The Big Picture

Chris Ryan, a film critic who dives into the intricacies of contemporary horror, and Alex Ross Perry, a filmmaker known for his engaging short segments, tackle the intriguing landscape of horror in 2025. They discuss the disappointing sequel 'Black Phone 2' and explore the current imbalance in the genre, where high-quality auteur films clash with weaker studio releases. Alex shares his creative process for his short in V/H/S/Halloween, revealing how personal fears shape his storytelling and what makes a horror anthology truly standout.

Rebecca Miller, acclaimed filmmaker and writer, joins the conversation to share insights about her five-part documentary on Martin Scorsese. She details her journey transforming her film into a five-hour portrait, highlighting how she captured Scorsese’s personal and professional life. Miller discusses her interviews with Scorsese and key collaborators, revealing the trust and truth required in biographical storytelling. She reflects on the surprises she encountered, from Scorsese's early storyboards to his enduring passion for cinema.

Explore the exhilarating world of 'Mad Max: Fury Road,' hailed as a groundbreaking action film. The hosts highlight its silent film qualities and the stunning performance by Charlize Theron. They dive into the film’s kinetic editing and striking visual palette, discussing how sound design amplifies the experience. The history of its creation and George Miller's unique worldbuilding are examined, alongside comparisons to other iconic action films. Join the lively debate on its emotional resonance versus its spectacle-driven nature.

Film critic David Sims, co-host of the Blank Check podcast, joins to celebrate the legendary Daniel Day-Lewis. They dive into Day-Lewis's intriguing return to acting in 'Anemone,' directed by his son, and discuss if the year 2025 has delivered strong films. The conversation traverses his iconic roles, from 'My Left Foot' to 'There Will Be Blood,' debating his method acting techniques and the impact of his hiatus. They also build a Hall of Fame for his most memorable performances, solidifying his status in cinematic history.

Chris Ryan, a film podcaster and critic from Blank Check, joins Griffin Newman, an actor and fellow Blank Check co-host, and David Sims, a film critic and Blank Check co-host. They engage in an exciting draft of their favorite New York City movies. Topics include the significance of iconic films like "Goodfellas" and "When Harry Met Sally," with lively debates about subway scenes in "Frances Ha" and "The French Connection." David ultimately wins the draft, showcasing his extensive knowledge of New York’s cinematic landscape.

Van Lathan, a cultural commentator and media personality, shares his insights on the box office implications and representation in 'One Battle After Another'. He discusses the importance of supporting smaller creators and critiques the film's portrayal of Black women, raising concerns about harmful depictions. The conversation dives into how patronage influences filmmakers, addressing the double standards that affect marginalized voices. Lathan also emphasizes the film's potential to spark discussions about representation while balancing entertainment value.

This week, cultural commentator Van Lathan joins writer-director Benny Safdie to discuss 'The Smashing Machine.' Benny shares insights into working with Dwayne Johnson, revealing how The Rock's performance transcends his usual persona and adds emotional depth. They delve into the film's unique blend of realism and documentary style, as well as tackle critiques of Emily Blunt’s underwhelming role. Additionally, Sean and Amanda kick off new Best Picture power rankings following the fall festival season, sparking a lively debate about this year’s contenders.

Dive into the lavish world of Sofia Coppola's 'Marie Antoinette,' as the hosts dissect why it outshines 'Lost in Translation' for selection. They highlight the film's unique perspective on female experiences and social norms, while also addressing Coppola's artistic decision to omit the infamous beheading. The conversation also explores Kirsten Dunst’s standout performance and the film’s vibrant soundtrack, which bridges past and present. Critical reception takes center stage, revealing the film's polarizing journey from Cannes to its rightful spot in cinematic history.

In this engaging discussion, Adam Nayman, a film critic and author, shares insights on Paul Thomas Anderson's latest film, 'One Battle After Another.' He highlights Benicio Del Toro's standout performance and the influence of Jonathan Demme. Writer and podcaster Andy Greenwald adds a personal touch with anecdotes from his viewing experiences. They dive into the film's box office success, explore the emotional resonance of parenting themes, and debate the distinct characteristics that define a 'PTA movie,' making for a lively conversation!

This episode features Paul Thomas Anderson, the acclaimed filmmaker behind One Battle After Another, and Oscar-winner Leonardo DiCaprio, who stars in the film. They dive into the timely relevance of their film and the intricacies of its long development. DiCaprio discusses his collaborative experience with Anderson, while Chris Ryan analyzes the movie's emotional depth and cinematography. Topics like a father-daughter dynamic, political themes, and Oscar predictions add layers to an engaging conversation about this modern cinematic masterpiece.