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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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The world of cinema has lost a true visionary with the passing of David Lynch, and we are here to celebrate his extraordinary legacy. Lynch's films are a masterclass in storytelling, marrying the surreal with the deeply personal, and his influence stretches far beyond the silver screen. Join us as we recount how his work has touched us personally and professionally, particularly his ability to maintain an authentic style that defies Hollywood norms. Alongside insights from luminaries like Guillermo del Toro, we explore the many layers to Lynch's genius that have inspired generations of filmmakers and artists.

Throughout the episode, we pay tribute to Lynch's unique collaborations, especially with composer Angelo Badalamenti, which added profound emotional depth to his projects. We share behind-the-scenes stories from iconic sets such as "Mulholland Drive" and "Twin Peaks," illustrating how Lynch used music as an emotional compass for his films. His impact isn’t limited to fellow filmmakers; musicians like Trent Reznor and bands like The Mars Volta have also drawn inspiration from his atmospheric style, proving Lynch’s reach across multiple creative fields. This exploration uncovers the spiritual connectivity between Lynch and those he inspires, emphasizing his enduring legacy.

Our journey through Lynch's filmography reveals his mastery in creating unforgettable cinematic moments, from the intense performances in "Wild at Heart" to the reality-bending narratives of "Lost Highway." We dissect the dark spiritual themes that often pervade his work, highlighting the subconscious and moral complexities he so brilliantly weaves into his storytelling. As we reminisce, we look forward to upcoming tributes, including exciting events in Tacoma, where fans can gather to celebrate this extraordinary filmmaker. David Lynch may have left this world, but his influence continues to inspire and challenge all who encounter his work.

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2024 has proven to be a transformative year for cinema, showcasing a vibrant array of films that span various genres and storytelling styles. In our episode, we share our favorite movies, touching on standout performances in films like "The Substance" and "Civil War," as well as the triumphant return of franchises like "Dune: Part Two" that further solidified their cinematic legacies.

• Exploration of the evolving landscape of 2024 cinema 
• Discussion of standout performances, particularly Demi and Lily Rose Depp 
• Analysis of "Civil War" as a pivotal film addressing societal themes 
• Highlights of indie films that resonated deeply with audiences 
• Nostalgic exploration of SNL’s historical roots in "Saturday Night" 
• Trends in identity and personal exploration in contemporary filmmaking 

As we look forward to 2025, we anticipate more cinematic innovation and creative storytelling that will continue to resonate with audiences of all ages.

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Robert Eggers' Nosferatu revives a classic horror tale with a fresh perspective, exploring themes of desire, repression, and the nature of evil. The ensemble cast, particularly Bill Skarsgård and Lily Rose Depp, delivers compelling performances that enrich the film's haunting atmosphere. The episode delves into the film's production aspects, character analysis, and the broader implications of its storylines, highlighting Eggers' mastery in gothic storytelling.

• Eggers' unique approach to Nosferatu as a gothic horror film 
• Strong performances from Skarsgård and Depp enhancing character depth 
• Visually stunning cinematography that evokes silent film aesthetics 
• Themes of repression and longing woven throughout the narrative 
• Audience experiences and reaction discussions 
• The film's place in the horror canon and predictions for its legacy

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Ever paired Nosferatu with Mufasa for Christmas movie day? We're shaking up holiday traditions in our latest episode, where we chat about our festive plans and explore the wacky world of Christmas cringe movies. As we gear up for 2024, we share our excitement over the Criterion Channel's Nicole Kidman collection, and the intriguing seasonal trends we've spotted on platforms like Letterboxd and Reddit. Get cozy as we unwrap the unique charm of these films, from their low-budget quirks to the predictably sweet romantic plots that keep us coming back for more.

Are you ready to discover what makes a movie deliciously cringe-worthy? We break down the elements that define these festive gems, contrasting them with more cinematic Christmas tales like "Four Christmases" and "The Family Stone." It's a journey through the evolution of holiday rom-coms, where traditional values meet modern twists, and stars like Vanessa Hudgens shine bright. From the catfishing escapades in a Nina Dobrev film to the medieval-meets-modern antics of "The Knight Before Christmas," we embrace the hilarity of it all.

Join us for a wild ride through our top recommendations, where unexpected castings and quirky storylines rule the roost. Whether it's the holiday chaos in "Something from Tiffany's" or the uproarious mix-up in "Xmas," these films promise laughter and joy despite their budget constraints. We also touch on how these movies, with their charming absurdities, manage to balance nostalgia with the cliché. So tune in and let us guide you through the festive fun and occasional head-scratching moments of the Christmas cringe genre.

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Max, Alex and Erica are together again in studio! They cover the 2024 Golden Globes Nominations from surprises, potential winners and snubs.

They also went to see the new A24 film from first time director Kyle Mooney, Y2K. This inspired them to create the Personal Period Piece Hall of Fame.
 
 
 
 

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Did we underestimate the magic of "Wicked"? Join us as we share our journey from skepticism to surprise with the blockbuster film adaptation of this beloved Broadway classic. We'll unravel the enchanting tale of how "Wicked" became a record-breaking success, surpassing other hits like "Chicago," and compare its narrative depth to that of "The Wizard of Oz." With a tinge of nostalgia, we delve into our childhood memories linked to the original Oz story and ponder how Ariana Grande's unexpected charm added a new layer to the familiar fantasy world.

Ever thought of "The Wizard of Oz" as propaganda or "Wicked" as a documentary? Our playful exploration of these ideas reveals newfound appreciation for the intricate character backstories, especially that of the Wicked Witch of the West. We dive into memorable performances, from Cynthia's gripping portrayal of Alpha Buzz to Grande's light-hearted whimsy, while not shying away from critiquing sequences like "Dancing Through Life." The film's mix of practical sets and CGI, along with its desaturated color palette, is put under our review lens, leaving us eager to see where directors like Jon M. Chu might take this revamped Oz universe next.

Beyond Oz, we tackle the mixed reception and casting choices of "Gladiator 2," contemplating Hollywood’s penchant for recycling stories and prioritizing star power over fit. With Ridley Scott at the helm, even the grand battle scenes struggle to elevate a narrative deemed hollow and convenient. As we dissect these trends, we invite you to reflect on the cinematic landscape and its impact on storytelling. Tune in for a lively discussion that promises laughter, insight, and a touch of controversy.

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