Unspooled

Delve into the transformative themes of the Oscar-winning film Anora, focusing on power dynamics among characters and the authentic portrayal of the American worker experience. Discover the charming charisma amidst the darker societal issues that the film addresses. The hosts celebrate the triumphs of independent filmmaking and discuss the unique challenges indie filmmakers face. Explore how cinemas are adapting to family-friendly experiences while reminiscing about the golden age of video rental shops.

Dive into Oscar predictions filled with hot takes on Best Picture nominees for 2025! The hosts tackle snubs and potential surprises while celebrating overlooked indie gems. They examine the role of AI in filmmaking, hilariously addressing misconceptions surrounding 'The Brutalist.' Enjoy lively discussions on the creative depth of underappreciated films and the humorous side of red-carpet fashion choices. Expect insightful debates on Oscar controversies, emotional journeys in cinema, and the evolution of animated storytelling. Get ready for a cinematic ride!

Paul and Amy take a surreal ride this week, diving into the 2001 mind-bender Mulholland Drive by the legendary, late David Lynch. They discuss the eerie parallels between Naomi Watts' real life and her character Betty, uncover nods to iconic films, and delve into Hollywood’s dark side.You can rent Mulholland Drive on all platforms but don't forget to check your local library or apps like Libby, Hoopla and Kanopy!You can join the Unspooled conversation on Paul’s Discord at https://discord.gg/ZwtygZGTa6Follow Paul and Amy on Letterboxd for more of their movie hot takes! https://letterboxd.com/paulscheer/  https://letterboxd.com/theamynicholson/Paul’s book Joyful Recollections of Trauma is out now! Find it at https://www.harpercollins.com/products/joyful-recollections-of-trauma-paul-scheerCheck out more of Paul's writing on his Substack https://substack.com/@paulscheerEpisodic Art by Kim Troxall: https://www.unspooledart.com/Learn more about the show at Unspooledpod.com, follow us on Twitter @unspooled and on Instagram @unspooledpod, and don’t forget to rate, review & subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or where you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Celebrate Valentine's with a deep dive into a beloved 1999 teen classic. Find out how Shakespeare's 'The Taming of the Shrew' became '10 Things I Hate About You.' Discover the film's cultural impact, complex relationships, and the evolution of female characters in rom-coms. The hosts reflect on themes of vulnerability, authenticity, and personal growth while reminiscing about nostalgia in adaptations. Plus, there's a humorous take on tax returns and a nod to a new TV adaptation inspired by this iconic film.

Paul & Amy are finally jumping into the Marvel universe with 2014 film, Captain America Winter Soldier! But it wouldn't be Unspooled if they didn't do it their way, by combining this conversation with the 1975 film, Three Days of the Condor. They discuss the Captain America's Condor origins, the purpose of the superhero film 2025, and, of course, that shield. Plus: they get into Hydra and it's impact on the Marvel Universe.You can rent Captain America and Three Days of the Condor on all platforms but don't forget to check your local library or apps like Libby, Hoopla and Kanopy!You can join the Unspooled conversation on Paul’s Discord at https://discord.gg/ZwtygZGTa6Follow Paul and Amy on Letterboxd for more of their movie hot takes! https://letterboxd.com/paulscheer/  https://letterboxd.com/theamynicholson/Paul’s book Joyful Recollections of Trauma is out now! Find it at https://www.harpercollins.com/products/joyful-recollections-of-trauma-paul-scheerCheck out more of Paul's writing on his Substack https://substack.com/@paulscheerEpisodic Art by Kim Troxall: https://www.unspooledart.com/Learn more about the show at Unspooledpod.com, follow us on Twitter @unspooled and on Instagram @unspooledpod, and don’t forget to rate, review & subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or where you listen to podcasts.Start your hair growth journey with Nutrafol. Get $10 off your first month's subscription when you go to Nutrafol.com and use the promo code UNSPOOLED Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul & Amy are continuing their dusty future saga this week with 2008 film, WALL E! They discuss how the film's future seems frighteningly possible, the blob-like character designs that didn't make the final cut, and (once again) the power of love. Plus: they get into that famous Pixar lunch that resulted in three of their biggest hits... and Trash Planet.You can rent WALL E on all platforms but don't forget to check your local library or apps like Libby, Hoopla and Kanopy!You can join the Unspooled conversation on Paul’s Discord at https://discord.gg/ZwtygZGTa6Follow Paul and Amy on Letterboxd for more of their movie hot takes! https://letterboxd.com/paulscheer/  https://letterboxd.com/theamynicholson/Paul’s book Joyful Recollections of Trauma is out now! Find it at https://www.harpercollins.com/products/joyful-recollections-of-trauma-paul-scheerCheck out more of Paul's writing on his Substack https://substack.com/@paulscheerEpisodic Art by Kim Troxall: https://www.unspooledart.com/Learn more about the show at Unspooledpod.com, follow us on Twitter @unspooled and on Instagram @unspooledpod, and don’t forget to rate, review & subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or where you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul & Amy are in the zone this week for 2010 film, The Social Network! They discuss how the film holds up in 2025, how many times they show that opening bar scene, and why everyone is talking so quickly. Plus: they get into the very powerful desire of wanting to be cool.You can rent The Social Network on all platforms but don't forget to check your local library or apps like Libby, Hoopla and Kanopy!You can join the Unspooled conversation on Paul’s Discord at https://discord.gg/ZwtygZGTa6Follow Paul and Amy on Letterboxd for more of their movie hot takes! https://letterboxd.com/paulscheer/  https://letterboxd.com/theamynicholson/Paul’s book Joyful Recollections of Trauma is out now! Find it at https://www.harpercollins.com/products/joyful-recollections-of-trauma-paul-scheerCheck out more of Paul's writing on his Substack https://substack.com/@paulscheerEpisodic Art by Kim Troxall: https://www.unspooledart.com/Learn more about the show at Unspooledpod.com, follow us on Twitter @unspooled and on Instagram @unspooledpod, and don’t forget to rate, review & subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or where you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul & Amy are holding space this week for 2014 fan favorite Christopher Nolan film, Interstellar! They discuss the films parallels with Nolan’s family life, the “real” science used to create stunning visual effects, and Hans Zimmer’s very stressful score. Plus: they get into the films big Matt Damon shaped twist.You can rent Interstellar on all platforms but don't forget to check your local library or apps like Hoopla and Kanopy!You can join the Unspooled conversation on Paul’s Discord at https://discord.gg/ZwtygZGTa6Follow Paul and Amy on Letterboxd for more of their movie hot takes! https://letterboxd.com/paulscheer/  https://letterboxd.com/theamynicholson/Paul’s book Joyful Recollections of Trauma is out now! Find it at https://www.harpercollins.com/products/joyful-recollections-of-trauma-paul-scheerCheck out more of Paul's writing on his Substack https://substack.com/@paulscheerEpisodic Art by Kim Troxall: https://www.unspooledart.com/Learn more about the show at Unspooledpod.com, follow us on Twitter @unspooled and on Instagram @unspooledpod, and don’t forget to rate, review & subscribe to us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or where you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dive into the cultural significance of 'Die Hard' as a Christmas movie and its legacy in the action genre. Discover the intriguing casting doubts around Bruce Willis and the film's unique storytelling elements. Unpack the dynamic tension between John McClane and Hans Gruber, alongside the impact of the iconic phrase 'Yippee-ki-yay.' Explore themes of marriage and gender through Holly and John's relationship, plus the fascinating connection to Frank Sinatra's past roles. The discussion wraps up with a deeper look at the film's lasting influence on cinema.

Dive into the playful chaos of a holiday classic with discussions about its unforgettable characters. John Candy gets rave reviews, while Joe Pesci's on-set antics steal the spotlight. The complexity of Kevin's character raises eyebrows as the hosts debate his moral compass. Nostalgia hits hard as they reflect on the film's cultural impact and evolution of holiday travel. From behind-the-scenes challenges to Uncle Frank's villainy, this conversation captures why 'Home Alone' continues to resonate across generations.