Sunday, December 22, 2024

Figurines of Regret

     This week two movies about repercussions and the remorse of those who have to deal with them.

     Frances Glessner Lee was born into a wealthy family and had a lifelong interest in medicine and the burgeoning science of forensics. Dedicating her life and fortune to progressing the field. Her masterwork being the Nutshell Studies of Unexplained Death, a series of intricate dioramas with a wide variety of victims from all social classes and manners of death, which inspired many institutions and even fictional depictions over the last century. Just how long a shadow can be cast... Of Dolls and Murder?
     Leonor Reyes was once a major player in the Filipino film industry, creating a string of action hits. Now Leonor is retired and she, with her son Rudie, are struggling to pay the bills. After reading an ad calling for scripts, Leonor brushes off her unfinished final project. Tragically a serious blow to the head finds her waking up in her script, revising it in real time. Meanwhile, Rudie is desperately trying to find a way to connect to his comatose mother through the pages she left behind. The feature debut of writer-director Martika Ramirez Escobar... Leonor Will Never Die.
    All that and panic over next week's Secret Satan begins to take hold. Join us, won't you?

Sunday, December 15, 2024

Flanger Abuse

     This week- two movies about living your life authentically to yourself in the face of societal pressure.

     When a performance art trio take up residency at an enigmatic and remote artistic institute, a journalist with gastric issues, Stones, is hired to document their day-today creative process. The trio, led by narcissist Elle di Elle, perform "sonic catering", making ASMR with culinary sounds. Stones finds his issues worsen as he is drawn ever deeper into their petty disagreements, power struggles, and complexly sordid history. A delicacy from Peter Strickland, a filmmaker for acquired tastes, Flux Gourmet.
     After a pair of cross country Bible selling Catholic schoolgirls knock on the wrong door, they are pulled into nightmare of torment, fear, and death. Lobo is a dealer and pimp who loves a little bit of excessive violence. Maria is his favorite employee with a habit of killing anyone she is alone with for more than 5 minutes. Catherine and Rebecca are just in the wrong place at the wrong time. When their paths intersect, blood flies and revenge will be doled out without hesitation. The feature debut of writer-director Joseph Guzman, Run! Bitch Run!
     All that and Craig, tired of Americans being unable to pronounce his name, makes a not so stunning accusation. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 391- Flanger Abuse


Sunday, December 8, 2024

Recipe for Disaster

     This week- a pair of  working vacations do not go as planned with massive consequences.

     17 year-old skinhead Trevor is charged with throwing a brick the the window of a Pakistani man. Instead of  being sentenced immediately, the judge sends him to a residential assessment center. There he is met with a staff who have patience that would make a saint furious. Can this last chance finally get through to Trevor and make him change his life's path or is he trapped unable to fit in the system's one size fits all approach? The writer and director team from SCUM bring something that could only be Made in Britain.
     The West's superspy Loid Forger, also know as Twilight, finds his mission endangered by pressure from the higher ups unless significant progress is delivers soon. As this news is delivered, his cover marriage wife and secret top assassin of the East, Yor, witnesses what she interprets as Loid cheating. Meanwhile, their adopted and secretly telepathic daughter, Anya, is give a school assignment that could salvage Loid's operation. Together, with their precognitive pet Bond,  all three Forgers hop a train to sample a regional dessert. That's the moment when things get really complicated. The first feature based on a massively popular manga and anime, Spy X Family Code:White.
     All that and Dave misses the point, Tyler has dreams of a certain 90s nu metal artist, and Kevin barely survives a holiday event. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 390- Recipe for Disaster


Sunday, December 1, 2024

No Pucks Given

     This week we ring in the last month of 2024 with a pair of films about people spiraling through very different existential crises.

     Lucia lives with depressed writer Lorenzo. When she returns home to an empty apartment, Lucia becomes frantic, finding a suicide note as she answers a call from the police that mentions an accident. Unable to hear more, Lucia hangs up and leaves to a small island Lorenzo always talked about. Elena lost her daughter to a tragedy and also seeks solace on the same island, where her child was conceived after a night of passion with an unknown man. Meanwhile, we witness Lorenzo's live over the last six years leading up to whatever tragic event befell him. A complex and visually striking work from divisive Spanish auteur Julio Medem, Sex and Lucia (Spanish title: Lucia y el sexo).
     When a New Jersey mob deal is broken up by a team of corrupt cops looking to rob them, low level member Joey is tasked with disposing of the guns. Especially a very distinctive nickel plated and ivory handled Smith & Wesson Model 36 belonging to Tommy Perello, son of the organization's leader. Joey instead takes the gun home and stashes it his basement where his son and their abused neighbor kid, Oleg, are playing. Oleg takes the gun and sets off a chain of events that will have Joey and the boy... Running Scared.
     All that and Dave's race has been run, Tyler makes Machiavellian moves, and Kevin has sexy snow dreams. Join us, won't you?

Sunday, November 24, 2024

Remakes American Style

     This week a four pack of films that were originally made by other people in other countries and then swallowed by the Hollywood machine for you viewing pleasure.

     Seth is an angel. One of thousands just hanging out in the Los Angeles Public Library and occasionally going for walks around to witness people at their most stressed. Dr. Maggie Rice is a surgeon. She just lost a patient through no fault of her own. This causes Maggie to collapse because she is played by Meg Ryan. Will Seth be able to comfort Maggie in the way he increasingly wants? A remake of the German film Wings of Desire whose whole existence might be just to sell copies of the soundtrack, City of Angels.
     Count Thilbault Malefete is about to wed the beautiful Princess Rosalind. Tragically, a sly plan is enacted by the Earl of Warwick which results in Thibault being arrested and awaiting execution for Rosalind's murder. Fear not as his loyal serf brings a wizard to help. The plan is to slide our daring French Count back in time to save the day. Unfortunately, the spell goes wrong and Thibault finds himself, with his serf, in 2001 Chicago. Assisted by his descendant, who looks shockingly like Rosalind, Thibault must navigate turn of the century America to get back home. A remake of an all time highest grossing French film and retaining the original stars and writer-director, The Visitors.
     Mattie is worried about her ex-boyfriend and hacker, Josh. When she goes to finally check on him, he hangs himself with an ethernet cable. Soon ghostly visitors and impossible webcam feeds begin appearing all over the city. If one of the ghosts, who travel through wi-fi and cellular signals, touches you, you lose your will to live. Now Mattie and a new hunk she just met are on a race against time to stop a virus Josh accidentally unleashed. Can Mattie stop this techno terror before it consumes the world? A remake a wonderful warning about isolation in the digital age by the brilliant Kiyoshi Kurosawa and done in the way only Hollywood can, Pulse.
     When a wealthy businessman's beautiful but terrifyingly accident prone daughter disappears in Mexico, he spares no expense in the search. When a month passes without and progress, despite the endless supply of cash and top tier professionals sent in, he finally agrees to the most ridiculous of ideas. Why not send in someone equally accident prone based who just might stumble their way on to her trail? To accomplish this accountant Eugene Proctor is partnered with hardnosed investigator Raymond Campanella and let loose on an unsuspecting country. One of nine US remakes based on films by Francis Veber, Pure Luck.
    All that and Dave screams on the inside, Tyler tries to pull off a trifecta, and Kevin ignores this pain for Noir. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 388- Remakes American Style


Sunday, November 17, 2024

All the World's a Stage

     This week an unusual adaption of a classic novel and a TV special through the mind.

     Sissy St. Claire is hosting her first ever TV special! It promises to be an evening of entertainment for all to enjoy! Sissy is ready to deliver whatever it is you want right to you directly through the screen. Assuming what you want is a nightmarish tour through her personal insecurities and nightmares. A unique work of period dressed existential terror from writer-director Amanda Kramer, Give Me Pity!
     Prison escapee Moose Malloy is looking for his old girlfriend Velma and fear for anyone who might be in his way. After killing a nightclub manager, freelance investigator The Falcon is on Moose's trail. Will The Falcon find Velma before Moose does? Will the gorgeous young reporter be an asset or a distraction? An unexpected adaption of a classic mystery novel by Raymond Chandler and the third of sixteen films in RKO's Falcon series, The Falcon Takes Over.
     All that and Dave is lost on the moor, Craig has a glow about him, Tyler wallows, and Kevin tries to keep us from sinking. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 387- All the World's a Stage

Sunday, November 10, 2024

Shallow Noise

     This week a pair of films with recording methods used for devious purposes.

     Harry Caul is the best wiretapper on the West Coast. His skill is almost as widely known as his intense privacy, complete professional detachment, and closed off nature, born from the guilt after a previous job that resulted in the multiple murders. When Harry pulls of the impossible and captures a complete conversation in an open and crowded square, he finds his professional standard wavering as his fear of repeating the past begins to grown. Widely acknowledged as one of Francis Ford Coppola's best films and one of the best films from the 1970s, The Conversation.

     Mark is a journalist who needs a break from war zones and is assigned to interview Steve and John, the Canadian makers of an internet sensation and cultural breakthrough porn site. When the original deal is upended by the subjects, they pick up Beth and her friend, and Mark suddenly finds himself on a ride along he never would have imagined. Instead of cheap adult content, he finds himself caught in a revenge plot and driven out into the woods. Will Mark make it home to see his new born child? Does Steve actually possess the golden gift of gab he has built his brand on? Just who is this Beth and what is her connection to the site? The first film from Jeffery Andersen, a rape revenge thriller in the Norther Vancouver woods, Deeper: The Retribution of Beth.
     All that and Kevin attended a fancy event, Dave fears the creeping tinnitus, and Tyler faces the toughest choice of his life. Join us, won't you?

   Episode 386: Shallow Noise


Sunday, November 3, 2024

Fragaria Townhouse

      This week a pair of films about women with big dreams and vastly different methodologies.

     In the town of Small Hope, New Hampshire Suzanne Stone, an ambitious and beautiful young woman, dreams of being a world-famous broadcast journalist. She starts a passionate affair with the son of a local restauranter who swears to support her career ambitions. With a foundation secured, Suzanne starts working as an assistant at a local cable station, with hopes of climbing the network ladder, and eventually, with unwavering persistence, forces her way into doing weather reports. With her foot finally in the door, she begins working on a docuseries about teenagers and quickly takes three losers under her wing, just as her husband begins to pressure her into giving up her dreams to work at the restaurant and start a family. How long until Suzanne begins to see her husband as a impediment? Just what plans does she have for her small town flunky trio? Gus Van Sant's darkly comic broadly targeted satirical drama about antisocial personalities and ambitions that are To Die For
     In the not too distant future, increased surveillance on the public at large has gotten to the point where even dreams are recorded and taxed. Dream Auditor James Preble travels to the rural home of reclusive artist, Arabella Isadore, who has never filed a single dream tax. There Preble finds decades of dreams recorded in an outdated format, in Arabella's dreams he finds a colorful world that is nothing like his own off brand digestive aid pink dreams of corporate ads delivered by a jovial bearded man.  Will Preble awaken to the reality of his world? Will he be consumed by the forced consumerism that invades global dreams? Does he have even a hint of Sam Lowery in him? The second feature from writing/directing team of surreal fantasist, Albert Birney, and Southern mubblecore dramatist, Kentucker Audley, Strawberry Mansion.
     All that and Dave forgets to remember something important maybe, Tyler enters his Cobra Commander era, and Kevin goes on a road trip to see someone of dubious reality. Join us, won't you?

   Episode 385- Fragaria Townhouse


Sunday, October 27, 2024

Ordeal

     This week, John from And Now For Something a Little Bit Different joins us for a pair of movies about brutal random violence, monsters of societal creation, and retribution. 
     Magda, Camila, Julia, and Andrea go to a remote house owned by a relative for a weekend of decompression and drinking. Their revelry is soon disturbed by a local and his son who have spent their lives perpetuating the cycles of violence created in the Pinochet regime. Will the girls survive the night? Does the current government representatives offer any hope of rescue? Does this movie really have anything to say about anything or is it just using historical reference points as a justification for fairly generic misogynistic violence? The fourth feature from Chilean shock artist Lucio A Rojas, Trauma.
     The car Lance just bought from his half-brother almost immediately breaks down. Stuck in the middle of nowhere, he has no choice but to take a ride offered to him by a man in a truck. Not long into their ride the man asks Lance a question, if he had to kill his half-brother or his wife, which would he kill. Lance makes his choice, not yet realizing this question is only the start of a gore soaked ride of revenge. Can Lance remember what sin from his past has motivated this confrontation? Just how vicious was his past? Is the Stranger just targeting him out of boredom? The directorial debut of cult actor and screenwriter Trent Haaga, Chop.
     All that and Tyler enthuses, Kevin bemuses, Dave snoozes, and John is driven through a trial by fire. Join us, won't you?

    Episode 384- Ordeal
                 


Sunday, October 20, 2024

The Wrong D

      This week we take a look at three movies about creatures of the night and their hijinks over three continents and centuries of the masquerade. 

     In 1932 Austria, Sigmund Freud hires a painter, Viktor, to illustrate his monstrous dreams and takes on a new patient, Count Geza Von Kösznöm, who's problem is he hates his wife, who is obsessed with being able to see herself, and still longs for his centuries dead ex-girlfriend. To help immediately with the first problem, Freud recommends the Count hire Viktor. Complications arise due to Viktor's girlfriend, Lucy, looking exactly like the long lost love. Will Viktor be able to paint a portrait to satisfy the Countess? Will Lucy have herself overwritten by the Count's ancient memories? Can Sigmund get a good night's sleep? An Austrian horror comedy from David Rüehm, Therapy for a Vampire.
     Charlotte, a shy, emotionally traumatized, and understandably repressed college freshman arrives to start her new life with a fencing scholarship. Tragically, she is also being targeted by a centuries old half vampire, who needs her blood to lifting his blood sucking curse and finds herself the target of the least likable and tedious girl on campus. Can Charlette find a place for her self on the team or will her bully push her out with the sheer power of her generic sarcasm? Will the vampire find their cure? Can we, as a planet, finally move beyond stupid concepts like virginity that are just excuses for men to fetishize and shame women? The 21st work from prolific Canadian director Carl Bessai and remake of a well loved 90s Skinemax classic, Embrace of the Vampire.
     For centuries vampires ruled the world but now they are dying out and hunted by the long repressed remains of humanity. When Baron Meier Link abducts Charlotte, the daughter of a wealthy family, her father hires a dhampir named D to find her and rescue her dead or alive. D isn't the only hunter on the trail as the family has also hired the Marcus Brothers team to track their lost lamb. Soon all three groups clash in bloody conflicts to hold on to the girl. The second adaption of Kikuchi Hideyuki's massive novel franchise (55 entries at this moment) with gorgeous animation and fluid action from equally prolific studio Madhouse, Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust.
     All that and Tyler makes a perfectly reasonable mistake, Kevin gets deep in his views, and Dave wonders if these memory problems should be concerning. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 383- The Wrong D


The Bloody Pulpit

     This week Anna, who has been away far too long for anyone's liking, returns for a pair of films about men who are not what they appear too be while hiding in plain sight.

     Christine Faber's husband is dead. He is dead and buried. So why is she hearing his voice call to her across the beach? Dashing out into the night the investigate, Christine runs into Alexis. Alexis claims to be a real psychic medium and able to help her put her ghosts to rest. Fearing she is being taken advantage of Christine's fiancé, Paul, and her sister, Janet, decide to uncover her new friend as a fraud. Will they be able to expose a charlatan preying on a still grieving widow? Can Alexis deliver on his promise of respite from the ghost haunting her? Will this web of deceit and psychological torture be untangled before Christine meets a ghastly ghoulish ending? A classic noir from a blacklisted director with one of the genre's favorite femme fatales, The Amazing Mr. X (aka The Spiritualist).
     After being left by her lover, Jenny makes the mistake of going to see her old friend turned Catholic priest Bernard at his church. Tragically, the ear hearing her confession of jilted romance and coerced abortion is not that of her old friend but elderly Father Meldrum. Meldrum, a fervent believer in the concept of divine justice, decides to nurture and guide Jenny in a way he has done many times before. How far can Meldrum push before anyone will help Jenny? Who do you turn to when no one will believe your desperate pleas for help? An overlooked shocker from one of England's most beloved cult filmmakers, Pete Walker, is a cold-blooded film about how those in power can use their position to harm with impunity- House of Mortal Sin.
All that and Dave unburdens himself to a terrifying degree (off mic), Kevin has flashbacks to his days harassing vicars in the Highlands, and Anna wonders why they agreed to be dragged back into this mess. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 382- The Bloody Pulpit




Sunday, October 6, 2024

That's an Odd Kiss

     This week we kick off October and Horror Season with something old from a legendary studio and something new from a go-to service for fright fiends.

     Gerald and Marianne honeymooning through Bavaria in 1910 run out of gas and learn they are miles off course and days away from any fuel delivery. Taking refuge at the local inn, they catch the eye of Dr. Ravna and his children who invite them to a ball at their home. Separated during the festivities Gerald soon discovers that under all the frivolity lies a vampiric cult. Can Gerald save his bride? Will anyone lend him aid besides the drunk professor? Could Marianne really prefer the life of a bloodsucker? Don Sharp's first film for Hammer, Kiss of the Vampire.
     Alone one night, while renovating her new home, Dani is brutally murdered. A former patient of her psychiatrist husband, Ted, is quickly convicted of the crime and sent back into Ted's care. Justice being quickly served, Ted begins his life anew and takes up with Yana, a pharmaceutical rep. Just when Ted thinks he can move on with his life, his deceased wife's blind twin sister shows up at his door with an unusual gift. Was the right person convicted? Will Ted ever find peace to leave his tragedy in the past? Could the mysterious gift be the key to supernatural justice? The second feature from Damian McCarthy, shot in the same converted barn as his first, Oddity.
     All that and Dave probably missed something, Tyler spelunks the depth of exploitation nastiness, Kevin mourns the loss of another regiment in the squirrel army, and special guest Christianne (who can be found blogging as Vulnavia Morbius at krelllabs.blogspot.com) returns just in time to learn some very disturbing history. Join us, won't you?
    Episode 381- That's an Odd Kiss


Sunday, September 29, 2024

A Dollop of Ortega

     This week- a clump of movies starring Jenna Ortega.

     After a school shooting, Vada Cavell has to navigate her trauma and depression. Isolating herself from her family and closest friend. As Vada struggles to find ways to cope with her trauma, she bonds with those who sheltered with her during the shooting. A powerful debut feature from writer-director Megan Park with incredible performances, The Fallout.
     In an effort to bolster his conservative base, Governor Harper Finn signs an executive order to immediately round up all illegal immigrants and their US-born children. The kids are given a choice, be deported or spend a few months working in a program assisting the elderly. A horror comedy from the Hallivis Brothers about issues facing Hispanic and Latino Americans, American Carnage.
     Charlie has just graduated from college and decides to take a summer job with his older half-brother, Tom, on a scallop fishing boat. Corporate negligence and a string of bad luck lose the brothers two boats, put them in trouble with Canadian authorities, and force them into a desperate situation. A crime thriller with an incredibly talented cast from veteran writer-director Brian Helgeland, Finestkind.
     Jonathon Miller is a failed writer teaching in a small Tennessee town. Cairo Sweet is an 18-year old senior living alone in a large mansion with generational wealth. Cairo is smart, highly literate, and flatters Miller's vanity by having read his terrible book. Miller unsuspectingly finds himself drawn into a plot to give Cairo something to write about for her Yale application essay. The debut from writer-director Jade Halley Bartlett, Miller's Girl.
     All that and we prep for Halloween. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 380- A Dollop of Ortega


Sunday, September 22, 2024

Wassup Tony?

     This week- a group of plucky skater punks get into shenanigans in LA and a plucky mob widow tries to start again but neither the Feds or Family will let her.

     A septet of Latin American boys go against the hip hop trends and norms of their South Los Angeles neighborhood and embrace skateboards and punk rock in very tight pants. One day the boys decide to go skate at a school in the affluent Beverly Hills. Little do they suspect this would kick off an odyssey through a creepily camp satirical nightmare of affluence and classism. Only an auteur like Larry Clark would stop to ask this question burning at the forefront of global consciousness... Wassup Rockers.
     Angela is married to a Long Island mafia rising star but the luster of their life has long since been rubbed off for her. When the boss finds out her husband is also having an affair with the same girl, hubby is not long for this world. Angela takes the opportunity to move out of their home of ill gotten gains and start again. Unfortunately for her both the boss and the FBI are desperately trying to get her in their respective beds. Jonathon Demme's broadly wacky comedy loudly swirls around a complex heroine struggling for freedom and a future where she is no longer Married to the Mob.
     All that and Dave takes an uneventful hike, Tyler's backpack has jets, and Kevin begins his nefarious plot to rebuild the squirrel army and take over the local Little Waitrose. Join us, won't you?

    Episode 379- Wassup Tony?


Sunday, September 15, 2024

Lethal Tales

     This week- two movies about bromances and violence in remote places.

     Genta has become disillusioned with the samurai life and has left it to be a wondering yakuza. Hanji could no longer tolerate his powerless existence and sold his farm to become a samurai. They find themselves on opposing sides after the assassination of the local chancellor. A darkly satirical look at the late stages of the samurai, Kill! (1968).

     Michael is a graphic designer, living in the city, with his first child on the way. Chris is an addict, erratic and delusional, squatting in an abandoned building on reservation land. When Michael receives a video of Chris', he takes it as a final cry for help. Taking extreme actions the two men soon find themselves caught up in something beyond their comprehension and desperate for a satisfying Resolution (2012).
All that and Tyler confesses his love, Dave schemes, and Kevin dances... dirtily. Join us, won't you?

    Episode 378- Lethal Tales


Sunday, September 8, 2024

Dat Florida-Midland Flow

     This week- two films about types of masculinity and finding your way.

     Tyler Williams is a popular senior on the wrestling team. Learning he has a severe SLAP tear that requires surgery as soon as possible to repair, Tyler decides to hide it from everyone, especially his domineering father. When his injury is revealed, Tyler spirals to tragic results. The aftermath of which will test the Williams family and those around them. The third film from critically acclaimed writer-director Trey Edward Shults, Waves.
     Romeo and Gavin have been best friends and neighbors as long as either can remember. When Romeo gets beaten up for defending Gavin from bullies, he is assisted by the slightly strange and aggressive Morrell. Morrell tries to romance Romeo's sister and drives a wedge between the boys, leading to a violent confrontation. The third film from beloved UK cult filmmaker Shane Meadows, as well as the screen debuts of both Paddy Considine and Vicky McClure, A Room for Romeo Brass.
     All that and Dave gets REALLY ranty, Tyler rolls around his happy place, and Kevin might have forgotten something but it probably isn't important. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 377- Dat Florida-Midland Flow
 

Sunday, September 1, 2024

Dreaming The Crow Like Dream

      In the doorway of glory he finds Death who puts his hands in hers and whispers to him, :Now... come home, now."

     "Soon", he says.
                                   The Crow, James O'Barr

     This week- four tales of vengeance for souls brought back to put the wrong things right. 
Detroit, a decrepit and crime ravaged city on Devil's Night, when gangs roam the streets leaving only burning buildings in their wake. One year ago, Shelly Webster was raped and mortally wounded as her fiancé, Eric Draven, was shot and thrown out of their loft apartment window. Tonight, Eric returns with the names of those who killed them ringing in his head. The first film entry in the franchise based on James O'Barr's cult masterpiece comic series, The Crow.
     In Salt Lake City, three years ago, Alex Craven is framed for the murder of his girlfriend, Lauren. Tonight, Alex will be put to death for this crime and come back as the next Crow. With his lawyer and Erin, Lauren's sister, to help him, can Alex solve his own case and unravel the conspiracy that killed Lauren and set him up? Can anything bring The Crow: Salvation.
     Jimmy Cuervo has been paroled after serving time for killing a rapist in a fight. He returns home to Lake Ravasu, a town that is divided between a corporate mining town and a Raven Aztec reservation, to be outcast by both sides. Except for his girlfriend, who he was protecting at the time of his crime, Lily Ignites the Dawn. Unfortunately, Lily has eyes which can see prophecies, which puts them in the sights of the local world ending Satanist cult. Jimmy comes back to hunt down the cult. Loosely based on the novel of the same name by Norman Patridge, The Crow: Wicked Prayer.
     In Vancouver, on the night before Halloween, Eric Draven and his fiancée, Shelly, are killed in their loft apartment. One year later, Eric returns guided by a mystical bird and now having supernatural powers. He sets out to not just get revenge but also to find his own redemption. The syndicated tv adaption that was cancelled due to the studio being sold before they could begin the final arc, The Crow: Stairway to Heaven. 
     All that and Dave and Tyler have very different experiences with yet another avian avenger and Kevin gets his feathers plucked. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 376- Dreaming The Crow Like Dream


Sunday, August 25, 2024

Ice-Cold Angel

     This week- a pair of films starring the late French icon Alain Delon.

     Tom Ripley has been sent to Italy to retrieve Phillippe Greenleaf, son of a wealth San Francisco family. Phillippe has no intention of returning home, especially if it means leaving behind his fiancée, Marge. He soon grows cruel and abusive to the always fawning Tom. But Tom Ripley has ideas and plans of his own. The first film adaption of the original book Patricia Highsmith's classic novel series, Purple Noon (original title: Plein soleil).
     A Gentile art dealer in Vichy France is mistaken from a Jewish man with the same name. Robert Klein's wealthy and secure life is thrown into a paranoid mystery as he tries desperately to both satisfy the authorities on his identity and find who put him in this position to begin with. A Kafkaesque film about obsession and identity, Monsieur Klein.
     All that and Kevin is summoned with digital necromancy, Dave sees the bright lights big city, and Tyler sharpens his tongue for next week. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 375- Ice-Cold Angel


Monday, August 19, 2024

Mutant Beavers

     This week- a pair of features occupying areas adjacent to classic cartoons.

     When his applejack distillery is destroyed in an accident, Jean Kayak has to find a new trade to survive the harsh winter. Taking up fur trading, something he doesn't exactly excel at, he soon finds love and danger in the forms of The Furrier and Hundreds of Beavers.
     Super powered mutants are being born all around the world, these evolutionary leaps are treated with fear and bigotry. Now the United States government is trying to pass an act that would require mutants to reveal their identities and powers. When Marie's powers manifest during her first kiss, landing her liplocker in a coma, she runs away. Soon she finds herself in Canada, meeting a gruff drifter named Logan. When their paths are forced into a collision course between the opposing ideologies of Magneto and Professor Charles Xavier, leader of the X-Men.
     All that and Dave is somewhere else, Tyler gets all lovey on a sharp thing, and Kevin joins him with a whole gaggle of others. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 374- Mutant Beavers


Sunday, August 11, 2024

Swamps are for Squids

     This week- a pair of moves designed to inspire nostalgia, even in the most begrudging of hearts.

     After stopping the nefarious plans of Martin Whistler in the 23rd century, hardboiled trooper Jak Deth chases him back to 1980s Los Angeles. Taking over the body of his ancestor, Phil, Jak must find the body Whistler now inhabits before he can take over the world with his brain washed zombie cult known. The first entry in Full Moon's sprawling sci-fi fantasy series, Trancers.
     Every once in a while a film comes along that so inspires its fandom that they can never loosen their love for it as decades pass. Sometimes they take  victory laps even before the second decade has passed. Is is a loving tribute to a classic 2001 franchise starter? Is it an experiment in absurdist art? Is it a cheap attempt to get free labor out of the online fandom for a quick buck? Maybe yes to all, either way it is Shrek Retold.
     All that and Kevin goes where some of us have gone before, Craig suffers for his sins, Tyler contemplates a change, and Dave just wants to have fun. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 373- Swamps are for Squids


Sunday, August 4, 2024

Unsimulated Car Chase

     This week- a pair of films about criminal elements and the fast decent into obsession.

     When his partner is killed, just three days before retirement, Secret Service Agent Richard Chance becomes obsessed with getting revenge on the counterfeiter Eric Masters. As Chance increasingly goes off the rails, indulging in sexual extortion of an informant and kidnapping and assault, his new partner is powerless to rein him in. Masters and Chance head toward an unavoidable confrontation that is the price they pay To Live and Die in L.A.
     Summer on the Belgian-Netherlands border, eight teens indulge in their sexual curiosity to stave off boredom. This light play soon leads them down the paths of sociopathy, sex trafficking, obstruction of traffic, and murder. One of the most Movies to Scare Parents films ever made, a desperate to be shocking tale of the hidden spoiled sociopath predators that must lie in the heart of all youth everywhere... because reasons- We (Dutch title Wij).
     All that and Dave had a night in a museum, Tyler experiences force feedback cinema at its franchisest, Craig watches Japanese classics under a pile of pug, and Kevin gets drills his secret squirrel army in secret. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 372- Unsimulated Car Chase
 

Sunday, July 28, 2024

Keep Rollin Rollin Rollin

     This week- a celebration of France's vampire auteur that avoids almost purposefully avoids his beloved vampire work.

     When Frederic sees a photograph of old ruins by the sea, he suddenly remembers a beautiful young woman his preteen self fell in love with. Obsessing over finding the ruins location, he soon finds himself the target of nefarious forces. Will Frederic find solace in the dilapidated stones or will he only see Lips of Blood (aka Levres de sang).
     Driving along a lonely road late at night, Robert comes across a woman running. Stopping to help the obviously distressed and partially dressed blonde, he soon learns that she has memory issues and doesn't remember who or what she was running from or even who she has spent the last few hours with. A tale of medical negligence and patient abuse- The Night of the Hunted (French title- La nuit des traquees).
     Years ago a small French village murdered a squad of Nazis and dumped their bodies in the lake. As everyone should have. Now the Nazis rise again as zombies hellbent on eating all the women they find and reclaiming one's daughter. Considered by some to be one of the worst films ever made- Zombie Lake (original title Les lac des morts vivants).
     French secret service operative Rick is shot and killed. The only clue to the whereabouts of a new bioweapon he had in his possession is a picture of Eva, a young exotic dancer. Soon a desperate race against an evil syndicate in the search for the dreaded weapon begins on The Sidewalks of Bangkok (aka Les trottoirs de Bangkok).
     All that and Dave gets really reference heavy with the 4th wall breaking meta, Kevin hurries his squirrel scientists to complete their doomsday device, Craig has his say, and Tyler calls out from the void. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 371- Keep Rollin Rollin Rollin


Sunday, July 21, 2024

Lady of the Wake

     This week- a pair of French speaking serial killers and the people who obsess over them.

     Saskia and Rex are on a biking holiday in France. At a rest stop, Saskia goes to buy drinks and is never seen again. Raymond is a wealthy family man who spends his free time practicing his approach to abducting women. Raymond refines his methods through fumbling trial and error. Three years later, Rex will learn exactly what happened to Saskia. A clinical tour of two men's obsessions that has firmly earned its place as one of the best horror films in world cinema- Spoorloos (aka The Vanishing).
     Kelly-Anne is obsessed with the trial of Ludovic Chevalier, who is accused of being a serial killer that streamed his murders live to the world. She sleeps in an alley the courthouse, sits in the same seat with the best view of the accused, breaks into the homes of victims, and befriends Clementine- a serial killer groupie convinced of Chevalier's innocence. Soon Kelly-Anne joins the hunt down the missing video of the last victim's murder. A French-Canadian descent into cybercrime and obsession stuffed with Arthurian references and a vicious commentary on true crime fandom- Red Rooms.
     All that and Tyler hordes the world's supply of trucker hats, Dave faces off against a giant shark, and Kevin finds a new way out of Craig's basement. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 370- Lady of the Wake
    

Monday, July 15, 2024

Newman's Own French Dressing

     This week- a pair of films about people on the make.

     Small time hustler, Johnny Hooker, accidentally puts a giant target on his own back when steals a large amount of money from a violent crime boss's courier. His only hope is to ruin the crime boss with the help of Henry Gondorff, a once big time con artist currently on the run from the FBI. Together they put on a massive and desperate operation using horses and the wire service while hitmen and federal agents nip at their heels. Will Hooker survive to the end of the con? Will Gondorff give the feds the slip? The Sting.
     After her son is caught filming himself masturbating in class, Romain's mother, Claire, decides it is time for some frank and honest discussions about sex with her family. Does Grandpa go to professionals to avoid emotions? Should Romain be committed for the safety of others because of his dangerous obsession over his own virginity? Why is nothing done with either of the siblings except sex scenes and brief time fillers? How does a couple with two adult children and a sexually obsessed teen keep the spark alive? Sexual Chronicles of a French Family.
     All that plus a voice from the ether, Tyler seeks more obscure websites for ever cheapening thriller, Craig contemplates the meaning of hamburgers and disappointment, and Dave finally finishes his personal Oxygen Destroyer. Join us, won't you?
    Episode 369- Newman's Own French Dressing


Saturday, July 6, 2024

Sirloin Sovereign

     This week we jump back to 1985 for a double feature of b-movie bliss. 

     Just before Christmas, Lane Meyer's only two interests, his girlfriend and skiing, are ripped away from him by Roy Stalin, the bully ski team captain. Unfortunately, Lane is about on par with the rest of the town for eccentricities and he does not take this dual rejection well. Plus he's living in the shadow of his genius younger brother, delightful mother, psychotic paperboy, race obsessed twins, and a best friend from a home so horrific that it can only be obliquely referenced to keep everything nice and family friendly. Can Lane find away to claim his rightful place on the ski team? Will he be able to mend his broken heart? Will the French exchange student next door break and dispose of the family she's living with? Or is Lane just Better Off Dead
     On the day of Queen Amethea's wedding her village is attacked by the evil and very rapey forces of Lord Arrakur. With everyone except her handmaiden and herself either murdered or captured to be sold into slavery, Amethea begins a quest to save her people and rid the world of the evil Arrakur. Unfortunately, she isn't very competent at anything other than being captured and leered at while misogynist kink fantasies play out. Will Queen Amethea bring justice to the land? Will the hidden rebels find a figure to rally behind? Can anything stop the revenge of the Barbarian Queen?
     All that and Tyler and Dave get retro vibes with MaXXXine, Kevin finds himself lost among the sword and sandals set, and Craig learns that sometimes a 4-point turn just isn't enough. Join us, won't you?
    Episode 367- Sirloin Sovereign


Saturday, June 29, 2024

Lo-Fi Sci-Fi

     This week a four pack of sci-fi with less than futuristic surroundings. 

     Scientist Sterling Peirce dreamed of a future where mankind no longer feared death, lived in harmony with all existence, and dedicated his life to the miracle elixir he created. Tragically, he died before his vision of a a peaceful future could come to pass. Years later, his son, Jaxxon Peirce, controls and manufactures a version of the elixir he calls Divinity.
     A small group of people exiled to an island called The Burn depend on Ti-Jeanne. Meanwhile, she struggles against the destiny of her birth, fights for the love of the only available man, and fights against the repressive controlling grasp of Crack. A prequel to Nalo Hopkinson's debut novel, Brown Girl Begins. (Fun fact I forgot to mention in episode- Director Sharon Lewis played rapper Drake's mother on Degrassi TNG.)
     Neuroscientists being testing of a remarkable breakthrough- connecting two brains directly. Lukas, researcher and generally bored of everything scumbag, is selected to be the first psychonaut- being injected into the head of an anonymous woman in a coma. Immediately, Lukas being making nonsensical stupid decisions and obsessing. Why does no one notice his extreme reactions and wild violent mood swings? They all too busy seeing the Vanishing Waves.
     In the not-too-distant-future eugenics is the new way of life and everyone is sorted into valid and in-valid categories. Despite discrimination against the unmodified being technically illegal, it overnight became the only standard of worth for all mankind. Natural born Vincent Freeman is predicted to have the most ridiculous number of issues before an early death but he refuses to accept this. Finding a willing co-conspirator, Vincent sets out to follow his dream at Gattaca.
     All that and Dave sees dead people, Tyler discovers a new fetish, and Kevin screams out from the void. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 367- Lo-Fi Sci-Fi


Saturday, June 22, 2024

Lifted Jealousy

     This week- a pair of films about high emotional responses. 

     Paul and Nelly run a successful hotel, have a beautiful child, and live what appears to be an idyllic life together. Until Paul begins to have suspicions about Nelly's fidelity. Paul soon finds himself sinking into a quagmire of jealous fantasies and anger. Will Paul get the help he needs? Are his fears secretly justified? Will society at large ever stop being misogynistic asshats that enable cycles of abuse? Claude Charbol's take on a 30 year old unfinished film by Henri-Georges Clouzot- L'Enfer (aka Torment aka Hell).
     Oscar is on the run from home after a violent incident involving his best friend's father, he finds himself fallen in with a gang of child pickpockets. Oscar soon forms a deep bond with fellow preteen thief Peaches. 15 years later, Oscar finds himself running the gang and his childhood friend knocking at his door. Will Oscar be able to put his past to rest? Is there a future for any of them that doesn't include decades behind bars? How can someone sleep at night wasting this much on screen talent? Can Oscar really... Run with the Hunted. 
     Join us, won't you?
    Episode 366- Lifted Jealousy


Saturday, June 15, 2024

Die in a Fire

     This week two movies where everyone is pretty awful and the title is wished upon everyone on screen.

     A friend group of recent college graduates are horrific to everyone around them and to each other. Kevin is obsessed with his bff's girlfriend. Alec is a serial cheater who only cares about career advancement. Billy is a serial cheater and occasional rapist who only cares about getting fucked up and playing the sax. Jules is a serial cheater who only cares about sleeping with her boss and waiting for her stepmother to die. Kirby is a terrifying stalker obsessing over the medical student he went out with once four years ago. Wendy is a racist who has failed to launch from her disgustingly rich parents. Leslie is... there. Together they will not do much but we can always hope they die in... St Elmo's Fire.
     The summer of 1900,12 year old Leo is spending his break as the guest of his wealthy friend, Marcus. Immediately on arrival, Leo beings to crush on the daughter of the house, Marian, who is engaged to a local lord. The whole family treats him like a pet instead of like a person but he's fine with being kept because they give him things. When Marcus finds himself bed ridden with illness, Marian uses it as a chance to press Leo into service delivering her explicit letters and return illicit rendezvous plans with the gentleman farmer next door. Passions and tensions simmer in a way they can only in pastoral Edwardian England. Will the lovers be caught embraced in hay? Will the local lord be able to get his rival to join the military and get out of his way? Will Leo realize that these people aren't worth the time and set a small fire in the night or is he doomed to forever be under their thumbs as The Go-Between?
     All that and Dave indulges in violent revenge, Kevin refuses to see the fun in Paris, Tyler builds a new shrine, and Craig finds frustration in the loop. Join us, won't you? 
   Episode 365- Die in a Fire
null

Saturday, June 8, 2024

Traffick Force

    This week- a film about a girl pushed beyond human endurance and a franchise entry that made the internet ridiculously thirsty for a basic whiny tantrum spree killling piss baby.

     When her mother goes to America with her fiancé, Lilya is left to fend for herself. Living in in a tiny squalid apartment, she has few options and no money. When a friend frames her for their own indiscretion, Lilya finds herself suddenly shunned by her community. With only younger and equally lost Volodya for company, she finds herself turning increasingly towards dangerous ways to survive. The big winner at the 2003 Guldbagge Awards and used in today in anti-trafficking campaigns all over Eastern Europe, Lukas Moodysson's staggering work- Lilya 4-ever.
     Long long ago in a galaxy far far away... the New Republic slept on their one job and let a baby fascist group rise in the ruins of the Empire. To make matters worse, the only two who could put a stop to them, the Skywalker Twins, gave them free reign to kidnap children to fill their forces, plot nefarious genocides, and build up their power base because they both decided it was better to not do anything in the grand Jedi tradition. Now, on the eve of a giant weapon of mass destruction's unveiling, the forces of the Republic are on a desperate search for Luke Skywalker. Enter on this scene a young orphan, Ray, and her new deserter bestie, Finn. Together they will bath us in the sweet sweet waters of nostalgia and offer the beginning of a new entry in the world's favorite pair of trilogies- Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
     All that and Kevin and Dave tour Japan in a wooden boat, Tyler shows off his Sith mask collection, and Craig expands his horizons. Join us, won't we?
   Episode 364- Traffick Force
null

Saturday, June 1, 2024

Matters of Trust

     This week- a pair of films about relationships and rumors.

     Eva is a divorced massage therapist whose daughter is about to fly across country for college. At a party she meets Marianne, a poet and new client/friend. She also meets Albert, a television archivist and love interest. Before long she learns that Marianne and Albert used to be married and uses their friendship to gather all the inside information she can. Will Eva's newly formed bonds be strong enough to withstand the eventual reveal? Can she accept her daughter leaving the nest without finding a replacement? Is there ever really Enough Said.
     Yusaku Fukuhara runs an import/export business in 1940 Kobe. When he suddenly announces to his wife, Satoko, that he will be going to Manchuria to obtain cheap medicines, Satoko never expects their lives to be completely upended. Yusaku returns with a mysterious woman, a film of atrocities, and a detailed ledger full of experiment results. Will Satoko choose her husband or her country? What are they both willing to sacrifice for their ends? Is there only suffering for the Wife of a Spy.
     All that and Craig gets smug while the others fight for guzzolene. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 363- Matters of Trust
null

Saturday, May 25, 2024

Uncarbonated Poptimism

     This week a quartet of movies starring popstars. 

     When Ali travels from Iowa to LA with dreams of becoming a professional dancer, she takes a job as a waitress. The club's owner, Tess, is battling financial worries, an aggressive developer, a drunken diva, and a partner on the verge of a nervous breakdown. Desperate for something new to revitalize their stagnating stage show, Tess hears the vocals belted out from Ali, which makes everyone wonder why she didn't just try singing to begin with. All the glitz and glamour with none of the calories... Burlesque.
     The Kid and his band The Revolution hold one of the house band slots at the First Avenue nightclub. The Kid spends his days practicing and his nights performing in an effort to avoid his verbally and physically abusive home. Since The Kid's ego doesn't allow him to play compositions from others, his rival Morris Day tries to steal The Revolutions slot with a new girl group he's forming... a girl group centered around The Kid's girlfriend. A film that delivered one of the greatest soundtracks of all time.... Purple Rain.
     A Texan waitress, Kelly, and her two besties go to Fort Lauderdale for Spring Break. Justin and his two besties are Miami based party promotors working the Venice of America's crowds. When their paths cross at a spontaneous beach song, sparks fly. Both between our young lovers and from a hidden jealous rival. Situations and misunderstandings and very dramatic drama ensues. A rushed film desperately trying to cash in on a cultural tidal wave... From Justin to Kelly.
     Martial arts genius Jimmy finally comes home after a decade in reform school. He swears revenge on those who murdered his father. Local gang member, Mikey, is trying to consolidate his groups power through winning the local kumite. In order to make their bid successful, the gang tries to murder Jimmy. Fortunately for him, he has a mage and grocery stocker in his corner. The first feature length martial arts film made in Ireland... Fatal Deviation.
     All that and Kevin regrets some animated choices, Tyler tries his hand at feudal zookeeping, Dave visits some aging friends, and Craig still hears the infernal beeps. Join us, won't you?
    Episode 362- Uncarbonated Poptimism

Saturday, May 18, 2024

Laser-crossed Lovers

     This week- a couple of nostalgic classics from low budget independent  studios.

     Mandroid escapes the lair of nefarious scientist Albert Reeves and his time travelling plan for global conquest. Soon he finds an ally in robotics expect Nora Hunter, roguish riverboat captain Harry Fontana, ninja Kuji, and desperate for its own toyline complete with a Saturday morning cartoon to market it S.P.O.T. Can our intrepid heroes stop the wicked plans or will history as we knew it be wiped out by our beloved cyborg overlords? Eliminators.
     Tromeo lives in squalor with his father, Monty Que, and works at a tattoo parlor with his cousin, Benny, and friend, Murray. Juliet is hidden away in her family's mansion, being guarded by her abusive father, Cappy Capulet, and dangerously overprotective cousin, Tyrone, with only sultry servant, Ness, to comfort and provide her with kindness. The Ques and Capulets have long been locked in a brutal and bloody conflict. Crashing Cappy's masquerade ball, to celebrate Juliet's arranged marriage to meat tycoon Arbuckle, Tromeo finds himself on a collision course with... true love! Can our loving lovers who love find loving love or will the machinations of Cappy bring about a tragic end? Tromeo & Juliet.
     All that and Kevin gets a animated about vehicles for a third time, Dave solo levels, and Tyler might just have the war against those dang grimy primates. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 361- Laser-crossed Lovers


Saturday, May 11, 2024

O Mario Where is Yo?

     Due to some vague and out of our control issues with the site we record with, there will be a fair amount of snap, crackle, and even pop this week. We did our best to fix it but... apologizes in advance. This week two movies about desperate men trying to get the money and run before their short windows of time run out.

     When rogue Secret Service agent Foss takes the Vice President of the Uniter States hostage in the owner's box at Civic Arena during Game 7 of the 1995 Stanley Cup Finals, he never expected a traumatized former fire fighter who had then job of arena fire marshal to crash the party. Now Darren McCord must face his trauma, save his kids, kill a small army of professionals, and make sure the Pittsburgh Penguins can tie in the 3rd so the game can end in... Sudden Death.
     Pete, Delmar, and Ulysses Everett McGill escape a chain gang to dig up a treasure that is stored in a cabin that will be flooded to become a lake in just a few days. Their odyssey crosses paths with sirens and klansmen and possibly the devil himself, and takes them from ditch digging to a wonderful treasure... just not the one they seek. All with some mighty fine a-pickin' and a-singin'- O Brother, Where Art Thou?
     All that and Tyler buys a new toy, Kevin shares the pain, Craig makes threats, and Dave hunts the Rice Krispies. Join us, won't you? 
    Episode 360- O Mario, Where is Yo?


Saturday, May 4, 2024

Do a Kickflip

     This week- kids in 90s American and a con artist learns therapy is helpful.

     Roy Waller is a con artist in LA who suffers from OCD and stress induced tics. After a bad panic attack, his partner convinces him to see a therapist. The therapy convinces Roy to reach out to people from his past. Soon Roy finds himself with the biggest mark of his career and a teenage daughter he just met wanting to learn the trade. One of Ridley Scott's most overlooked films- Matchstick Men.
     Stevie finds himself drawn to the group he sees outside a local skateshop. Idolizing their daredevil attitudes, he become part of their group as a refuge from his abusive older brother. As time passes and relationships change, will the group hold together? Will their bonds prove to be tenuous and brittle? A nostalgia drenched directorial debut, Mid90s.
     All that and Tyler tries this new thing called television, Dave hunts a vampire, and Kevin tries his hand at a pastry. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 359- Do a Kickflip


Saturday, April 27, 2024

The Butler Did It

     This week- four films starring a tartan typhoon called Gerry.

     After being locked away in a vault for 120 years, a heist unleashes a vampiric nightmare on New Orleans just in time for Mardi Gras (as if a movie would acknowledge the city for the other 11 months of the year). Mary, a young record store employee with questionable mental health, finds herself in the bloodsucker's sights. Will she escape the eternal night of Dracula 2000 (aka Dracula 2001 aka Wes Craven Presents Dracula 2000)?
     In ancient Egypt, the gods lived among mortals. After a thousand years, Osiris decides it is time to step down and hand his crown to his son, Horus. This decision doesn't sit well with his brother, Set. So Set takes the opportunity to seize power and remake the world to his liking. Can Horus and a tiny human thief stop the god of deserts and storms before he destroys all Gods of Egypt?
     During a home invasion Clyde Shelton is forced to watch his wife and daughter be raped and murdered. When Nick Rice, star of the DA's office, decides to make a deal with the perpetrator, despite there being the most ridiculous mountain of evidence possible, rather than try the easiest career making case of all time. A decade later, the two men find themselves on a collusion course as one tries to bring down the system and the other tries desperately to bring him down. Can Nick and the system he venerates triumph over this Law Abiding Citizen?
     The sudden death and funeral for the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom is really part of a massive plan to kill the leaders of every G7 nation. After the initial attack only the President of the United States is left alive and wondering the terrorist infested streets of a completely disconnected English capital with just his super secret service agent, Mike Banning. With enemies hunting them on every block and kilometers between them and rescue, how long can they survive now that London Has Fallen?
     All that and Kevin gets his new horror on, Dave objects, Craig considers new liquid receptacles, and Tyler has his eye on some new skate trucks. Join us, won't you?

    Episode 358- The Butler Did It


Saturday, April 20, 2024

Low Stakes Horror

     This week- a classic gothic horror from England and a, uh, different type of classic for a very dedicated type of audience.
     In 1885, self proclaimed librarian Jonathan Harker arrives take charge of some books at a lonely castle. Mr. Harker didn't tell anyone that his real job is vampire hunter and the noble whose books he used as cover is named Dracula. Things don't work out as planned and soon Dr. Van Helsing goes to find Harker while Dracula goes to find Harker's friends in England. Hammer's first entry in it's take on Bram Stoker's fangy fiend, Dracula (aka Horror of Dracula).
     In 1995, a shlub whose barely holding on to his job taking family portraits finds himself being called to be a hero. When he and five others are trapped inside a building by a mischievous spirit from the distant past. Will our shutterbug step up or will the sun rise on the building only inhabited by the dead? The middle entry in Donald G Jackson's puppet trilogy starring Joe Estevez and Conrad Brooks, Baby Ghost.
     All that and... three of us fall into unrelenting cinematic despair while Craig cackles from his hidden fortress's throne room. Join us, won't you?

    Episode 357- Low Stakes Horror



Saturday, April 13, 2024

Rented by the Hour

     This week- a pair of films adapted from the stage.

     1931, Berlin, while finishing his doctorate a British academic, Brian Roberts, takes residence in a boarding house. Finding his room is too small to teach English lessons, which he must to survive, Brian strikes up a friendship with his neighbor, Sally Bowles, a performer at the Kit Kat Klub. Soon Brian finds himself caught up in her bohemian lifestyle. One of the first films to be rated X with fiendishly catchy songs, strong performances, plenty of thought-provoking subtly under the bawdy exterior, and possibly Bob Fosse's most enduring and still relevant work- Cabaret.
     Liz is a street prostitute who is weary of her life and desperate to escape her pimp. As she wonders the late night streets of LA, Liz directly tells the audience of her history, from her youth to the current moment, and why she keeps going. Based on a monologue play, one of the first to be given a NC-17 rating in the US, anchored by a strong lead performance and strong visuals. Ken Russell's satirical drama tries to bring pathos and humanity to the world's oldest profession, Whore.
     All that and Dave finds his memory slipping, Craig discovers pain in the ring, Kevin gets classy again, and Tyler plots to ensure there are no flawless victories. Join us, won't you?
    Episode 356- Rented by the Hour


Saturday, April 6, 2024

Neeps & Tatties

     This week- a pair of films that ask "when is justice served and what is permissible when it isn't?"

     Shady businessman Daniel Emerson has his partners, and lifelong lackeys. give him an alibi during his trial for raping pianist Gaily Morton which result in his acquittal. Horrified and overwhelmed by the verdict, Gaily takes her own life. Before long each of the false witnesses have fateful encounters with gorgeous women that end in murder and a former courtroom artist tries to figure out just who is behind this revenge of Steel and Lace.
     In the late 1970s, a notoriously vicious loan shark enforcer with a history of roughing up debtor's families, Nickie Dryden, is arrested by Detective Keltie. Twenty years later, Nickie is out of prison, has published a successful memoir, is happily married to a journalist, and has become the Scottish art world's most popular sculptor. The night of Nickie's newest exhibit, Detective Keltie steps forward to remind the audience just who Nickie was and what he has done. Soon the two men find themselves in an escalating conflict where one wants to believe he has changed and the other wants to ensure the sins are never settled from his time as The Debt Collector.
     All that and Dave denies his short term memory issues, Tyler makes the hard choice, Craig keeps someone locked out, and Kevin might be snoring oh so lightly in the background. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 355- Neeps & Tatties


Saturday, March 30, 2024

Donner Party

     This week we talk about four films from a master of mayhem who spent two decades setting the bar across multiple genres.

     When his biological child dies immediately after birth, diplomat Robert Thorne is persuaded to secretly adopt a child whose mother died giving birth. Keeping the switch a secret from all, even his wife, the Thornes spends five idyllic years together. When Robert is promoted and sent to England, strange event begin to pile up which eventually lead to one terrifying conclusion... A horror classic with a powerhouse cast, The Omen.
     The lone survivor of catastrophic end of Krypton is sent hurtling through the stars to a still developing backwater world filled with potential.  Taken in by a farming couple in Kansas, the survivor discovers incredible powers as he grows up. Tasked with guiding the planet to their best destiny by his biological parents, raised with empathy and strong morals to guide by his adopted parents, the refugee introduces himself to the world. The film that made the world believe a man could fly, Superman.
     Martin Riggs has dropped his crazy act to embrace just being a cruel piece of shit. Roger Murtaugh has been too old for this shit so long that he has made his daughter scared to be open about her life. When they stumble on a human trafficking ring, smuggling people from China to LA, they once again find their lives in about average for them danger. The final entry in a beloved action franchise, Lethal Weapon 4.
     An archeological expedition in France find the glasses of its missing leader in an underground room that hasn't been opened in over six hundred years. Three of the young researchers and the head archeologist's brain damaged son soon find themselves being hurtled through time in a desperate rescue mission. Based on the novel by genre master Michael Crichton that was either cut too heavily or not heavily enough, depending on who you ask, Timeline.
     All that and Dave raises a large monkey, Tyler tries bouncing in the Keys, Kevin remembers his tragic MMA past, and Craig has intestinal issues. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 354- Donner Party


Saturday, March 23, 2024

Lurid Courtship

     This week- a pair of films with unexpectedly exciting visits to boring people's vacation homes.

     When Mia first sees Frida it is love at first sight. Tragically, that won't be an easy revelation as both of them are in long term monogamous relationships and their parents are engaged to each other. When they are the first to arrive at a family weekend, long silent stares give way to indiscretion. Can these women return to their daily lives or have they ignited the flames of undying cyberstalking passion in their hearts? What pain and joy can come With Every Heartbeat (aka Kiss Me, original title Kyss mig).
     Mickey King writes trashy thrillers, often under equally pervy pseudonyms. When a rich anonymous fan offers him a lot of money to ghostwrite an autobiography, Mickey finds himself neck deep in trouble. With a new corpse around every corner and an assassin with a penchant for costumes on his heels, can Mickey discover the truth or will his life end like one of his novels? Mike Hodges second feature film, Pulp.
     All that and Kevin leads a group of plucky squirrels in tense war against a vicious gang of girl guides. Join us, won't you?
   Episode 353- Lurid Courtship