

The Next Reel Film Podcast
TruStory FM
A show about movies and how they connect. We love movies. We’ve been talking about them, one movie a week, since 2011. It’s a lot of movies, that’s true, but we’re passionate about origins and performance, directors and actors, themes and genres, and so much more. So join the community, and let’s hear about your favorite movies, too. When the movie ends, our conversation begins.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 13, 2023 • 1h 10min
Cinematographer Lyn Moncrief on Magnolia • Movies We Like
“This is something that happens.”Talking About Paul Thomas Anderson’s 1999 film Magnolia with our guest, cinematographer Lyn MoncriefOn this episode of Movies We Like, hosts Andy Nelson and Pete Wright invite cinematographer Lyn Moncrief to discuss his career and one of his favorite films, Paul Thomas Anderson’s sprawling 1999 drama Magnolia.We talk with Lyn about how he first got interested in cinematography and making the move to Los Angeles to pursue his passion. He discusses some of his early work in independent films and horror movies, explaining that the genre can allow for creative freedom visually. Lyn also touches on his collaborations with director Emma Tammi, including the recent Five Nights at Freddy's adaptation.When we dive into Magnolia, we analyze the film's unique visual style, editing, and how the different storylines weave together. We highlight standout emotional performances, especially from Tom Cruise and Julianne Moore. We also praise the film's musical interludes featuring songs written for the movie by Aimee Mann. Lyn explains how Magnolia inspired him as a young cinematographer and made him want to be part of ambitious filmmaking.With its sprawling stories, raw performances, and stunning cinematography, Magnolia is truly a modern classic. This was a fascinating discussion about both Lyn's career and one of his favorite films. We clearly had an excellent time geeking out over this towering achievement. Be sure to check out Magnolia if you haven't seen it and listen to Lyn's insights from working in the industry.Film SundriesFind Lyn on His Website or InstagramWatch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerLetterboxdSupport The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

Nov 12, 2023 • 1h 13min
Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb • Rebroadcast • The Next Reel
"Gentlemen, you can’t fight in here! This is the war room!"REBROADCASTStanley Kubrick didn’t do comedy often which is a shame because “Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb” is arguably one of the funniest films ever made. What’s interesting is that Kubrick intended on making a serious film about one of his greatest fears at the time: the threat of nuclear war. But after several attempts at finding the right way to tell the story seriously (including one involving aliens watching us from above, discussing our penchant for destruction), he hit on the idea of making it funny. And his dark comedy classic was born.Join us – Andy Nelson and Pete Wright – as we wrap up our brief vacation challenge with Andy’s choice of his favorite end-of-the-world comedy, Kubrick’s 1964 film “Dr. Strangelove.” We talk about how we were introduced to this film and why it may not be a film that one connects to immediately but a film that one has to find the humor over time. We discuss the actors – Peter Sellers, George C. Scott, Slim Pickens, Sterling Hayden, Keenan Wynn, even James Earl Jones in his first screen role – and the level of comedy brilliance they all achieve individually and how it ties to the overall film. We single out Sellers, of course, as we discuss the three roles he played in the film and what makes them all so unique. We touch on the look of the film, shot by Gilbert Taylor with impeccable production design by Ken Adam, pointing out just what it took to make the war room one of the most iconic sets ever made. We mention the sequel that Kubrick wanted to make with the help of Terry Gilliam. And we argue about its placement on our Flickchart, as we inevitably do every week. It’s one of the best films out there and well worth a discussion. Haven’t seen it? Give it a try. Just be aware that you may not connect on the first viewing. This is one of those movies that may need a few shots. But it’ll be well worth it. We promise you.Film SundriesCheck out our Watch Page to get links to rent or buy this movie and everything else we’ve coveredScript TranscriptOriginal theatrical trailerOriginal poster artworkArt of the TitleRed Alert by Peter GeorgeFlickchartLetterboxdDr. Strangelove — Internet Movie Firearm DatabaseSupport The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

Nov 9, 2023 • 1h
Becket • The Next Reel
“But where is Becket’s honour?”Before cameras could roll on Becket, the film's producers had to secure the screen rights to Jean Anouilh's original French play. Anouilh was initially hesitant to sell the rights, but the persistence of producer Hal B. Wallis convinced him to sign on. With the acclaimed playwright on board, the next task was finding a director who could bring the theatrical story to life on the big screen. The producers eventually landed on Peter Glenville, an experienced theater director who had recently made the jump to film. With Glenville set to direct, Wallis turned his attention to casting the two crucial lead roles. Several big names were considered, but it ultimately came down to Richard Burton and Peter O’Toole. The two actors had never worked together before, but their chemistry and talent made them the perfect choices to embody this complex medieval tale of friendship and betrayal. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we kick off the 1965 BAFTAs Best Film From Any Source Nominees series with a conversation about Glenville’s 1964 film Becket.Here's a hint at what we talk about:We dive deep into the fascinating central relationship between King Henry II and Thomas Becket. Their intimate friendship takes surprising twists and turns, and we examine how Burton and O'Toole bring nuance, humor, and gravitas to their performances. We also discuss how Becket grapples with weighty themes like loyalty, honor, and the separation of church and state. Though we take issue with some historical inaccuracies, we find the film an engrossing character study bolstered by its two talented leads.Here are a few other points in our discussion:Appreciating Becket's unexpected comedic tone and banterThe riveting confrontations between Henry and BecketQuestioning the importance of the Saxon/Norman divideAssessing Peter Glenville's brisk direction and Anne V. Coates’ editingBurton and O'Toole's captivating performancesBecket gives a revealing look at how friendship, politics, and religion collide for two powerful men. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!Film SundriesWatch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerOriginal MaterialLetterboxdSupport The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

Nov 2, 2023 • 1h 3min
A Streetcar Named Desire • The Next Reel
“Stella! Hey, Stella!”Tennessee Williams' Pulitzer Prize-winning play A Streetcar Named Desire took Broadway by storm in 1947. Four years later, director Elia Kazan decided to adapt the play for the big screen, bringing together many members of the original Broadway cast like Marlon Brando, Kim Hunter, and Karl Malden. After a tumultuous pre-production filled with casting conflicts and clashes over censorship, Kazan was finally able to begin filming on location in New Orleans in 1950. The end result was a critical and commercial smash, earning 12 Oscar nominations. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 1952 Academy Awards Best Cinematography • Black-and-White Nominees series with a conversation about Kazan’s A Streetcar Named Desire.Here's a hint at what we talk about:In this episode, we dive deep into Marlon Brando's electrifying performance as Stanley Kowalski and how it paved the way for method acting in film. We also discuss how Elia Kazan's stage experience enabled him to open up the world of the play through evocative cinematography and set design. Additionally, we analyze Vivien Leigh's complex portrayal of Blanche DuBois and debate whether the film adaptation fully captures the darkness of Tennessee Williams' original story.Here are a few other points in our discussion:Our initial reactions to revisiting this classic filmThe jazzy, atmospheric score by Alex NorthMemorable scenes like Brando screaming "Stella!" and the final sceneDifferences between the film and Williams' original playThe talented supporting cast like Kim Hunter and Karl MaldenWe have a great time unpacking this landmark dramatic film, so tune in to hear our thoughts. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!Film SundriesWatch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatchor check out our new Watch page to get links for all the films we’ve discussed on our shows!Script OptionsTheatrical trailerOriginal MaterialLetterboxdSupport The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

Oct 26, 2023 • 58min
Strangers on a Train • The Next Reel
“Criss cross.”In 1951, Alfred Hitchcock was at a low point in his career after the disappointing critical reception of his previous two films, Under Capricorn and Stage Fright. Desperate for a hit, he wanted to adapt the 1950 Patricia Highsmith novel Strangers on a Train about a chance encounter that leads to a murder pact between two very different men. He bought the rights and enlisted screenwriter Raymond Chandler to adapt the book for the screen. Though Chandler delivered a script, Hitchcock ultimately rejected it in favor of a rewrite by Czenzi Ormonde and an uncredited Barbara Keon. With his leads locked in – Farley Granger as tennis pro Guy Haines and Robert Walker as the villainous Bruno Antony – Hitchcock began production on what would become another tension-filled thriller. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 1952 Academy Awards Best Cinematography • Black-and-White Nominees series with a conversation about Strangers on a Train.Here's a hint at what we talk about:In this episode, we dive deep into the fantastic performances by Robert Walker as the creepy and charismatic Bruno and Farley Granger as the morally conflicted Guy. We also discuss the homoerotic undertones in the film and how Hitchcock used them to toy with ideas about sexuality and identity. Though we find a few plot holes, overall we both agree this is one of our favorite Hitchcock films thanks to its psychological tension, unique visual style, and fun fairground climax.One of the standout elements of Strangers on a Train is the striking black-and-white cinematography by Robert Burks. In his first collaboration with Hitchcock, Burks brought an experimental flair that heightens the psychological tension. The use of shadows, unique camera angles, stylized lighting, and innovative techniques like the curved lens shot of Miriam's murder create an atmosphere of dread and danger. Burks' innovative work garnered him an Oscar nomination and built the foundation for a longtime partnership with Hitchcock.Strangers on a Train is a taut, psychologically complex thriller brought to life by Hitchcock’s masterful direction. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!Support The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | AudibleFilm SundriesWatch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerOriginal MaterialLetterboxd

Oct 23, 2023 • 1h 19min
Persona • A Conversation with Writer/Director Sophie Barthes • Movies We Like
“I think I could turn into you if I really tried.”Talking About Persona with our guest, writer/director Sophie BarthesOn this episode of Movies We Like, we speak with writer/director Sophie Barthes about one of her favorite films, Ingmar Bergman’s 1966 psychological drama Persona. We also discussed Barthes' own directing career and thoughts on filmmaking.We have an in-depth discussion about Bergman's avant-garde masterpiece Persona, analyzing its dreamlike atmosphere, innovative editing and cinematography, complex characters and themes of identity and psychology. We talk about how the film's shocking opening montage and sparse narrative puts the viewer in an unsettled state of mind. Overall, we find Persona to be an endlessly discussable classic that still feels fresh and boundary-pushing today.We also speak with Barthes about her three feature films - Cold Souls, Madame Bovary, and The Pod Generation. Barthes explains how she often explores themes of consumerism, psychology and identity through different genres and time periods. She shared insights into her creative process, from conceptualizing stories based on her dreams to her highly-stylized production design. Barthes also discussed the challenges of portraying human truths and darkness as a director today versus Bergman's time.Barthes gives thoughtful perspective as both a director and film lover. Her pick certainly leads to a rich discussion about cinematic art today as Persona proves to be a multilayered classic ripe for analysis.Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!Film SundriesLearn more about supporting The Next Reel’s Movies We Like through your own membership with The Next Reel.Check out Sophie’s filmsCold SoulsMadame BovaryThe Pod Generation on Amazon or AppleWatch Persona on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerPoster artworkFlickchartLetterboxdSupport The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

Oct 19, 2023 • 1h 5min
A Place in the Sun • The Next Reel
“If you’re an Eastman, you’re not in the same boat with anyone.”Based on the 1925 novel An American Tragedy by Theodore Dreiser, A Place in the Sun tells the story of working-class George Eastman (Montgomery Clift), who moves in with his wealthy uncle's family and begins a romantic relationship with an affluent young woman named Angela Vickers (Elizabeth Taylor). However, he becomes entangled in a love triangle when his co-worker Alice Tripp (Shelley Winters) reveals she is pregnant with his child. This film adaptation was a critical and commercial success, earning six Academy Awards including Best Director for George Stevens. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 1952 Academy Awards Best Cinematography • Black-and-White Nominees series with a conversation about A Place in the Sun.Here's a hint at what we talk about:We dive deep into the performances, especially praising Montgomery Clift for his nuanced and multilayered portrayal of the morally conflicted George Eastman. We also discuss how this story explores themes related to social class, the American dream, and ambition. Though we find the film compelling and expertly crafted overall, we do question some of the legal specifics of the ending.Here are a few other points in our discussion:The cinematography and lighting choices that enhance the film's mood and dramaElizabeth Taylor's breakout dramatic performance at age 17Similarities to the real-life murder case that inspired the source novelWhether this story could lend itself well to modern remakesA Place in the Sun is a riveting and thought-provoking film with fantastic lead performances. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!Film SundriesLearn more about supporting The Next Reel Film Podcast through your own membership.Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerPoster artworkFlickchartLetterboxdSupport The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

Oct 12, 2023 • 54min
The Frogmen • The Next Reel
“Of all the strange breeds that mighta come along, it was their bad luck to get me.”In the years during and after World War II, the exploits of US Navy frogmen captured the American imagination. Seeking to showcase them on the silver screen, Hollywood producers worked closely with the Navy starting in 1950 to develop the film The Frogmen. The Navy provided extensive support, training actors using real frogmen drills and equipping them with state-of-the-art gear. Filming underwater presented huge challenges with the bulky cameras of the time. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our 1952 Academy Award Best Cinematography Black-and-White Nominees series with a conversation about Lloyd Bacon’s 1951 film The Frogmen.Released in 1951, The Frogmen gave audiences an unprecedented look into the adventures of these elite naval commandos – the Underwater Demolitions Team, or UDT. A major part of our conversation was about the underwater filming used extensively throughout the movie. We were impressed by how they shot underwater action, since this was brand new and innovative in 1951. While the pacing seems slow now, those scenes must have been thrilling for audiences when it first came out. We speculated that the underwater cinematography is probably why it got the Oscar nomination.We also talked a lot about the dynamic between Richard Widmark as the new commander and Dana Andrews as the chief who questions his leadership. Their contentious relationship drives much of the conflict and drama as they gradually gain mutual respect.Some key scenes stand out that represent the film’s strengths to us. Disarming the live torpedo ratchets up the tension and shows Widmark’s courage. The rope transfer between ships demonstrates the Navy’s technical input. Planting the prank sign highlights real rivalries between units. And even though the final underwater fight pushes the action beyond historical truth, it’s clear that it’s designed for drama and emphasizes what the UDT was actually doing when the film was released.Overall, we found The Frogmen to be enjoyable but not that memorable. The underwater footage remains the main appeal today, though perhaps military fans would be more inclined to revisit it. The film could use a restoration. But Widmark’s performance and the naval insight still make it worth watching. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!Film SundriesLearn more about supporting The Next Reel Film Podcast through your own membership.Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatchTheatrical trailerPoster artworkFlickchartLetterboxdSupport The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

Oct 5, 2023 • 57min
Death of a Salesman • The Next Reel
“Why are you so hateful to one another?”Kicking Off Our Next Series With a Conversation About László Benedek’s 1951 Film Death of a SalesmanIt had only been a few years since Arthur Miller’s play made its successful debut, and the story was exactly the sort producer Stanley Kramer sought out. He brought László Benedek on to direct and Stanley Roberts on to adapt it for the screen. Unfortunately, the film was a box office flop, whether due to the studio’s concerns about its anti-American themes or audiences seeking lighter entertainment after World War II. Still, Benedek and Kramer assembled a strong adaptation of Miller’s story, even if Miller himself wasn’t a fan. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we kick off our series looking at the 1952 Academy Award nominees for Best Cinematography • Black-and-White. We’ll be discussing Benedek’s 1951 film Death of a Salesman.Here’s a hint at what we talk about.We closely analyze the strained father-son relationships that drive the narrative. Salesman Willy Loman (Frederic March) and his older son Biff (Kevin McCarthy) have a fractured bond ever since Biff discovered Willy's affair years before. This broken trust continues to shape their tense interactions, as Biff struggles to meet Willy's high expectations.We also examine the symbolic role of Willy's wealthy brother Ben, who appears in visions. Ben represents Willy's glorified notions of the American Dream and success. While Willy finds inspiration in Ben's purported business ventures abroad, he never pursues such risks himself. This critique of capitalism's empty promises factors heavily in the story.Much of our discussion also focuses on Franz Planer's evocative cinematography. We analyze Planer's striking lighting, camerawork and framing as part of our ongoing series on the 1952 Best Cinematography nominees. Despite a poor quality print, we note innovative techniques like scenes reflected in shadows. The transitions between reality and memory are especially inventive, showcasing advantages of adapting the stage play cinematically.Additional topics include:Mildred Dunnock's strong performance as the supportive yet insightful Linda LomanBenedek's clever transitions between the past and presentWhy the play still resonates through countless reinterpretationsWhether you know Miller's famous play or are discovering it for the first time, don't miss our engaging discussion of this impactful American tragedy. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!Film SundriesLearn more about supporting The Next Reel Film Podcast through your own membership.Script OptionsPoster artworkFlickchartLetterboxdSupport The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

Sep 28, 2023 • 1h 4min
Rome, Open City • The Next Reel
“We're fighting for something that has to be, that can't help coming. The road may be long and hard, but we'll get there and we'll see a better world. And our children especially will see it.”Rome Wasn't Built in a Day, But This Movie Sure WasRome, Open City is adapted from a book of true stories about living through the Nazi occupation. Co-writer and director Roberto Rossellini took these tales of survival and wove them into a gripping drama about the Italian resistance. Filmed using non-professional actors and real Roman locations, the movie has a gritty, documentary feel. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we conclude our series on the nominees of the 1947 Academy Awards for ‘Best Writing, Screenplay’ with Rossellini's iconic 1945 film Rome, Open City. Reel Talk on Real LifeWe unpack this landmark of Italian neorealism that was filmed on the war-torn streets of Rome just months after the Nazi occupation ended. The filmmakers wanted to capture the rawness of life during wartime. Iconic scenes like Pina's death as she runs after the Nazi truck became cinematic landmarks. The movie birthed a whole movement in Italian neorealism.Women Navigating Impossible ChoicesPina, played unforgettably by Anna Magnani, is the fiancée of resistance fighter Francesco. Her violent death scene is one of the film's most wrenching moments. Dancer Marina gets caught up spying for the Nazis in exchange for drugs and fur coats. We see how she becomes compromised and is discarded when no longer useful. German officer Ingrid manipulates Marina through addiction. She represents the female face of Nazi villainy and moral corruption.War's Impact on the Next GenerationThe tragedy of the film is how war devastates the lives of children like Pina's son and the street boys who witness Pietro's death. Yet the image of these boys resolutely marching back into the city provides a hopeful note that the youth may lead Italy to a better future.Enduring Classic Is BornRome, Open City packs an emotional punch that holds up decades later. It's essential viewing for anyone interested in Italian cinema or World War II stories. This landmark film demonstrates how constraints can breed art and truth. So check it out then tune in! The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins.Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!Film SundriesLearn more about supporting The Next Reel Film Podcast through your own membership.Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerPoster artworkFlickchartLetterboxdSupport The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Become a member for just $5/month or $55/yearJoin our Discord community of movie loversThe Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and MovementsThe Film BoardMovies We LikeThe Next Reel Film PodcastSitting in the DarkConnect With Us:Main Site: WebMovie Platforms: Letterboxd | FlickchartSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | PinterestYour Hosts: Andy | PeteShop & Stream:Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & moreWatch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussedOriginals: Source material from our episodesSpecial offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible


