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What are the movies we love despite knowing they're not cinematic masterpieces? When the critics pan a film that you can't stop rewatching, should you feel guilty about your enjoyment?

In this deeply personal episode, we reunite as a full trio to dive into the concept of "guilty pleasures" in film - those movies we return to time and again despite (or perhaps because of) their perceived flaws. As Erica returns from her travels, she brings with her this question that reveals more about us as viewers than perhaps any other topic could.

We each approach this challenge differently - Max analyzes the numerical gaps between his ratings and the critical consensus, Alex passionately defends films no one else seems to appreciate, and Erica embraces the nostalgic comforts of childhood favorites. From the shark-filled waters of Deep Blue Sea to the supernatural scares of Annabelle Comes Home, from the teen angst of Twilight to the ghostly romance of Casper, our selections span genres and decades but share one common thread: they matter deeply to us.

The conversation reveals how our most treasured movie experiences often connect to formative moments in our lives. We explore whether a guilty pleasure can transition into legitimate appreciation when critical opinion shifts, whether certain genres are more prone to guilty pleasure status than others, and ultimately, whether we should feel any guilt at all about the films that bring us joy.

What movies do you secretly love despite their reputation? Join us for this confession booth of cinematic loves and discover why the films we're hesitant to recommend might actually be the ones that define us most as movie lovers.

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Every March, Hollywood seems to enter a strange twilight zone – award season is over, summer blockbusters remain months away, and the theatrical landscape becomes a curious mix of studio castoffs and hidden gems. This year proves particularly fascinating as we've witnessed an unprecedented $320 million Netflix disaster alongside genuinely brilliant filmmaking that's struggling to find its audience.

The stark contrast between something like The Electric State – a bloated, CGI-heavy disappointment from the once-celebrated Russo Brothers – and Steven Soderbergh's masterfully crafted spy thriller Black Bag perfectly illustrates the film industry's current identity crisis. While Netflix burns through hundreds of millions for minimal cultural impact, filmmakers like Paul Schrader continue creating thought-provoking character studies like O Canada with a fraction of those resources.

We're particularly excited about Opus, a psychological folk horror that blends elements of Get Out and Midsommar with John Malkovich delivering some of his finest work as an aging pop star. This divisive but mesmerizing directorial debut from Mark Anthony Green represents exactly the kind of original filmmaking that deserves theatrical support. Meanwhile, smaller releases like Borderline demonstrate how even promising premises with talented leads like Samara Weaving can falter without proper development.

What's becoming increasingly clear is that budget size bears little correlation to quality or cultural significance. The most memorable cinematic experiences of the season come from filmmakers with clear vision and artistic purpose rather than those with the deepest pockets. Whether you're planning your next theater visit or deciding what to stream, let quality guide your choices rather than marketing budgets or algorithm recommendations.

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Stepping into the spotlight this week is our very own Max Fosberg, fresh from his graduation at Seattle Film Institute. In this deeply personal conversation, Max opens up about the transformative journey of pursuing film education in his mid-thirties—a decision that initially felt "almost silly" but ultimately proved profoundly rewarding.

The discussion reveals fascinating insights into the practical realities of student filmmaking, where location often dictates creative direction. "I think the first thing that I figured out for each idea was location," Max shares, explaining how his vampire film "Nightstock" grew from having access to a park, while other projects emerged from available spaces like a brewery. This resourcefulness represents the true spirit of independent filmmaking.

Beyond technical skills, Max reflects on how film school reshapes one's relationship with cinema itself. He now studies lighting with particular fascination, noting how flat lighting in CGI-heavy productions often diminishes visual impact compared to the masterful shadow work in classics like Sidney Lumet's "Fail Safe." The conversation explores the vulnerability required when sharing creative work, the collaborative magic of production days, and how acting experiences enhanced his ability to communicate with performers.

Perhaps most moving is Max's recognition that the relationships formed during this journey matter most. From his Film Institute cohort to the broader Seattle film community, these connections have become the true measure of success. "It's not about the movies," he reflects. "It's really about the relationships." As Max prepares for new adventures in Los Angeles, his story serves as powerful inspiration for anyone considering their own creative leap—regardless of when in life that call comes.

What makes a truly successful filmmaker? Listen as we explore how passion, persistence, and people create the foundation for meaningful work in this challenging industry.

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Mickey 17 marks Bong Joon-ho's triumphant return to filmmaking following his historic Oscar sweep with Parasite. The film stars Robert Pattinson as an "expendable" – a human clone repeatedly sent on dangerous missions with his consciousness transferred to a new body after each death. When two versions of Mickey unexpectedly exist simultaneously, the story transforms into something far more complex than its sci-fi premise suggests.

What surprised me most about Mickey 17 was its comedic tone. Rather than the tense thriller the early teasers suggested, Bong delivers a surprisingly daffy, slapstick comedy reminiscent of silent film greats. Pattinson commits fully to this goofier register, creating a character both vulnerable and resilient. Mark Ruffalo shines as a fictitious failed politician leading the colony, channeling elements of current political figures with remarkable precision despite denying any intentional parallels.

The film continues Bong's exploration of class struggle, environmental concerns, and corporate critique – themes present throughout his filmography. However, Mickey 17's narrative structure relies heavily on narration and flashbacks, departing from the linear storytelling that made his previous works so effective. This structural change, combined with ambitious world-building, creates a film that feels occasionally unfocused compared to the tight construction of Parasite or Memories of Murder.

Watching Mickey 17 prompted a complete reexamination of Bong's career, from his debut Barking Dogs Never Bite to his Oscar-winning Parasite. What emerges is a portrait of a filmmaker whose remarkable consistency places him among cinema's contemporary masters. Even when experimenting with new genres or techniques, Bong maintains a distinct voice that seamlessly blends social commentary with genre entertainment. While Mickey 17 may not reach the heights of his greatest achievements, it demonstrates his continued willingness to take creative risks while delivering thought-provoking cinema that challenges and entertains in equal measure.

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This episode dives deep into the aftermath of the 2025 Academy Awards, exploring everything from unexpected wins to emotional acceptance speeches. We discuss the standout moment when *Enora* surprised everyone by taking home the Best Picture award, highlighting the film’s essence in the context of today's rapidly changing film landscape. 

Conan O'Brien's impressive hosting managed to balance comedy with poignant commentary, providing a fresh contrast to prior ceremonies that sometimes feel stuck in their ways. Our discussions include the notable absence of traditional Hollywood stars, focusing instead on celebrating lesser-known talents and independent filmmakers, showcasing their stories on the big stage. 

As we analyze the Academy's evolving relationship with independent cinema, we also touch on audience perceptions and reactions, emphasizing how viewership ratings suggest a hopeful resurgence for the Oscars. Listen in as we also reveal predictions for the future, including which films and artists might make waves in the upcoming Oscars. 

Join us for a lively analysis of the Academy Awards, and don’t forget to subscribe for more insights and exciting discussions in the world of film!

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This episode is charged with excitement as we gear up for the 97th Academy Awards. Join us as we delve into the nominations, dissect predictions, and share a few surprises that could shake up the night! From the stunning performances in “Amelia Perez” to the artistic endeavors reflected in “The Brutalist,” we showcase an array of films vying for the coveted Oscars. Not only do we make our predictions for each category, but we also unpack the deeper themes these films present and how they resonate within today's cultural context. 

Our lively conversation includes sustaining community engagement as we prepare to host a live watch party for the Oscars, encouraging listeners to join in the fun. We also discuss the highly competitive atmosphere surrounding this year’s awards, offering insights into both expected favorites and surprise contenders. With the backdrop of unpredictability, our camaraderie shines through as we share our thoughts and strategies for predicting this year’s winners. Expect a dramatic blend of film analysis, personal insights, and a touch of friendly rivalry as we await the most glamorous night in cinema. 

Tune in for a fun-filled and insightful episode that will undoubtedly resonate with every film enthusiast. Don’t miss out on joining our interactive watch party and sharing your own predictions and thoughts ahead of the big night! Subscribe, share, and get ready for the Oscars!

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What if your favorite Best Picture winner isn't all it's cracked up to be? Join us on a cinematic journey as we, Alex McCauley, Max Fosberg, and Erica Kraus, tackle the formidable task of ranking every Best Picture winner since 2000. With Erica's delightfully unpredictable selections leading the way, prepare for some surprises as we debate the hits and misses of the Oscar world. This episode promises a lively exchange of perspectives, touching on both beloved classics and those films that have seemingly slipped through the cracks of time.

Engage with our spirited re-evaluation of contentious Oscar winners like "Crash" and "Green Book," as we question their lasting impact in a rapidly evolving cinematic landscape. We take a critical lens to "Nomadland" and "Birdman," highlighting the ways these films sparked differing emotional reactions and reflecting on the artistic risks that paid off—or didn't. Whether it's the excitement of "Argo" or the atmospheric intensity of "No Country for Old Men," our conversation dives deep into the elements that make these films both resonate and divide audiences.

Finally, our exploration wouldn't be complete without an analysis of cultural milestones such as "Moonlight" and "Spotlight," shining a light on their enduring significance in film history. We speculate on the future of cinema, pondering over potential 2025 Best Picture contenders like "The Brutalist" and "The Substance." Join us in celebrating the diverse and ever-changing world of film, as we share our hopes for the underdogs and acknowledge the unpredictable nature of the Oscars.

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What if Mark Wahlberg's career choices could be mapped like a roller coaster, with highs and lows that keep audiences on the edge of their seats? Join us for a spirited exploration of Wahlberg's diverse filmography, from standout roles like those in "Boogie Nights" and "The Fighter" to the puzzling choices such as "Planet of the Apes." We dive into the collaborations with directors like David O. Russell and Peter Berg, examining how these partnerships have brought unique flair to his performances. It's a conversation that celebrates Wahlberg's versatility, dissecting why his most recent release, "Flight Risk," might just be another exciting chapter in his storied career.

From Kendrick Lamar's electrifying Super Bowl performance to Tom Cruise's cinematic declarations, we shift gears to ponder the state of the movie industry today. Tackling the proliferation of franchise films, we discuss the desire for fresh narratives amid the franchise fatigue. Using "Jurassic World" and Scarlett Johansson's career choices as talking points, we imagine a cinematic future where dinosaurs roam free of their franchise constraints and audiences are treated to more original storytelling.

As we wrap up, we look at the fascinating intersections of Wahlberg's career in both television and film. With a nod to his role as executive producer on "Entourage," we ponder how this success might have influenced his later projects. We also muse over the potential directions his career could take, whether revisiting action-packed staples or venturing into more nuanced roles. From unexpected casting ideas to humorous references like the iconic "say hello to your mother for me," it's a light-hearted yet insightful journey through Wahlberg's Hollywood narrative.

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Unlock the secrets behind Steven Soderbergh’s groundbreaking career and discover how his latest film, "Presence," transcends traditional genres. This episode of "Excuse the Intermission" features Max's spoiler-free impressions and explores the film's extraordinary writing and performances, alongside Soderbergh’s voyeuristic style. We also examine his innovative techniques, like shooting with an iPhone, and reflect on how he single-handedly reshaped filmmaking with his unique editing style in classics such as "The Limey."

Our journey through Soderbergh’s eclectic filmography offers insights into his unmatched versatility, from the cultural phenomenon of "Ocean's Eleven" to the introspective "Sex, Lies, and Videotape." Whether it's crime, heist, or drama, Soderbergh’s character-driven narratives consistently redefine cinematic storytelling. As we prepare for a film draft that categorizes his diverse works, we celebrate his ability to both capture critical acclaim and appeal to a broad audience, despite not being a typical box-office magnet.

Beyond film, Soderbergh's ventures into television with "The Knick" and movies like "Kimmy" demonstrate his talent for balancing intimate stories with grand narratives. Our discussion covers everything from his adaptation of "Solaris" to the thought-provoking thriller "Side Effects," emphasizing Soderbergh's skill in handling a wide array of genres. Join us for a lively analysis of his enduring impact on the art of filmmaking, and don’t miss our humorous contemplation on creating a Hall of Fame for potential alien visitors, sparking a light-hearted end to our episode.

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Erica's back with us, and her fresh perspective is the breath of fresh air we all need as we journey through the cinematic wonders of 2025. From the latest James Cameron's Avatar movie to groundbreaking projects by indie directors, we're exploring a colorful mosaic of storytelling magic. We even touch on the latest Academy Award nominations with a dash of humor, especially when Rachel Sennett and Bowen Yang turned an early morning announcement into a spectacle not to be missed.

As the Oscar buzz echoes, we're diving headfirst into the chaos and controversy surrounding "Emilia Perez" in the Best Picture race. Awards bodies like SAG and the DGA are loving it, even if the public isn't quite so sure. The snubs are equally fascinating, and we couldn’t help but voice our discontent over "Dune Part Two" being overlooked in some major categories. Our admiration for directors like Sean Baker and Brady Corbet keeps the conversation spirited as we ponder how the ranked voting might shake things up this year.

Looking ahead, our anticipation for 2025's film releases is off the charts. Erica, Max, and I have a whole lineup that stretches from horror Westerns to neo-noir mysteries. Max shares his on-set adventures, while he reveals plans to get closer to the Hollywood action with a move to L.A. The discussion wouldn't be complete without a nod to TV and music, especially the upcoming season of "The Last of Us" and massive tours from top artists. Join us as we fuel your passion for film and pop culture in a year that promises to be unforgettable.

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