The Mechanics of the Perfect Score
Join film scholars Luka Arsenjuk and Tim Palmer with host Andy Nelson for an exciting exploration of heist films. From meticulous planning to dramatic execution, this subgenre has captivated audiences for decades with its clever schemes, charismatic criminals, and intricate plots.

The conversation delves into what defines a heist film, from assembling specialized teams and detailed planning to the tension-filled execution and often devastating aftermath. The guests examine how elements like technology, professionalism, and the relationship between individualism and collective action shape these stories of elaborate robberies.

Ten Essential Heist Films Through the Decades
The discussion covers ten landmark films: The Asphalt Jungle (1950), Rififi (1955), The Killing (1956), Bob le Flambeur (1956), Le Cercle Rouge (1970), The Taking of Pelham 123 (1974), Thief (1981), Ocean's Eleven (2001), Inside Man (2006), and Widows (2018). The public episode explores five of these classics – The Asphalt Jungle, Le Cercle Rouge, Thief, Ocean's Eleven, and Widows – while members can enjoy analysis of all ten films.

A Genre That Keeps Evolving
Though heist films emerged from crime film and film noir roots in the 1950s, they continue to evolve and reinvent themselves. The episode concludes by examining how modern filmmakers incorporate social commentary and diverse perspectives while maintaining the core thrills that make these criminal capers so compelling.

Want to hear complete conversations like this every month? Join Cinema Scope at trustory.fm/join for just $5/month or $55/year. Members get early, ad-free access to all podcasts in The Next Reel family, plus exclusive bonus content and extended episodes.

🎬 Deep Dive

• 👤 Meet Luka Arsenjuk: University of Maryland, Cinema & Media Studies | Website
• 👤 Meet Tim Palmer: University of Utah, Chair: College of Fine Arts | Film Matters Magazine | Wikipedia | Website
• 🎥 Full Discussion on YouTube
• 🍿 Essential Films:
  • The Asphalt Jungle - Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd
  • Le Cercle Rouge - Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd
  • Thief - Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd
  • Ocean’s Eleven - Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd
  • Widows - Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd
• ☑️ Charles Kunken’s 16 Conventions of Heist Films
• 📋 View Our Full List on Letterboxd
• 🎞️ More to Explore: Luka Arsenjuk's Recommended Films
• 🎞️ More to Explore: Tim Palmer’s Recommended Films

Support The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:

• Become a member for just $5/month or $55/year
• Join our Discord community of movie lovers

The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:

• Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and Movements
• The Film Board
• Movies We Like
• The Next Reel Film Podcast
• Sitting in the Dark

Connect With Us:

• Main Site: Web
• Movie Platforms: Letterboxd | Flickchart
• Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | Pinterest
• Your Hosts: Andy

Shop & Stream:

• Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & more
• Watch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussed
• Originals: Source material from our episodes
• Special offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

In the turbulent landscape of 1970s India, a powerful cinematic movement emerged that would forever change the face of Bollywood—the Angry Young Man. This episode of Cinema Scope delves deep into this revolutionary movement through the lens of its most iconic star, Amitabh Bachchan, whose commanding presence and intense performances defined an era of Indian cinema.

Andy Nelson welcomes distinguished film archivist and director Shivendra Singh Dungarpur to explore how the Angry Young Man movement captured the zeitgeist of a nation grappling with social inequality, political upheaval, and economic struggles. Through detailed analysis of landmark films like Zanjeer, Deewaar, and Trishul, they uncover how these stories resonated deeply with audiences by giving voice to their frustrations and hopes.

The Evolution of India's Angry Young Man
The discussion traces how the movement evolved from Bachchan's breakthrough role in Zanjeer (1973) to more complex character studies in films like Kaala Patthar and Shakti. Members can enjoy bonus coverage of three additional classics: Mili, Don, and Muqaddar Ka Sikandar. Dungarpur shares fascinating behind-the-scenes insights about the creation of these films and their lasting impact on Indian cinema.

The episode particularly highlights the contributions of writing duo Salim-Javed, who crafted many of the movement's most memorable characters and dialogues. Furthermore, it examines how the Angry Young Man archetype reflected broader social changes while establishing Bachchan as one of India's most beloved cultural icons.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Indian cinema or newly curious about this influential movement, this episode offers an illuminating look at how the Angry Young Man movement captured the spirit of its time while creating an enduring legacy that continues to influence filmmakers today.

🎬 Deep Dive

• 👤 Meet Shivendra Singh Dungarpur: Filmmaker, Archivist, and Director, Film Heritage Foundation | Web, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn
• 🍿 Essential Films:
  • Zanjeer - Amazon | Letterboxd
  • Deewaar - Amazon | Letterboxd
  • Trishul - Amazon | Letterboxd
  • Kaala Patthar - Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd
  • Shakti - Amazon | Letterboxd
• 📋 View Our Full List on Letterboxd
• 🎞️ More to Explore: Shivendra's Recommended Films

• (00:00) - Welcome to Cinema Scope • India's Angry Young Man
• (02:13) - The Draw to Amitabh Bachchan
• (04:49) - How It Started
• (08:00) - India’s Society at That Time
• (12:08) - Around the World
• (13:26) - Different Genres and Different Dimensions
• (15:33) - Its Evolution
• (23:00) - Key Directors
• (28:18) - Other Actors
• (31:47) - Importance of the Scripts and Dialogue
• (38:14) - Writers
• (40:33) - Key Components
• (42:29) - Masala Films?
• (46:37) - The Films
• (47:28) - Zanjeer
• (57:26) - Deewaar
• (01:06:19) - Trishul
• (01:11:42) - Kaala Patthar
• (01:17:42) - Shakti
• (01:28:04) - Wrap Up

Support The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:

• Become a member for just $5/month or $55/year
• Join our Discord community of movie lovers

The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:

• Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and Movements
• The Film Board
• Movies We Like
• The Next Reel Film Podcast
• Sitting in the Dark

Connect With Us:

• Main Site: Web
• Movie Platforms: Letterboxd | Flickchart
• Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Bluesky | YouTube | Pinterest
• Your Hosts: Andy

Shop & Stream:

• Merch Store: Apparel, stickers, mugs & more
• Watch Page: Buy/rent films we've discussed
• Originals: Source material from our episodes
• Special offers: Letterboxd Pro/Patron discount | Audible

In this spine-chilling episode of Cinema Scope, Andy Nelson is joined by Lindsay Nelson, an expert in Japanese horror and popular culture, and Dr. Colette Balmain, a specialist in East Asian cinema and cultures, to take listeners on a deep dive into the eerie world of J-horror. Together, they unravel the origins, evolution, and lasting impact of this captivating subgenre known for its atmospheric scares, vengeful spirits, and haunting visuals that have enthralled audiences worldwide.

Starting with the 1988 film Psychic Vision: Jaganrei, an early representation of the subgenre, the episode traces the rise of J-horror through a carefully curated selection of 10 iconic films. From the groundbreaking Ringu and the unsettling Audition to the technophobic terrors of Pulse and the cursed house horrors of Ju-on: The Grudge, Andy and his guests explore the main pillars of J-horror. For members, the conversation delves even deeper, discussing lesser-known gems like the found footage nightmare Noroi: The Curse, the psychological thriller The Inerasable, the dark consequences of domestic abuse in Under Your Bed, the surreal exploration of grief in New Religion, and the haunting tale of societal pressures in Best Wishes to All.

Throughout the discussion, Lindsay and Colette shed light on the cultural specificity of J-horror, its roots in Japanese folklore, and its reflection of modern anxieties in Japanese society. They also examine the subgenre's distinct aesthetics, slow-burn pacing, and psychological depth, which set it apart from its Western counterparts.

Moreover, the episode touches upon the challenges of translating J-horror for international audiences, the representation of gender roles in the subgenre, and the evolving landscape of Japanese horror in the face of changing media consumption habits.

In conclusion, this episode of Cinema Scope offers a fascinating and comprehensive exploration of J-horror, a subgenre that continues to captivate and terrify audiences around the world. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, this insightful discussion will deepen your appreciation for the rich history and enduring legacy of Japanese horror cinema. So, dim the lights, grab your favorite lucky charm, and join Andy, Lindsay, and Colette on this chilling journey through the realm of J-horror.

🎬 Deep Dive

• 👤 Meet Dr. Colette Balmain: Web | Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram | Threads
• 👤 Meet Lindsay Nelson: Web | Instagram | Bluesky
• 🎥 Check out Fake Documentary “Q” on YouTube
• 🎥 Check out ZOZOZO on YouTube
• 🎥 Check out Uketsu on YouTube
• Check out Strange Houses and Strange Pictures on Amazon
• 🎥 Full Discussion with Lindsay on YouTube
• 🎥 Full Discussion with Colette on YouTube
• 🍿 Essential Films:
  • Psychic Vision: Jaganrei - Letterboxd
  • Ringu - Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd
  • Audition - Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd
  • Pulse - Apple TV | Amazon | Letterboxd
  • Ju-on: The Grudge - Amazon | Letterboxd
• 📋 View Our Full List on Letterboxd
• 🎞️ More to Explore
  • Colette's Recommended Films
  • Lindsay's Recommended Films

• (00:00) - Welcome to Cinema Scope • J-Horror
• (01:18) - Meet the Guests
• (06:16) - Why Discuss J-Horror?
• (12:18) - Storytelling Approach
• (15:34) - Reflective of Japan at the Time
• (22:11) - Roots of Japanese Horror
• (32:30) - Japanese Horror vs. J-Horror
• (34:50) - J-Horror in the 1990s
• (40:57) - Themes of the Time
• (44:06) - Technology
• (47:45) - Ad: Break
• (48:01) - Key Characteristics
• (01:11:27) - The Films
• (01:13:00) - Psychic Vision: Jaganrei
• (01:24:32) - Ringu
• (01:36:24) - Audition
• (01:43:31) - Pulse
• (01:50:31) - Ju-on: The Grudge
• (02:01:28) - Ad: Break
• (02:01:45) - Evolution and Legacy
• (02:11:04) - Issues and Things to Consider
• (02:18:35) - J-Horror’s Future
• (02:21:01) - Wrap Up

Support The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:

• Become a member for just $5/month or $55/year
• Join our Discord community of movie lovers

The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:

• Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and Movements
• The Film Board
• Movies We Like
• The Next Reel Film Podcast
• Sitting in the Dark

Connect With Us:

• Main Site: Web
• Movie Platforms: Letterboxd | Flickchart

Grab your camera and brace yourself as host Andy Nelson and guest Ryan Verrill dive headfirst into the spine-chilling world of found footage horror—a subgenre that transformed home videos into nightmares and made us forever suspicious of that sound coming from the basement.
The Evolution of Found Footage Horror
From the shocking cultural impact of The Blair Witch Project to the controversial origins in Cannibal Holocaust, this episode unravels how amateur-style filmmaking became horror's most immersive format. The conversation explores how these films tap into our primal fears by making the impossible feel frighteningly real, all while working with shoestring budgets and creative constraints.
When Technology Becomes Terror
Through deep-dive discussions of genre-defining films like [REC], Paranormal Activity, and Cloverfield, Andy and Ryan examine how found footage horror evolved alongside our changing relationship with technology. Whether it's surveillance cameras capturing supernatural entities or handheld cameras documenting monster attacks, these films transform our everyday devices into windows to the unknown.
The terror doesn't stop there! Members get access to an extended conversation exploring five more groundbreaking found footage horror films: Lake Mungo, The Visit, Hell House LLC, Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum, and Host. This bonus segment delves into how the subgenre continues to innovate and terrify in the digital age.
Don't miss this haunting exploration of how found footage horror makes us question everything we see through our screens. Just remember—sometimes the most terrifying thing isn't what's on camera, but what happens when the camera stops rolling.
Visit trustory.fm/join to become a member and access the full conversation.

Film Sundries

• Check out Sitting in the Dark’s episode Filtered Reality: Found Footage, Screenlife, and the Epistolary Tradition
• Check out Movies We Like’s episode Actor Patrick Fabian on The Man Who Would Be King
• Find Ryan on his website, Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, YouTube, and Patreon
• Check out Ryan’s podcasts
• Check out The Physical Media Advocate
• Watch our conversation on YouTube!
• Recommended and Discussed Movies
• • Cannibal Holocaust on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
  • The Blair Witch Project on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
  • [REC] on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
  • Paranormal Activity on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
  • Cloverfield on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
  • Lake Mungo on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
  • The Visit on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
  • Hell House LLC on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
  • Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
  • Host on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
• Our Letterboxd List

Join host Andy Nelson and Boston Globe film critic Odie Henderson for an electrifying exploration of Blaxploitation cinema, a revolutionary film movement that burst onto screens in the early 1970s. From its groundbreaking portrayal of Black heroes to its unforgettable soundtracks, this episode dives deep into how Blaxploitation challenged Hollywood's status quo and left an indelible mark on American cinema.
The Birth and Impact of Blaxploitation
Through detailed discussion of seminal films like Sweet Sweetback's Baadassss Song, Shaft, and Super Fly, Henderson illuminates how these movies created unprecedented opportunities for Black talent both in front of and behind the camera. The conversation explores how Gordon Parks Jr., Melvin Van Peebles, and other pioneering filmmakers crafted a new visual and narrative language that continues to influence cinema today.
Iconic Performances and Soundtracks
The episode highlights how stars like Pam Grier in Coffy and Max Julien in The Mack redefined Black representation on screen, while legendary musicians like Curtis Mayfield and Isaac Hayes created soundtracks that became cultural touchstones. In the member bonus segment, we discuss five additional influential films: Cotton Comes to Harlem, Blacula, Black Caesar, The Spook Who Sat by the Door, and Cornbread, Earl and Me, along with listener questions.
Though the movement's peak was brief, its impact on American cinema and popular culture remains profound. Henderson shares insights from his book Black Caesars and Foxy Cleopatras: A History of Blaxploitation Cinema, offering a thoughtful examination of both the movement's achievements and its controversies. Through engaging storytelling and expert analysis, this episode celebrates how Blaxploitation forever changed the landscape of American film.

Film Sundries

• Watch this episode on YouTube
• Read Odie Henderson’s reviews at The Boston Globe
• Find Odie on LinkedIn, Instagram and BlueSky
• Check out Odie’s book Black Caesars and Foxy Cleopatras: A History of Blaxploitation Cinema
• Recommended and Discussed Movies
• • Sweet Sweetback’s Baadassss Song on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
  • Shaft on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
  • Super Fly on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
  • Coffy on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
  • The Mack on the web and Letterboxd
  • Cotton Comes to Harlem on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
  • Blacula on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
  • The Spook Who Sat by the Door on YouTube and Letterboxd
  • Black Caesar on Apple, Amazon, and Letterboxd
  • Cornbread, Earl and Me on YouTube and Letterboxd
• Our Letterboxd List
• Watch Bill Duke talk about The Spook Who Sat by the Door on Trailers from Hell

Embark on a cinematic journey through the Iranian New Wave, a revolutionary movement that transformed Iranian cinema and captivated global audiences. In this episode of Cinema Scope, host Andy Nelson welcomes Kaveh Askari, associate professor and director of the Film Studies Program at Michigan State University, to explore this groundbreaking era of filmmaking.
The Evolution of Iranian New Wave Cinema
From its roots in the 1960s through the post-revolution era, the Iranian New Wave challenged traditional storytelling while focusing on the lives of ordinary people. Through a combination of realism, social commentary, and artistic innovation, these films created a unique cinematic language that resonated worldwide. The movement bridged pre- and post-revolution Iran, adapting to changing social landscapes while maintaining its distinctive artistic vision.
Five Essential Iranian New Wave Films
The conversation explores five significant works: The House is Black (1962), The Brick and the Mirror (1965), The Cow (1969), Taste of Cherry (1997), and At Five in the Afternoon (2003). Each film demonstrates different aspects of the movement, from poetic documentaries to neorealist dramas and meta-cinematic explorations. Members can enjoy an extended discussion of five additional films: Bashu, the Little Stranger (1989); A Moment of Innocence (1996); Children of Heaven (1997); Tales (2014); and Taxi (2015).
Legacy and Preservation
The Iranian New Wave presents unique challenges in preservation and accessibility today. However, the movement's emphasis on authentic storytelling, visual poetry, and social consciousness has secured its place in cinema history. Through careful analysis of these groundbreaking films, we discover how Iranian New Wave cinema revolutionized not just Iranian filmmaking, but the global art house scene as well.
Join us for this fascinating exploration of one of cinema's most influential movements, and discover how these pioneering filmmakers found beauty and meaning in the everyday lives of ordinary people.

Film Sundries

• Watch our conversation on YouTube!
• Check out Kaveh Askari’s books:
• • Relaying Cinema in Midcentury Iran
  • Making Movies Into Art
• Recommended and Discussed Movies
• • The House Is Black on JustWatch
  • The Brick and the Mirror on JustWatch
  • The Cow on YouTube and JustWatch
  • Bashu, the Little Stranger on YouTube and Amazon
  • Taste of Cherry on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • A Moment of Innocence on YouTube, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • Children of Heaven on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • At Five in the Afternoon on Amazon and YouTube
  • Tales on JustWatch
  • Taxi on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
• Our Letterboxd List

Join Andy Nelson and screenwriter and podcast host Adam "Tex" Davis on a laughter-filled journey through the evolution of comedy in cinema. From silent-era slapstick to modern genre-bending masterpieces, this episode explores how comedy has entertained audiences while serving as a powerful tool for social commentary across decades of filmmaking.
The Evolution of Comedy in Film History
Beginning with early works like The Sprinkler Sprinkled, the episode traces comedy's development through silent legends like Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton. The conversation then moves through screwball classics like It Happened One Night, dark comedies such as Harold and Maude, and groundbreaking satires including Blazing Saddles and Dr. Strangelove. Davis, who wrote Just Friends, offers unique insights into how comedy writing and audience reception have evolved over time.
Breaking Boundaries Through Laughter
The discussion examines how filmmakers have used comedy to push societal boundaries and address serious issues. From Mel Brooks tackling racism to the Coen Brothers blending genres, comedy has proven to be a versatile medium for both entertainment and commentary. Additionally, the episode explores how different comedy styles – from slapstick to satire, parody to romantic comedy – reflect changing cultural attitudes and values.
Looking toward comedy's future, Davis emphasizes the importance of "punching up" rather than down, suggesting that successful comedy relies more on honest storytelling and well-developed characters than outrageous premises. Whether examining classics like The Graduate or modern hits like Everything Everywhere All at Once, this episode offers valuable insights into why comedy remains an essential and enduring force in cinema.
Film Sundries

• Find Adam at Atomic Entertainment, on BlueSky, or LinkedIn
• Tune in to The OSCARS: What Were They Thinking?
• Tune in to Slaycation
• Tune in to Who Smarted?
• Our Letterboxd List

no member bonus content this month

In this special bonus episode of CinemaScope, host Andy Nelson continues his exploration of screwball comedies with film scholar Grégoire Halbout, author of Hollywood Screwball Comedy, 1934-1945: Sex, Love, and Democratic Ideals. Together, they dive deep into seven lesser-known gems of the genre that showcase the evolution and versatility of screwball comedy during its golden age.
Essential Screwball Comedies You Might Have Missed
The episode spotlights seven delightful films that deserve more attention: Elliott Nugent's Three-Cornered Moon (1933), Tay Garnett's Love is News (1937), George Stevens' Vivacious Lady (1938), Mitchell Leisen's Midnight (1939), Wesley Ruggles' Too Many Husbands (1940), Jack Conway's Love Crazy (1941), and Alfred Hitchcock's rare foray into the genre, Mr. and Mrs. Smith (1941).
The Evolution of Screwball Comedy Through Seven Films
From the proto-screwball elements of Three-Cornered Moon to the genre-defining characteristics of Midnight, these films demonstrate how screwball comedy challenged social norms and redefined marriage on screen. The conversation explores how each film contributes uniquely to the genre, whether through its treatment of class differences, gender roles, or marital relationships. Additionally, Halbout provides fascinating insights into how these comedies navigated the strict Production Code while pushing boundaries with clever innuendo and subversive themes.
Through their discussion, Nelson and Halbout reveal how these seven films, though less celebrated than classics like It Happened One Night or Bringing Up Baby, exemplify the wit, charm, and social commentary that made screwball comedy such an influential genre. The episode offers both newcomers and fans of classic Hollywood a deeper appreciation for these overlooked treasures.
Film Sundries

• Buy Grégoire Halbout’s book Hollywood Screwball Comedy 1934-1945: Sex, Love, and Democratic Ideals
• Find Grégoire on LinkedIn or Bluesky
• Email Grégoire
• Recommended and Discussed Movies
• • Three-Cornered Moon on the web
  • Love Is News on YouTube and JustWatch
  • Vivacious Lady on the web and JustWatch
  • Midnight on the web and JustWatch
  • Too Many Husbands on YouTube and JustWatch
  • Love Crazy on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • Mr. & Mrs. Smith on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
• Our Letterboxd List

Join distinguished professor, film expert, and author Wes Gehring along with host Andy Nelson for a special extended episode exploring the delightful world of screwball comedy. In this unique presentation, listeners get access to the complete conversation typically split between public and member segments, covering ten essential films from this beloved subgenre that emerged during Hollywood's Golden Age.
The Essential Elements of Screwball Comedy
The discussion explores what defines screwball comedy, from rapid-fire dialogue and class conflicts to eccentric heiresses and befuddled leading men. Gehring explains how the Hays Code shaped the genre's signature wit and innuendo, while Depression-era audiences' desire for escapism led to lavish settings and wealthy characters.
Ten Classic and Modern Screwball Comedies
Andy and Wes analyze ten films spanning several decades: It Happened One Night (1934), My Man Godfrey (1936), Bringing Up Baby (1938), My Favorite Wife (1940), The Lady Eve (1941), I Married a Witch (1942), What's Up, Doc? (1972), Arthur (1981), All of Me (1984), and A Fish Called Wanda (1988). They explore how directors like Howard Hawks, Preston Sturges, and Peter Bogdanovich each brought their unique vision to the genre while maintaining its core elements.
The Legacy Lives On
Though screwball comedy peaked in the 1930s and early 1940s, its influence extends far beyond that era. The episode concludes by examining how modern filmmakers continue to draw from the genre's playbook, while acknowledging both its progressive elements and dated aspects.
Want to hear complete conversations like this every month? Join Cinema Scope at trustory.fm/join for just $5/month or $55/year. Members get early, ad-free access to all podcasts in The Next Reel family, plus exclusive bonus content and extended episodes.

Film Sundries

• Find Wes Gehring on his website
• Recommended and Discussed Movies
• • It Happened One Night on Apple and JustWatch
  • My Man Godfrey on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • Bringing Up Baby on Apple and JustWatch
  • My Favorite Wife on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • The Lady Eve on Apple and JustWatch
  • I Married a Witch on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • What’s Up, Doc? on Apple and JustWatch
  • Arthur on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • All of Me on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • A Fish Called Wanda on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
• Our Letterboxd List

Discover the wild world of remakesploitation, where filmmakers boldly reimagined Hollywood hits with local flair and creative liberties. In this episode of Cinema Scope, host Andy Nelson welcomes Dr. Iain Robert Smith, author of The Hollywood Meme, to explore this fascinating film movement that flourished from the 1950s through the 1980s.
Turkish Cinema's Creative Adaptations
The episode focuses on five remarkable Turkish remakes: Fistik Gibi (based on Some Like It Hot), Tourist Omer in Star Trek, Three Giant Men (featuring Spider-Man as a villain fighting Captain America and Santo), Seytan (their version of The Exorcist), and the infamous The Man Who Saves the World (better known as Turkish Star Wars). Each film demonstrates how Turkish filmmakers balanced faithful adaptation with local cultural elements, often on limited budgets but with boundless creativity.
Global Remakesploitation Phenomenon
Members get exclusive access to discussions of five additional films from around the world: James Batman (Philippines), La Mujer Murcielago (Bat-Woman, Mexico), Lady Terminator (Indonesia), Shocking Dark (Italy), and Mahakaal (India's take on A Nightmare on Elm Street). Dr. Smith explains how these unauthorized adaptations reflect each country's unique approach to Hollywood properties.
Though remakesploitation's heyday has passed due to strengthening global copyright laws, these films offer fascinating insights into cultural exchange and creative adaptation. Many survive only through restoration efforts by scholars like Dr. Smith, who continues working to preserve and share these unique pieces of cinema history. Whether you're a film buff or simply curious about this unauthorized corner of movie history, this episode provides an entertaining deep dive into a truly original film movement.

Film Sundries

• Find Dr. Iain Robert Smith on his website, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and on his university page
• Recommended and Discussed Movies
• • Fıstık Gibi (Turkish Some Like It Hot) on YouTube
  • Turist Ömer Uzay Yolunda (Turkish Star Trek) on YouTube
  • 3 Dev Adam (Turkish Captain America and Spider-Man) on YouTube
  • Şeytan (Turkish The Exorcist) on Amazon and JustWatch
  • Dünyayı Kurtaran Adam (Turkish Star Wars) on Amazon and YouTube
  • James Batman (James Bond meets Batman and Robin in the Philippines) on YouTube
  • The Bat Woman (Mexican Batwoman) on Amazon and JustWatch and YouTube
  • Lady Terminator (Indonesian Terminator) on Amazon
  • Shocking Dark (Italian Aliens and Terminator) on Amazon and JustWatch and YouTube
  • Mahakaal (Bollywood A Nightmare on Elm Street) on Amazon and YouTube
• Check out the Italian Spider-Man remakesploitation spoof
• Our Letterboxd List