Kermode & Mayo’s Take TRON: ARES: “It was like my brain was atrophying” + Kathryn Bigelow & Rebecca Ferguson
Oct 9, 2025
This week, the hosts dive into the heartfelt drama 'I Swear', exploring the life of Tourette's activist John Davidson. They also tackle the emotional rollercoaster of 'Plainclothes', where an undercover cop grapples with his identity. Kathryn Bigelow and Rebecca Ferguson share insights on their film 'A House of Dynamite', discussing the urgent need for dialogue about nuclear weapons. Lastly, Mark critiques 'Tron: Ares', highlighting its lack of originality and emotional depth. Expect laughter and community cinema updates sprinkled throughout!
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Real-Time Nuclear Tension
- Kathryn Bigelow wanted to explore the real-time consequences of an ICBM launch to spark public conversation.
- She framed the film to highlight nuclear normalization and provoke discussion about disarmament.
Use Film To Spark Policy Debate
- Use films as conversation starters to address neglected public policy issues like nuclear stockpiles.
- Highlight normalized dangers to prompt public debate and potential policy change.
Three-Part Real-Time Structure
- Bigelow structured the film in three real-time thirds to mirror the decision chain from detection to presidential choice.
- This repetition forces viewers to revisit choices and reflect on procedural limits under time pressure.
