. The materials were eventually leaked online, causing an international incident that would change Hollywood forever.  In Episode 1, thousands of Sony employees show up for work on November 24, 2014—only to discover a menacing message on their screens. It soon becomes clear that the studio has been targeted by a mysterious foreign power—all because of a goofy buddy-comedy called ‘The Interview.’  Host: Brian Raftery  Producers: Devon Baroldi, Brian Raftery, and Vikram Patel Sound Design: Devon Renaldo Mixing and Mastering: Scott Somerville  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Chris Ryan to react to a handful of casting tidbits (1:00), before digging into the newest installment in the ‘Alien’ franchise, ‘Alien: Romulus’ (11:00). They discuss the new movie’s fealty to the original, the chances it takes, how it works as a pure horror movie, and more. Then, they rank all nine movies in the franchise (53:00), before Sean is joined by ‘Romulus’ director Fede Álvarez to talk about making a movie in the franchise that he is a superfan of, some of the particular choices made around fan service, how he approached practical effects during the production, and more (1:11:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chris Ryan and Fede Álvarez Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Ringer contributor Brian Raftery to discuss his miniseries about the Sony hack, running next week on the ‘Big Picture’ feed (1:00). Then, they discuss two recent releases—Sean Wang’s coming-of-age movie ‘Dìdi’ and the Matt Damon and Casey Affleck vehicle ‘The Instigators’ (14:00)—before launching themselves into the Matt Damon Hall of Fame (34:00). Finally, Sean is joined by Wang to discuss making ‘Dìdi,’ the path to his first feature at just 29 years old, the particular time period of the movie, and more (1:36:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Brian Raftery and Sean Wang Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In their 700th Episode, Sean and Amanda discuss the news that the Brad Pitt and George Clooney vehicle ‘Wolfs’ will have a one-week limited theatrical release before moving to streaming, then talk about a slightly deranged combination of films this week (0:45). First up, they dive into ‘Sing Sing,’ a deeply moving prison drama starring Colman Domingo about a small group of prisoners attempting to stage a theatrical production (11:53). Then, they transition to the bizarre and controversial Colleen Hoover adaptation ‘It Ends With Us,’ starring Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni (28:11). Finally, Sean is joined by ‘Sing Sing’ director Greg Kwedar to discuss how this extraordinary film came together, casting formerly incarcerated actors, the unusual rollout of the film, and more (1:08:45). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Sasha Ashall Engineers: Aleya Zenieris and Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda dig into a heap of news that Sean missed while he was on vacation (0:55), including the latest on the MCU (1:25), the fall festival landscape (18:27), and the just-announced Britney Spears biopic (30:5r0). Then, they dive deep into M. Night Shyamalan’s latest, the twisty serial killer thriller ‘Trap’ (38:05). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Brian H. Waters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to commemorate the career of one of America’s greatest directors, Sidney Lumet. They talk about him as a person, his path to becoming a workman director, his methodology, and his standout moments (1:00) before going through his entire filmography and choosing the 10 most essential entries in the canon (43:00). Then, they each share their five personal favorites (1:37:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by three out of four of the Midnight Boys—Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, and Jomi Adeniran—to have a deep-dive conversation about Marvel’s big 2024 bet: ‘Deadpool & Wolverine.’ They discuss the somewhat convoluted plot of the movie (5:00), what they liked and didn’t like about it (11:00), what audience it’s aiming for (16:00), whether or not Marvel is back on the right track (1:00:00), and more. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss the smashing success of Glen Powell and Daisy Edgar-Jones’s ‘Twisters’ (1:00) before reviewing ‘Fly Me to the Moon,’ a surprisingly under-the-radar Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum movie about the space race (21:00). After that, they open up the mailbag to answer your questions about the 2025 movie slate, Tom Cruise’s next projects, movie theater behavior, film books, James Bond, snacks, and more (30:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss one of the most anticipated movies of the summer, ‘Twisters,’ starring their guy Glen Powell alongside Daisy Edgar-Jones (1:00). Then, in honor of the genre that ‘Twister’ amplified in the ’90s, they discuss what makes natural disaster movies so appealing and which are the most successful (40:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re drafting again! Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to draft 2000s summer blockbusters. To watch episodes of ‘The Big Picture,’ head to https://www.youtube.com/@RingerMovies. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Aleya Zenieris and Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Rob Mahoney to appraise just how terrifying ‘Longlegs’ is after all the buzz (1:00). Then, they run through the canon of serial killer movies, a horror subgenre that distinguishes itself from slashers (26:00). Finally, Sean is joined by ‘Longlegs’ director Osgood Perkins to discuss his career, the particular elements of ‘Longlegs’ he was most interested in exploring, how a film like this gets received by wider audiences, and more (1:02:00). To watch episodes of ‘The Big Picture,’ head to https://www.youtube.com/@RingerMovies. Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Rob Mahoney and Osgood Perkins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda react to the trailer for ‘F1,’ Joseph Kosinski’s follow-up to ‘Top Gun: Maverick,’ starring Brad Pitt as a Formula One driver (1:00), then react to the news of the Paramount sale going through (5:00). They later dig into Ti West’s third installment in the ‘X’ trilogy, ‘MaXXXine’ (10:00). Next, they’re joined by Van Lathan to discuss Eddie Murphy’s return to the ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ franchise in this past weekend’s Netflix release: ‘Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F’ (28:00). Sean and Amanda then briefly discuss ‘Despicable Me 4’ and the state of the box office, as it has bounced back recently (50:00), before Sean is finally joined by West to discuss ‘MaXXXine’ in further depth, talk about why he wanted to stay in this story, and dig into some of the myriad influences on the film (58:00). To watch episodes of ‘The Big Picture,’ head to https://www.youtube.com/@RingerMovies. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Ti West and Van Lathan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by a deep bench of Ringer colleagues to share their favorite movies of the year. The selections range from heavy hitters like ‘Dune: Part Two’ and ‘Challengers’ to big swings like ‘Civil War.’ And, of course, Glen Powell will feature. To watch episodes of ‘The Big Picture,’ head to https://www.youtube.com/@RingerMovies. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan, Mallory Rubin, Joanna Robinson, Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Adam Nayman, Rob Mahoney Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan for part two of the 2024 movie auction. They nominate 15 films they’re excited for—including some important movies out of Cannes, an M. Night Shyamalan thriller, a Brad Pitt and George Clooney reunion, and more—and bid on who will get each movie on their team. To watch episodes of ‘The Big Picture,’ head to https://www.youtube.com/@RingerMovies. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda recap the third installment of the ‘Quiet Place’ franchise—the Lupita Nyong’o–starring ‘A Quiet Place: Day One’—which surprised both of them with its scale and quality (1:00). Then, they are joined by Chris Ryan to discuss Kevin Costner’s gigantic gamble, ‘Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter 1’ (25:00). The trio dig into its weirdness, its Western tropes and subversions, and whether it stands even the slightest chance of not bombing. To watch episodes of ‘The Big Picture,’ head to https://www.youtube.com/@RingerMovies. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With ‘Horizon: An American Saga’ on the … horizon … Sean and Amanda build the Kevin Costner Hall of Fame by running through Costner’s entire filmography to try to narrow it down to 10 movies. From the cowboy, to the athlete, to the spy, and back again, this filmography (and this episode) is a journey! To watch episodes of ‘The Big Picture,’ head to https://www.youtube.com/@RingerMovies. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to discuss ‘The Bikeriders,’ a new Jeff Nichols movie starring Austin Butler, Tom Hardy, and Jodie Comer (1:00). They discuss the film’s successes, its influences, and more, before building a partial canon for movies in the “dudes rock” genre (30:00). Then, Chris leaves and Sean and Amanda discuss ‘Kinds of Kindness,’ Yorgos Lanthimos’s anthology film and the latest installment in his creative collaboration with Emma Stone (52:00). Finally, Sean is joined by ‘Bikeriders’ director Jeff Nichols to discuss the production of the movie, the book that inspired it, making such a stylized period piece, and more (1:15:00). To watch episodes of ‘The Big Picture,’ head to https://www.youtube.com/@RingerMovies. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Jeff Nichols Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan reunite for a draft of the best movies of 2002. To watch episodes of ‘The Big Picture,’ head to https://www.youtube.com/@RingerMovies. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by ‘Midnight Boy’ Charles Holmes to react to the movie business news that Skydance is no longer looking to acquire Paramount and that Sony has purchased the theater chain Alamo Draft House (1:00). Then, they discuss Pixar’s latest attempt to get back to its heyday with ‘Inside Out 2’ and their relationship to the franchise (23:00). Then, they build their own Mount Rushmore of Pixar films, including which films represent which presidents on the monument (1:00:00). Finally, Sean is joined by documentarian Lance Oppenheim to discuss ‘Ren Faire’ and his career thus far (1:35:00). To watch episodes of ‘The Big Picture,’ head to https://www.youtube.com/@RingerMovies. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Charles Holmes and Lance Oppenheim Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda talk about the successes and shortcomings of the two biggest movies at this week’s box office: Will Smith’s return to franchise moviemaking in ‘Bad Boys: Ride or Die’ (1:00), and ‘The Watchers,’ Ishana Night Shyamalan’s directorial debut (43:00). Then, they briefly discuss ‘The Dead Don’t Hurt’ (1:03:00), Viggo Mortensen’s second directorial feature, a Western starring Mortensen and podcast favorite Vicky Krieps (0:00). Finally, Sean is joined by Mortensen to discuss the project, where it came from for him creatively, the importance of casting Krieps, his favorite Westerns, and more (1:08:00). To watch episodes of ‘The Big Picture,’ head to https://www.youtube.com/@RingerMovies. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Viggo Mortensen Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss the unconfirmed casting news that Paul Mescal, Barry Keoghan, Harris Dickinson, and Charlie Rowe will be the leads of Sam Mendes’s quartet of biopics about the members of the Beatles (1:00). Then, they have an in-depth (and spoiler-filled) discussion about Richard Linklater’s 'Hit Man,' starring 'Big Pic' favorite Glen Powell (15:00). Finally, Powell and Linklater join the show to discuss the genesis of the script, striking a unique tone, their creative partnership, and more (1:02:00). To watch episodes of ‘The Big Picture,’ head to https://www.youtube.com/@RingerMovies. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Glen Powell and Richard Linklater Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With no new movies hitting the box office this weekend, Sean and Amanda are instead building their own fantasy movie studio from scratch—directors, stars, writers, IP, studio locations, and more (1:00). Later in the show, Chris Ryan joins to help explain the uniqueness of ‘In a Violent Nature’ (1:22:00), before Sean is joined by the director of the film, Chris Nash, to discuss making it (1:34:00). To watch episodes of ‘The Big Picture,’ head to https://www.youtube.com/@RingerMovies. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Chris Nash Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to discuss the unique filmmaking prowess of Texas legend Richard Linklater. On the eve of his newest film, ‘Hit Man,’ starring Glen Powell and Adria Arjona, they choose 10 films from his catalog to build out the Linklater Hall of Fame. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean opens the podcast by sharing some extended thoughts about the state of the box office as it relates to George Miller’s ‘Furiosa’ (1:00). Then, Chris Ryan and Joanna Robinson join to do a deeper dive into ‘Furiosa’ and its various successes and limitations (17:00), before ranking every installment in the ‘Mad Max’ saga (1:15:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chris Ryan and Joanna Robinson Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda dig into a spoiler-filled conversation about George Miller’s newest installment in his ‘Mad Max’ canon—the Anya Taylor-Joy– and Chris Hemsworth–starring ‘Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.’ They discuss how it compares to 2015's ‘Mad Max: Fury Road,’ whether comparisons are fair or useful, the performances at the heart of the film, its visual prowess, its spot in the year of movies, whether it will have any chance at the Oscars, and more. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Midnight Boy and resident hater Charles Holmes to discuss a trio of less-than-ideal movies out right now: John Krasinski’s semi-animated ‘IF’ (1:00), the Amy Winehouse biopic ‘Back to Black’ (45:00), and Jerry Seinfeld’s nightmarish directorial debut, ‘Unfrosted’ (1:07:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Charles Holmes Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan reunite for a draft of the coolest scenes in action movie history. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Van Lathan to discuss the new installment in the ‘Planet of the Apes’ franchise, the enduring power of the ‘Apes’ IP, and how it relates to modern IP storytelling (1:00). Finally, they rank the 10 films in the franchise (1:05:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Van Lathan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda answer your questions about the 2024 box office, roasts, YouTube movie clips, repertory theaters, and more (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Mean Pod Guy Adam Nayman to discuss an exciting new release, Jane Schoenbrun’s ‘I Saw the TV Glow,’ and its unique blend of body horror, nostalgia, and identity (1:15:00). Finally, Sean is joined by Schoenbrun to discuss the making of the movie, growing up hooked in to television, and what kind of films they’re interested in making moving forward (1:45:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Jane Schoenbrun and Adam Nayman Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda share some exciting announcements about the show (1:00), then dig into their experience at four different premium large-format movie theater experiences over the last few weeks (4:00). They later discuss the weekend’s biggest streaming film, the Anne Hathaway vehicle ‘The Idea of You’ (1:00:00). Does the movie work, should it have been in theaters, and what does this signal for Hathaway—one of their favorite stars in Hollywood. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda reflect on the reaction to the 35 Under 35 movie stars list they put together on Tuesday’s episode (1:00), before discussing the new Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt action-comedy-romance movie, ‘The Fall Guy’ (5:00). Then, they revisit the highs of Gosling’s career by each sharing their five favorite performances from his long and chaptered career (51:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda reconvene the movie star committee to rank the 35 most important movie stars under the age of 35, using their proprietary blend of what a star has done already, what they have on their slate next, and what they could turn into in the future. Zendaya, Margot Robbie, Timothée Chalamet, Tom Holland, Jacob Elordi, Florence Pugh … Who will come out on top? Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda gather to discuss the 2024 film perfectly situated at the center of their respective tastes: ‘Challengers.’ They discuss the thrilling trio of actors at its center, underrated director Luca Guadagnino, its pulsing score, and its thrilling ending (1:00). Then, Sean interviews Justin Kuritzkes, the writer of the movie, about writing this script on spec, the balance of power dynamics among the characters, why he chose to set it in the world of tennis, and more (1:35:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Justin Kuritzkes Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Chris Ryan to discuss the current state of horror in theaters (1:00). They run through a list of movies that are out right now, then dive into what they did and did not like about them (10:00). Later, they’re joined by a special guest to explain the plot of ‘Imaginary’ (27:00) to Chris, who hasn’t yet seen the film. Finally, Sean and Chris discuss the directors they’d most like to see work in the horror genre (1:00:00) and discuss their most-anticipated upcoming releases (1:10:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss the news that Quentin Tarantino has shelved what was previously reported as his 10th and final film, ‘The Movie Critic’ (1:00). Then, they react to some development news for Martin Scorsese’s and Steven Spielberg’s next projects (12:00), and discuss the most anticipated movie of this upcoming summer (29:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan reunite and are joined by several special guests for a mega-draft of the best movies of 1999. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan, Mallory Rubin, Joanna Robinson, Van Lathan, and Rob Mahoney Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to run through the 10 most anticipated movies from this week’s CinemaCon, which Sean attended (1:00). Then, they have a long—and, at times, combative—discussion about Alex Garland’s big-budget A24 release, ‘Civil War’ (44:00), delving into the film’s politics (or lack thereof), point of view, cinematic style, and more. Finally, Sean is joined by Garland to answer questions regarding some of those very things and where he sees this in the arc of his career, as well as discuss whether he will take a step back from filmmaking (1:50:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Alex Garland Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda revisit Denis Villeneuve’s ‘Dune: Part Two’ and assess whether the fervor for it holds up (1:00). Then, they share their 10 favorite movies of the year so far (25:00), including ‘Immaculate,’ ‘La Chimera,’ ‘The First Omen,’ and others. Sean is then joined by the director of ‘The First Omen,’ Arkasha Stevenson, to discuss the subversive nature of a her legacy sequel, how she got it made, and the career that led her here (1:15:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Arkasha Stevenson Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda dig into the successes and shortcomings of this week’s biggest release at the box office: Dev Patel’s directorial debut, ‘Monkey Man’ (1:00). They discuss, among other things, the unique action put to screen and the movie’s rumored behind-the-scenes studio management. Then—after casually losing their sanity for 15 minutes in the middle of the podcast—they discuss the best directorial debuts of the 21st century (42:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda break down a pair of big franchise releases—‘Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire’ and ‘Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’ (1:00). They then share their thoughts on the new Steve Martin documentary ‘Steve!’ (30:00) and build the Steve Martin Hall of Fame (49:00). Finally, Sean is joined by the director of said documentary, Morgan Neville, to discuss picking a subject, building rapport with that subject, and how he chooses projects (1:40:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Morgan Neville Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a hundred years, when you and I are both long gone, anytime someone listens to this podcast, you will be alive again. Chris Ryan joins Sean and Amanda as they discuss Damien Chazelle’s 'Babylon.' (The movie is now available on Amazon Prime Video and Paramount+, so you can stream along with 'The Big Picture.') Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Chris Ryan to briefly discuss ‘Immaculate,’ the new Sydney Sweeney nun horror movie, before digging into Jake Gyllenhaal’s ‘Road House’ remake (1:00). Then, Sean and Chris explore a new niche subgenre they’ve invented: junk fights (32:00). Finally, Sean is joined by ‘Immaculate’ director Michael Mohan to discuss working in the genre, working with Sweeney, and how he hopes to build on this film going forward (1:08:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chris Ryan and Michael Mohan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan reunite for a draft of the best movies of 1977—the year of Chris’s birth and a compelling year for many of our most iconic directors. John Cassavetes on TV sucking: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePptcNqXRJA Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss a recent run of positive 2025 movie news (1:00) before digging into Rose Glass’s second feature, ‘Love Lies Bleeding’ (20:00). They take stock of Kristen Stewart’s unique movie star presence, discuss Glass’s genre command and audacious screenwriting, and praise Katy O’Brian’s wonderfully physical and emotional performance. Then, they run down a list of films they’re calling the 21st Century Noir Movie Canon (36:00). Finally, Sean is joined by Glass to discuss the production of ‘Love Lies Bleeding,’ working with a star like Stewart, why she set the film in America, how Ed Harris became involved in the project, and more (53:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Rose Glass Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Joanna Robinson to briefly discuss ‘Dune: Part Two’ and other way-too-early contenders for the 2025 Oscars (1:00). Then, they open the mailbag to answer your questions about ‘Oppenheimer,’ Emma Stone, Lily Gladstone, ‘Rango,’ Bradley Cooper, ‘The Holdovers,’ and more (37:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Joanna Robinson Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda give their immediate reactions to the 96th Academy Awards, which were largely dominated by Christopher Nolan and ‘Oppenheimer.’ They appreciate Jimmy Kimmel’s hosting, admire a barn-burning performance of ‘I’m Just Ken’ by Ryan Gosling, analyze a surprising Emma Stone victory over Lily Gladstone, discuss the increasingly international voting body of the Academy, note the continued cultural power of 'Barbie' (despite winning very little at the awards), and wonder whether this year is a one-off or whether it portends the Oscars telecast making a sustained comeback. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda make their final predictions for who will (and who should) win in every category at the 2024 Academy Awards. They discuss whether or not ‘Oppenheimer’ and Christopher Nolan will run the table as expected, who will come out on top in a neck-and-neck Best Actress race, whether any major contenders will go home empty-handed, and more. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by New York Times film critic Wesley Morris to hand out The Big Picture’s very own Alternative Oscars (32:00). They've included a handful of categories they’ve invented, as well as alternative nominees and winners in the major Academy Awards categories. Before digging into this exercise, they open by talking about ‘Dune: Part Two,’ as well as the state of ‘Oppenheimer’ and director Christopher Nolan as overwhelming Oscar front-runners (1:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Wesley Morris Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to discuss the massively anticipated Denis Villeneuve epic, ‘Dune: Part Two.’ The trio discuss the scope of the film, the fan fervor, the movie star performances it centers, and more (1:00). Then, they discuss Villeneuve’s most successful film entries up to this point and decide where ‘Dune: Part Two’ slots in among his best achievements (1:20:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda open the show by discussing the SAG Awards and highlight the Netflix streaming experience, Lily Gladstone’s win for Best Actress, and the dominance of 'Oppenheimer’ (1:00). Then, they create their final Best Picture power rankings (43:55). Later, Tom Oyer joins the show to help explain how the Academy Awards actually work and what the voting process looks like (1:01:44). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Tom Oyer Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Ringer contributor and beloved “Mean Pod Guy” Adam Nayman to discuss ‘Drive-Away Dolls,’ the latest solo Coen movie—this time directed by Ethan and written along with his wife, Tricia Cooke (1:00). After that, it’s the first iteration of The Big Picture Book Club. Sean and Amanda dig into ‘The Path to Paradise: A Francis Ford Coppola Story,’ what it reveals about the highs and lows of Coppola’s career, what it tells us outside of the already well-known mythology of Coppola, and—with ‘Megalopolis’ likely coming out this year—the ways it contributes to Coppola’s presence in the film zeitgeist in 2024 (24:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Adam Nayman Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s the most wonderful time of the year: Dumpuary! Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to discuss the box office sensation of the year thus far, David Ayer’s politically charged action romp ‘The Beekeeper,’ starring Jason Statham (1:00). Then, conversely, Sean and Amanda dive (surprisingly) deep into what may be the worst movie of the year, the Dakota Johnson and Sydney Sweeney superhero vehicle ‘Madame Web’ (31:00). They wrap up by running through some other dumpuary movies, including J.Lo’s ‘This Is Me ... Now: A Love Story’ (1:15:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda open by discussing the movie trailers that debuted at the Super Bowl (1:00), before digging into this past weekend’s biggest release: ‘Bob Marley: One Love’ (29:00). Then, they discuss one of their favorite movies of last year, the French cooking romance ‘The Taste of Things’ (39:00). Finally, Sean is joined by Tran Anh Hung and Juliette Binoche, the director and star (respectively) of ‘The Taste of Things,’ to discuss the unique challenges of making a movie so centered around cooking technique, and the ways they went about portraying the authenticity of love between the two main characters (1:20:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Tran Anh Hung and Juliette Binoche Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan reunite for a draft of the best movies of 1991 (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by master filmmaker Wim Wenders to discuss his new film, ‘Perfect Days’; his return to a film set in Japan; how he looks back on his long career of making movies; and more (1:31:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Wim Wenders and Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss the wildly unsuccessful elements of ‘Argylle,’ Matthew Vaughn’s meta spy thriller starring Bryce Dallas Howard and Sam Rockwell (1:00). Then, they try to contextualize it within what Sean has dubbed "wink action"—a subgenre of action that rose around the turn of the 2010s and has finally started to peter out (44:00). Finally, Sean is joined by Mads Mikkelsen and Nikolaj Arcel to discuss ‘The Promised Land’ and the key creative differences between making movies in Hollywood and making movies internationally (1:20:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Mads Mikkelsen and Nikolaj Arcel Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by actor and physical media enthusiast Tim Simons to refresh their conversation on the state of Blu-rays and physical media in the world of cinema. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Tim Simons Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the 10-year anniversary of Philip Seymour Hoffman’s death approaches, Sean pays tribute to his favorite actor with an audio essay highlighting the ways in which Hoffman was sui generis on the screen (1:00). Then, Amanda joins to run through Hoffman’s entire filmography and select 10 movies to make up his hall of fame (10:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda open the mailbag to answer lingering questions about the Oscar nominations, including the growing fervor around Margot Robbie and Greta Gerwig’s failure to be nominated for ‘Barbie,’ why ‘The Iron Claw’ received no nominations, which film could surprise at the awards, and more (1:00). Then, Sean gives a quick recap of what he saw at the Sundance Film Festival (1:13:00) before they finally do a full deep dive into Jonathan Glazer’s ‘The Zone of Interest’ (1:22:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda gather after the announcement of the 2024 Oscar nominations to discuss an ‘Oppenheimer’ runaway train, some disappointing and somewhat surprising snubs for Margot Robbie and ‘Barbie,’ and how the nominations circuit is much more of a known quantity than it used to be. Plus: waning momentum for ‘The Holdovers,’ growing momentum for ‘Anatomy of a Fall’ and ‘The Zone of Interest,’ and how ‘Nyad’ snuck into several big categories. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda predict the upcoming announcement of the Oscar nominations (1:00), before reviewing ‘Mean Girls’ (49:00)—a musical remake of the 2004 high school classic—and ‘All of Us Strangers’ (1:03:00), a heavily-tipped Oscar movie that is finally being released widely. Finally, Sean talks to ‘All of Us Strangers’ star Andrew Scott about what attracted him to this role, how he selects roles at this stage of his career, and the legwork that goes into building chemistry with costars (1:22:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Andrew Scott Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean, Amanda, and Chris gather to auction draft the movies they’re most excited for in 2024, including both Zendaya vehicles ‘Dune Part 2’ and ‘Challengers,’ Bong Joon-ho’s ‘Mickey 17,’ Francis Ford Coppola’s ‘Megalopolis,’ and more (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by first-time feature director Jake Johnson to talk about his movie ‘Self Reliance’ (1:17:00) and how he views it as fitting in the larger arc of his career on and off the screen. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Jake Johnson Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special episode audio from our live screening of ‘Oppenheimer’ at IMAX in Los Angeles, Sean is joined by cinematographer Hoyte Van Hoytema, editor Jennifer Lame, and composer Ludwig Göransson to discuss the making of one of the biggest and best movies of the year: Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer.’ Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Hoyte Van Hoytema, Jennifer Lame, and Ludwig Göransson Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda react to a mixed bag of movie and awards nominations news (1:00), before digging into one of the year’s biggest movies not yet discussed on the show: Yorgos Lanthimos’s Emma Stone vehicle ‘Poor Things’ (15:00). They close by refreshing their Best Picture power rankings (:00). Finally, Sean is joined by Julianne Moore and Todd Haynes to discuss ‘May December’—the performances at the movie’s heart, the reception of its satire, rendering the recent past, and more (1:50:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Julianne Moore and Todd Haynes Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda give their immediate reactions to the 2024 Golden Globe Awards ceremony, which turned out to be a massive success for Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer.’ They also share their thoughts about the shortcomings of the television production, the other movies—such as ‘The Holdovers’ and ‘Poor Things’—that had successful nights, and what we still don’t know heading into full-fledged Oscar season. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Additional Production: Cory McConnell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss the new release ‘Society of the Snow’ (1:00) before sharing their 24 most anticipated movies of 2024, including blockbuster releases like ‘Dune: Part Two’ and ‘Furiosa’ (12:00). Then, Chris Ryan joins to recount the plot of ‘Night Swim’ in a follow-up to the time when he and Sean explained the plot of ‘Barbarian’ to Amanda, who has not seen either film (1:08:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda give some box office thoughts from the last couple weeks, before honing in on two films in theaters right now: Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell’s sex comedy ‘Anyone but You’ (15:00) and the musical adaptation of Alice Walker’s novel ‘The Color Purple’ (49:00). They close by each sharing three New Year’s movie resolutions that relate to the show (1:04:00). RSVP for a chance to attend The Big Picture’s OPPENHEIMER screening at the IMAX campus in L.A. here: uni.pictures/oppenheimerbigpictureevent Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda each share five movies from the year that they feel were either under-discussed or underrated (1:00), before inviting The Ringer’s David Shoemaker on to dive deep on pro wrestling, the Von Erich family, and the way they’re represented in Sean Durkin’s new film, ‘The Iron Claw’ (28:00). Then, Durkin joins to talk about the unique challenges of recreating pro wrestling’s pseudo-reality in cinema, casting stars such as Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, and Harris Dickinson, what movies he took inspiration from, and more (1:12:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Sean Durkin and David Shoemaker Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by The Ringer’s Michael Mann aficionado Chris Ryan to discuss one of the year’s best and most anticipated movies: ‘Ferrari’ (1:00). They discuss the successes and failures of the casting, how transfixing Adam Driver is at the center of the frame, where this slots into the Mann oeuvre, and whether it will (or should) be Mann’s last film. Then, they each share their five favorite Michael Mann movies (41:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda open the show by talking about their five favorite scenes of the 2023 movie year (1:00), before digging into one of the most exciting directorial debuts of the year: Cord Jefferson’s ‘American Fiction’ (24:00). They talk about the state of family dramas and satires as genres and how ‘American Fiction’ succeeds as a refreshing mix of the two. Then, Sean is joined by Jefferson to talk about the expected and unexpected challenges of directing a film when you have a background as a writer, the movie’s deep and wonderful cast, what kinds of things he’s gravitating toward working on next, and more (38:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Cord Jefferson Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda share their top 10 performances of the movie year, focusing on films that did not get as much attention in our top-five lists (1:00). Then, they dive deep into one of the biggest swings of the year, from one of the most ambitious directors we have working right now: Bradley Cooper’s ‘Maestro’ (33:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan reunite for a draft of the best movies of 2020. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Joanna Robinson to react to ‘Wonka’—what works, what doesn’t work, musicals in the 2020s, and whether a movie can subvert its early reputation as a meme (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Jonathan Glazer and Johnnie Burn, the director and sound designer, respectively, of ‘The Zone of Interest’ (1:12:00). They discuss recreation in film, interpretive sound design, their other collaborations, and more. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Jonathan Glazer, Johnnie Burn, and Joanna Robinson Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Andy Greenwald and Charles Holmes to revel in the top film at the box office, Hayao Miyazaki’s final film, ‘The Boy and the Heron’ (1:00). They talk about Miyazaki’s whole career, including their top five Studio Ghibli movies (41:00). Then, Amanda rejoins the pod for a detailed discussion of the 2023 Palme d’Or winner, Justine Triet’s French courtroom drama ‘Anatomy of a Fall’ (1:12:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Andy Greenwald and Charles Holmes Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda instantly react to the Golden Globes nominations and what it portends for the Oscars (1:00). Then, they are (somehow) joined by Julia Roberts (28:00) and friend of the show Sam Esmail to discuss ‘Leave the World Behind,’ Esmail’s adaptation of the Rumaan Alam novel. Esmail sticks around for an in-depth conversation about adaptation, set design, costuming, casting, working for Netflix, what’s coming next, and everything in between (48:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Julia Roberts and Sam Esmail Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda react to the surprise box office hit of the weekend, ‘Godzilla Minus One’ (1:00); share preliminary thoughts about ‘Poor Things’ and why it’s seemingly losing steam in the awards races (18:00); and then open up the mailbag to answer your questions on all things Oscar season (32:00). Finally, they update their Best Picture power rankings (1:30:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan and Adam Nayman to share their respective lists of the five best movies released in 2023, including titanic works from master filmmakers, blockbuster hits that captured the zeitgeist, and smaller movies that challenged viewers to consider their artistry deeply. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Adam Nayman Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Wesley Morris to unpack their feelings about Todd Haynes's ‘May December.’ They discuss the complicated nature of the performances, hypothesize its potential for awards season, and much more (1:19). Later, they talk about their shared love for the newest concert film, ‘Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé,’ and highlight their appreciation for its impressive technical feats (55:13). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Wesley Morris Producers: Jack Sanders and Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda briefly share thoughts on Disney’s ‘Wish’ (1:00), before digging deep into Emerald Fennell’s ‘Saltburn,’ including its cast, its spotty plot, its relation to Fennell’s first feature, and more (5:00). Then, they share their top five “big swing” movies (1:07:00). Finally, Sean is joined by ‘Holdovers’ director Alexander Payne to discuss reuniting with Paul Giamatti, casting an actor in their first role, the filmmaking style of the movie, and more (1:20:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Alexander Payne Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean, Amanda, and Chris explore the high highs of Ridley Scott’s ‘Napoleon’—in particular the battle scenes—while trying to sort through their feelings on why the movie doesn’t come together as a whole quite how they hoped it would (1:00). Then, they try to place ‘Napoleon’ in the historical context of “great men” movies and share their top five in the genre (40:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda review two divergent releases from this past weekend—a continuation of the Hunger Games intellectual property, ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ (1:00), and Alexander Payne's latest feature, ‘The Holdovers’ (30:00). Then, Sean is joined by writer, director, and actor Eli Roth (1:07:00) to talk about ‘Thanksgiving,’ his feature-length follow-up to the fictional trailer of the same name, which first appeared in the 2007 film ‘Grindhouse.’ Sean and Eli discuss Roth’s particular interests within the horror genre, the state of modern IP horror, and what he’s interested in doing next. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Eli Roth Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Ridley Scott’s ‘Napoleon’ hitting theaters, Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to build the Ridley Hall of Fame, selecting his 10 films most worthy of preservation (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by filmmaker Errol Morris to talk about his new John le Carré documentary, ‘The Pigeon Tunnel,’ Morris’s interviewing style, how he chooses subjects, the overlap between documentary and drama filmmaking, and more (1:27:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Errol Morris Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by The Ringer’s Joanna Robinson to discuss the successes and failures of ‘The Marvels’ and what it portends for Marvel’s hopes to pull out of their relative recent tailspin (1:00). Then, Sean talks with ‘Dream Scenario’ writer and director Kristoffer Borgli about how he get his career kick-started, making films in the United States vs. Europe, and working with Nic Cage (1:15:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Joanna Robinson and Kristoffer Borgli Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to discuss the trio’s collective favorite movie of 2023, David Fincher’s ‘The Killer’ (1:00). Then, Adam Nayman joins the show to give his take on ‘The Killer,’ the state of American auteur directors in 2023, and where the film fits into Fincher’s larger project (48:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Adam Nayman Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda review Sofia Coppola’s ‘Priscilla’ (1:00), including the performances of its leads, Jacob Elordi and Cailee Spaeny, its set and costume design, where it slots in with her film canon, and more. Then, they take stock of the Best Picture Oscars race (47:00) and share the 10 movies they think are most likely to be nominated (1:02:00). Finally, Sean is joined by Coppola to talk about what she saw in Priscilla Presley’s memoir that made her want to adapt it, the process of recreating extremely famous figures, and the scale and scope that she likes to make her movies at (1:09:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Sofia Coppola Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan reunite for a draft of the work of acclaimed director David Fincher. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss the somewhat surprising dominant movie at the box office, ‘Five Nights at Freddy’s,’ a horror adaptation of a popular video game series (1:00). Then, they review ‘Pain Hustlers,’ the David Yates–directed drama about the opioid crisis starring Chris Evans and Emily Blunt (27:00), before running through Blunt’s career to this point and laying out her “movie star playbook” (36:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda debut a predictions-based game surrounding this year’s Oscars ceremony (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by frequent guest Alex Ross Perry to open the mailbag and answer questions about the current state of horror, how the WGA strike and new agreement affects filmmakers and writers like him, the state of physical media, and more (57:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Alex Ross Perry Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean, Amanda, and Chris are joined by David Sims and Griffin Newman of ‘Blank Check’ to draft their favorite lawyer movies—a broadening of the courtroom drama and legal thriller genre that gets contentious with two new guests involved in the draft. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan, Griffin Newman, and David Sims Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss Martin Scorsese’s three-and-a-half hour epic ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ and everything that it entails. They explore the adaptation of the David Grann book and how Scorsese and screenwriter Eric Roth shifted the perspective in the film (10:00), Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro’s repeated collaborations with Scorsese (23:00), the spellbinding performance of Lily Gladstone (48:00), the ways the film reflects on themes Scorsese has explored repeatedly (38:00), how it slots into the late Scorsese oeuvre (1:27:00), its chances at the Oscars (1:30:00), and more. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss the surprise box office smash hit of the year, ‘Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour’—what it means for the movie industry, whether any other artists are powerful enough to follow in Swift’s footsteps, and the ripples her music dominance has had on larger pop culture. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda review a trio of movies—‘Fair Play’ (1:00), ‘The Royal Hotel’ (30:00), and ‘Cat Person’ (40:00)—before having a wider conversation about the current role of sex in cinema (52:00). Then, Sean is joined by ‘Fair Play’ writer-director Chloe Domont to discuss her debut feature, the process of having a movie acquired out of Sundance, and the kinds of projects she’s interested in tackling next (1:20:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chloe Domont Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss the quartet of Wes Anderson short films that dropped on Netflix and the trend of established auteurs exploring the short film genre (1:00). Then, they run through a long list of the films they think have a chance at getting a Best Picture nomination at the Oscars and rank the 10 they think are most likely to garner that nomination (35:00). Finally, Sean is joined by Grant Singer to discuss his new crime thriller, ‘Reptile’ (1:21:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Grant Singer Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Chris Ryan to review the latest film in the ‘Exorcist’ universe, ‘The Exorcist: Believer’ (1:00). Then, they discuss the ways that horror franchise filmmaking has enveloped David Gordon Green’s career (23:00), before zooming out to take stock of the last five years in horror by awarding "horror Oscars" to one film per year (40:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ just weeks away, Sean, Amanda, and Chris gather to run through the long list of films that Martin Scorsese has made and build a 10-movie Hall of Fame to Marty’s career. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The 21st Century Sci-Fi Canon, ‘The Creator,’ and ‘No One Will Save You’ Sean is joined by Chris Ryan to discuss all things science fiction. First, they cover Brian Duffield’s new film, ‘No One Will Save You’ (4:33) before turning to Gareth Edwards’s ‘The Creator’ (14:58) starring John David Washington. Later, they come together to form the 21st Century Sci-Fi Canon featuring their ten favorite science fiction films since 2000 (48:47). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Jack Sanders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda briefly discuss the news that the Writers Guild of America has a tentative agreement with the AMPTP to end their strike (1:00), before bringing on The Ringer's Rob Harvilla to discuss A24's re-release of Jonathan Demme's Talking Heads concert film 'Stop Making Sense' (7:00). Then, the three rank their five favorite concert films (44:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Rob Harvilla Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean, Amanda, and Chris review ‘Dumb Money,’ Craig Gillespie’s new movie based on the events of the 2021 Wall Street GameStop short (1:00). Then, they craft a new entrant into their running “garbage” genre series—Garbage Cash—and list the 10 most apt entrants into the genre (53:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda review Kenneth Branagh’s third Agatha Christie adaptation, ‘A Haunting in Venice’ (1:00), before expanding their thoughts on haunted house films by sharing 10 of their favorites in the genre (45:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Ringer contributor and film critic Adam Nayman to discuss the highs, lows, and shifting culture of the Toronto International Film Festival (1:00). Then, they share a joint list of the most anticipated movies of 2023 that neither have shown each other until now (23:00), including ‘Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour,’ ‘Pain Hustlers,’ ‘Leave the World Behind,’ and more. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Adam Nayman Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan are joined by Bill Simmons and Van Lathan for a draft of the best Denzel Washington movies. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan, Bill Simmons, and Van Lathan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

To celebrate Episode 600, Sean and Amanda open up the mailbag to answer your questions about how they watch movies, Martin Scorsese, what’s changed in the last six years, the fictional location where they’d like to have a drink or meal, the rejected alternate names for the podcast, and more! Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After their respective trips to Colorado and Italy, Sean and Amanda convene to discuss the movies they watched at Telluride and Venice Film Festivals, including films from David Fincher, Sofia Coppola, Michael Mann, Yorgos Lanthimos, Bradley Cooper, Ryusuke Hamaguchi, and more (1:00). Then, they share some early Oscar predictions based on the quality and buzz surrounding the films coming out of the two festivals (1:10:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan reunite for a draft of the best movies of 2006. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re back! Sean and Amanda discuss all the movies they missed, the big stories out of Hollywood, and much more (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by ‘Bottoms’ director Emma Seligman to discuss her new comedy (1:35:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Emma Seligman Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oliver Stone returns to Vietnam with ‘Born on the Fourth of July’—a movie that closes out the ’80s, as well as the Vietnam movie boom. But ‘Forrest Gump’ and ‘Dead Presidents’ prove that ’90s audiences aren’t ready to leave Vietnam for good. Other films we talk about in this episode include ‘Running on Empty’ (1988), ‘Dogfight’ (1991), and ‘Heaven and Earth’ (1993). Host: Brian Raftery  Producers: Devon Manze, Mike Wargon, Amanda Dobbins, and Vikram Patel Sound Design: Bobby Wagner  Mixing and Mastering: Scott Somerville  All interviews for this series were conducted before the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes in 2023. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the late ’80s, a new wave of big-studio hits like ‘Full Metal Jacket’ and ‘Good Morning, Vietnam’ introduces young moviegoers to Vietnam—and helps turn the war into an unlikely pop-culture phenomenon. Other films we talk about in this episode include ‘Hamburger Hill’ (1987) and ‘Casualties of War’ (1989).  Host: Brian Raftery  Producers: Devon Manze, Mike Wargon, Amanda Dobbins, and Vikram Patel Sound Design: Bobby Wagner  Mixing and Mastering: Scott Somerville  Interviews for this series were conducted before the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes in 2023. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oliver Stone’s harrowing and heartbreaking Vietnam drama ‘Platoon’ becomes a worldwide phenomenon in 1986—and signals the beginning of the Vietnam movie boom. Host: Brian Raftery  Producers: Devon Manze, Mike Wargon, Amanda Dobbins, and Vikram Patel Sound Design: Bobby Wagner  Mixing and Mastering: Scott Somerville  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the early 1980s, as America is grappling with the fallout of Vietnam, a troubled big-screen vet named John Rambo launches an unlikely movie franchise—and leads a wave of make-believe soldiers who are ready to fight the war all over again.   Other films we talk about in this episode include ‘First Blood’ (1982), ‘Uncommon Valor’ (1983), ‘Missing in Action’ (1984), and ‘Rambo: First Blood Part II’ (1985).  Host: Brian Raftery  Producers: Devon Manze, Mike Wargon, Amanda Dobbins, and Vikram Patel Sound Design: Bobby Wagner  Mixing and Mastering: Scott Somerville  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘Apocalypse Now’ closes out the 1970s with the most ambitious Vietnam movie yet: a big-budget spectacle that will bring moviegoers closer than ever to the madness of war—and nearly push director Francis Ford Coppola over the edge.  Other films we talk about in this episode include ‘Who’ll Stop the Rain’ (1978), ‘The Boys in Company C’ (1978), ‘Go Tell the Spartans’ (1978), and ‘Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker's Apocalypse’ (1991). Host: Brian Raftery  Producers: Devon Manze, Mike Wargon, Amanda Dobbins, and Vikram Patel Sound Design: Bobby Wagner  Mixing and Mastering: Scott Somerville  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the late ’70s, ‘The Deer Hunter’ and ‘Coming Home’ offer two very different visions of Vietnam—and become unexpected hits. Together, they’d bring the war to the mainstream—and to the Oscars. Host: Brian Raftery  Producers: Devon Manze, Mike Wargon, Amanda Dobbins, and Vikram Patel Sound Design: Bobby Wagner  Mixing and Mastering: Scott Somerville  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s the mid-’70s, and Hollywood is still scared of Vietnam. But a series of dark and wildly entertaining B movies brings the war to the big screen, with explosive results.  Other films we talk about in this episode include ‘M*A*S*H’ (1970), ‘Soldier Blue’ (1970), ‘Brotherhood of Death’ (1976), ‘Taxi Driver’ (1976), and ‘Rolling Thunder’ (1977). Host: Brian Raftery  Producers: Devon Manze, Mike Wargon, Amanda Dobbins, and Vikram Patel Sound Design: Bobby Wagner  Mixing and Mastering: Scott Somerville Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the late-’60s, John Wayne stars in the first hit Vietnam movie: his controversial blockbuster ‘The Green Berets.’ And the piercing documentary ‘Hearts and Minds’ leads to an Oscar-night meltdown in 1975. Other films we talk about in this episode include ‘In the Year of the Pig’ (1969) and ‘Winter Soldier’ (1972).  Host: Brian Raftery  Producers: Devon Manze, Mike Wargon, Amanda Dobbins, and Vikram Patel Sound Design: Bobby Wagner  Mixing and Mastering: Scott Somerville  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘The Deer Hunter.’ ‘Apocalypse Now.’ ‘First Blood.’ ‘Platoon.’ They’re among the hit films dealing with the Vietnam War—a conflict that divided moviegoers and inspired filmmakers. For decades, Hollywood released countless films about the war and its fallout—from action flicks to combat tales to sweeping dramas.  Through exclusive new interviews, ‘Do We Get to Win This Time?’ chronicles the making of Hollywood’s most ambitious and controversial Vietnam movies. Along the way, we also learn how these films reflected and shaped moviegoers’ feelings toward the war—and toward each other. Host: Brian Raftery  Producers: Devon Manze, Mike Wargon, Amanda Dobbins, and Vikram Patel Sound Design: Bobby Wagner  Mixing and Mastering: Scott Somerville  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Ringer contributor Brian Raftery to discuss his upcoming series ‘Do We Get to Win This Time? How Hollywood Made the Vietnam War,’ which will be running on ‘The Big Picture’ feed over the next three weeks (1:00). Then, at long last, Sean and Chris Ryan unveil the latest genre in their ongoing niche genre project: Garbage Fish (15:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Brian Raftery Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean discusses ‘Talk to Me,’ the horror movie of the summer, and his five scariest summer movies (1:00), before being joined by the directors of the film, Danny and Michael Philippou (10:00). Then, he is joined by ‘Afire’ director Christian Petzold to discuss his new film, his career, and the shared interests of arthouse and commercial cinema (41:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guests: Danny and Michael Philippou, Christian Petzold Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

To celebrate Amanda’s birthday, Sean, Amanda, and Bobby gather to taste the various liquors, wines, beers, and mixed drinks endorsed or owned by movie stars. While tasting, they discuss the stars’ careers—past, present, and future—and whether their business projects are to blame for the shift in their focus away from the silver screen. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Ringer-verse co-host Joanna Robinson to dive deep into ‘Barbie’—its innovation, its performances, its overwhelming success at the box office, and everything in between (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Greta Gerwig to discuss her approach to building the ‘Barbie’ world, the unique challenges it presented, how it relates to the other two films she’s directed, the cultural phenomenon it has set off, and more (1:29:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Greta Gerwig and Joanna Robinson Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to discuss Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer’ in granular detail, including its script, cinematography, extensive cast, big ideas, and ultimate success. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The biggest movie weekend in years is finally here. Sean and Amanda discuss the theater-going experience surrounding Greta Gerwig’s ‘Barbie’ and Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer’ (1:00), including the order and circumstances in which you should see them. Then, they dig into their feelings on ‘Oppenheimer’ and where Nolan stands in Hollywood (17:00), before pivoting their focus to ‘Barbie’ and what it signals about Gerwig’s ambitions and desires as a filmmaker (52:00). This episode makes an effort to be spoiler-free of plot points in both ‘Barbie’ and ‘Oppenheimer,’ but does feature in-depth discussion of Sean and Amanda’s reactions and feelings about each movie. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss the dramatic effect the SAG-AFTRA strike will have on the movie industry (1:00), before opening up the mailbag and answering any and all questions about the 'Mission: Impossible' franchise (15:00). Then, they do the impossible work of ranking all seven installments in the franchise (1:10:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda dive into one of their most anticipated movies in years, the return of Ethan Hunt and the ‘Mission: Impossible’ franchise. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda dig into the year’s releases that they haven’t covered yet, including ‘Joy Ride,’ ‘Insidious: The Red Door,’ ‘Elemental,’ and more. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At the halfway point of this year, we take a look at the movies yet to be released and hold an auction for the ones we’re most excited about. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda call up an all-star rotation of Ringer colleagues and contributors to share their favorite movies this year so far, from superhero movies to art house darlings and everything in between. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan, Mallory Rubin, Joanna Robinson, Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Rob Mahoney, Jessica Clemons, Adam Nayman Senior Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Ringer-verse host and Harrison Ford scholar Mallory Rubin to discuss the latest installment in the ‘Indiana Jones’ franchise and whether it functions as a worthwhile send-off to Ford’s iconic role as Indy (1:00). Then, they rank the franchise's five films (56:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Mallory Rubin Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to discuss the life, legacy, and wonder of one of our great movie stars: Mr. Harrison Ford himself. On the cusp of the release of 'Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,' it’s time to choose the 10 essential Harrison Ford films for our hall. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jennifer Lawrence is back in the center of a movie—this time a studio comedy. Sean and Amanda discuss the successes and shortcomings of ‘No Hard Feelings’ and the unique place this occupies in Lawrence’s movie career. Then, they outline the future playbook for J-Law’s continued development as a movie star. Host: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Adam Nayman joins Sean and Amanda to discuss Wes Anderson’s career and filmmaking aesthetic before they dig into his latest film, ‘Asteroid City’ (1:00). Then, Sean and Amanda rank all 11 of Anderson’s feature films (50:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Adam Nayman Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hugely hyped and also facing controversy around its star, ‘The Flash’ arrives at a complicated moment for superhero stories. Van Lathan joins Sean and Amanda to talk about the movie and DC’s future. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Van Lathan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan reunite for a draft of the best movies of 2001. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean digs into his pet obsession, the ‘Transformers’ franchise, and its newest installment ‘Rise of the Beasts.’ Then, he recommends five new streaming movies, and opens up the mailbag to answer your questions. Host: Sean Fennessey Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda dive deep into 'Past Lives,' one of the year's finest films and an extraordinary example of writing, directing, and acting in romantic storytelling (1:00). Then, they share their five favorite romantic films (58:00). Finally, Sean is joined by writer-director Celine Song to talk about her debut feature (1:18:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Celine Song Producers: Bobby Wagner and Sasha Ashall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Charles Holmes to dive deep into the ‘Spider-Verse’ movies, from the breathtaking animation to the bold storytelling to the expectation-shattering standard they set. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Charles Holmes Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss the finale of ‘Succession’ as a portal into the true divide between movies and TV today, and the ways in which the latter has stolen the former’s mojo (1:00), before a breakdown of the new live-action remake of Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid’ (30:00). Then, Sean is joined by Cristian Mungiu, the Romanian master filmmaker, to discuss his latest, ‘R.M.N.’ (56:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Cristian Mungiu Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda come to you live (on tape) from Europe! They recap their journeys, discuss the hype out of the Cannes Film Festival (1:00), and share five new movie recommendations (17:00). Then, Sean is joined by Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Nicole Holofcener, the star and the writer-director, respectively, of the new film ‘You Hurt My Feelings’ (58:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Nicole Holofcener Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan reunite for a draft, with a twist. We’re drafting movies that feature Robert De Niro. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What a double feature. Sean and Amanda discuss ‘Fast X’ and the troubles of the franchise (1:00), before making the hard pivot to Paul Schrader’s ‘Master Gardener’ (40:00). Then, Sean is joined by Schrader to discuss the film, his long career as a writer and director, the state of movies, and more (57:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Paul Schrader Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amanda and Sean discuss ‘BlackBerry’ before sharing their five most eagerly awaited movies of the summer season (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Matt Johnson, the filmmaker behind ‘BlackBerry’ (55:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Matt Johnson Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Two years have passed since Sean and Amanda ranked their active and over-35 movie icons. So we’re back with deeply scientific new rankings and deeply weird conversations. Please enjoy. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda dig into the mailbag to answer your questions about upcoming movies, the impact of the writers strike, and more. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joanna Robinson joins Sean to talk about all things Marvel, from its rocky run of recent movies to changes in leadership to streaming series delays, before digging into the most anticipated entry in years, James Gunn’s ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.’ Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Joanna Robinson Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In honor of Guy Ritchie releasing two films in 2023, Sean Fennessey and Chris Ryan—the team that brought you garbage crime, junk sci-fi, and trash spies—debut their latest hyper-specific, beloved genre: garbage lads. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Judy Blume’s beloved 1970 classic of young adult fiction has finally hit the big screen. Sean and Amanda discuss that, along with Disney’s new ‘Peter Pan and Wendy’ live-action adaptation (1:00) before sharing their top five favorite coming-of-age films (29:00). Then, Sean is joined by writer-director Kelly Fremon Craig to discuss making ‘Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret’ (1:06:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Kelly Fremon Craig Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan reunite for a draft of the summer blockbusters of the ’90s. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ari Aster’s third feature, the Oedipal nightmare comedy ‘Beau Is Afraid,’ is here. Sean discusses the film’s virtuosic gifts and alienating approach at length with Adam Nayman (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Aster to discuss how he made his thrilling new movie (58:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Ari Aster and Adam Nayman Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Horror is booming—Sean is joined by Chris Ryan to talk about four big releases, the best movies in the genre they’ve seen so far, and what defines this era in scares (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Daniel Goldhaber, the director and cowriter of ‘How to Blow Up a Pipeline,’ and Ariela Barer, the star and cowriter of the film (1:05:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chris Ryan, Daniel Goldhaber, and Ariela Barer Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time to swap, which means it’s time for our producer, Bobby, to finally watch ‘Casablanca’! Sean and Amanda pitch a pair of beloved spy classics—the 1942 Best Picture winner and 1979’s madcap comedy ‘The In-Laws’—while Bobby shares with them the millennial family romp ‘Spy Kids.’ Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss ‘How to Blow Up a Pipeline’ and Kelly Reichardt’s ‘Showing Up’ (1:00) before checking in on several 2023 releases they missed on the show this year. Then, Sean is joined by Michelle Williams and Reichardt to discuss their fourth collaboration, ‘Showing Up’ (1:07:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Michelle Williams and Kelly Reichardt Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At long last! Sean and Amanda dive deep on Ben Affleck’s ‘Air,’ the story of how Michael Jordan signed to Nike and the men who made it happen (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Sam Jones to discuss his new documentary, ‘Jason Isbell: Running With Our Eyes Closed’ (58:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Guest: Sam Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ben Lindbergh and Charles Holmes join Sean to talk about one of the most anticipated films of the year: 'Mario'! They discuss the new film (1:00) and how video games have been the most valuable IP in Hollywood (36:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Charles Holmes and Ben Lindbergh Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda dig into the surprisingly fun new ‘Dungeons & Dragons’ adaptation from the filmmakers who brought us ‘Game Night,’ before discussing a new sort of IP boom in Hollywood (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by A.V. Rockwell to discuss her debut feature, ‘A Thousand and One’ (58:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Guest: A.V. Rockwell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan reunite for a draft of the movies from 2008. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

To celebrate the fourth installment of the 'John Wick' franchise, Sean and Amanda build Keanu Reeves’s hall of fame (9:00) before breaking down the new action epic (55:30). Then, Sean is joined by the director of ‘JW4,’ Chad Stahelski, to discuss how they pulled off the film’s breathtaking action (1:17:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chad Stahelski Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda look at the disappointing box office for ‘Shazam! Fury of the Gods’ and discuss the perilous future of superhero movies (1:00). Then, they dig deep into ‘65’ and the fascinating career arc of Adam Driver, discussing his role choices and where he’s going as a modern movie star. Finally, Sean talks with writer-director Jamie Dack about her new film, ‘Palm Trees and Power Lines’ (65:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Jamie Dack Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan and Sean’s sister Grace to dive deep into ‘Scream VI’ and break down the entire franchise. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan and Grace Fennessey Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Joanna Robinson to dig deeper into the telecast and answer your questions about the past and future of the Academy Awards. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Joanna Robinson Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda break down the 95th Academy Awards, from Jimmy Kimmel’s take-no-prisoners monologue to the dominant performance of ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once.’ Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda dig into what to expect from the Academy Awards, including prop bets for the telecast and predictions for every category. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time to wonder what will break first—your spirit … or your body. Chris Ryan joins Sean and Amanda to watch and discuss the final chapter in Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy. The movie is now available on HBO Max, so you can stream along with 'The Big Picture.' Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The third film in the Adonis Creed story, and the directorial debut of its star Michael B. Jordan, is here. Sean and Amanda dive deep into the movie before rope-a-doping their way through the definitive list of the top 10 boxing movies. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

That’s right, after a one-year hiatus, the Alternative Oscars are back, and that means Wesley Morris is back! He joins Sean and Amanda to hand out the only awards that matter. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Wesley Morris Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

That’s right, folks, ‘Cocaine Bear’ is here. It’s a movie about a bear on cocaine. That’s the movie. Sean and Amanda break it down and then share their favorite cocaine movies (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by ‘Turning Red’ writer and director Domee Shi to discuss her first full-length animated feature and her ascendant career at Pixar, on both the business and creative sides (57:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Domee Shi Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Van Lathan to plumb the depths of two nautically inclined films that happen to be nominated for Best Picture at next month’s ceremony, 'Avatar: The Way of Water' and 'Triangle of Sadness.’ Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Van Lathan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by 'Ringer-Verse' cohost Mallory Rubin to measure the successes and shortcomings of the first film in Phase 5 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe: Peyton Reed’s 'Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania’ (1:00). Then, they take stock of Marvel fatigue and its effects on the entire movie industry (43:00) before debuting Amanda’s new segment (1:02:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Mallory Rubin Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! And this time, the roster is growing. Van Lathan and Rob Mahoney join Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan for a draft of one of the greatest years in movie history: 1993. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan, Van Lathan, and Rob Mahoney Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With this latest installment, Steven Soderbergh concludes his ‘Magic Mike’ trilogy. So, Sean and Amanda are celebrating by breaking down the new film (5:00), taking a long look at the filmmaker’s annual media diary, and sharing their five favorite dance movies (56:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With less than five weeks until the Academy Awards, Joanna Robinson joins Sean and Amanda to dive deep into the Andrea Riseborough nomination controversy (1:00), sort an unpredictable pair of Best Actor and Best Actress races, and power rank the Best Picture contenders one last time until the final predictions (54:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Joanna Robinson Producers: Bobby Wagner and Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Elric Kane and Brian Saur, hosts of the ‘Pure Cinema Podcast,’ join Sean to talk about ‘Knock at the Cabin’ and provide some double-feature recommendations for our favorite M. Night Shyamalan films (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Shyamalan himself to talk about his career and his new film (1:08:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: M. Night Shyamalan, Elric Kane, and Brian Saur Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From the boys who brought you Garbage Crime, Junk Sci-Fi, and Trash Special Ops, comes: Sky Trash. Sean and Chris Ryan break down the latest entrant, ‘Plane' (1:00), and share their favorite examples of the subgenre (45:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda take a closer look at the Academy’s 2023 picks (1:00) before digging into their experience with a virtual Sundance Film Festival, discussing the sales, the trends, and their favorite movies. Then, writer-director Brandon Cronenberg joins to discuss his new film, ‘Infinity Pool’ (1:15:00) Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Brandon Cronenberg Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Oscar nominations are here! Sean and Amanda break 'em all down, including the big surprises and the final tally for the Best Picture race (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Belgian writer-director and newly minted Oscar nominee Lukas Dhont to discuss his new film, ‘Close’ (59:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Lukas Dhont Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

An action-packed episode! Chris Ryan joins Sean and Amanda to share some final Oscar nomination predictions (1:00) before engaging in a truly chaotic 2023 movie auction. Then, the team from ‘Babylon’—writer-director Damien Chazelle, actor-producer Olivia Hamilton, and producer Matthew Plouffe—talk with Sean about making their ambitious Hollywood feature, and the hive that has grown around it (1:21:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan, Damien Chazelle, Olivia Hamilton, and Matthew Plouffe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to discuss the dark horse Oscar contender ‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ and their favorite films about war. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the SAG, PGA, and DGA nominations out, Amanda and Sean analyze the results and what they mean for an increasingly confusing awards season (1:00). Then, they dig deep into the first box-office hit of 2023, the hilarious killer doll horror movie ‘M3GAN’ (36:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The 80th annual Golden Globes returned to the airwaves and carved a path for the next two months of this awards season. Sean and Amanda break down a big night for ‘The Fabelmans,’ ‘The Banshees of Inisherin,’ Angela Bassett, and Austin Butler’s Elvis voice. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re back to power rank! With the release of Sarah Polley’s ‘Women Talking,’ Sean and Amanda are joined by Joanna Robinson to discuss the new film (1:00) and see where it stands in the Best Picture race (44:00). Then, Polley talks with Sean about her new film (1:04:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Sarah Polley and Joanna Robinson Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Happy New Year! Amanda and Sean are gearing up for 2023 at the movies. On this episode, they talk about what happened at the box office over the holidays (1:00) and pick their most eagerly awaited films of the year to come (11:00). Then, Sean is joined by Nikyatu Jusu to discuss her film, ‘Nanny’ (1:20:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Nikyatu Jusu Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Charles Holmes to talk about the amazing stop-motion achievement ‘Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio’ and the best animated movies of 2022. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Charles Holmes Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda double dip into two maximal extravaganzas from two of our most exciting auteurs. First up: Damien Chazelle’s Silent Era Hollywood bacchanalia ‘Babylon’ and then their top 5 movies about Hollywood (1:00). Then, they discuss Noah Baumbach’s adaptation of Don DeLillo’s novel, ‘White Noise’ (1:14:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda dive deep into Rian Johnson’s ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery,’ the delightful sequel to his smash murder mystery (1:00). Then, they share their five favorite puzzle movies (50:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! And Amanda is back! She and Sean are joined by Chris Ryan to pick their faves and foil their pals in a draft of the movies from 2019. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda share their 10 favorite performances of the year (1:00). Then, Adam Nayman joins the show to discuss Alejandro González Iñárritu’s new Netflix film ‘Bardo, False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths’ (33:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Adam Nayman Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Big Jim! We’re goin’ back to Pandora, baby! James Cameron’s ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’ is here, 13 years after the original dominated the movie world. Sean and Amanda discuss the film in depth, from the extraordinary technological achievements to its familiar-seeming story (1:00). Then, Chris Ryan joins to put Cameron’s filmography in context by ranking all of the director’s films, many of which are among the most successful and significant of the past four decades (44:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alan Siegel interviews some of James Cameron's creative collaborators to find out the secrets of the blockbuster director's success. You can read the written version of this feature at TheRinger.com. Host: Alan Siegel Edited by Andrew Gruttadaro Produced by Steve Ahlman and Vikram Patel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Zach Baron joins Sean and Amanda for an action-packed episode that hits on the Golden Globe nominations; Will Smith’s new movie, ‘Emancipation’; and the new Brendan Fraser film, ‘The Whale.’ Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Zach Baron Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Happy holidays! Actor Timothy Simons joins Sean for the ultimate gift: a conversation about how to build a Blu-ray collection—how to shop for them, what to play them on, the best ones to buy, whether it’s an addiction or not, and so much more (1:00). Then, filmmaker Park Chan-wook stops by to talk with Sean about his film ‘Decision to Leave’ (1:23:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Park Chan-wook and Timothy Simons Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s here—time for year-end lists! Adam Nayman and Chris Ryan join Sean and Amanda to discuss Sight and Sound’s Greatest Films of All Time poll before diving into 2022 and sharing their top five movies of the year. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Adam Nayman Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oscar season is … here? Sean and Amanda briefly dig into the 2022 Sight and Sound poll before discussing the touching new Robert Downey Jr. family documentary 'Sr.' (1:00) . Then, they run through their first power ranking of the 2023 race, ordering all the contenders for Best Picture (1:08:00). Finally, Sean is joined by documentary filmmaker Laura Poitras to talk about her new film, ‘All the Beauty and the Bloodshed’ (0:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Laura Poitras Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s been a long year at the movies. We’ve covered *almost* everything on the show. But a few titles slipped through the cracks. Sean and Amanda run through a list of recent releases and 2022 titles they missed (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by ‘Bones and All’ director Luca Guadagnino to discuss his new film (1:17:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Luca Guadagnino Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘The Fabelmans,’ Spielberg’s deeply personal new film, opens wide this holiday weekend. To celebrate, Joanna Robinson joins Sean and Amanda to break down the movie and rank all 35 of his films. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Joanna Robinson Producer: Kai Grady Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘Mr. Robot’ creator and filmmaker Sam Esmail returns to the show for a wide-ranging conversation about the state of movies and how he made his forthcoming 2023 film, ‘Leave the World Behind,’ from conception to completion. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Sam Esmail Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘She Said,’ a new installment in the long history of journalism films, premieres this weekend. Bryan Curtis, the host of the 'Press Box' podcast, joins Sean and Amanda to dig into the film, break down its Oscar chances, and answer some of your media movie questions from the mailbag. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Bryan Curtis Producer: Jade Whaley Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! And Amanda is back! She and Sean are joined by Chris Ryan to pick their faves and foil their pals in a draft of the movies from 1997. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The sequel to Ryan Coogler’s box office–dominating, culture-shifting, Oscar-nominated 2018 film is here. Van Lathan joins Sean and Amanda to break it all down. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Van Lathan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

More than 20 months ago, Sean and Amanda embarked on their first-ever Movie Star Ranking. It's become a yearly tradition, and with the streaming release of two under-35 star-led vehicles, Harry Styles's 'My Policeman' and Jennifer Lawrence's 'Causeway,' we're running it back. Who's up, who's down, who's aged out, and who's hitting the scene hard? Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Ryan joins Sean and Amanda to dive into Martin McDonagh’s new film, ‘The Banshees of Inisherin,’ a reunion of Brendan Gleeson and Colin Farrell from McDonagh’s 2008 cult classic, ‘In Bruges,’ (1:00) before sharing their top 5 movie friendships (38:00). Then, McDonagh talks with Sean about the making of his new film (1:10:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Martin McDonagh and Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s a tremendously hectic period at the movies right now, with award season picking up pace, the Streaming Wars in high gear, and some major-event movies right around the corner. Sean and Amanda break down 10-plus new releases now streaming or in theaters (39:00). Then, writer-director James Gray returns to the show to discuss his autobiographical new film, ‘Armageddon Time,’ and the state of the movie business. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: James Gray Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda dive deep into one of the year’s most exciting and resonant movies, Todd Field’s ‘Tár' (1:00). Then, Field joins Sean to discuss the world of classical music, Cate Blanchett, and how he made the film (1:27:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Todd Field Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The hierarchy of power has changed and Sean is depressed about it. Charles Holmes and Rob Mahoney join Sean to talk about ‘Black Adam,’ the no. 1 movie at the box office, the latest installment in the DCEU, and yet another Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson action vehicle. Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Charles Holmes and Rob Mahoney Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Julia Roberts, the once (and maybe future) queen of the box office returns to movie theaters this weekend with ‘Ticket to Paradise,’ a rom-com reunion of sorts with George Clooney—her first starring role on the big screen in four years. Amanda and Sean will review this new film, then build their Julia Roberts Hall of Fame by choosing 10 of her most essential movie roles. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘Halloween Ends,’ the third and allegedly final installment of David Gordon Green’s legacy sequel 'Halloween' trilogy, debuted this weekend in theaters and streaming on Peacock. Chris Ryan joins Sean to talk about the new film, the year in horror, and to rank all 13 'Halloween' films. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again and since it’s Halloween season, we needed to bring in a big gun. Six-time 'Big Picture' returning champion Alex Ross Perry is live and in studio to parse through the horror canon. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Alex Ross Perry and Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This year marks the 30th anniversary of David Lynch’s ‘Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me,’ and the 25th anniversary of ‘Lost Highway.’ To celebrate, Sean and Adam Nayman are diving deep into the unnerving, beautiful, often terrifying dream logic of their Lynchian fascinatination. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Adam Nayman Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda get excited for the best movie month of the year, digging into some new October releases, including ‘Amsterdam,’ ‘Triangle of Sadness,’ and ‘Tár,’ as well as the best movies at the New York Film Festival and a brief celebration of the new Star Wars show 'Andor.' Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘Avatar: The Way of Water,’ the sequel to the most lucrative movie of all time, is slated for the end of this year. Does anyone care? Sean is joined by Griffin Newman and David Sims, hosts of the ‘Blank Check’ podcast, to discuss the lasting impact of James Cameron’s technologically revolutionary behemoth, and more importantly, whether ‘Avatar’ is actually good. Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Griffin Newman and David Sims Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘Bros,’ Billy Eichner’s first leading role in a feature, is in theaters. Sean and Amanda dig into the movie before sharing their five favorite studio comedies of the century (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Nicholas Stoller, the director of ‘Bros’ and other comedy installments like ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’ and ‘Neighbors,’ to discuss the film and the current state of theatrical comedies in relation to streaming and television (58:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Nicholas Stoller Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘Blonde,’ Andrew Dominik’s long-awaited Marilyn Monroe biopic starring Ana de Armas, is now available on Netflix. Sean and Amanda dissect the film’s handful of successes and numerous, puzzling failures, before discussing Monroe’s titanic impact on movie stardom and the various depictions of her throughout cinema history. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s the movie event of the fall, but not in a good way. Sean and Amanda break down all things ‘Don’t Worry Darling,’ Olivia Wilde’s controversy-racked new thriller, and talk about the most scandalous productions in movie history (2:00). Then, Sean is joined by Brett Morgen, direct of the new David Bowie documentary ‘Moonage Daydream’ (1:05:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Brett Morgen Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a quiet few weeks, movies are back in theaters in a big way—and none bigger than Gina Prince-Bythewood’s warrior epic ‘The Woman King.’ Sean and Amanda break down the new Viola Davis vehicle and nine more new releases, including a pair of disturbing horror movies, a David Bowie doc, and, um, ‘Pinocchio’ (2:00). Then, Adam Nayman joins Sean to share a report from the Toronto International Film Festival, including word on Steven Spielberg’s ‘The Fabelmans,’ ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery,’ and ‘My Policeman’ (56:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Adam Nayman Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! And we’re widening the scope this time around. Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan pick their faves and foil their pals in a draft of 1980s comedy movies. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The no. 1 movie in America is a depraved, completely unpredictable horror movie: hallelujah! Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan (2:00) to talk about this wonderful freak show before Sean is joined by writer-director Zach Cregger (53:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Zach Cregger Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We did it—500 episodes! To celebrate, Sean, Amanda, and Bobby are taking your calls and answering your burning questions about their favorite episodes, movie theater experiences, Big-Pic bits, and the future of the show. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Oscars Show is back! Sean recounts his biggest takeaways from Telluride and what can be gleaned for the upcoming awards season, before Sean and Amanda share their semi-serious predictions for an Oscars show that is six months away. To call in and leave a voicemail for our 500th episode mailbag, give us a ring at (916) 900-2826‬. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! And we have a twist: Rather than draft the best movies of 2005, we’re looking at some of the worst and making a case for them. Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan pick their faves and foil their pals in an upside-down draft of the movies from 2005. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sylvester Stallone is back on the big screen in ‘Samaritan,’ an Amazon Prime superhero vehicle with Stallone at the center. To mark the occasion, Sean is joined by Bill Simmons to build out the Sly Hall of Fame. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Bill Simmons Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

George Miller, the beloved filmmaker responsible for the 'Mad Max' films, 'Babe,' 'Happy Feet,' and more, has a new fantasy film called 'Three Thousand Years of Longing' out this weekend. Sean is joined by Joanna Robinson to talk about the movie, and our undeniable fantasy moment (1:00). Then, Owen Kline talks to Sean about his debut feature ‘Funny Pages' (1:09:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Joanna Robinson and Owen Kline Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s been a grim summer movie season, but a promising fall awaits. Amanda and Sean break down the summer doldrums at the box office and then share the 20 fall films of 2022 they’re most excited to see. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joanna Robinson joins Sean to dig into A24’s new Gen Z horror-comedy-whodunit ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies’ (0:00) and to share their five favorite “one crazy night” movies (1:00). Then, Halina Reijn, the Dutch actress and director of ‘Bodies Bodies Bodies,’ talks with Sean about how she transitioned to working behind the camera full-time (1:12:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Joanna Robinson and Halina Reijn Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The latest in the ‘Predator’ movie saga, ‘Prey,’ is streaming on Hulu now. Chris Ryan joins Sean to talk about the film and where it sits in the ‘Predator’ canon (1:00). Then, ‘Prey’ director Dan Trachtenberg talks with Sean about how he made the film (44:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Dan Trachtenberg and Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘Bullet Train’, a new movie set—you guessed it—on a Bullet Train, hits theaters this weekend. Van Lathan joins Sean to discuss the star-studded Brad Pitt action vehicle, and then they share their top five favorite movies set on the railway (23:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Van Lathan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean shares five new films to stream (1:00) before opening up the mailbag to answer your questions and beat the summer doldrums (22:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Russo Brothers’ new Netflix action extravaganza got Sean and Chris Ryan thinking about a subgenre they love: trashy spy subcontractor stories. They discuss ‘The Gray Man’ (1:00) and the movies it’s lifting from in depth (33:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again and we have some special guests: Quentin Tarantino and Roger Avary, longtime friends, filmmaking collaborators, and the hosts of the Video Archives Podcast join Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan to pick their faves and foil their pals in a draft of the movies from 1987. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Quentin Tarantino, Roger Avary, and Chris Ryan Producers: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘Nope,’ Jordan Peele’s third feature film as writer-director, is in theaters now. Sean and Van Lathan dig into this complex, fascinating extraterrestrial tale (1:00), before Peele himself joins to talk about how and why he made his movie (1:05:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Jordan Peele and Van Lathan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This year marks the 40th anniversary of John Carpenter’s sci-fi horror masterpiece, one of the signature cult classics in American cinema. Sean and Chris Ryan break down everything they love about the movie (1:00) before Carpenter joins the show to discuss how he made the film, and why it resonates to this day (55:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: John Carpenter and Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time to auction again—after a thrilling Part 1 earlier in the year, Chris rejoins Sean and Amanda to bid on the best of the rest of the movies of 2022. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There’s some angst among fans of the biggest franchise story of the 21st century. So Sean is joined by Charles Holmes and Rob Mahoney to discuss 'Thor: Love and Thunder', and the MCU'S recent struggles. They then pitch the Marvel stories they want to see on the big screen. Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Charles Holmes and Rob Mahoney Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Joanna Robinson to reflect on the passing of the great James Caan, before breaking down Taika Waititi’s latest installment of the Thor story, ‘Love and Thunder' (6:37). Then, Sean is joined by the French filmmaker Claire Denis to talk about her brilliant career and her latest film, ‘Both Sides of the Blade’ (67:11). HOST: Sean Fennessey GUESTS: Joanna Robinson and Claire Denis PRODUCER: Steve Ahlman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After years of threats, Sean and Amanda finally dive deep into the franchise that houses the world’s biggest movie stars: the Minions! They discuss the movies, including the just released ‘The Rise of Gru’ (2:00) and then share five movies they will show their children (39:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Mike Wargon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean invites an all-star cast of Ringer contributors to share their favorite movies of the year. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Rob Harvilla, Charles Holmes, Van Lathan, Rob Mahoney, Adam Nayman, Joanna Robinson, Mallory Rubin, Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Ryan joins Sean to discuss the new horror thriller 'The Black Phone,' which stars one of our most beloved actors, Ethan Hawke (1:00). Then, they build out the Hawke Hall of Fame with his 10 essential performances (25:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Baz Luhrmann’s latest film, a life-spanning biopic of Elvis Presley, is here, and Sean and Amanda are breaking down this exhaustive, expansive new film (1:00). Then, Adam Nayman joins to discuss the prescient comedy ‘Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story’ and their favorite music biopics (24:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Adam Nayman Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda break down 'Lightyear,' the one new movie in theaters while a whole bundle of new movies are streaming at home right now, and what that tells us about the state of the movie business. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s real and it’s here. Chris Ryan joins Sean to discuss Netflix’s new sci-fi drama ‘Spiderhead.’ Then they discuss Netflix’s challenges as a movie studio in 2022 (1:00). Finally, ‘Spiderhead’ screenwriters Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick discuss with Sean how they came to adapt a George Saunders short story and their careers (56:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chris Ryan, Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! And Amanda is back! She and Sean are joined by Chris Ryan to pick their faves and foil their pals in a draft of the movies from 2009. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There’s a new installment of the ‘Jurassic World’ series. Bryan Curtis joins Sean to break down the conclusion of the Jurassic saga and ranks all six films. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Bryan Curtis Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Rob Harvilla to discuss Adam Sandler, his new Netflix NBA drama ‘Hustle,’ and share their top Sandler movies of all time. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Rob Harvilla Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s a recommendations episode! Sean breaks down 10 intriguing new movies that you can watch right now on a variety of streaming services (1:00). Then, he’s joined by David Cronenberg to discuss the legendary director’s new film, ‘Crimes of the Future,’ starring Viggo Mortensen and Kristen Stewart (42:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: David Cronenberg Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Movies are back, Maverick is back, Tom Cruise is back, and Sean and Amanda are back to dive deep into the movie phenomenon of this young summer: ‘Top Gun: Maverick.’ Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It. Is. Here! Tom Cruise’s Maverick flies again, after a years-long wait. Sean and Amanda break down the exhilarating arrival of ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ (1:00). Then, Joseph Kosinski, the film’s director, joins Sean to discuss, in great detail, how they made this action-packed return to the skies (41:00). Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Joseph Kosinski Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s a whole darn week of Tom Cruise on The Big Picture, because Cruise is returning to the big screen after four long years with ‘Top Gun: Maverick.’ To celebrate, Chris Ryan joins Sean and Amanda to choose 10 key films and construct the Tom Cruise Hall of Fame. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Joanna Robinson to discuss the beguiling movies of writer-director Alex Garland, including his latest, the eerie folk-horror film ‘Men.’ (1:00) Then, Garland talks with Sean about his work and where his career is headed (52:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Alex Garland and Joanna Robinson Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! And Amanda is back! She and Sean are joined by Chris Ryan to pick their faves and foil their pals in a draft of the movies from 1992. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producers: Bobby Wagner and Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There is a new adaptation of Stephen King’s ‘Firestarter’ out this weekend, which got us thinking about King movies and how they never really go away. Sean is joined by Matt Gourley and Paul Rust of the With Gourley and Rust podcast to build a shrine comprised of 10 Stephen King adaptations. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Matt Gourley and Paul Rust Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Let’s dig into the mailbag! Sean answers your questions about the year in movies so far, film book recommendations, what a producer actually does, and a lot more. Host: Sean Fennessey Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s one of the year’s most anticipated movies, the first MCU entry of 2022, and the first movie in almost 10 years from the great Sam Raimi. Joanna Robinson and Chris join Sean for a non-spoiler conversation, followed by a spoiler-filled breakdown of the new ‘Doctor Strange’ film. Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Joanna Robinson and Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week sees the release of ‘Dr. Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,’ which is directed by one of our favorite filmmakers, Sam Raimi. Adam Nayman talks with Sean about Raimi's expansive career and style, before ranking his 15 features (38:00). Then, Sean is joined by Tom Gormican, the director of ‘The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent,’ to discuss his Nicolas Cage meta-action vehicle (1:11:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Adam Nayman and Tom Gormican Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Of all the movies we saw in 2021, the one we keep returning to is Guillermo del Toro’s modern noir about a mysterious carnival worker. To dig deep into the movie and how its themes connect to our time, Sean is joined by comedian, actor, and certified movie freak Patton Oswalt. Patton shares his deep knowledge of film noir, his favorites in the genre, and where ‘Nightmare Alley’ fits in its history. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Patton Oswalt Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s Nic Cage season! To celebrate, Van Lathan and Rob Mahoney join Sean to talk about the new meta-action-comedy ‘The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent’ (1:00) before building a shrine to Cage in the form of his Hall of Fame (35:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guests: Van Lathan and Rob Mahoney Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The breathtaking new action-adventure epic from Robert Eggers, the director of ‘The Witch’ and ‘The Lighthouse,’ is here. Chris Ryan joins to dive into this Viking epic (1:00) before Eggers talks with Sean about the making of the film (56:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chris Ryan and Robert Eggers Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan, Mallory Rubin, and Joanna Robinson to pick their faves and foil their pals in a draft of the movies from 2003. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Joanna Robinson, Mallory Rubin, and Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re diving deep into Daniels’ multiversal extravaganza ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once,’ one of the year’s most acclaimed and thrilling movies. Sean is joined by Adam Nayman and Joanna Robinson to break down the film, its bold style, and why it’s become such a sensation (1:00). Then, they share their favorite, zany, audacious movie swings (39:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Adam Nayman and Joanna Robinson Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Bay is back on the big screen with 'Ambulance,' a thrilling, nonstop cornucopia of explosions, car chases, shoot-outs, bank robberies, and emergency bullet-removal surgeries. Sean is joined by Chris Ryan to talk about Bay (1:00) and our favorite action movie sequences of all time (38:30). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time for another movie swap! It’s a 1996 showdown as Sean sends Amanda the Coen Brothers’ thriller ‘Fargo’ and Amanda returns volley with Anthony Minghella’s Best Picture winner, ‘The English Patient.’ They talk 1996 movies, the year’s Academy Awards, and how these two modern classics hold up. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the release of ‘Morbius,’ Van Lathan joins Sean to discuss the new Spider-Man-adjacent Jared Leto vampire thriller (1:00). Then, they share their five favorite bloodsucker movies (25:00). Then, Sean is joined by Charlie McDowell to discuss ‘Windfall,’ his pivot back to film, and the art of the all-in-one-setting movie (48:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Van Lathan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s been a couple of days since one of the most shocking moments in Oscars history. Sean reflects on the Will Smith–Chris Rock incident, what the future holds for Smith, and how the Academy could respond (1:00). Then, it’s a post-Oscars mailbag extravaganza (10:30). Finally, Sean is joined by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert to discuss their extraordinary new movie, ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’ (55:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The 94th Academy Awards is in the books, and Sean and Joanna Robinson are here to break down all the winners, the ceremony, the hosts, and of course that shocking Will Smith- Chris Rock confrontation. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Joanna Robinson Senior Producer: Steve Ahlman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s almost time for the 94th annual Academy Awards, so Sean and Joanna Robinson are making picks in all 23 categories. Don’t fill out your Oscar ballot until you’ve listened. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Joanna Robinson Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the Oscars right around the corner, Chris Ryan joins Sean and Amanda to draft their favorite Oscar winners from the 1990s (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by ‘Drive My Car’ writer-director Ryusuke Hamaguchi to discuss his Oscar-nominated film (1:13:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan and Ryusuke Hamaguchi Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s a recommendations episode! Sean talks about 10 movies from 2022 that he likes, where you can watch them, and why you should (1:00). Spoiler alert, one of those movies is ‘X,’ the new horror movie from director Ti West. Ti joins Sean to talk about making his first horror film in nine years and why he isn’t done yet (38:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Ti West Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Let’s talk movie music. Writer Jayson Greene joins Sean to talk about the art of the film score, the giants of the form, this year’s Oscar nominees, and their top five scores ever (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by legendary composer Hans Zimmer to discuss his Oscar-nominated work on ‘Dune’ and his career (1:07:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Jayson Greene and Hans Zimmer Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are in the home stretch of a very long award season. On this episode, Sean is joined by Joanna Robinson and they are finally digging into Jane Campion’s widely praised revisionist western ‘The Power of the Dog’ and why it has remained the presumptive Best Picture favorite for months. Then, Sean and Joanna share their favorite Best Picture winners ever. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Joanna Robinson Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

That’s right—we are watching ‘Free Guy,’ one of the biggest hits of 2021 and a very divisive movie. Chris joins Sean and Amanda to discuss the Ryan Reynolds action-comedy for its entire running time. The movie is now available on HBO Max and Disney+, so you can stream along with 'The Big Picture.' Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Van Lathan and Rob Mahoney to take a deep dive into Matt Reeves’s ‘The Batman’ and have a spoiler-filled conversation (1:00) before ranking all 14 Batman movies (47:00). Then, Sean is joined by director Kogonada to discuss his new film, ‘After Yang’ (1:12:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Van Lathan, Rob Mahoney, and Kogonada Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Holy reaction podcast, Batman! Chris Ryan and Joanna Robinson join Sean to break down ‘The Batman,’ the most-anticipated movie of the year so far (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by ‘The Batman’ director and cowriter Matt Reeves to talk about how and why he made the film (58:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chris Ryan, Joanna Robinson, and Matt Reeves Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Award season is (finally) in full swing. Joanna Robinson joins Sean to break down the SAG Awards, the state of Best Picture (1:00), and to let Sean get some takes off his chest (34:30). Then, directing duo Coodie & Chike join Sean to talk about ‘jeen-yuhs: A Kanye Trilogy,’ Netflix’s new three-part documentary film series tracking the rise of Kanye West (1:02:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Joanna Robinson, Coodie & Chike Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to pick their faves and foil their pals in another hotly contested draft of a memorable year in recent movie history: 2018. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re looking at the latest chapter in the ‘Texas Chainsaw Massacre’ story, now available on Netflix, and the history of extreme, depraved, disgusting, and shocking movies with writer, director, and returning champion Alex Ross Perry. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Alex Ross Perry Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Shea Serrano joins Sean to break down the landscape of action moviemaking. With ‘Uncharted’ in theaters, featuring two generations of action hero—Mark Wahlberg and Tom Holland—we ask: What does it mean to be an action star in the 21st century? Sean and Shea build out the Hall of Fame with 10 excruciating picks. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Shea Serrano Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joanna Robinson joins Sean to break down the Super Bowl movie trailers and ‘Death on the Nile,’ Kenneth Branagh’s latest Agatha Christie adaptation, which was released last week (1:00). Then, Sean talks with Chuck Klosterman about his new book, ‘The Nineties,’ and the movies that played a key role during that decade (31:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Joanna Robinson, Chuck Klosterman Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 2020, Chris Ryan and Sean identified a key subgenre in American movies—garbage crime—and laid out what makes it great. Today on the show, a sequel of sorts. With the release of Roland Emmerich’s interstellar disaster movie ‘Moonfall’ in theaters and Steven Soderbergh’s techno-anxiety thriller ‘Kimi’ now streaming on HBO Max, we are digging into a beloved sister category: junk sci-fi. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The nominations for the 94th annual Academy Awards are here, and Amanda and Sean are breaking down all of them. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Ryan joins Sean to break down the new trailer for Netflix’s 2022 movie lineup (1:00), and then celebrate the new movie ‘Jackass Forever’ (14:00) and the greatest stunts in the history of the franchise (36:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the virtual 2022 Sundance Film Festival wrapped, Amy Nicholson rejoins Sean to discuss their experience from the couch, the big acquisitions, and their top 5 favorite movies at the fest (:44). Then, Sean is joined by the Norwegian director Joachim Trier to talk about his critically acclaimed new film ‘The Worst Person in the World.’ (1:14:10). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda hit on the Producers Guild, Writers Guild, and ACE Eddie nominations, key bellwethers of award season, and what they mean for the Academy Awards (0:35). Then they share some streaming recommendations for you (35:00). And finally, since we’re getting down to our final days with Amanda for a little while, we figured it’s time to get as much of her as we can, so we’ve got an Ask Amanda mailbag for the Dobb Mob (51:18). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're hopping in a time machine back to 1992. Why? It’s been 30 years since Quentin Tarantino’s debut film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival along with other movies from a memorable class of other filmmakers. Adam Nayman joins Sean to discuss 'Dogs' and what it means now and how some of those other films were remembered, or not. Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guest: Adam Nayman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re auctioning off movies again, this time with a fresh slate for 2022. Chris Ryan joins Sean and Amanda to discuss the new ‘Scream’ sequel (1:00), before revisiting their 2021 draft auction results (16:00), and digging into a new round of competitive auctioneering (22:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss Joel Coen’s ‘The Tragedy of Macbeth,’ the latest Shakespeare adaptation, which stars Denzel Washington and is the director’s first without his brother, Ethan. They talk about how the story has been updated, and how it hasn’t (1:00), where it stands in the awards race (33:00), and how it stacks up in the Coen brothers filmography (1:12:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A surprising SAG Awards nomination has got Sean and Amanda thinking about Bradley Cooper’s unusual path to superstardom. In this episode, they discuss the rest of the surprises and snubs of the nominations (5:00), the incredible legacy of the late Sidney Poitier (1:00), and then finally build a hall of fame for Cooper on the eve of a potential ninth Academy Award nomination (36:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time for a very important conversation about a very important film: Paul Thomas Anderson’s ninth feature, ‘Licorice Pizza.’ Joining Sean and Amanda to break it all down—including favorite performances, scenes, and needle drops, and how it fits into PTA’s filmography—are Chris Ryan and Wosny Lambre, a.k.a. Big Wos. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Wosny Lambre Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amanda and Sean are gearing up for a fun 2022 at the movies … if they can go to the movies. On this episode, they pick their 11 most eagerly awaited films (20:00), discuss Steven Soderbergh’s annual media list (1:00), and break down George Clooney’s new film, ‘The Tender Bar’ (10:00). They also celebrate the life and work of the late filmmaker Peter Bogdanovich, who died at 82 this week (17:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda look at a debate that has been roiling the movie industry for nearly 15 years: Should the Academy Awards more accurately reflect the interests of moviegoers? And if so, should franchise films be regularly competing for Best Picture? The campaign for the new ‘Spider-Man’ movie raises new questions as the theatrical movie business endures a historic period of transition (1:00). Then, they discuss Maggie Gyllenhaal’s feature directorial debut, ‘The Lost Daughter,’ now available on Netflix (42:00) and power-rank the Best Picture contenders (59:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s our last episode of the year and Sean and Amanda are celebrating 2021 by naming their 10 favorite performances on the big screen (1:00) before opening up the mailbag to answer your questions ahead of the new year (38:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Andy Greenwald joins Sean to discuss Disney’s latest achievement in animation, ‘Encanto,’ and share some tips for how to be a dad who wants to introduce their child to movies (1:00). Chris Ryan swings by to talk about Paul Verhoeven’s sexy nuns movie, ‘Benedetta’ (38:00). Then, Adam Nayman and Sean list their 10 most underrated, underseen, or underdiscussed movies of 2021 (51:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Andy Greenwald, Chris Ryan, and Adam Nayman Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘The Matrix Resurrections’ is out in theaters and streaming on HBO Max. Sean and Amanda talk about the film, the franchise (1:00), and the Wachowskis cinematic experience (43:00). Joining them is Ringer staff writer Rob Mahoney. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Rob Mahoney Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alan Siegel interviews the cast and crew of ‘Scream’ and uncovers what it took to get the iconic horror film made.You can read the written version of this piece at theringer.com. Host: Alan Siegel Producer: Steve Ahlman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda hit the stunning box office success of ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’ (1:00). Then they circle back to the Oscar race because this week sees the release of some serious contenders, including Aaron Sorkin’s ‘Being the Ricardos’ and Guillermo Del Toro’s ‘Nightmare Alley’ (12:00). Then, Sean talks with Sean Baker, director and cowriter of ‘Red Rocket’ (1:00:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Sean Baker Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re talking about the most anticipated movie of the winter: 'Spider-Man: No Way Home.' Swinging into the conversation with Sean and Amanda is our friendly neighbor Mallory Rubin for a spoiler-free (1:40) and then spoiler-packed breakdown of the movie (33:00). Later in this episode, Sean will have a conversation with Tommy Oliver, the director of 'Juice WRLD: Into the Abyss,' the final film in HBO and The Ringer’s Music Box documentary series (1:15:00). Hosts; Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Mallory Rubin and Tommy Oliver Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss the new Netflix climate crisis satire ‘Don’t Look Up,’ which stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, and Meryl Streep (1:00). Then, they build a Hall of Fame to Leo, one of the best movie stars ever (20:00). Finally, ‘Don’t Look Up’ writer-director Adam McKay joins Sean to discuss his new film (1:00:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Adam McKay Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week marks the release of Steven Spielberg’s first musical, a remake and modest reimagining of the 1957 show and legendary 1961 film. Sean and Amanda are joined by Joanna Robinson to talk about the original, Spielberg's remake, and their five favorite Spielberg films. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Joanna Robinson Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s a music-movies team-up episode. Rob Harvilla returns to the show to talk about the art of the soundtrack and share his top five favorites (1:00). Then, Sean talks with John Maggio, who directed the latest entry in The Ringer’s Music Box film series on HBO. His movie, ‘Mr. Saturday Night,’ chronicles the fascinating life of Robert Stigwood, an impresario of stage, screen, and music responsible for projects like ‘Saturday Night Fever’ (46:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Rob Harvilla and John Maggio Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's time to talk about the best of the year, so Sean and Amanda are joined by Adam Nayman and Chris Ryan to share their five favorite movies of 2021 (1:00). Then, 'Dune' director Denis Villeneuve comes to the show to talk about his extraordinary adaptation of Frank Herbert's novel (1:17:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Denis Villeneuve, Chris Ryan, and Adam Nayman Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s December, which means it’s officially holiday movie season. We’re bringing Chris Ryan back to draft holiday movies with one special twist—a wild-card category of any holiday content. It’s the most wonderful draft of the year! Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The weekend delivered a bountiful feast for Beatles fans: Peter Jackson’s epic, revelatory eight-hour ‘Get Back’ documentary series on Disney+. Amanda and Sean talk about the film today and their favorite Beatles albums (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Penny Lane, whose film ‘Listening to Kenny G’ in the latest installment of The Ringer’s Music Box series, which premieres on HBO and HBO Max Thursday night (49:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Penny Lane Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Paul Thomas Anderson’s ninth feature film opens today in select theaters. Sean and Amanda have a spoiler-free conversation about the coming-of-age story set in the San Fernando Valley (1:00). Then, Amanda allows Sean some room to work through his feelings and rank his favorite director’s movies from top to bottom (33:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's time for the house of Gucci! Ridley Scott's much-anticipated family crime drama set among the famed Italian fashion empire, starring Lady Gaga, Adam Driver, Al Pacino, and many others, is here. Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to talk about how much fun they had with the film, the performances, the style, and the Gucci of it all (1:00). Then they share their top 5 favorite Scott-directed films (35:00). Finally, Sean is joined by Chris Frierson, the filmmaker behind the Music Box entry 'DMX: Don't Try to Understand,' to talk about his documentary on the beloved rapper (1:16:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan; Chris Frierson Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're talking about a trio of new releases—'Ghostbusters: Afterlife,' 'Tick, Tick ... Boom!,' and 'C'mon C'mon'—that attempt to pluck our heartstrings. They inspired Sean and Amanda to share their top five feel-good movies (1:00). Then, Sean talks with 'C'mon C'mon' writer-director Mike Mills about his wonderful new film (1:00:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Mike Mills Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Will Smith in the center of the frame, ‘King Richard’ has garnered a lot of Oscars buzz. Now that the film is in theaters and on HBO Max, we talk about what makes it a throwback sports movie—and ultimately a big success—before sharing our top five sports movies (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by ‘King Richard’ director Reinaldo Marcus Green to discuss how he became involved in the project, working closely with Will Smith, and the lineage of sports movies that influenced his approach to directing this film (1:17:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Bill Simmons and Reinaldo Marcus Green Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Once upon a time, this was a podcast dedicated to Academy Awards coverage, so we’re going to throwback today to discuss Kenneth Branagh’s autobiographical feature ‘Belfast’ and the state of the 2021 Oscar race (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Alison Klayman to discuss ‘Jagged,’ her film about Alanis Morissette that is part of Ringer Films’ ‘Music Box’ documentary series on HBO (51:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Alison Klayman Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kristen Stewart’s much-anticipated role as Princess Diana in ‘Spencer’ has finally arrived. We discuss Stewart’s performance, as well as the larger successes and failures of the film (1:00) before building a 10-movie Hall of Fame comprising the best films about royals (34:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A new Tom Hanks movie, ‘Finch,’ just hit Apple TV+; it's about a man and his robot pal enduring a post-apocalyptic terrain. Sean is joined by 'Gene and Roger' host and writer Brian Raftery to break down the movie and share their favorite movie robots (1:00). Then, writer-director-producer Jim Cummings stops by to talk about his new film, ‘The Beta Test,’ and the uncomfortable truths about a career in Hollywood (49:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Brian Raftery and Jim Cummings Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The newest entrant in the MCU comes from Oscar-winning filmmaker Chloe Zhao, but something isn’t quite right about the movie. Sean is joined by Joanna Robinson to break down the film and what its struggles mean for the future of Marvel (1:00). Then, writer-director Joanna Hogg stops by to talk about her latest, ‘The Souvenir Part II,’ the follow-up to her brilliant 2018 film (54:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Joanna Robinson and Joanna Hogg Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! And this time, the roster is growing. Shea Serrano and Van Lathan join Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan for a draft of one of the greatest years in movie history: 1994.  Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan, Van Lathan, Shea Serrano Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The director’s latest, the psychological horror movie ‘Last Night in Soho,’ is out in theaters. Sean is joined by The Ringer's Rob Harvilla to talk about Wright's fascinating career and their favorite Edgar Wright films, including 'Scott Pilgrim vs. the World,' 'Shaun of the Dead,' and 'Baby Driver.' Then, Sean talks with Wright himself about how he crafted his new movie, his career, and the movies he loves. Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guests: Edgar Wright and Rob Harvilla Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is a podcast about ‘Dune.’ DUUUUUUUUUUUNE. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After being delayed more than a year by COVID, Wes Anderson’s ‘The French Dispatch’ has finally hit theaters in limited release. We gather to discuss the film and rank Wes Anderson’s unique world of film (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Mia Hansen-Løve to discuss ‘Bergman Island’ (1:09:12). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Mia Hansen-Løve Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re talking about ‘The Last Duel,’ the latest film from Ridley Scott and the first produced screenplay from Matt Damon and Ben Affleck since ‘Good Will Hunting.’ Thinking about Matt and Ben has us in the mood to celebrate movie duos, so Sean and Amanda drop some top 5s (1:00). Then, Sean talks to Todd Haynes about his new documentary, ‘The Velvet Underground’ (43:55). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Todd Haynes Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Every year, Chris Ryan joins Sean to share his favorite horror flicks, break down the state of the genre, and spotlight a few under-the-radar gems. They also rank their favorite horror franchises and put Freddy, Jason, Michael Myers, Chucky, and more in their proper place (1:00). Then, filmmaker David Gordon Green comes to the show to discuss 'Halloween Kills' and his 'Exorcist' reboot (58:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey  Guests: Chris Ryan and David Gordon Green Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are drafting again! Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to pick their faves and foil their pals in another hotly contested draft over a delightful time in recent movie history: 1998 (23:43). Then, actor Fran Kranz sits down with Sean to discuss his impressive and powerful directorial debut, ‘Mass’ (1:24:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Fran Kranz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

James Bond is back! After a nearly two-year delay, ‘No Time to Die’ finally arrives in theaters around the world. To celebrate, Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to talk about the new film, Daniel Craig’s legacy as 007, and their top five favorite Bond films (47:00). Then, Sean welcomes ‘No Time to Die’ director Cary Joji Fukunaga to talk about becoming the first American to take on Bond and the unique challenges of shepherding a massive franchise film (1:22:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Cary Joji Fukunaga Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Eddie Brock and his alien symbiote pal are back in 'Venom: Let There Be Carnage,' a sequel to the surprise mega-hit from 2018. To break down the new 'Venom' movie and our favorite comic book movie sequels, Sean is joined by Van Lathan and Charles Holmes, aka The Midnight Boys (0:30). Then, Sean talks to 'Let There Be Carnage' director Andy Serkis, the acclaimed performance capture artist behind Gollum in the 'Lord of the Rings' films and a filmmaker in his own right (1:14:05). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, and Andy Serkis Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This weekend sees the release in theaters and streaming on HBO Max of ‘The Many Saints of Newark,’ a film prequel to David Chase’s medium-altering TV series. Justin Sayles, The Ringer’s resident Sopranosologist, joins the show to discuss the movie and his deep dive on every single episode in show history, including his top five picks (35:30). Then, ‘Sopranos’ creator and ‘Many Saints’ cowriter and producer Chase joins Sean to talk about the movie, his relationship to the show now, and a lot more (1:17:39). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Justin Sayles and David Chase Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s the 400th episode! To celebrate, Sean and Amanda are opening up the mailbag to answer just about anything you wanted to know, in the world of movies and beyond.  Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's back! We revisit our controversial list of young stars 18 months later and determine what we got right, what we got wrong, and where movie stardom is going in 2021.  Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s late September, and that can only mean one thing: We now begin that deathless march to the center of the hellscape better known as Awards Season. But will anyone care? Sean and Amanda discuss the lay of the land after Telluride and TIFF, including the reception of 'Belfast,' 'Dune,' and 'Dear Evan Hansen' (1:00). Then, they talk about 'The Eyes of Tammy Faye,' a Jessica Chastain showcase and possible Oscar contender, before picking their top-five favorite actor transformations (42:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

'Cry Macho,' the 44th film directed by 91-year-old Hollywood icon Clint Eastwood, arrives in theaters and is now available on HBO Max. Adam Nayman and Chris Ryan join Sean to talk about the expansive, six-decade career of one of the signature filmmakers and movie stars of all time. They analyze 'Cry Macho,' his on-screen persona, his complicated political presence, and his relationship to genre, and, finally, they share their five favorite Eastwood films. Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chris Ryan and Adam Nayman Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We asked, you decided: After a public vote, we're drafting from the year 2004. Who were we? What were we doing? And what movies were we seeing? Join Sean, Amanda, and Chris as they explore a time of anchormen, eternal sunshine, and sequels galore. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Chris Ryan to break down the new Paul Schrader film ‘The Card Counter,’ explore Schrader’s seminal works, and define one of their favorite movie subgenres: the Prestige Dirtbag Movie. What is it and why do they love them (0:30)? Then, Sean and Chris review James Wan’s ‘Malignant’ before discussing the state of horror movies in 2021 (59:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean chats with Amanda about his trip to the Telluride Film Festival, an annual launchpad for Oscar contenders. He talks about the best films he saw and the scene in Colorado (0:30). Then they discuss what to look forward to for the rest of the movie year (44:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This weekend sees the release of a hugely important movie for the Marvel Cinematic Universe, ‘Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.’ Sean breaks down the character’s place in Marvel mythology, the films that influenced the new movie, and whether it all worked with The Ringer’s Daniel Chin (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by the film’s screenwriter, Dave Callaham, to talk about writing blockbusters in the 21st century, the challenges and rewards of the work, and how 'Shang Chi' came together (46:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guests: Daniel Chin and Dave Callaham Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda talk about the buzzy new ‘Spider-Man’ trailer, as well as some hotly anticipated awards-season films, including ‘The Power of the Dog’ and ‘Spencer’ (0:31). Then they dig into the mailbag to answer listener questions about ‘Dune,’ their dream biopics, and the HBO Max experiment so far (30:00). Finally, Sean is joined by Michael Sarnoski, the writer-director of the acclaimed Nicolas Cage drama ‘Pig’ (1:20:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Michael Sarnoski Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean returns from his break and Amanda runs down the major story lines from the world of movies that he missed (0:31). Then, they share their favorite (and not so favorite) movies of the summer (48:30). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Still reeling from Gene Siskel's death, Roger Ebert tries to bring their show into the new century. But Hollywood is changing, and so is the media landscape Gene and Roger conquered during their time together. And as the story of Gene and Roger ends, it's clear that movies—and movie criticism—will never be the same again. Host: Brian Raftery Producers: Amanda Dobbins, Sean Fennessey, Isaac Lee, Noah Malale, Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

By the late '90s, the unlikely alliance between Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert was stronger than ever. But their hard-won friendship would soon face unexpected challenges that would end their time together sooner than anyone expected Host: Brian Raftery Producers: Amanda Dobbins, Sean Fennessey, Isaac Lee, Noah Malale, Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In July, the sometimes-acclaimed, sometimes-controversial, sometimes-downright-vilified writer-director M. Night Shyamalan released his 14th feature film, 'Old.' Joining Sean to talk about all things Shyamalan—from his best films to his worst and everything in between—is the cohost of 'Higher Learning' and one-half of the Midnight Boys on the Ringer Podcast Network, Van Lathan. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Van Lathan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For Siskel and Ebert, the '90s were a revolutionary era—both for the movies and for their careers. A new generation of filmmakers was taking over Hollywood, and Gene and Roger became cheerleaders for the bold next wave of writers and directors. But the industry was also plagued by problems and controversies, many of which Siskel and Ebert faced head on. By the time the '90s ended, Gene and Roger would become more than just the country's best-known film critics. They'd also become advocates. Host: Brian Raftery Producers: Amanda Dobbins, Sean Fennessey, Isaac Lee, Noah Malale, Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re drafting again—and this time we’re not messing around. It’s 2007, one of the greatest movie years of our lifetimes, with several personal favorites on the board. Who will drink whose milkshake? Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Gene and Roger jumped from one program to another, they left behind shows that were desperate to replicate the duo’s groundbreaking success. These reiterations, along with other imitations of the format, paved the way for a television market saturated with Siskel and Ebert wannabes. But what they all failed to realize was that what made Gene and Roger special was Gene and Roger themselves. Host: Brian Raftery Producers: Amanda Dobbins, Sean Fennessey, Isaac Lee, Noah Malale, Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The '80s were the blockbuster era—and Siskel and Ebert were its blockbuster film critics. It was the decade in which Gene and Roger would realize the full extent of their powers, as well as their limitations. And it would find them making yet another high-profile business decision, one that would have big consequences for Gene. Host: Brian Raftery Producers: Amanda Dobbins, Sean Fennessey, Isaac Lee, Noah Malale, Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s time for another movie swap! This time, Amanda and Sean trade a pair of classics from James Cameron: the Oscar-winning behemoth ‘Titanic’ and the action classic ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’ (0:30). Then, Sean is joined by David Lowery, the director behind the long-awaited Arthurian fable ‘The Green Knight’ (1:24:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: David Lowery Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the early ’80s, Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert went from PBS stars to pop-culture celebrities. That newfound fame tested their already-heightened rivalry. But it also united them as they made one of the riskiest moves of their careers—a move that would change the way films were talked about, and that made Gene and Roger bigger than ever. Host: Brian Raftery Producers: Amanda Dobbins, Sean Fennessey, Isaac Lee, Noah Malale, Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re living in a boom time for music documentaries. Rob Harvilla joins Sean to talk about the history of the subgenre, why it’s exploding, and their top five favorites (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Garret Price, the filmmaker behind the first installment in Ringer Films’ new documentary music series Music Box: ‘Woodstock ’99: Love, Peace, and Rage,’ a powerful and fascinating portrait of a terrifying moment in music and American history (1:12:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guests: Rob Harvilla and Garret Price Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From the minute Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert hit the air, everyone wanted to know: Did these two guys actually hate each other? In this episode, we’ll learn more about how Gene and Roger came to be critics and rivals, and what made them the perfect foils for each other on TV. Host: Brian Raftery Producers: Amanda Dobbins, Sean Fennessey, Isaac Lee, Noah Malale, Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert were the most famous and powerful film critics of their time—and their shows were smash hits that changed an entire industry. Over the next eight episodes, host Brian Raftery will talk to Siskel and Ebert’s families, friends, coworkers, and peers to explore the duo's lasting impact—on movie criticism, on the media landscape, and on how we talk to one another. Host: Brian Raftery Producers: Amanda Dobbins, Sean Fennessey, Isaac Lee, Noah Malale, Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The 'Big Picture' Movie Auction is back! Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to bid on the rest of the movies coming out this year that they’re desperate to see (17:00). Sean and Amanda also talk to Brian Raftery about ‘Gene and Roger,’ his new podcast series about the true story behind the rivalry and the partnership between legendary film critics Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert (1:30). Finally, Sean is joined by Morgan Neville to talk about his powerful new documentary, ‘Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain' (1:41:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan, Brian Raftery, Morgan Neville Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert were the most powerful and influential movie critics of their time. The way they talked about film set a template for pop culture conversations far beyond the cinema. In this eight-part series, premiering July 20 on ‘The Big Picture’ feed, we’ll talk to everyone from family members to show producers to filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino about the legacy Siskel and Ebert built, and just how impactful they remain to this day. Host: Brian Raftery Producers: Amanda Dobbins, Sean Fennessey, Noah Malale, Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s a very special episode of the show: a deep dive into the career of one of our favorite filmmakers, Brian De Palma. We’re celebrating the 40th anniversary of one of his masterworks, ‘Blow Out,’ this summer, and exploring the depths of his career. Joining Sean is Ringer contributor and author Adam Nayman. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Adam Nayman Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The first new movie installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe in 737 days is finally here, available now on Disney+ with Premier Access or in movie theaters. Amanda and Sean break down ‘Black Widow’ and the future of the MCU, emphasis on the “C” (0:30). Then, Sean is joined by writer-director Leigh Janiak to discuss her three ‘Fear Street’ films that are rolling out on three consecutive Fridays on Netflix this month (61:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Leigh Janiak Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s been an odd movie year, but there have been a handful of standouts at the halfway mark. Sean and Amanda share their top fives of 2021 thus far and explore whether we need to define what qualifies (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, the Roots drummer and now film director, to discuss his new documentary, ‘Summer of Soul (... or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised),’ which is out now on Hulu and in theaters (47:03). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson Producers: Bobby Wagner and Kaya McMullen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘No Sudden Move,’ the latest film from Steven Soderbergh—now available on HBO Max—is a return to a familiar form for one of our favorite filmmakers: the heist movie. So in this episode, Sean and Amanda share their top 5 favorite heist flicks. (0:45) Then, Sean is joined by Janicza Bravo, the writer-director behind one of the year’s most entertaining films, the ripped-from-Twitter tale of ‘Zola.’ (48:17) Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Janicza Bravo Producer: Bobby Wagner Associate Producer: Sasha Ashall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Quentin Tarantino is here! The writer-director had adapted his film 'Once Upon a Time ... in Hollywood' into a novel, and on this episode he dives deep on everything: what's different from the movie, why he wrote a novelization in the first place, the movies he watched during quarantine, the future of moviegoing, and so much more. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Chris Ryan Guest: Quentin Tarantino Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The long-awaited ‘Fast 9’ is here, so Sean and Amanda are digging into the entire ‘Fast & Furious’ series of movies and ranking ’em all with the man who lives his life one-quarter of a pod at a time, Shea Serrano. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Shea Serrano Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Yes, we are drafting again. It’s the Movie Draft: 1975 Edition. It was simply one of the best years in film history. Let’s get it! Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss the news that Peter Jackson's Beatles documentary will stretch into a limited documentary television series (0:30). Then, Sean is joined by writer-director Alex Ross Perry to talk about the phenomenon of the lost movie, specifically great works from well-known filmmakers that have fallen out of circulation, critical celebration, and general viewership. With the advent of so many streaming services, it’s shocking how many once high-profile movies can’t be seen easily. So Sean and Alex list five memorable examples and explain the contexts of their releases and how they may have slid into obscurity (14:32). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Alex Ross Perry Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss the box office returns for ‘In the Heights’ and how the movie’s availability on HBO Max may have affected it. They also discuss the launch of ‘Loki’ on Disney+ and ‘Infinite’ on Paramount+ and the challenges facing movie lovers as more and more services pop up (0:30). Then, they share their plans to build the perfect streaming service, by drafting film and TV libraries, sports rights, signature stars and creators, and more (41:36). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss one of the year's most anticipated movies, 'In the Heights,' a movie adaptation of the Tony-Winning Lin-Manuel Miranda musical that is now in theaters and available on HBO Max (0:30). Then they discuss what makes a great movie musical and share their 10 favorites (45:00). Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today’s episode, Sean and Amanda dig into Bo Burnham’s Netflix special ‘Inside’ ... or is it a movie? They talk about the songs, the production style, the themes, and that pesky "is it a movie?" question. Then, they share some new streaming movie recommendations (31:00) before opening up the mailbag for questions about ‘The Underground Railroad,’ movie book recommendations, and more (47:00). Finally, they’re joined by two special-guest lovebirds (1:20:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It,’ the third ‘Conjuring’ movie and the eighth installment in the franchise hits HBO Max and movie theaters this weekend. We’re diving into the film and our favorite "no. 3" entries in movie history with Chris Ryan. Plus, we discuss the exciting lineup for this year's Cannes Film Festival. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producers: Bobby Wagner and Steve Ahlman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Shhhhhhhhhhh. We’re back in movie theaters! After more than 13 months away from our favorite place, we returned to theaters. This is worthy of a celebration. Sean and Amanda talk about the experience, what they expect in the future at theaters, and then dive deep into a movie that they and many other Americans saw this weekend: 'A Quiet Place Part II.' Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda dive into the news that Amazon has acquired the historic Hollywood studio MGM, what it means for the streaming wars, the future of James Bond, and more (0:21). Then they discuss the new Oscars date and how the awards’ theater requirements continue to evolve (29:30). Finally, they review the new Disney Emma Stone vehicle ‘Cruella’ and build a Hall of Fame for Stone (52:39). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re drafting again, and this time we’ve got a doozy of a year. Chris Ryan rejoins Sean and Amanda to select their favorites from one of the most memorable movie years in recent memory.  Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Zack Snyder returns to the undead with his new Netflix blockbuster 'Army of the Dead.' Sean is joined by Chris Ryan and Adam Nayman to discuss Snyder's latest, what makes a great zombie movie, and share their five favorites from the genre. Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chris Ryan and Adam Nayman Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda break down a handful of new releases because, well, vaccination rates are growing, theaters are open, and movies are being released (0:25). They discuss HBO Max’s ‘Those Who Wish Me Dead’ with Bill Simmons (4:10); break down Netflix’s new Amy Adams thriller, ‘The Woman in the Window’ (38:57); and then share their top five favorite movie twists (59:18).  Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Bill Simmons Producer: Bobby Wagner Additional Production: Sasha Ashall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The release of ‘The Mitchells vs. The Machines’ got us thinking about the best animated movies since 2000. Rob Harvilla and Charles Holmes join Sean to talk about the medium and their favorites from the past 20 years. (0:21) Then, Sean is joined by ‘The Mitchells vs. The Machines’ director Mike Rianda to talk about his movie and the five-year journey to get it to Netflix. (1:00:08) Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Rob Harvilla and Charles Holmes; Mike Rianda Producer: Bobby Wagner Additional Production: Sasha Ashall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After his triumphant introduction of the movie director game, Sam Esmail rejoins Amanda and Sean to discuss his 2020 movie-watching experiences, his favorites films of the year, how the medium could change after the pandemic, and what value the Oscars do or don't have. He covers all this with the aid of a helpful new exercise: The Best Picture match game. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Sam Esmail Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is a special episode of 'The Big Picture': a watch-along commentary track for Christopher Nolan’s 11th feature film. In March, we teamed up with Chris Ryan for our first commentary, a four-hour journey through 'Zack Snyder’s Justice League,' a.k.a the Snyder Cut. We barely survived. This time, we’re diving into a more complex movie, but fortunately one we have seen before. This is our collective third viewing of Nolan’s controversial, confusing, and, we will argue, wrongly overlooked 'Tenet.' We will be together for all 150 minutes of this movie, and we want you to watch along with us. Let’s go! Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In honor of the new Tom Clancy adaptation ‘Without Remorse,’ Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to break down all things spy movies, including what they love about the genre, how they define it, and their top five favorites (0:13). Then, Sean is joined by director Stefano Sollima to talk about ‘Without Remorse' (1:06:30). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Stefano Sollima Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a record-low-rated Academy Awards ceremony on Sunday, the state of the Oscars has been the subject of debate all week (0:21). Amanda and Sean discuss where the show should go in 2022, what it could look like, and beyond. Then, Sean is joined by Adam McKay, the director behind beloved films like 'Anchorman' and 'The Big Short,' to discuss his new podcast 'Death at the Wing' and the future of movies (1:09:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Adam McKay Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today, we discuss Fatalities and Flawless Victories. Which one was the new adaptation of the beloved video game franchise ‘Mortal Kombat’? Joining Sean to answer that question and many more about all things video game movies are Ringer staff writers and avowed gamers Justin Charity and Ben Lindbergh. Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Justin Charity and Ben Lindbergh Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After 15 long months, the Oscars are here. Sean and Amanda break down every award, the in-person ceremony, the weirdest moments of the night, and more.  Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The time has almost come for the long-awaited—or maybe just long in waiting—93rd Academy Awards. Sean and Amanda discuss what to expect from the ceremony, and then make predictions in every category.  Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's Oscars Week, so it's time for a special Movie Draft—Chris Ryan joins Sean and Amanda to pick their favorite Academy Award winners from the years 2000 through 2009, in the eight big categories. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Producer: Bobby Wagner Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Let’s run back a new tradition: our Alternative Academy Awards with The New York Times’ Wesley Morris. Sean, Amanda, and Wesley pick their favorite performances, first features, cameos, endings, and more as a counterbalance to this week’s Oscars ceremony.  Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Wesley Morris Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the first 'Big Picture' Movie Auction. What’s that? Well, as we anticipate our return to movie theaters, we thought we’d find a way to measure the movies we’re most excited to see in 2021. The return of James Bond? ‘Top Gun: Maverick’? Three MCU movies? This could be a fun year for Hollywood after all. And what better way to express our excitement than to wager cold, hard (imaginary) cash? Chris Ryan joins Sean and Amanda for a good old-fashioned auction, movie-style. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Danny Heifetz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With key victories at the DGAs and BAFTAs in the books, Sean and Amanda discuss whether it’s all over but the shouting for 'Nomadland’ and the Best Picture prize at the Academy Awards (0:30). Then, they travel back in time 10 years to redo one of the most egregious movie award ceremonies in recent memory: the 2011 Oscars (30:46). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Adam Nayman returns to the show to discuss the elusive nature of cult movies: what makes one qualify, and when and why does a movie officially earn cult status. Sean and Adam use two of their favorite recent movies, Netflix's prank comedy 'Bad Trip' and the impressive 2020 thriller 'The Empty Man,' as a launch point before sharing their favorite cult movies of all time (0:15). Then Sean is joined by writer-director Emma Seligman to talk about her terrifically entertaining and terrifying first feature 'Shiva Baby' (1:01:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guest: Adam Nayman, Emma Seligman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda dive into the return of the box office after ‘Godzilla vs. Kong’ earned nearly $50 million over the holiday weekend. Are movie theaters back for good? Then, they discuss the results of the SAG Awards and what they mean for up-in-the-air Oscar races, including Best Actress and maybe Best Picture (0:30). Then, they’re joined by L.A. Times film critic Justin Chang to discuss the incredible body of work of Wong Kar-Wai, one of the signature filmmakers of the past three decades and the subject of a breathtaking new box set from the Criterion Collection (25:43). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Justin Chang Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘Godzilla vs. Kong’ is the first major blockbuster movie event of 2021. Shea Serrano joins Sean and Amanda to discuss the winners and losers of the latest monster showdown, which is now in theaters and available on HBO Max. Then, they share their five favorite blockbusters. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Shea Serrano Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are once again joined by Chris Ryan to draft the best (a.k.a. their favorite) movies from the year 2016. They discuss their lives that year, how Hollywood was changing, what the 'Moonlight' Best Picture Oscar win meant, and how world events manifested at the movies. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda dive into the news about the new release strategy for Disney’s long-awaited ‘Black Widow’ and what it means for movie theaters (0:16). Then, they look at the results of the WGA and PGA awards, and the complications of the forthcoming in-person Oscars ceremony. Finally, Sean is joined by Brian Koppelman—cocreator of ‘Billions’ and cowriter of ‘Rounders,’ ‘The Girlfriend Experience,’ and ‘Ocean’s 13’—to discuss the top five directorial debuts of filmmakers born between 1960 and 1980 (27:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Brian Koppelman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda welcome author Chuck Klosterman to dive deep into two fascinating topics. The first is Adam Curtis' sprawling six-part documentary series 'Can't Get You Out of My Head,' which explores the absurdity of modern life and the intersections of power, drugs, culture, and the future of civilization (0:30). Fun times. Then, Chuck poses a radical theory of movie watching, which leads to a conversation about the multiverse and the value of biopics (46:30). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chuck Klosterman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is a very, very special episode of 'The Big Picture': our first watch-along commentary track. For 'Zack Snyder’s Justice League.' Except we’ve never seen it before. So when we press play on the Snyder Cut for the first time, we want you to do so as well and to watch with us on HBO Max. We will be together for all four hours and two minutes of this film’s run time discussing Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Steppenwolf, Darkseid, and especially Ben Affleck’s hair. For four hours. Let’s go.  Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It appears we have a historic and … good (???) set of nominees for the 93rd Academy Awards. Sean and Amanda dive into all the narratives, break down who missed out and why, and look at which film is likely to take home the big prize on April 25.  Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're 45 days away from the Academy Awards, and less than a week away from Oscar nominations. Sean and Amanda sense trouble for the hallowed award show, so they dive into the mailbag to come up with some solutions for this weird season (0:30). Then, Sean is joined by Anthony and Joe Russo, directors of the highest-grossing film of all time, 'Avengers: Endgame,' to talk about their new film, 'Cherry' (1:01:32). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Anthony and Joe Russo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The first entrant in Disney+'s MCU expansion into TV concluded over the weekend. 'Binge Mode' cohost Mallory Rubin joins Sean to talk about the finale, the theories that never paid off, the series' highlights, and what comes next for Marvel (0:17). Then, they discuss another new Disney release, the surprisingly great 'Raya and the Last Dragon' (1:01:00). Finally, Sean is joined by 'The Mauritanian' director Kevin Macdonald to discuss his new film (1:08:13). Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guests: Mallory Rubin, Kevin Macdonald Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are building a shrine to comedy movie icon Eddie Murphy. Van Lathan joins the show to pick 10 classics for the Hall of Fame and discuss Murphy's new film 'Coming 2 America,' now streaming on Prime Video (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by the writer-director and star of 'Another Round,' Thomas Vinterberg and Mads Mikkelsen. They discuss their new film, the Danish culture of drinking, and the fine art of acting drunk (1:10:09). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Van Lathan, Mads Mikkelsen, and Thomas Vinterberg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amanda and Sean dig into one of the thorniest movies of award season, Emerald Fennell's feature debut as writer-director, 'Promising Young Woman.' They talk through the premise, the themes, the history of the revenge movie, the controversial ending, and a whole lot more (0:20). Then, Sean is joined by actor Delroy Lindo to talk about his work in Spike Lee's 'Da 5 Bloods' and his long career on stage and screen (57:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Delroy Lindo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It was a Zoom ceremony for a Zoom reality at this year’s Golden Globes. Sean and Amanda talk about the production of the virtual show, the ways the Hollywood Foreign Press Association addressed its recent controversies, how hosts Tina Fey and Amy Poehler fared, the night’s big winners, and what it all means for the Academy Awards. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda do the illogical: They try to predict how the Hollywood Foreign Press Association will hand out the Golden Globes on Sunday (26:39). Then, Sean talks to Lee Isaac Chung about ‘Minari,’ one of the best films of 2020, which is now finally widely available (1:08:23). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Lee Isaac Chung Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A front-runner for Best Picture at the Academy Awards, Chloé Zhao's 'Nomadland' arrived on Hulu this weekend. Chris Ryan joins Sean and Amanda to discuss one of the year's most powerful films (0:30). Then, the trio head back to 1984 for a throwback movie draft, selecting their favorites from one of the greatest cinematic years of their lives (19:45). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We kicked off our ranking of the top movie stars over 35 years old earlier this week. Now comes the hard part. Sean and Amanda drill down to make the tough choices. Hanks? Sandler? Streep? Denzel? Charlize? Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Last year, Sean and Amanda bravely and controversially ranked the 35 best movie stars under 35. They’re back at it, only this time, they’ve trained their attention on the geriatric stars. This is the first of a two-part mega-podcast series highlighting the 35 best movie stars over the age of 35. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After discussing the Oscars shortlists, Sean and Amanda dive deep on biopics, share their top five favorites, and break down how the new HBO Max film ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ effectively subverts the formula (0:47). Then, Sean is joined by Shaka King, the writer-director behind ‘Judas’ to talk about his telling of Black Panther party leader Fred Hampton’s story (53:19). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Shaka King Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda celebrate the life and work of the late actor Christopher Plummer, including a discussion of his most famous film, ‘The Sound of Music’ (0:47). Then, Sean is joined by ‘Malcolm & Marie’ writer-director Sam Levinson and co-star John David Washington to discuss their controversial new Netflix film, which was written and produced during the COVID-19 pandemic (59:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: John David Washington and Sam Levinson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Stonks, SAG Awards, and streamers: Amanda and Sean break down a roller coaster of a week in the movie business (0:36). Then, they’re joined by Adam Nayman to discuss a virtual Sundance Film Festival, the big acquisitions, and the very best films that just might be coming to a streamer near you (30:30). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Adam Nayman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Hollywood Foreign Press Association is up to its old tricks again, so Amanda and Sean are here to break down the nominations for the Golden Globes, some of which are truly ludicrous (0:52). Then, they’re joined by journalist, author, and film historian Mark Harris to talk about this strange award season and his new book, ‘Mike Nichols: A Life,’ a biography of the famed film and theater director (32:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Mark Harris Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the release of ‘The Little Things' on HBO Max, Denzel Washington's first starring role in almost three years, it's time to celebrate one of the world's greatest living actors. Joining Sean and Amanda is Ringer staff writer and Denzel superfan Shea Serrano to break down his remarkable career and share their top five Washington performances. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Shea Serrano Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We draft once more! After a triumph at the 1995 draft, Sean attempts to fend off Chris and Amanda as the trio select the very best movies from the year 2015 (20:00). Then, Sean is joined by Amanda Seyfried, now appearing as screen legend Marion Davies in David Fincher’s ‘Mank’ and getting the best reviews of her career. They talk about how to make decisions as an actor, portraying a real person, and the perils of impostor syndrome (1:02:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Amanda Seyfried Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Historically, January is a dumpster fire for new movie releases, but this year holds a few surprising gems. Sean and Amanda recommend 10 new movies you can watch at home right now (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Derek DelGaudio and Frank Oz, the performer and director behind the extraordinary stage show ‘In & of Itself,’ to discuss the movie version of the show, which can now be seen on Hulu (42:00). Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Derek DelGaudio and Frank Oz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After concluding their discussion of Part 2 of HBO’s Tiger Woods documentary series, Sean and Amanda dive back into the MCU by taking a close look at the first two episodes of Marvel’s first Disney+ series, ‘WandaVision.’  Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Inspired by Regina King's directorial debut 'One Night in Miami,' Amanda and Sean share their top 10 stage-to-screen adaptations: five musicals and five plays each (0:45). Then, Sean is joined by Kingsley Ben-Adir, one of the stars of 'One Night in Miami,' to talk about portraying Malcolm X and the actor's quick rise to fame (1:07:30). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Kingsley Ben-Adir Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It was a busy streaming weekend. Sean and Amanda break down Part 1 of HBO's 'Tiger,' Netflix's Martin Scorsese and Fran Lebowitz series 'Pretend It's a City,' and a wave of award-season updates (0:40). Then, they dig into the mailbag to answer your questions about Cary Grant, Oscar do-overs, and our dream director interviews (38:45). Finally, Sean is joined by 'Tiger' directors Matthew Hamachek and Matthew Heineman to discuss their miniseries (1:18:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Matthew Hamachek and Matthew Heineman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Movies are back! Sorta! With dozens of releases delayed in 2020 due to COVID-19, this year figures to be one of the busiest in history. From Marvel's return to 'Dune' to a Beatles documentary to surefire Oscar contenders, Sean and Amanda have lots to look forward to. They break it all down in this episode. Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In December 2020, Francis Ford Coppola oversaw the release of 'The Godfather Coda: The Death of Michael Corleone,' a reconfiguration of his film 'The Godfather: Part III' and the latest in a long line of director's cuts. What is a director's cut? What is its purpose? And what are the best in movie history? On today's episode, Chris Ryan and Sean break down the truth behind International Immobiliare and why filmmakers return to their work over and over again. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda look at the early reactions to DC's latest film, which arrived on HBO Max on Christmas Day, and discuss what the ramifications could be to backlash against the film (0:43). Then, they discuss one of the year's best films, Pixar's 'Soul' (41:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Happy (almost) New Year, 'Big Picture' listeners. Sean and Amanda are ringing it in by going back in time to 1995, and they are joined, as always, by Chris Ryan to draft the very best movies of that year and talk about their personal experiences from that time. Will the CR Army continue to dominate or is it due for a downfall? Tune in to find out. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

'Wonder Woman 1984,' the latest installment in the DCEU, has arrived on HBO Max after a controversial decision by Warner Media. Sean and Amanda break it all down, from the '80s time jump to the additions of Kristen Wiig and Pedro Pascal to the HBO Max launch (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by filmmaker Paul Greengrass for a conversation about his new Western, 'News of the World' (60:30). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Paul Greengrass Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The iconic movie star directed and stars in a new Netflix film, 'The Midnight Sky.' To celebrate, Amanda and Sean build a Hall of Fame in his honor, where they enshrine 10 movies from his long career, and 10 only (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by writer-director Emerald Fennell and Carey Mulligan for an interview about their fascinating, divisive, must-see new film, 'Promising Young Woman' (1:10:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Carey Mulligan and Emerald Fennell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Awards season has officially begun with the New York and L.A. Film Critics handing out their annual awards over the weekend. Sean and Amanda talk about the winners and what they mean for the Oscar race (1:00). Then they look at 'Ma Rainey's Black Bottom,' Netflix's adaptation of the August Wilson play that stars Viola Davis and in one of his final performances, the late, truly great Chadwick Boseman (13:00). And then we'll be giving out some hardware of our own: naming the 20 best movie performances of 2020 (25:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nolan's controversial time-inversion saga is finally available to watch at home. Chris Ryan joins Sean and Amanda to break down the movie on a second viewing, celebrate its extraordinary action, and discuss Nolan's future after his comments about Warner Bros.' 2021 HBO Max strategy (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by director Steve McQueen to discuss the making of his exceptional anthology film series 'Small Axe' (54:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Steve McQueen Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The fallout from Warner Bros.' HBO Max announcement is still rippling through Hollywood. Sean and Amanda talk about the responses from Christopher Nolan, Denis Villeneuve, producers at other studios, agencies, and fans. Then, they use the announcement of a glut of new film and TV projects at Disney to talk about the future of streaming, the projects they're excited about, and more (0:45). Finally, Sean and Amanda look back on a year of takes and pick the movies and the opinions they got wrong. They blew it! (39:22) Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Acclaimed filmmaker and 'Big Picture' hero Steven Soderbergh returns with a new film on HBO Max, 'Let Them All Talk.' Sean and Amanda discuss his new movie, the news that he will be one of the producers of next year's Academy Awards ceremony, and rank his 30-plus films and TV projects over the years (0:45). Then Soderbergh himself joins Sean for a wide-ranging conversation about his career, Hollywood, HBO Max's big decision, and more (52:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Steven Soderbergh Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This has been a strange year for movies, most of which were seen at home. But we didn't struggle to find some that lit up our imagination and reflected the times. Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan and Adam Nayman to pick their top five films of 2020. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Adam Nayman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After great anticipation, ‘Mank’ has arrived. Sean and Amanda look at David Fincher’s 11th feature film from every angle. What’s it really about? How does it play? Will it live up to the billing as Netflix’s great Oscar hope? All that and a lot more in this deep dive. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Major news in Hollywood: Warner Bros. has announced it will stream all of its new films in 2021 on HBO Max, including 'Godzilla vs. Kong,' 'In The Heights,' 'Space Jam: A New Legacy,' 'The Suicide Squad,' and 'Matrix 4.' Why did this happen? What does it mean for movie theaters? Will other studios follow suit? Amanda and Sean do their best to parse a historic day. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week marks the arrival of David Fincher’s long-awaited 'Mank,' which chronicles the screenwriter Herman Mankiewicz’s life and work on the script for 'Citizen Kane.' Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan and Adam Nayman for an expansive chat on all things 'Kane,' Orson Welles, the fight over the film's authorship, and classic Hollywood. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Adam Nayman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The legendary documentarian Errol Morris has a new film called 'My Psychedelic Love Story' premiering on Showtime this week. He returns to the show to talk with Sean about a wide array of topics, from psychedelics to psychotics. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Errol Morris Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's time once again for a Movie Draft. Chris Ryan returns with hopes of staving off Sean and Amanda to claim his first draft victory (15:00). Then, Sean is joined by Clea DuVall, an actress you may know from films like 'But I’m a Cheerleader,' 'Zodiac,' and 'Argo.' They talk about DuVall’s second film as a director, 'Happiest Season'—a charming holiday rom-com about a couple played by Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis—that hits Hulu on Wednesday (59:47). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Clea DuVall Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ron Howard's adaptation of JD Vance's bestselling memoir hits Netflix this week—Sean and Amanda look at the film and the careers of stars Amy Adams and Glenn Close, including their chances at their first-ever Academy Award win (1:00). 'Hillbilly Elegy' also inspired a deep dive into the history of a tricky subcategory: Oscar Bait. What is it? When did it start? What movies count as Oscar Bait? Sean and Amanda break it all down (27:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With so many movies pushed to 2021, TV has taken an even bigger share of our viewing time this year. Sean and Amanda talk about the Netflix sensation ‘The Queen’s Gambit,’ Steve McQueen’s ‘Small Axe’ anthology series, and the best miniseries they’ve seen this year (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by Aneesh Chaganty, the director of 2018’s ‘Searching’ and a new thriller called ‘Run’ that hits Hulu this weekend (48:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Aneesh Chaganty Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The last big-ticket theatrical release, 'Wonder Woman 1984,' is still on the calendar. Will it go to HBO Max? PVOD? When will we see it? Amanda and Sean break down the possibilities (0:54). Then, they are joined by David Hill, the host of the new podcast series 'Gamblers,' to pick their top five gambling movies (17:44). Finally, Sean interviews director Christopher Landon, a Blumhouse staple who brought us the 'Happy Death Day' series, to talk about his clever new body-swap horror-comedy 'Freaky' (1:16:30). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: David Hill and Christopher Landon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda dive back into the mailbag to answer an array of questions about under-the-radar 2020 movies you can watch now on VOD and streaming, the prolonged closure of movie theaters around the country, and the book adaptation they've always wanted to see on the big screen, among others (0:50). Then, Sean is joined by Michael Angelo Covino and Kyle Marvin to discuss their delightful new film 'The Climb' (59:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Michael Angelo Covino and Kyle Marvin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Things are quiet in the world of movies, so we’re taking a moment to celebrate one of our favorite subgenres: GARBAGE CRIME. What’s that? Allow chief criminologist Chris Ryan to break it all down and hand out some awards to the very best the subgenre has to offer. (1:00) Then, Sean is joined by writer-director Brandon Cronenberg to talk about his viscerally overwhelming new film, ‘Possessor.’ (1:05:00) Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chris Ryan and Brandon Cronenberg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We want to go back to a more nostalgic, maybe even more hopeful, period in history. So Sean is joined by Richard Linklater and journalist Melissa Maerz to talk about Maerz’s new book, ‘Alright, Alright, Alright: The Oral History of Richard Linklater's Dazed and Confused,’ which comes out on November 17 (47:00). To warm up for that chat, Amanda and Sean share their top five Richard Linklater movies (1:07). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Richard Linklater and Melissa Maerz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s Election Day, so Sean and Amanda have compiled a collection of double features for the politically minded. Cast your ballots! (31:29) Plus, they discuss the passing of iconic screen actor Sean Connery and briefly discuss David Fincher’s forthcoming film ‘Mank’ (0:52). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins review the movies you need to see. Plus: Top 5s, Movie Drafts, Oscars analysis, and conversations with Hollywood's biggest filmmakers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The end of the month beckons, and with it another Movie Draft. Chaos agent Chris Ryan returns to join Sean and Amanda in a showdown selection of 2013 movies (0:40). Then, Sean and Amanda are joined by 'On the Rocks' writer-director Sofia Coppola and the star of her new film, Rashida Jones, to talk about their careers, their dads, and their label makers (1:07:08). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan; Sofia Coppola and Rashida Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sacha Baron Cohen's Kazakhstan correspondent has returned in a sequel to the 2006 comedy classic. Sean and Amanda are joined by Bryan Curtis and David Shoemaker of 'The Press Box' to discuss whether or not Borat is still effective in today's absurd political environment, how Borat pulled off the stunts this time around, and why this is really Tutar's movie (0:55). Then, Sean and Amanda break down a pair of misbegotten new remakes: Ben Wheatley's 'Rebecca' and Robert Zemeckis's 'The Witches' (52:33). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Bryan Curtis and David Shoemaker Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Sofia Coppola's new film 'On the Rocks' arriving this weekend on Apple TV+, Sean and Amanda are convening to discuss her work as one of the greatest filmmakers of her generation. They discuss her career, her family's creative history, and what makes her the embodiment of cinematic cool. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the terrifying year of 2020, we needed our horror correspondent to weigh in on the state of the genre, so Chris Ryan joins Sean to talk about the new Adam Sandler Netflix vehicle ‘Hubie Halloween,’ the best horror flicks of the year so far, and 20 underrated scary movie classics. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Acclaimed writer-director Aaron Sorkin’s new film, ‘The Trial of the Chicago 7,’ hits Netflix this weekend, so Sean and Amanda commence a walk-and-talk on one of their favorite Hollywood voices. They examine his long career on film and television, share their top 5s, and break down his new movie from every angle. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

To celebrate 300 episodes of 'The Big Picture,' Sean and Amanda are opening up the mailbag and answering an array of wide-ranging questions about the movies that drew them to their careers, the future of film post-COVID-19, the movies they think the critics got totally wrong, and more (5:01). Then, Sean is joined by filmmaker Garrett Bradley to talk about her new film, 'Time' (1:40:31). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Garrett Bradley Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week is the 40th anniversary of ‘Private Benjamin,’ Meyers’s first screenplay. Meyers would go on to write and direct a number of modern comedy classics, including ‘What Women Want,’ ‘Something’s Gotta Give,’ ‘It’s Complicated,’ and, yes, ‘The Holiday.’ Sean and Amanda dive deep into her filmography to build a Hall of Fame for one of the most successful and arguably underrated filmmakers of her time. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this unprecedented year, the Oscars need a boost. Sean and Amanda have just the right ideas, including ways to improve the ceremony, rule changes to enliven the ballot, and a new way to unveil the winners (0:30). Then, Sean is joined by filmmaker Alex Ross Perry ('Her Smell,' 'Listen Up Philip') to talk about how independent filmmakers are responding to the COVID-19 shutdown, what the future of indie cinema could look like, and what he's been watching in quarantine (57:35). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Alex Ross Perry Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What makes a great movie father? Inspired by the new movie 'Dick Johnson Is Dead,' Sean and Amanda pick not necessarily the best movie dads, but their favorites (15:23). Then, Sean is joined by 'Dick Johnson' director Kirsten Johnson (and a special guest) to discuss her new Netflix film (55:24). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Kirsten Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘Tenet’ is struggling at the box office. The MCU is on pause. And TV is threatening to take over our beloved movies. So we have to return to the past. That’s right: The movie draft is back. Chris Ryan rejoins Sean and Amanda to make their picks for the best of 2012 (1:17). Then screenwriter Billy Ray joins the show to talk about his Showtime miniseries ‘The Comey Rule' (1:31:54). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Billy Ray Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're ready to complete our journey into the commercials, music videos, TV shows, and films of David Fincher. But there are some shenanigans in our midst. What's his greatest music video? What will be no. 1? And is 'Mindhunter' making a comeback into the top 10? We feel like saying more, but we don't want to ruin the surprise (0:41). Then, Sean is joined by writer-director Miranda July to talk about her new film, 'Kajillionaire' (1:10:05). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Miranda July Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's Fincher Week at The Ringer, so Sean and Amanda are teaming up with Chris Ryan to present a highly sophisticated, meticulous ranking of the filmmaker's work that would make Fincher proud. In Part I, they analyze his feature films, TV series, commercials, and music videos and build a hierarchy of the top 25 Fincher works. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's (virtual) film festival season! Sean and Amanda break down the Telluride Film Festival and Toronto International Film Festival movies they've seen thus far—including 'Nomadland,' 'Ammonite,' and 'One Night in Miami'—and what these festivals mean for the elongated Oscar race, including the Best Picture and Best Actress categories (0:45). Then, Sean is joined by 'Antebellum' directors Gerard Bush and Christopher Renz to talk about their new film (1:05:07). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Gerard Bush and Christopher Renz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Christopher Nolan’s 11th feature film, ‘Tenet,’ has opened in theaters around the world and we are going to talk about it. But first, we dive into the big changes in Academy Awards eligibility; ‘Wonder Woman 1984’ changing release dates and the perilous nature of the American box office; and the state of the virtual film festival (1:18). Then, Sean and Amanda deep dive into ‘Tenet,’ their viewing experience, and the confusing/compelling nature of the film (56:42). Finally, Sean is joined by Antonio Campos, the writer-director of the new Netflix film ‘The Devil All the Time,’ to chat about his work (1:56:14). Spoilers for ‘Tenet’ start at 1:14:45. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Antonio Campos Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The acclaimed writer-director Charlie Kaufman has returned with a new film, the disorienting, fascinating adaptation of the 2016 novel 'I'm Thinking of Ending Things.' Sean and Amanda are joined by film critic and Kaufman expert Amy Nicholson to talk about his work and break down the new film (1:14). Then, Sean is joined by Kaufman himself and the author of the book, Iain Reid, for a discussion of bringing this unusual story to the screen (59:53). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Amy Nicholson, Charlie Kaufman and Iain Reid Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amanda and Sean are joined by Binge Mode's Jason Concepcion and Mallory Rubin to explore the 1998 Disney classic 'Mulan' and the new live-action remake. They talk about what worked, what didn't, and what was removed from the original that marred this reimagining. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Jason Concepcion and Mallory Rubin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Master of Suspense's classic film ‘Psycho’ turns 60 this month, so Sean and Amanda have convened Chris Ryan and The New York Times' Wesley Morris for a deep conversation about the filmmaker's career and best work. They pick their top fives and discuss at length what makes Hitchcock's work resonate to this day. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Wesley Morris Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

'Tenet' is here! But not everywhere. With Christopher Nolan's latest unavailable to California and New York residents, Sean and Amanda call on Ringer contributor and Canadian citizen Adam Nayman to share a spoiler-free review of the filmmaker's latest journey into bended time and space. Plus: Sean, Amanda, and Adam share their favorite Nolan works and discuss how his films will be remembered. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Adam Nayman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a special mega-pod, Andy Greenwald and Chris Ryan join Sean and Amanda for a two-part conversation about the way that movies seems to be aping the modes and styles of TV, and vice-versa (0:29). (For Part 2, check out ‘The Watch’ on the Ringer Podcast Network.) Then, Sean is joined for a chat with the stars of ‘Bill & Ted Face the Music’: Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter (48:49)! Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Andy Greenwald, Chris Ryan, Keanu Reeves, and Alex Winter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s baaaaack. Due to popular demand, we’ve decided to run back the movie draft. Chris Ryan rejoins Sean and Amanda to make their picks for the best of 2011. But first, we discuss the debut of some new trailers from the DC Universe, including an exciting first look at Matt Reeves's 'The Batman.' Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 44 states around the country, movie theaters will reopen their doors this weekend for the release of the Russell Crowe thriller 'Unhinged,' a controversial decision by the major theater chains. Amanda and Sean talk about the ramifications of the decision, what it means for the release of Christopher Nolan's long-awaited 'Tenet,' and whether society has officially acclimated to at-home viewing (2:47). Then, Sean is joined by Wu-Tang Clan founder and filmmaker RZA to talk about his new movie 'Cut Throat City' (51:18). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: RZA Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amanda and Sean dive deep into the year’s most provocative and entertaining film, the documentary ‘Boys State,’ an intimate portrait of the summer program that has produced some of the most compelling figures in recent American political history (1:08). Then, Sean is joined by ‘Boys State’ codirectors Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss to talk about the casting and production of their extraordinary movie (34:54). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Chris Ryan to talk about Ben Affleck's recently announced new movie, an adaptation of 'The Big Goodbye' about the making of the film 'Chinatown.' Then, they pitch other chaotic behind-the-scenes stories they'd like to see captured on the big screen (1:30). They also discuss the streaming horror hit 'Host,' now playing on Shudder, as well as the less successful Shia LaBeouf crime drama 'The Tax Collector' (34:00). Finally, Sean is joined by writer-director-actress Amy Seimetz to talk about her new horror–black comedy 'She Dies Tomorrow' (46:27). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Chris Ryan Guest: Amy Seimetz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s armageddon time. Or at least it feels that way these days. Sean and Amanda talk about coping with the ongoing fear and frustration by doing what they always do: talking about movies they like. In this case, they discuss their top five favorite apocalypse movies (1:15). Then, Sean is joined by James Gray for a wide-ranging conversation about working as a filmmaker during quarantine, the Hollywood history he’s been sharing with his kids, and more (54:44). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: James Gray Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The AMC theater chain cut a deal with Universal last week, ending a months-long standoff over the future of film distribution. What does the deal mean for the moviegoing experience? Will more chains and more studios join in? Will we see more movies at home? Amanda and Sean break it all down (1:06), along with news about the star of Paul Thomas Anderson's new film, the state of film festivals in 2020, and the new Seth Rogen HBO Max comedy 'An American Pickle' (32:55). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the release of his new memoir 'Chasing the Light,' the provocative, award-winning writer-director Oliver Stone is back in the news. Amanda and Sean take a deep dive into the book and Stone's career, examining his origin story, his reputation as a Baby Boomer artist, and his incredible body of work. Then, to verify their feelings on his movies, they play a personally revealing round of Fuck, Marry, Kill with all 20 of his feature films. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

'Tenet' is delayed until Labor Day. 'Top Gun: Maverick' has been bumped to 2021. And yet 'The New Mutants' is scheduled to open in theaters on August 28. Everything in the world of movies is up for grabs. So we’re opening up the mailbag and answering all your questions about what the hell movies will even be in the future (6:13). Then, Sean is joined by legendary filmmaker Ron Howard to discuss his career and his new documentary 'Rebuilding Paradise' (1:03:20). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Ron Howard Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is an episode about movies in the year 2010. Why? Well, it’s been 10 years since 2010, 10 long years in the life cycle of American movies. A lot has changed. Earlier this week, we celebrated the decade anniversary of 'Scott Pilgrim vs. the World' with a special episode. What else happened in movies that year? How could we have a fun conversation that didn’t just rehash the release schedule? We got an idea for a kind of movie draft: six categories, six picks each, snake-style. Chris Ryan joins Sean and Amanda to determine who has the best 2010 movie roster. Listen and decide for yourselves. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's been a decade since the release of one of the most prescient, purely entertaining movies of the century: Edgar Wright's 'Scott Pilgrim vs. the World.' To celebrate the anniversary, Sean is joined by 'Pilgrim' superfans Jason Concepcion and Van Lathan to break down the best scenes, characters, fights, and lines in the movie (5:01). Then Edgar Wright stops by to talk about the making of the movie and the likelihood of a sequel (47:28). Bread makes you fat?!? Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guests: Jason Concepcion, Van Lathan, and Edgar Wright Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Summer movie season has effectively been canceled, but we're still thinking about what summer means to the movies. Chris Ryan joins Sean and Amanda to talk about what makes a summer flick, and then they share their top fives. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The perfect quarantine movie has arrived: the delightful Andy Samberg high-concept rom-com ‘Palm Springs’ exploded this weekend after its release on Hulu. Sean and Amanda dive deep into the movie, before Sean is joined by director Max Barbakow and costar Cristin Milioti for a conversation about how it was made (45:30). Then, Jason Concepcion and Shea Serrano stop by to talk about their new movie podcast, ‘The Connect’ (1:20:45). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Max Barbakow, Cristin Milioti, Jason Concepcion, and Shea Serrano Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're still stuck at home, but another wave of new movie releases arrives this weekend, including Netflix's exciting new Charlize Theron action film 'The Old Guard,' the delightfully high-concept 'Palm Springs' on Hulu, and the Tom Hanks World War II story 'Greyhound' on Apple TV+. Sean and Amanda break down all three, before inviting The Ringer's Kevin Clark on to help construct the Dad Movie Hall of Fame (1:25). Then, Sean is joined by 'The Old Guard' director Gina Prince-Bythewood to discuss her new film (1:10:57). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Kevin Clark and Gina Prince-Bythewood Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda discuss the life and career of the legendary film composer Ennio Morricone, who died on Sunday at 91 (1:24). Then they discuss the new additions to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and what it means for the Oscars (0:00). And finally, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway musical phenomenon finally began streaming this weekend on Disney+. It's a composite of three June 2016 performances, so how does it work as a movie experience? And how has ‘Hamilton’ aged since it premiered in 2015? Sean and Amanda are joined by Juliet Litman to discuss the history of the show, what it’s like to see it at home, and the state of plays in 2020 (25:55). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Juliet Litman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Movie theaters have been closed for more than half the year, but we’ve still gotten our fair share of great films. Adam Nayman joins Sean and Amanda to share their top five movies so far this year. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Adam Nayman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s happening again: Christopher Nolan’s ‘Tenet’ has been moved once more, stoking new debate about the future of movie theaters. Sean and Amanda talk about when, if ever, they’ll be back in a theater. They also discuss the weekend’s new VOD and streaming releases and the life and work of the late Joel Schumacher (0:52). Then, Sean and Amanda (finally) share their top five movies about making movies (33:32). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’ve got a double shot of interviews on today’s show. First up, David Koepp, the writer-director of the new horror film ‘You Should Have Left,’ which is available right now on VOD. Koepp is the screenwriter behind some of the most beloved blockbusters of the past 30 years, including ‘Jurassic Park,’ ‘Mission: Impossible,’ and ‘Spider-Man’ (1:51). Then, Sean is joined by Karina Longworth, the film critic turned podcaster extraordinaire, to talk about her show, ‘You Must Remember This,’ which is focusing on the great Polly Platt this season (36:17). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: David Koepp and Karina Longworth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After five years away from feature filmmaking, Apatow is back with a new muse: ‘SNL’ star Pete Davidson, who loosely adopts his life story for their new dramedy. Sean and Amanda review the film—which features some great performances and a few new moves for the writer-director—and then look back at Apatow’s career to build a Hall of Fame enshrining his greatest contributions to movies and TV. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The release of Christopher Nolan’s ‘Tenet’ was pushed back, setting in motion a domino effect for the rest of the summer movie slate. Sean and Amanda discuss when we’ll be back in movie theaters. Then, they address the changes announced by the Academy to improve diversity in future Oscar nominees, why the number of Best Picture nominees has expanded to 10, and what the extension of the eligibility window means for awards season. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Released directly to Netflix during a bracing period of American tumult, Spike Lee's 'Da 5 Bloods' continues his mission as a politically minded and always entertaining filmmaker. Sean and Amanda are joined by Justin Charity to closely examine Lee's career as a celebrity director and to analyze his new movie, which tracks four Black Vietnam veterans as they return to the site of conflict in search of reckoning and buried treasure. Then, Sean and Amanda discuss the film's awards chances during this strange moment in movie history. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Justin Charity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Some filmmakers interpret the past. Some capture the present. Spike Lee does both, and he sees the future. There has never been a more urgent moment for the director’s work: In this episode, we spotlight a 2019 conversation with Wesley Morris about 'Do the Right Thing' (9:53), interview Lee's longtime composer Terence Blanchard (35:32), and revisit a conversation with Lee's editor Barry Alexander Brown (65:01). Plus: Sean shares his top five (OK, top six) favorite Spike Lee movies. Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Wesley Morris, Terence Blanchard, and Barry Alexander Brown Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The launch of HBO Max means a new entrant in the streaming TV wars. But the big winners might be movie fans. HBO Max's catalog is one of the deepest we've seen. Sean picks a few favorites to start (1:15). Then he's joined by Kirby Dick and Amy Ziering to discuss their new film, 'On the Record,' which can be found on the service (30:24). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Kirby Dick and Amy Ziering Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The new Netflix film 'The Lovebirds' falls into a classic bucket: the all-in-one-day movie. Sean and Amanda talk about what works (and what doesn't) in the Kumail Nanjiani–Issa Rae comedy. Then, they share their top-five all-in-one-day movies. All killer, no filler. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After years of lobbying Warner Bros., the fans are getting what they want: the Zack Snyder cut of 'Justice League,' exclusively on HBO Max in 2021. What does that mean? Is that a bad thing? Does it confirm our fears about toxic fandom? Sean and Amanda examine the news and then dive into the mailbag to answer listener questions about which movie made them obsessed; how to watch the essentials in film history; and what to expect from the movie business in 2021, 2022, and beyond. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

An extraordinary burden has been placed upon 'Tenet.' With a still-unchanged July 17 release date, the Warner Bros. production could be the movie to reopen movie theaters and kick-start Hollywood again. But is it too soon? Many in the industry believe the date will stick and topple a series of dominoes that will affect the movie industry for months and years to come. Sean and Amanda look at the 'Tenet' conundrum from all angles. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

No one challenges the expectations of movie stardom more than Tom Hardy. His latest film—the scatological, phantasmagoric, late-life biopic 'Capone'—features one of his most visceral performances yet. Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to review the new Josh Trank–directed film and build a shrine to Hardy's fascinating, frequently bizarre collection of performances. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We needed a bigger boat to select the finest movies set on the great ocean blue, so Chris Ryan returns to aid Sean and Amanda. They each choose their top five films, talk about why they love the sea, and what scares them most about it. This conversation got out of hand. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's been nearly two months since movie theaters closed and Hollywood was forced to pivot. Sean and Amanda dig into the VOD crates as well as the streaming services to recommend 10 movies to watch from the comfort of your home, including the best that Netflix, HBO, and Shudder have to offer right now (1:45). Then, Sean is joined by stunt performer turned director Sam Hargrave to talk about his rise from fight coordination on MCU movies to helming his explosive action thriller, 'Extraction' (58:17). Host: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Sam Hargrave Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Here's the case as it stands: We put the vote to you, the jurors, and you wanted to hear our closing arguments on the best courtroom dramas in movie history. Amanda and Sean, the only litigators this side of the Mississippi who can handle the truth, dig into one of film's most indefatigable genres. They talk through picks from the 1940s all the way through the 1990s, and explore why the courtroom drama has vanished from the movie landscape. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With a double hit of noisy movie-business news, Sean and Amanda dive into the mailbag to answer all your questions about the movie theater chain vs. Universal fight over windowing and 'Trolls World Tour' and the ramifications of the Academy's decision to allow streaming films to compete for Oscars at next year's ceremony. Fasten your seat belts, it's going to be a bumpy pod. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

That's right, Mike D and Ad-Rock have teamed up with Spike Jonze to make a movie chronicling the history of one of the most important bands of all time: Beastie Boys. Chris Ryan joins the show to talk about the group's history and rank their top-five songs. Then Sean interviews Mike D and Ad-Rock about the film, what late band member Adam Yauch would have thought about the movie, and their favorite fruits during quarantine. Waxin' and milkin'!  Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Adam "Ad-Rock" Horovitz, Michael "Mike D" Diamond, and Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

During quarantine, Netflix has risen high above its competitors, with a soaring stock price and a captive audience. Sean and Amanda dig into the relatively brief but surprisingly vast history of Netflix Original Films to create a Hall of Fame lineup (0:59). Then, Sean is joined by writer-director Alex Garland ('Ex Machina') to talk about his FX series ‘Devs’ (73:02). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Alex Garland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There's no more powerful curator than Netflix, as capable of launching a new phenomenon as reviving an old favorite. Sean and Amanda look at how 'Molly's Game' became a Netflix phenom more than two years after its release (2:24). Then, Sean is joined by director Greg Barker and actor Wagner Moura to discuss their new Netflix original film, 'Sergio' (72:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Wagner Moura and Greg Barker Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

All across the country, millions of Americans are bunkered down in their homes. Some of those people are alone. Some are cocooned with their partners. Some are surrounded by their screaming children. And they all have one thing in common: These people are trapped and they … are … horny. So today we will provide, if not tender loving care, then the next best thing: Joined by our pal Wesley Morris from 'The New York Times,' we present the 10 best erotic thrillers. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Wesley Morris Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The 'Trolls' sequel wouldn't normally be a topic of serious interrogation on the show, but with new theatrical releases on hold, 'Trolls World Tour' has become a fascinating test case for the future of movies. After what appears to be a successful rollout straight to streaming video on demand, Sean and Amanda break down the industry implications of the film's release (0:57). Then, Rob Harvilla joins to talk about parenting with movies during quarantine, the particular frustrations of the 'Trolls' universe, and why this is one of the most important films ever made about rock criticism (14:29). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Rob Harvilla Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Criterion Channel streaming service is celebrating its one-year anniversary this week and it has been a shelter in a storm for movie lovers during quarantine. To celebrate, we've asked 15 friends of The Big Picture—writers, filmmakers, and critics—to explain why the Channel is so crucial and suggest one must-watch from its massive and essential library. (And maybe a few runners-up, too.) Then, Sean is joined by Criterion programmer Penelope Bartlett to break down how the movies find their way to the service. Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guests: Ari Aster, Penelope Bartlett, Erin Lee Carr, Amanda Dobbins (and Amanda's dad), Sam Esmail, Liz Hannah, Barry Jenkins, Miranda July, Adam Nayman, Amy Nicholson, Alex Ross Perry, Peyton Reed, Chris Ryan, Benny Safdie, Josh Safdie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hollywood has officially canceled summer movie season, so we're going back to old favorites and exposing each other to new experiences. For their latest movie swap, Sean chooses James Cameron's epic sci-fi actioner 'Aliens,' while Amanda selects Richard Curtis's aggressively charming rom-com 'Four Weddings and a Funeral.' Will they love the picks? Hate them? Will they come to understand each other more deeply as humans? Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Japanese superstar would have turned 100 years old this week, so for our 250th episode, Mifune's centenary is as good a time as we're ever going to get to celebrate his extraordinary career as a film actor. Sean is joined by Chris Ryan to walk through Mifune's life and work, including his iconic collaborations with director Akira Kurosawa, and analyze his mind-blowing physical and emotional power. They choose the actor's 10 essential performances and recommend the best hidden gems in his filmography. Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New movie releases have slowed to a crawl, but we do have a quarter of a year's worth to judge. Sean and Amanda have scanned the results and decided to hand out some premature Academy Awards to spotlight the very best we've seen so far. Then, they do a little guesswork, peruse the year ahead, and make some blind guesses on the 2021 winners for the big six Oscar categories. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With no new movies on the horizon, we have resorted to ridiculous rankings. First up, a completely unscientific but emotionally charged rundown of the 35 best, most exciting movie stars under the age of 35 working today in Hollywood. How did we choose them? Did your internet boyfriend make the cut? Is playing a superhero a prerequisite for this list? Tune in to find out. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Suddenly, nearly every 2020 movie that's been released is available at home. Sean and Amanda break down our new (hopefully temporary) reality of home consumption, discuss the drawbacks of the VOD economy, and go in-depth on two new at-home releases, 'The Hunt' and 'Emma.' (0:32). Then, Bill Simmons stops by to talk about how excited he is for the future of seeing new movies from the comfort of his home, and why 'The Hunt' was the perfect movie for that experience (58:30). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Bill Simmons Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

You asked and we answered. After diving into the mailbag, Sean and Amanda tackled all your questions and came up with dozens of movies to watch during self-quarantine. Plus: We discuss the future of the Oscars in light of the coronavirus pandemic, the postponement of the Cannes Film Festival, the watch-at-home problem, and the absolute disgrace of #ReleaseTheButtholeCut. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With virtually every major new release pushed back and the box office recording a record low over the weekend, movie theaters have shuttered around the country to battle the coronavirus. And some studios are starting to make their movies widely available on streaming services and VOD platforms. Sean and Amanda talk about the brave new world of movies, what these radical changes could portend for releases both big and small, and whether the industry will ever be able to turn back to the old way of doing things. They also make some streaming recommendations for the self-quarantined and pick the one 2020 release they'd like to have in their homes right now. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The coronavirus and new social distancing measures have led most major studios to delay their spring theatrical releases. With blockbuster titles like 'Fast & Furious 9,' 'Mulan,' and 'A Quiet Place: Part II' on hold and many people quarantined at home, streaming has become the movie lover's refuge. Sean and Amanda talk about the long-term ramifications of the delays and then they each pick three movies from three different streaming services to get you through a long weekend free of human contact. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The spread of COVID-19 has struck virtually every part of communal life, including the movie theater. With more people staying home to watch movies, Sean and Amanda look at some of the short- and long-term ramifications that anxiety from the coronavirus has provoked (0:41). Then, The Ringer's noted dad Jason Gallagher stops by to discuss the latest Pixar film, 'Onward'; whether the company's movies are aimed at kids or adults; and where the studio is headed after 22 feature films (20:41). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Jason Gallagher Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark Wahlberg is one of the most unlikely movie stars of the century, mixing serious drama, comedy, action, and highbrow films across his long career. Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to talk about his peculiar acting style, what makes him such a persistent figure in Hollywood, and his best roles over the years (1:23). Then, Sean is joined by writer-director Kelly Reichardt to talk about her new film, 'First Cow,' one of the very best of 2020 so far (55:28). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan and Kelly Reichardt Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As his new drama, 'The Way Back,' nears release, Ben Affleck is back in the spotlight and opening up about his struggles with substance misuse. It's the latest in a career that has collided the personal with the artistic in a way few writer-director-actors can claim. Sean and Amanda talk through Affleck's series of comebacks, his utterly unique brand of stardom, and the last decade of self-reflexive roles in movies both mega-successful and widely reviled (1:08). Then, Bill Simmons swings by to pick some nits in the weekend's box office champ, 'The Invisible Man’ (48:51). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Bill Simmons Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

To celebrate the release of 'The Invisible Man,' Leigh Whannell's clever reimagining of the classic Universal monster movie, Adam Nayman joins the show to help construct a shrine to the greatest creatures, ghouls, aliens, oversized apes, and ineffable spirits in film history (1:03). Then, Whannell joins Sean to talk about the making of his new movie, casting Elisabeth Moss as the protagonist of the story, and the unlikely inspirations he channeled (47:30). Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guest: Adam Nayman and Leigh Whannell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The art of placing music in a movie is harder than it looks. 'Ringer' staff writer Rob Harvilla joins Sean to explore the rules of a great needle drop and the pitfalls of an obvious one, before sharing their five favorite music movie moments (0:42). Then, Sean sits down with The Band cofounder Robbie Robertson to discuss his collaborations with Martin Scorsese, the relationship between movies and music, and 'Once Were Brothers: Robbie Robertson and The Band' a new documentary about his life and musical career (39:25). Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guest: Rob Harvilla and Robbie Robertson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Movies have the February blues, so we enlisted a friend of the show to liven things up. 'Mr. Robot' creator and movie fanatic Sam Esmail joins Sean and Amanda and comes bearing a new game to play that reveals a lot about their favorite directors, personal taste, and how they view the long arc of film. Their sprawling conversations covers more than 80 years of movie history. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Sam Esmail Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Oscars are a distant memory, but we are still trapped in February, a typically scary time for movie lovers. Sean and Amanda explore the good, the bad, and the ugly of the 2020 Dumpuary movie slate so far this season, including 'Sonic the Hedgehog,' 'Harley Quinn: Birds of Prey,' 'To All the Boys I've Loved Before P.S. I Still Love You,' and 'Fantasy Island' (1:11). Then Sean is joined by Oscar-winning screenwriters and directors Nat Faxon and Jim Rash to talk about 'Downhill,' their American remake of the Swedish film 'Force Majeure,' and working with Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Will Ferrell (68:54). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Nat Faxon and Jim Rash Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Still awash in the 'Parasite' afterglow, we drill down on some of the lingering questions from the 92nd Oscars submitted by you, the listeners (1:17). Has 'Parasite' undone the wrongs that the Academy inflicted on Alfonso Cuarón’s ‘Roma’? What happened to ‘Once Upon a Time … in Hollywood’ and what are Quentin Tarantino’s future Oscar prospects? Which films are emerging as early contenders to be discussed for next year’s Oscars? Then, writer-director Céline Sciamma joins to discuss her wonderful film ‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire,’ which goes wide in the United States on Valentine’s Day (56:38). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Céline Sciamma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a shocking and exhilarating finale to the 92nd Academy Awards, ‘Parasite’ and Bong Joon-ho won Best Picture, capping off an amazing Cinderella run to the top. Sean and Amanda gather their emotions to recap a strange and often dull ceremony that was highlighted by some extraordinary bursts of greatness. They break down all the awards and the best presenters, speeches, and moments from the show. They also try to understand why there were so many damn musical performances. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In our final show before the 92nd Oscars, we run down every category and predict what we think will win each award. Will it be a historic night for 'Parasite' and Bong Joon-ho, a sweep for '1917' and Sam Mendes, or a night full of curveballs we don't see coming? We also discuss whether the feeling of inevitability surrounding the acting categories has decreased excitement for the show overall. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Now that we know how this weekend’s Oscar ceremony is lining up, we’re ready to share some ideas of our own. Wesley Morris joins Sean and Amanda for the first annual Big Picture Oscars to create some new awards for the telecast and find new nominees in the six big categories. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Wesley Morris Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

'1917' has run roughshod over the preliminary awards shows, dominating at the BAFTAs over the weekend. Does a WGAs win for 'Parasite' create any daylight for the South Korean sensation? Amanda and Sean break down the film's chances with a deep dive into the preferential balloting system that the Academy uses to determine its Best Picture winner (2:15). Then, they make the case for 'Parasite' as the right pick for the prize, celebrating its writing, production design, performances, direction, and so much more (37:02). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We have returned from Sundance and we have seen the movies. Some of them, at least. Sean and Amanda break down the Sundance movie archetypes and share their favorites from the festival (1:02). Then, they discuss what's been purchased in the market, and how streaming services are trying to improve their track record of Sundance acquisitions. They also explore the festival's biggest disaster (35:25). Finally, Sean is joined by writer-director Eliza Hittman to talk about her terrific third feature, 'Never Rarely Sometimes Always,' which premiered in Park City last week (54:09). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Eliza Hittman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a victory at the Directors Guild of America Awards, Sam Mendes's '1917' seems poised for dominance on Oscar night. How did the most exciting race in years become so predictable so quickly? And if there are surprises on February 9, what will they be? Sean, Amanda, and Chris Ryan debate whether a '1917' Best Picture win would signal a return to unimaginative Academy tradition (1:17). Then they break down the weekend's box office winners and losers, including Guy Ritchie's tasteless but entertaining crime romp 'The Gentlemen' (22:32). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We've touched down in Park City, Utah, for the Sundance Film Festival and we're ready to watch some movies. Sean and Amanda break down what it means to be a Sundance movie, the evolving state of the festival, and a few of the films they've already seen, including a Taylor Swift documentary and a hair-centric horror movie from the director of 'Dear White People' (1:00). Then, they share their lists of the movies they're most excited to see, from documentaries with grave international consequences to a drama based on a "stripper saga" Twitter thread (19:12). Finally, Sean is joined by Randy Newman to discuss his Oscar-nominated work in 'Marriage Story' and 'Toy Story 4,' his showdown at the Academy Awards with his cousin Thomas Newman, and his long career as a songwriter, composer, and bastion of wit and wisdom (41:55). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Randy Newman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a busy weekend for guild awards ceremonies, we have a new front-runner, '1917,' which scored a big win at the Producers Guild Awards. But 'Parasite' nabbed a surprise victory for Best Cast at the Screen Actors Guild Awards, setting up an intriguing showdown. Sean and Amanda break down the new narrative for Best Picture as we head into the Oscars home stretch (0:57). Then, we're joined by Shea Serrano, who shares the best and most important things about the weekend's box office champ, 'Bad Boys for Life' (20:59). And finally, Sean and Amanda dig into the mailbag to answer all your questions about the past, present, and future of the Academy Awards (36:52). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Shea Serrano Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A new movie year is upon us, and just like that we have our first disaster: 'Dolittle.' Sean and Amanda break down the Robert Downey Jr.–talking animals fiasco (0:55). Then they wash out the bad taste in their mouth by discussing the movies they're most excited for this year, among them long-awaited new projects from Christopher Nolan, David Fincher, Sofia Coppola, Wes Anderson, the latest in the MCU, a new 'Dune' adaptation, and much more (15:30). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Mendes's extraordinary World War I drama, designed and shot to look as if it is unfolding in one seamless take, has crashed the Oscars party and dominated at the box office in its first week of wide release. Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to discuss the movie's technical feats, storytelling troubles, and Academy chances next month (1:04). Then, the trio discuss the work of '1917' cinematographer Roger Deakins and select the 10 essential films from his brilliant career—which damn sure wasn't easy (44:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda break down all the surprises and snubs (RIP, 'Uncut Gems') among a complicated collection of Oscar nominations, including the overwhelming support for 'Joker,' 'Once Upon a Time ... in Hollywood,' and 'The Irishman' (1:43). Then they discuss whether the Academy has a persistent problem with diversity, snubs for long-rumored nominees like Jennifer Lopez and Beyoncé, and a solution for the Oscar telecast's lingering issues (21:30). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the 2020 Oscar nominations set to be announced Monday morning, we run down a list of 15 categories and attempt to predict which films, filmmakers, actors, and craftspeople will be nominated (0:45). Then, Sean sits down with writer-director Destin Daniel Cretton to discuss his film ‘Just Mercy,’ working with Michael B. Jordan, and his cohort of collaborators in the film community (1:07:12). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Destin Daniel Cretton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda recap a night in which '1917' won big, taking home both Best Motion Picture—Drama and Best Director. What does this mean, if anything, for the coming Oscar races and masters like Quentin Tarantino ('Once Upon a Time .... in Hollywood') and Martin Scorsese ('The Irishman')? Plus: Does Joaquin Phoenix's win for Best Actor—Drama for 'Joker' hurt Adam Driver's chances to win Best Actor for 'Marriage Story' at the Academy Awards? Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The new year is here, and with it the most fraught awards show of the season. Ricky Gervais returns to host and Sean and Amanda return to make some (probably wrong) predictions. They look at every big race, including the complicated showdowns of Best Director and Best Drama. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda close out the year by breaking down the tepid reception and complicated franchise future of 'Star Wars' in the aftermath of 'The Rise of Skywalker' (1:10). Then, they look at former president Barack Obama's picks for his favorite movies of the year and the Christmas season box office winners (34:47). Finally, they debate whether 2019, which has featured so many exciting movies, is the very best the decade has had to offer. Amanda presents the case for three other candidates, and Sean decides (51:05). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is how the Safdies win. Sean shares the 12 highly specific things he loves (with spoilers!) about the New York brothers' new film (0:55). Then, Josh and Benny Safdie join Sean to talk about the long road to its creation (16:04).  Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Josh and Benny Safdie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's been 25 years since the last Hollywood adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's novel about the March sisters. Why did Greta Gerwig want to tackle this piece of classic literature for her 'Lady Bird' follow-up (14:15)? We look at how she refashioned and reimagined certain aspects of the book, how it fits in with previous iterations of the story, and why there's something uniquely urgent about it. Then, Gerwig joins the show to talk about how she conceived the film and executed her vision (1:00:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Greta Gerwig Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tom Hooper's adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber's smash musical hit has finally come to movie theaters and … well … yikes. Sean and Amanda break down the history of Webber's show and its enormous impact on Broadway. Then they take a closer look at the characters, the confounding production design and costumes, and just generally have a meltdown about the absurdity of this enterprise. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

'Episode IX' is here and, well, it's not all we'd hoped and dreamed it would be. To break down J.J. Abrams's film, the ninth and final installment in the Skywalker saga, Sean is joined by Binge Mode's Mallory Rubin to explore what worked (Rey and Kylo), what didn't (um, a lot), and where the 'Star Wars' machine will go from here (Disney+?). Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guests: Mallory Rubin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bryan Curtis stops by to talk about 'Richard Jewell' and 'Bombshell,' two new films about the media, the Kathy Scruggs controversy at the center of Clint Eastwood's latest, and how factual a movie about real people ought to be (1:04). Then, Sean and Amanda break down the just-released Oscars short lists and survey the Best Director race—and the probable absence of women from said race (38:48). Finally, Sean is joined by 'Bombshell' director Jay Roach to discuss his long career in comedy and the making of his new film about the inner workings of Fox News (60:36). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Jay Roach, Bryan Curtis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The grand master of ridiculous action movies is back and he’s teamed up with Netflix. Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to break down every aspect of Michael Bay’s latest, ‘6 Underground’ (0:37). Then, Sean and Amanda analyze the Screen Actors Guild Awards nominations and what they could mean for the Oscar race (56:19). Finally, Sean is joined by ‘Richard Jewell’ leading man Paul Walter Hauser to discuss the new Clint Eastwood drama and his long road to Hollywood stardom (67:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Paul Walter Hauser and Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Golden Globe nominations are here, and they're as dumb as ever. But will they matter come Oscars time? Amanda and Sean break down all the nominees and who was left out in the cold (1:08). Then they discuss the Academy Awards chances of Netflix's 'Marriage Story' and 'The Irishman' now that both films have debuted on the service (50:02). Finally, Sean is joined by Oscar-winning documentarian Alex Gibney to talk about his new film, 'Citizen K' (62:30). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Alex Gibney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Ryan and Adam Nayman join Sean and Amanda to rank their top five movies of 2019, which got off to a slow start but has been flooded with great films over the last two months. The quartet discuss masters of their craft like Quentin Tarantino and Martin Scorsese making late-period career retrospectives, as well as internationally renowned auteurs like Bong Joon-Ho and Claire Denis stunning American audiences. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Adam Nayman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're less than a week away from the official start of awards season: Golden Globe nominations. Amanda and Sean share their best guesses in the major categories and defend the honor of Martin Scorsese's 'The Irishman' (4:00). Then, resident 'Frozen' fan Jason Gallagher joins to break down why the sequel has become the fall season's juggernaut at the box office (41:10). Finally, Sean is joined by director Todd Haynes to talk about his new film, 'Dark Waters,' a chilling legal thriller that isn't always what it seems (66:10). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Todd Haynes, Jason Gallagher Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to discuss, debate, and ultimately crown the 10 best films of the decade as they see them. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We convene to share our top five murder mystery films and judge the category with ranging specificity (1:15). Then writer-director Rian Johnson joins to discuss ‘Knives Out’—the whodunnit vehicle featuring Chris Evans, Daniel Craig, and Ana de Armas—and how he landed on this film after his role in the 'Star Wars' franchise (32:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Rian Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Spirit Awards typically act as Oscars counterprogramming, rewarding outliers and underseen indies in the race. Sean and Amanda break down the 2020 nominations and what they could mean for the big show (1:09). Then, with 'A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood' hitting theaters, we discuss the long and brilliant career of America's Dad, Tom Hanks, by constructing a hall of fame with his 10 most essential performances (16:15). Finally, Sean is joined by director Marielle Heller to talk about Hanks and how together they captured the essence of Fred Rogers (1:09:49). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Marielle Heller Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Oscars are closer than you think—just 82 more days!—so Sean and Amanda take a closer look at the chances of 'Ford v. Ferrari,' 'Waves,' and five more potential contenders (2:40). Then they break down the dismal box office performance of Elizabeth Banks's 'Charlie's Angels' reboot (48:02) and discuss the unlikely boost that 'Joker' received over the weekend (59:23). Finally, Sean interviews writer-director Scott Z. Burns about his new drama 'The Report' (68:41). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Scott Z. Burns Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the release of the Christian Bale–Matt Damon racing two-hander, we look back on Damon’s best performances, including the iconic ‘Good Will Hunting’ and the lesser-known ‘Dogma’ (0:45). Then, James Mangold joins to discuss ‘Ford v Ferrari’ and the threat that a changing movie industry presents to movies like it (58:30). Host: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and James Mangold Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The launch of Disney's new streaming service raises fascinating questions about the future of streaming and awards season. Sean and Amanda dive in by looking at the launch slate and whether it will change how we think about the Oscars (1:37). Then, 'The New York Times' culture editor Gilbert Cruz joins to discuss the confusing 'Shining' sequel 'Doctor Sleep' and why the Stephen King adaptation struggled at the box office (28:05). Sean's little sister Grace makes a special appearance to break down her three favorite movies of 2019, and dunk on her older brother (46:50). Amanda and Sean break down this year's Best Original Song slate, which is historically one of the worst categories at the Oscars (1:05:24). And finally, Sean interviews writer-director Trey Edward Shults to discuss one of the year's most moving films, 'Waves' (1:19:11). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Gilbert Cruz, Grace Fennessey, and Trey Edward Shults Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Writer-director Noah Baumbach's latest is one of the year's best and most emotionally devastating films. The Netflix release stars Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson as a young couple reckoning with the dissolution of their relationship and the separation of their intertwined lives. Sean and Amanda take a long look at this story; how it will make you feel about your marriage; Baumbach's catalog of erudite, entertaining movies; and the history of divorce movies (1:25). Then, Baumbach joins Sean to talk about the making of 'Marriage Story,' transposing autobiography onto creative work, and the genius of composer Randy Newman (61:15). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Noah Baumbach Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Martin Scorsese's 'The Irishman' is already being hailed as a sophisticated masterwork—by Sean and Amanda and dozens of critics—that will challenge for Oscars in nearly every major category. But it isn't easy to see in theaters. The battle between Netflix and theater chains to show the movie at multiplexes around the world reveals the perilous future of the movie business (3:00). Then actor Antonio Banderas joins Sean to discuss making the transition from Spain to America; his decades-long collaboration with director Pedro Almodóvar; and their latest film, 'Pain and Glory' (62:20). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Antonio Banderas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

'The Irishman' opens in theaters this weekend, so Sean has convened two Scorsese fanatics, Chris Ryan and Adam Nayman, to share their top five favorite Marty movies. The trio discuss Scorsese's signature themes and visual style, his approach to genre, and what makes him such a historic figure in the world of filmmaking (3:00). Then, Edward Norton joins Sean to discuss the making of his latest film—which he wrote, directed, and stars in—'Motherless Brooklyn' (61:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chris Ryan, Adam Nayman, and Edward Norton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The nominations are flowing and we're already drunk with takes. Amanda and Sean look at the Gotham Awards noms and the Academy's Governors Awards and predict several key questions about the Oscars, including all six major categories (1:10). Then, Sean is joined by writer-director Bong Joon-ho to talk about making his extraordinary new movie 'Parasite' (65:03). Host: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Bong Joon-ho Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The '10s are nearly over, and horror has been one of the decade's most dominant genres. Chris Ryan teams up with Sean to break down the very best the genre has had to offer and where it's going in the coming decades (2:08). Then, Sean is joined by screenwriters Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski to talk about their new, Eddie Murphy–starring film, 'Dolemite Is My Name,' and their long history capturing what they call "the fringe history of America" in their screenplays (52:21). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chris Ryan, Scott Alexander, and Larry Karaszewski Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We did it—200 episodes in the can. To celebrate, Sean and Amanda are tackling reader questions that run the gamut from Francis Ford Coppola's Marvel throwdown to the worst Oscar travesties of the decade (1:00). Then, Sean is joined by 'The Lighthouse' writer-director Robert Eggers to discuss how he made his stunning, flatulence-laden, Robert Pattinson–starring new film (1:11:40). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Robert Eggers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Political subtext is everywhere, even at the movies. The weekend's four big releases—'Maleficent: Mistress of Evil'; 'Jojo Rabbit'; 'The Laundromat'; and 'Zombieland: Double Tap'—all have surprising and occasionally confounding nods to the fractured nature of the United States. Amanda and Sean look closely at each movie and the circumstances that led to their messages (2:00). Then, Sean is joined by 'Zombieland: Double Tap' director Ruben Fleischer to discuss the sequel to his 2009 hit, his work on 'Venom,' and more (53:00). Host: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Ruben Fleischer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After winning the Palme d'Or at Cannes, soaring to international box office success, and riding a wave of extraordinary festival buzz, Bong Joon-ho's 'Parasite' has finally hit U.S. theaters. Donnie Kwak joins Amanda and Sean to break down Bong's career, what makes his latest so special, and the movie's chances come Oscar time (1:52). Then, Sean and Amanda break down the evolving conversation around 'Joker,' two unusually bad trailers that premiered over the weekend, and the complex race for Best International Feature Film (28:56). Host: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Donnie Kwak Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Ang Lee's hyperreal new action movie 'Gemini Man' hits theaters, Sean and Amanda look back at the long, fascinating career of rapper, sitcom star, screen legend, and Instagram icon Will Smith. They discuss the flaws and innovations of Lee's work with 120 frames per second 3-D 4K and the future of how we see movies (0:50). Then, they share their top five Will Smith performances and whether or not he will ever win an Oscar (21:33). Host: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Todd Phillips's 'Joker' is one of the year's biggest hits and most controversial films. Chris Ryan joins Sean and Amanda to talk about the film's success and whether all the hubbub was worth it (1:07). Then they take a close look at Joaquin Phoenix's Oscar chances, the Best Actor race, and Martin Scorsese's comments about Marvel movies (32:20). Then, Sean is joined by The Ringer's Shea Serrano to talk about his new book, 'Movies (and Other Things)' (55:08). Host: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Shea Serrano Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Todd Phillips's 'Joker,' a gritty homage to '70s films like 'Taxi Driver,' has become one of the year's most anticipated and controversial movies. Sean and Jason Concepcion explore the long history of the Batman supervillain, in comic books and on screen (1:30). Then, they take a close look at the new Joaquin Phoenix–starring movie, its societal ramifications, and what it means for the superhero movie genre at large (41:20). Finally, Sean is joined by writer-director Noah Hawley to discuss his feature film debut, 'Lucy in the Sky' (75:18). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Jason Concepcion and Noah Hawley Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Marty back! 'The Irishman' premiered at the New York Film Festival to rapturous reviews over the weekend, so Sean and Amanda look at the film's chances at the Oscars. Is Martin Scorsese's latest the new front-runner (1:40)? They also discuss Robert De Niro's hilarious comments on cable, look at Eddie Murphy's return to the screen in Netflix's 'Dolemite Is My Name,' and analyze a quietly shifting Best Documentary category (39:07). Then, Oscar-winning documentarian Asif Kapadia joins to discuss the making of his new film, 'Diego Maradona' (57:16). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Asif Kapadia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda break down a busy news cycle, including Jennifer Lopez's Oscars-related decision to perform at the Super Bowl halftime show and Marvel guru Kevin Feige turning his attention to the 'Star Wars' franchise (1:20). Then, they look at Renée Zellweger's comeback vehicle 'Judy,' a biopic that feels too familiar despite its star's best efforts (29:03). Then director Daniel Scheinert stops by to talk about his poignantly weird ode to a pair of dumbasses living in Alabama (59:40). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Daniel Scheinert Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda are joined by Chris Ryan to break down the phenomenon of turning TV series into movies after the box office success of 'Downton Abbey.' Then, the trio discuss the shows they'd like to see extended into new movies, explore Maggie Smith's chances at a third Academy Award, and rank their favorite awards shows in the aftermath of a lackluster Emmys ceremony (1:00). After that, 'Downton' director Michael Engler swings by to talk about supersizing the costume drama into one of the year's most surprising movie hits (57:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Michael Engler and Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda dive deep into the career of Brad Pitt by sharing their top five favorite performances and examining his work in two of the year's best movies, 'Once Upon a Time ... in Hollywood' and James Gray's new space drama 'Ad Astra' (0:38). Then, Gray joins Sean to talk about his long career, working on a bigger canvas than ever before, and the perilous future of movies (48:47). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: James Gray Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After winning the Audience Award at TIFF, 'Jojo Rabbit' is likely to follow in the footsteps of past winners like 'Green Book' and 'Three Billboards,' straight to the Oscars. Sean and Amanda break down its chances and the post-festival discourse (0:51) before examining the box office success of 'Hustlers' and the failure of 'The Goldfinch' to reassess what we talk about when we talk about "Oscar Bait" (9:55). Then, documentary filmmaker Matt Tyrnauer joins to discuss his latest, 'Where's My Roy Cohn?,' a close look at the controversial lawyer and political operator who brokered power for everyone from Joseph McCarthy to Donald Trump (62:31). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Matt Tyrnauer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the release of 'Hustlers,' a stripper-criminal saga, Sean and Amanda take a close look at the movie career and unusually persistent superstardom of Jennifer Lopez, who has received the best reviews of her career for the film (1:04). Then, Sean is joined by 'Hustlers' writer-director Lorene Scafaria to talk about how she translated a New York magazine feature story into one of the year's most exciting movies (46:56). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Lorene Scafaria Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

'The Oscars Show' returns to read the tea leaves out of Venice and TIFF, including the shocking Golden Lion win for 'Joker'; the divisive reaction to 'Jojo Rabbit'; and the glorious rise of Jennifer Lopez, 'Hustlers' star and Academy Awards contender (1:09). Then Sean digs into this weekend's smash hit, 'It Chapter Two,' with a conversation about the making of the Stephen King saga with director Andy Muschietti (32:04). Finally, Jason Concepcion joins to talk about the challenges of adapting King's work and what 'It Chapter Two' had to sacrifice to make it to the big screen (69:46). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Andy Muschietti and Jason Concepcion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ringer contributor Adam Nayman joins Sean to break down the films he's most looking forward to at this year's Toronto International Film Festival (1:10). Then, ahead of the release of 'It Chapter Two,' Sean and Adam share their favorite adaptations of Stephen King novels, including the classics you'd expect along with a few curveballs (7:30). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Adam Nayman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean has returned from Telluride bearing takes on the very best that the Colorado film festival had to offer, among them 'Marriage Story,' 'Ford v. Ferrari,' Uncut Gems,' 'Waves,' and (yes, seriously) 'The Two Popes.' Then, Sean and Amanda take a close look at where the Oscar race stands after Venice and Telluride, what to look forward to at the Toronto International Film Festival, and how a very competitive Best Actor race is shaping up. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Awards season is nearly upon us, and Netflix has landed on a rollout strategy for its big movies, among them the Eddie Murphy vehicle 'Dolemite Is My Name,' Noah Baumbach's 'Marriage Story,' and Martin Scorsese's hugely anticipated (and also quite long) 'The Irishman' (0:45). Then, with the esteemed Venice, Telluride, and the Toronto film festivals approaching, Sean and Amanda share the movies they're most looking forward to and what their festival showings will mean for the coming Oscar race (33:53). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Disney’s D23 Expo brought with it a lot of news about the near and far future of streaming (1:00). Plus, we hand out awards for a slow summer in movies (18:00), and Sean talks to the writer and director of ‘Brittany Runs a Marathon,’ Paul Downs Colaizzo (54:35). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Paul Downs Colaizzo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A public, corporate feud between Marvel and Sony could spell the end of Spider-Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe—are we stuck caring about this forever, and will we ever return to the days of movie stars (0:45)? Then, Ben Berman joins the show to discuss his strange and postmodern documentary on magician and comedian “The Amazing Johnathan” (74:51). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Wesley Morris and Ben Berman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘Blinded by the Light’ struggled in what was another slow weekend at the box office, while ‘Good Boys’ broke the trend of superhero and franchise-IP movies dominating 2019. We discuss that, the late-breaking news that Annapurna’s debt will be paid off by Larry Ellison, and ‘Where’d You Go Bernadette’—Richard Linklater’s latest film (2:00). Then, Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, Tyler Gillett, and Chad Villella—collectively known as Radio Silence—join the show to share their collaborative creative process in making their ‘Ready or Not’ (41:31). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, Tyler Gillett, and Chad Villella Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the release of the Springsteen-inspired coming-of-age film 'Blinded by the Light,' Sean welcomes Chris Ryan to share their five favorite songs from The Boss. They also discuss the recent cancellation of the controversial thriller 'The Hunt,' debate the trailers for 'Little Women,' 'A Hidden Life,' 'Parasite,' and more (1:00). Then Gurinder Chadha, writer-director of 'Blinded by the Light,' swings by to share her journey and explain why Springsteen has been so pivotal to her creative life (51:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Gurinder Chadha and Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We open the mailbag to answer some of our listeners’ most-pressing questions: What films are we most looking forward to for the rest of the year? Is Adam Driver our best working actor (and is he hot)? What are Sean’s guilty-pleasure movies? And more. Host: Sean Fennessey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We attempt to have a nuanced conversation about the complicated reception to Quentin Tarantino’s new film. (0:00) Then, we break down the latest shakeup in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' leadership, and how it will affect the Oscars' future (2:00). Plus: Oscar-nominated writer-director Andrea Berloff joins the show to talk about ‘The Kitchen’—her crime drama about 1970s New York, starring Tiffany Haddish, Elisabeth Moss, and Melissa McCarthy (1:06:34). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Andrea Berloff Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean and Amanda finally cave and watch each others’ beloved films after months and months of refusing (1:00). Then, director Avi Belkin joins the show to talk about his motivation for diving into a subject like Mike Wallace (1:13:23). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Avi Belkin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘Hobbs and Shaw’ director David Leitch joins to talk about the challenges of adapting a successful franchise, his work on 'John Wick,' and the state of the action-comedy genre. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: David Leitch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We gather to discuss Quentin Tarantino’s ninth—and allegedly penultimate—film, ‘Once Upon a Time … in Hollywood.’ We break down everything from Leonardo DiCaprio grappling with the end of his career in the leading role, to Brad Pitt’s quiet charisma, to the way historical accuracy competes with fantasy. Hosts: Sean Fennessey, Amanda Dobbins, Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The ‘Cats’ trailer set fire to Twitter, and Marvel extinguished the flames by announcing its next decade of IP dominance—what are we looking forward to most (1:00)? Then, we finally hash it out: We debate the top five Quentin Tarantino movies (16:15). Lastly, producer Cameron Crowe, director A.J. Eaton, and titular star David Crosby join the show to discuss ‘David Crosby: Remember My Name,’ the long-in-the-works documentary about Crosby’s legendary life and music career (1:22:45). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Jason Concepcion, Chris Ryan, David Crosby, Cameron Crowe, A.J. Eaton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Disney is in the midst of a nostalgia churn, and the latest installment is a remake of ‘The Lion King,’ the iconic 1994 peak of the Disney golden era. Have we reached a dark place with live-action remakes, and are there more to come? Plus, does the 2019 all-star cast live up to the original voice performances? Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The slow box office summer continued this weekend as ‘Stuber’ failed to make a real impact in theaters. Is streaming going to put an end to the big-budget action comedy (0:37)? Plus, a long conversation with Lulu Wang about her path to becoming a filmmaker, the deeply personal experience of making ‘The Farewell,’ and what wider success means for a Sundance darling (42:30).  Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Lulu Wang Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Shoemaker joins the show to talk about how action stars are minted in the post–The Rock era of filmmaking, Dave Bautista’s rise to legitimate actor, and who is primed to make the leap from WWE to the big screen (0:45). Then, ‘Stuber’ director Michael Dowse comes in to talk about the role of improvisation in his films, working with Bautista and comedian Kumail Nanjiani, and what his future in directing looks like (25:07). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: David Shoemaker, Michael Dowse Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We take an early survey of the alleged frontrunners in the 2020 Oscars—a slim list of movies that are already getting negative buzz—before discussing the live-action remake trend that Disney is employing in its latest effort to dominate the financial landscapes of moviemaking (1:00). Then, Jesse Eisenberg and Riley Stearns join the podcast (previously recorded at SXSW) to discuss their partnership in making ‘The Art of Self-Defense’ (54:17). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Jesse Eisenberg and Riley Stearns Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chris Ryan joins to discuss ‘Midsommar,’ Ari Aster’s shocking Swedish nightmare follow up to his debut horror hit ‘Hereditary’ (1:00). Then, Aster comes by to talk about the challenges of making a horror film set exclusively in the daylight, the pressure of following ‘Hereditary,’ and what he’s doing next (14:47). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chris Ryan and Ari Aster Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Friendly neighborhood MCU fan Micah Peters joins the show to discuss ‘Spider-Man: Far From Home,’ the Marvel movie tasked with following ‘Avengers: Endgame,’ the wonders of Jake Gyllenhaal’s Mysterio, and how the movie stacks up to last year’s smash hit ‘Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.’ Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Micah Peters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this double episode, Sean and Amanda review ‘Yesterday,’ a movie that delivered in Beatles nostalgia but came up short in plot payoff (1:00). Then, Adam Nayman calls in from Toronto to share his top five movies of a slow year so far (42:50). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Adam Nayman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The horror genre spent decades as the lowbrow stepchild of the movie industry, but now it’s the vehicle for exciting young filmmakers like Ari Aster and Jordan Peele. Chris Ryan joins the show to help make sense of how we got here (1:00). Then, Gary Dauberman stops by to discuss his path from writing spec scripts to becoming the director of ‘Annabelle Comes Home’—the latest movie in the 'Conjuring' universe, a series he helped grow (21:31). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chris Ryan and Gary Dauberman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Despite the threat of sequel fatigue, Pixar has managed to create classics. 'Toy Story 4' is the latest example, a fascinating portrait of identity that doubles as a treatise on trash. Rob Harvilla joins Sean Fennessey to talk about the new film, what it means to kids and parents, and how the studio has persisted for 25 years (1:36). Then, they share their top five Pixar movies (28:43). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

'Men in Black: International' is yet another in a series of disappointing and drab sequels to hit this summer. What went wrong with the alien comedy relaunch? And should young stars like Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson count on shaky franchises to brighten their careers (1:15)? Then, we examine what makes a great summer movie slate, and what—if anything—we can learn from the lineups of the past 10 years (36:40). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We dive deep on ‘The Snyder Cut’—the unreleased director’s cut of ‘Justice League’—and the activism surrounding it from DCEU fans, before reviewing the Netflix Bob Dylan mockumentary ‘Rolling Thunder Revue’ (1:00). Then, indie film pioneer Jim Jarmusch joins the show to discuss his new film 'The Dead Don’t Die,' his first foray into the zombie genre (37:55). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Rob Harvilla, Jim Jarmusch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We go over Mindy Kaling’s feature screenwriting debut, ‘Late Night, before reviewing the box office flop of ‘Dark Phoenix,’ the most recent and final release of this generation of the X-Men franchise (1:00). Then, ‘The Last Black Man in San Francisco’ director Joe Talbot joins to talk about his directorial debut—a picturesque examination of his hometown in the face of rapid gentrification (55:45). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Amanda Dobbins and Joe Talbot Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Chris Ryan to dive deep on the existing X-Men franchise, a two-decade-long series of movies that have seldom delivered but still grabbed our attention. Then, the two review the newly released “Dark Phoenix” and speculate over the direction Disney will take with X-Men’s intellectual property. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Mallory Rubin to react as fans to HBO’s ‘Chernobyl’—a science-laden docudrama that snuck up as one of the best shows on television this year (1:00). Then showrunner Craig Mazin comes to the studio to talk about making the jump from film to TV and how writing for feature-length comedy prepared him for conveying a real-life tragedy on screen (37:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Mallory Rubin and Craig Mazin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We give our immediate reactions to ‘Rocketman’—Dexter Fletcher’s Elton John biopic, starring Taron Egerton. How is Egerton’s singing? How does the film handle John’s sexuality in comparison to a film like ‘Bohemian Rhapsody?’ Is “Elton John is good” the first thing Sean and Amanda have ever agreed on? Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The discourse around ‘Booksmart’ blew up on Twitter over the long weekend, but the film still disappointed at the box office. What, if anything, is there to make of the reaction (1:15)? Then we discuss the breakout movies from the Cannes Film Festival, the premiere of Quentin Tarantino's 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,' and early Oscar favorites (25:41). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Disney is releasing its third live-action remake of a beloved animated classic this year alone—is this overflooding the market or is it a smart strategy for bolstering their incoming streaming platform? Plus, we examine how Will Smith’s career led him to be a charming (if lacking) Genie, and the perplexing decisions of an ultimately interesting filmmaker in Guy Ritchie. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We preview ‘Booksmart,’ Olivia Wilde’s directorial debut out this weekend, and the latest in a long tradition of what we call “high school movies"—of which we share our top five lists (1:10). Then (recorded previously at SXSW), Sean is joined by Olivia Wilde, Beanie Feldstein, Kaitlyn Dever, Katie Silberman, and Billie Lourd to talk about making ‘Booksmart’ and what it takes to make a successful high school comedy in 2019 (49:30). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Olivia Wilde, Beanie Feldstein, Kaitlyn Dever, Billie Lourd, Katie Silberman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chad Stahelski, the mind behind John Wick, joins the show to discuss some of the unique difficulties of shooting one of the most action-packed franchises in Hollywood, his relationship with Keanu Reeves, and the converging arts of stunt making and directing (2:11). Then, Shea Serrano calls in to wax poetic about the Wick universe and what ‘Parabellum’ means for its future (50:42). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Chad Stahelski, Shea Serrano Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

You asked and we answered—sort of. In a year dominated by superheroes, it's been hard to find a common theme at the movies for just about anything else. So we share some of the weirdest movies of the year so far, like 'Serenity,' 'Under the Silver Lake,' and 'Wine Country.' Then we break down some of our favorites, including Olivier Assayas's 'Non-Fiction' and Claire Denis's 'High Life.' Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Micah Peters joins the show to make sense of the public’s obsession with Pokémon and the release of ‘Detective Pikachu’ (1:30). Then, Werner Herzog comes by the studio to discuss his new documentary, ‘Meeting Gorbachev,’ and the scope of his long and successful career (26:30). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Micah Peters and Werner Herzog Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We discuss the continued dominance of ‘Avengers: Endgame’ at the box office and the ramifications for wide-release movies and smaller festival darlings alike (1:30) before analyzing Zac Efron’s portrayal of Ted Bundy (26:40) in Netflix's ‘Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil, and Vile.’ Then the film's director, Joe Berlinger, joins the show to discuss his documentary work, his second narrative film, and its companion documentary (31:40). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Amanda Dobbins, Joe Berlinger Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We examine Charlize Theron’s arc on the big screen—from prototypical roles that leaned heavily on her sexuality to her turn toward action stardom, ultimately leading to her role as secretary of state in Jonathan Levine’s new comedy, ‘Long Shot’ (0:45). Then, Levine joins the show to talk about working with Theron, Seth Rogen, and what types of films he sees himself making in the future (49:15). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Amanda Dobbins, Rob Harvilla, Jonathan Levine Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We discuss the high-wire act that ‘Avengers: Endgame’ was trying to pull off—stitching together over a decade of films into one neat, fan-serviceable, creative ending—and if it ultimately worked (1:00). Then, we take a step back and look at some of the numbers ‘Endgame’ put up at the box office, and whether it spells total domination for the mid-budget movie (23:40). Finally, we look ahead to a summer full of non-Marvel movies and share which ones we’re most excited for (40:30). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘Avengers: Endgame,’ the culmination of more than a decade of Marvel Cinematic Universe films, is finally here. We discuss how the long-running arcs of Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, and many others have been strung together and resolved in ‘Endgame.’ Plus, we break down the movie’s complex ideas about time travel, character deaths, and, ultimately, its stakes. Finally, we take stock of where this leaves the MCU, and what could be in store for Phase 4 and beyond. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Mallory Rubin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

‘Avengers: Endgame’ is just days away, and with that comes the final installment in our Marvel Month series: ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming.’ We discuss our relationships with Spider-Man as a cinematic figure, Tom Holland’s portrayal of a character who hadn’t been quite nailed down by other talented actors like Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield, and where the character is headed as the Marvel story drifts further into space—decidedly different than the high school setting of this film. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Adam Nayman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We go over the week in the movie world: Beyoncé’s documentary ‘Homecoming,’ the Oscars happening two weeks earlier, and the movies we’re anticipating will enter the Best Picture conversation (1:40). Then Andrew Garfield joins the show to talk about his new film ‘Under the Silver Lake,’ an L.A.-based noir film that is a change of pace from his career arc thus far (33:00). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Andrew Garfield Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the penultimate episode of our Marvel Month preview series, we sit down to discuss ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron.’ How does AI function as a villain in the Marvel universe? Does the movie jump from location to location too frequently? Is this movie better now than when it actually came out? Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Micah Peters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As ‘Avengers: Endgame’ inches closer, we continue our Marvel month with one of the most effective, influential, and surprising movies in the Marvel Cinematic Universe: James Gunn’s ‘Guardians of the Galaxy.’ We review the original ‘Guardians’ comics, then examine the movie’s star-making ability, its use of music, and its long-lasting impact on the MCU. Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: David Shoemaker Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We go over some of the most iconic rock star movies ever made and review the recent slew of films in that vein—including ‘Bohemian Rhapsody,’ ‘A Star Is Born,’ ‘Vox Lux,’ and more (1:30). Then, Elisabeth Moss and Alex Ross Perry join the show to talk ‘Her Smell,’ their recent installment in the trend (31:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Lindsay Zoladz, Elisabeth Moss, Alex Ross Perry Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean is joined by Miles Surrey to assess the landscape of DC films after the breakout success of ‘Shazam!' (2:00). Then, 'Shazam!' director David F. Sandberg swings by to talk about how he turned his terrifying short, 'Lights Out,' into a feature-film career in Hollywood, the movies that inspired him, and his future in the DCEU (13:30). Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: David F. Sandberg and Miles Surrey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We break down Joss Whedon's 'Marvel’s The Avengers’—a landmark in the cinematic universe that established the rapport between the tentpole superstars and set the tone for the films going forward. How has the MCU changed our relationship with movie stars, and does that make Marvel the most important force in Hollywood right now? Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Chris Ryan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Harmony Korine’s latest film ‘The Beach Bum’ now in theaters, Sean, Amanda, and Rob take a look back through Matthew McConaughey’s mercurial career—including his breakthrough moments, peaks and valleys, and where his stardom stands today. Host: Sean Fennessey Guests: Amanda Dobbins, Rob Harvilla Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a rotating-guests episode of 'The Big Picture,' Sean is first joined by Bill Hader to discuss how filmmaking played into the conception of his HBO show ‘Barry’ (2:15). Then, Mary Kay Place and Kent Jones join the show to discuss Jones’s first narrative feature, ‘Diane,’ which stars Place as a mother trying to bond with her drug-addicted son (41:10). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Bill Hader, Mary Kay Place, and Kent Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the first episode of our Marvel Cinematic Universe series—dropping once a week in the lead-up to ‘Avengers: Endgame’—Sean and Amanda go deep on the first Captain America movie. How did this movie set the tone for patriotism in superhero movies? Did it succeed as a period piece/spy drama? Why don’t Avengers have more sex? Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Now 20 years removed, we convene to discuss and share our top five movies from 1999—the year many believe was the greatest year of movies ever (1:00). Then, a conversation with ‘Running With Beto’ director David Modigliani from SXSW (1:08:00). Host: Sean Fennessey Guest: Amanda Dobbins, Chris Ryan, and David Modigliani Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We react to ‘Us,’ Jordan Peele’s much-anticipated follow-up to the social thriller ‘Get Out.’ We give a spoiler-laden explanation of the ending, analyze Peele leveling up as a filmmaker, and parse some of the cultural (but largely personal) themes that peek through in the film. (Disclaimer: there are spoilers in this podcast.) Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Oscar-winning director and writer Jordan Peele joins the show—the day after the premiere of his new film ‘Us’ at SXSW—to discuss following up ‘Get Out,’ working with stars like Lupita Nyong’o, Elisabeth Moss, and Winston Duke, and tackling complex themes within the horror genre. Hosts: Sean Fennessey Guest: Jordan Peele Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With ‘Triple Frontier’ now streaming on Netflix, we launch the first episode in a series of career retrospectives on Hollywood’s biggest stars. From ‘Good Will Hunting’ to ‘Gone Girl,’ ‘Armageddon’ to ‘The Town,’ ‘Justice League’ to the "Jenny From the Block" video, we identify Affleck’s breakthrough moments and peak performances before breaking down his latest movie. Hosts: Sean Fennessey, Amanda Dobbins, Rob Harvilla Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean, Chris, and Amanda convene to talk about their favorite movies from the SXSW Film Festival—including Jordan Peele’s much-anticipated directorial follow-up to ‘Get Out’ (1:05). Then, Sean sits down with ‘Gloria Bell’ director Sebastián Lelio to discuss working with Julianne Moore and John Turturro and the calculus behind remaking one of your own films (55:30). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guests: Chris Ryan and Sebastián Lelio Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brie Larson stars as ‘Captain Marvel’ in the latest installment of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and its first stand-alone female superhero movie. We react to what it means for the forthcoming ‘Avengers: Endgame’ and how directors Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck incorporated elements of the 1990s into the Marvel machine. Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Steven Spielberg is waging war against Netflix—what does this mean for the Academy Awards (0:57)? Then, Rob Harvilla joins the show to discuss ‘Leaving Neverland,’ the new Michael Jackson documentary on HBO, and its potential ramifications for the future of writing about music (18:08). Finally, Sean and Amanda share the best movies they’ve seen so far in this year and preview some of ones they’re anticipating most in March (40:15). Hosts: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins Guest: Rob Harvilla Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices