Welcome back to the AKAPAD Film Buff Podcast! Fridays are dedicated to independent cinema, and it doesn’t get more indie than the Shudder exclusive The Surrender—a bold film showcasing a breakout star and a visionary director.

Steven Soderbergh may be one of the greatest filmmakers the industry has ever seen. In contrast to the high-octane excitement of Mission: Impossible, AKAPAD The Film Buff explores a compelling spy movie alternative that feels as polished as its big-budget counterparts. AKAPAD The Film Buff delves into Soderbergh’s illustrious career, highlighting how a single pivotal scene can define an entire film.

Today, AKAPAD The Film Buff achieves the impossible in his review of Mission: Impossible III, the third film in the iconic franchise. He passionately argues that this movie stands as the greatest series reboot of all time, highlighting the masterful storytelling of writer-director J.J. Abrams and the electrifying opening sequence that sets the tone for an unforgettable thrill ride.

The Film Buff is furious! The Last Showgirl embodies the essence of exceptional filmmaking, yet the Academy Awards snubbed it entirely. Pamela Anderson delivered a career-defining performance worthy of an Oscar, and Jamie Lee Curtis shone brilliantly as her co-star. Tragically, their remarkable work was overlooked, failing to keep pace with the global acclaim it deserved.

On rare occasions, AKAPAD The Film Buff has been known to abandon a film before finishing it, and recently, Mickey 17, unavailable on HBO Max, joined that list. In today’s episode, Peter discusses the illustrious career of writer-director Bong Joon-ho, explores Robert Pattinson’s potential Oscar-worthy performance, and reveals why he immediately disconnected from the movie after just one scene.

Those who brought us Mickey 17

Cast:

Robert Pattinson – Mickey Barnes (Mickey 17/Mickey 18)

Naomi Ackie – Nasha

Steven Yeun – Timo

Mark Ruffalo – Kenneth Marshall

Toni Collette – Ylfa

Anamaria Vartolomei – Kai Katz

Daniel Henshall – Preston

Patsy Ferran – Dorothy

Michael Monroe – Matthew

Cameron Britton – Arkady

Christian Patterson – Chainsaw Guy

Lloyd Hutchinson – Underboss

Samuel Blenkin – Delinquent Borrower

Ian Hanmore – Darius Blank

Sabet Choudhury – News Reporter

Tim Key – Pigeon Man

Rose Shalloo – The Supporter

Steve Park – (Role not specified)

Holliday Grainger – (Role not specified)

Angus Imrie – (Role not specified)

Thomas Turgoose – (Role not specified)

Edward Davis – (Role not specified)

Bronwyn James – (Role not specified)

Milo James – (Role not specified)

Jude Mack – (Role not specified)

Sam Woodhams – (Role not specified)

Kayla Meikle – (Role not specified)

Haydn Gwynne – (Role not specified)

Theo Ogundipe – (Role not specified)

Jamila Wingett – (Role not specified)

Spike White – (Role not specified)

Afolabi Alli – (Role not specified)

Anna Mouglalis – (Role not specified)

Laura Mickiewicz – (Role not specified)

Chris Straessle – (Role not specified)

Jason Knox-Johnston – (Role not specified)

Christine Lois – (Role not specified)

Chelsea Davison – (Role not specified)

Paul Savulescu – (Role not specified)

Jan Gronczewski – (Role not specified)

Christine Neumann – (Role not specified)

Saado Abou-Khazaal – (Role not specified)

Crew:

Bong Joon-ho – Director, Writer, Producer

Edward Ashton – Writer (based on the novel Mickey7 by)

Darius Khondji – Cinematographer

Fiona Crombie – Production Designer

Jang Hee-chul – Creature Designer (Creepers)

Dan Glass – Visual Effects

Chris McLaughlin – Visual Effects

The Thin Red Line: A Masterpiece Explored by Peter A. DeLuca

For Memorial Day 2025, film enthusiast Peter A. DeLuca, known as AKAPAD The Film Buff, reflects on what he considers the greatest war movie of all time: The Thin Red Line (1998). Directed by Terrence Malick, this cinematic gem stands out for its profound exploration of war, humanity, and sacrifice. DeLuca delves into the historical context of the film, its competitive landscape during its release, and its enduring significance.

Set against the backdrop of the Battle of Guadalcanal in World War II, The Thin Red Line transcends traditional war narratives with its philosophical depth and poetic visuals. DeLuca highlights how the film’s release alongside other 1998 war epics, like Saving Private Ryan, sparked debates among critics and audiences. Yet, its introspective storytelling and stellar ensemble cast cemented its legacy.

For history buffs and cinephiles alike, The Thin Red Line remains a vital work, offering timeless insights into the human cost of conflict. DeLuca’s passion for this masterpiece underscores why it continues to resonate, making it a fitting tribute for Memorial Day reflection.

On a hectic, rainy day in Philadelphia, I made a dedicated trek to the theater to bring you a review of Mission: Impossible – Final Reckoning, the thrilling conclusion to Tom Cruise's Ethan Hunt saga. This film serves as a direct sequel to the original 1996 Mission: Impossible, delivering a nostalgic yet explosive finale.

Today, The Film Buff guides you through the 2021 Amazon Studios film The Tomorrow War, which may be the most straightforward and logically consistent time-travel movie ever made.

In 2000, Tom Cruise propelled Mission: Impossible into uncharted territory, transforming it into what would become the ultimate showcase for visionary directors. It all began with this film, directed by John Woo, setting the stage for an iconic franchise.

Today, AKAPAD The Film Buff explores a rare cinematic achievement: a director remaking his own film. In this limited but fascinating category, Peter delves into the career of John Woo, examining the impact of his work and questioning why this particular remake didn't garner a larger release.