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What if Pixar’s latest smash hit, "Inside Out 2," marks the beginning of a new golden era for the animation giant? Join us as we examine how this emotionally charged sequel not only shattered financial records but might also signal Pixar's triumphant return to its storytelling roots. We reflect on our own viewing experiences—from early morning screenings to packed afternoon shows—revealing the film's widespread appeal and discussing its impact compared to the original "Inside Out."

Explore the emotional rollercoaster of Riley's teenage years with us as we unpack the introduction of new emotions like anxiety, voiced by Maya Hawke, and boredom, brought to life by Adele Exarchopoulos. We delve into the film’s climactic scenes where all emotions unite to help Riley find herself, and contemplate the potential for a future PG-13 sequel. Through a balance of humor and poignant storytelling, "Inside Out 2" offers a realistic portrayal of modern teenage struggles that resonates deeply with audiences of all ages.

Finally, we journey through Pixar's storied history, comparing "Inside Out 2" to its predecessors and ranking our all-time favorite Pixar films. From the groundbreaking "Toy Story" to the emotionally rich "Coco," we discuss the timeless appeal of Pixar's storytelling. We also share personal anecdotes about the studio's broad cultural impact and reflect on what makes Pixar films special. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the magic of Pixar, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the heart and soul of one of animation's most beloved studios.

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What if the best films of 2024 aren't the ones plastered across every billboard? Join us as we share our excitement for the hidden gems of the coming year, alongside reflections on the laughter-filled chaos of the end-of-school festivities. From modern field days and oddly renamed tug-of-war events to the sweet anticipation of summer break, we reminisce about the past school year and the joys of movie marathons that lie ahead.

Our curiosity takes us into the realm of indie films, where we discuss the profound impact of smaller, less-publicized movies. We dive into how blockbusters like "Barbie" and "Oppenheimer," despite their grand appeal, sometimes lack the emotional depth that indie films often bring. This year, our radar is honed in on the potential breakout talent and the innovative stories that could surprise us all, reflecting on the hits and misses of our 2023 anticipations.

As we gear up for a year of cinematic wonders, we chat about the latest releases and what's on the horizon. From the thriller "Love Lies Bleeding" and sci-fi "Spaceman," to the eagerly awaited "The Bike Riders" and "Horizon: An American Saga Part One," our excitement is palpable. We also highlight future masterpieces from directors like Jim Jarmusch, Pedro Almodóvar, and David Cronenberg, and celebrate rising stars like Emma Stone. Our episode is a vibrant celebration of film, filled with anticipation for the stories and performances that will define 2024.

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What happens when the unseasonal rain and cold of the Pacific Northwest turns summer plans into theater-bound adventures? Join us as we explore the unexpected box office success stories of May 2024, from the surprise hit Garfield movie to the quirky Memorial Day release schedules. We'll also share our recent cinematic journey through Kansas and our newfound love for vintage theaters like Liberty Hall in Lawrence. Plus, get a sneak peek into our thoughts on the highly anticipated Bad Boys movie and its potential summer blockbuster glory.

Want to know which films made waves in May 2024? We've got you covered with our box office report highlighting "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" leading the pack with $133 million domestically. Dive into the performances of other top contenders like "The Fall Guy," John Krasinski’s "IF," and the unexpected re-release of "The Phantom Menace." We'll also tease our upcoming deep dive into "I Saw the TV Glow," comparing it to "We're All Going to the World's Fair" and how genre-blending can shape audience perceptions.

Richard Linklater fans, rejoice! We delve into his latest gem, "Hitman," starring the ever-versatile Glenn Powell and the magnetic Adria Arjona. Our conversations span from biographical dramas like the Flannery O'Connor film to the light-hearted charm of "The Idea of You." And don't miss our thoughts on the horror flick "Letterboxd Tarot," which exceeded our expectations and left us eagerly anticipating more in the genre. Plus, get ready for our longest-ever Letterboxd review and stay connected with us on Instagram for all our cinematic escapades. Tune in for a jam-packed episode brimming with movie magic and insightful chatter!

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What happened to "Furiosa: Mad Max Saga" at the box office? Despite extensive advertising, the latest entry in George Miller's beloved dystopian series didn't quite hit the mark in domestic markets. In this episode, we dissect why "Furiosa" underperformed, especially around the busy Memorial Day weekend that coincided with Max Fosberg's birthday—a time historically linked with major movie premieres. We'll also take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, revisiting past birthday movie releases while comparing "Furiosa's" domestic and international reception, particularly in Australia.

Is the superhero genre showing signs of fatigue? We dive headfirst into the future of big-budget blockbusters, starting with the highly-anticipated "Deadpool and Wolverine" crossover. Joined by Derrick Schneider, we discuss the fan demand for this Marvel mash-up and speculate on its potential box office success, even as superhero fatigue sets in. From there, we pivot back to the rich lore and dense storytelling of "Furiosa," analyzing its heavy action sequences and emotional beats in comparison to past Mad Max films. We'll also touch on Chris Hemsworth's unique take on the villain role and how it stacks up against previous antagonists in the series.

What do Max Fosberg's favorite movies reveal about him? Celebrating Max's birthday, we host a lively game of Jeopardy featuring his top 10 favorite films on Letterboxd. With special guests Derek Schneider from Silver Screams podcast and Kaylee Quinones—who expertly designed the game—we turn up the competitive spirit and share laughs over movie trivia. From neo-modern westerns to classic cinema and behind-the-scenes movie facts, this fun-filled episode wraps up with reflections on future directions for the Mad Max franchise, all while blending a love for trivia and cinema. Join us for an episode packed with banter, deep dives, and, of course, birthday celebrations!

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As the dust settles on a world unmade, the haunting beauty of post-apocalyptic cinema beckons. Just in time for the release of "Furiosa," we've armed ourselves with reflections from the stark landscapes of societal collapse to share with you. From the Seattle International Film Festival to the challenging classrooms of film school, I've gathered personal anecdotes and technical insights to shed light on how stories of survival and isolation not only captivate but reveal the resilience of the human spirit.

Venture with us through the desolate worlds of "The Book of Eli" and "Children of Men," where performances and cinematic techniques leave an indelible mark, stirring deep questions about humanity's future. The genre's evolution, from animated epics to the grit of "The Road," showcases how post-apocalyptic narratives craft intense examinations of our darkest fears and brightest hopes. This episode also anticipates the potential of "Furiosa" to carry forth the legacy of "Mad Max," with musings on Chris Hemsworth's foray into villainy against the backdrop of George Miller's visionary world.

As we wrap up our trek across the cinematic wasteland, we invite you to join the discussion, ponder the thematic richness of films like "Alien" and "Mad Max," and look forward to the continuation of our journey. Stay tuned for updates on our Instagram and Letterboxd during our brief hiatus, as our passion for movies burns ever bright, signalling the promise of engaging conversations and film explorations to come in future episodes of ETI.

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Embark on a cinematic odyssey with us as we unveil the genius behind the "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes," a film that intertwines mesmerizing CGI with poignant storytelling. We'll venture through the franchise's rich legacy, discussing the cultural allegories that have captivated audiences for over fifty years. Feel the thrill as we juxtapose the latest protagonist, Noah, with iconic heroes like Luke Skywalker, and debate the future of this enthralling saga. As we peel back the layers of this narrative, the compelling character dynamics come to life, especially through the eyes of the human character May, known as Nova, whose role may be pivotal in shaping the series' trajectory.
Concluding our foray into this legendary series, we lay out our definitive ranking of the Planet of the Apes films, highlighting both the emotional gravitas and cinematic prowess of each entry. From the nostalgic 1960s classic to the thought-provoking themes in the newer additions, we navigate the highs and lows, crafting a list that honors the series' evolution. As we revel in the cultural impact of Charlton Heston's iconic performances and the innovative spirit of the original film, join us for a celebration of the enduring Planet of the Apes legacy that continues to captivate the imagination of generations.

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Dive headfirst with us into the dynamic filmography of Ryan Gosling, as Seattle's own Marcus Baker, a filmmaker with a knack for comedy and an eye for cinematic detail, joins us to dissect "The Fall Guy," Gosling's latest high-adrenaline flick. Marcus, with his roots in the Seattle Film Society and his short film "Three Women and a Possible Fire Next Door," provides a unique filmmaker’s perspective on Gosling's evolution from a meme-generating heartthrob to a serious actor with a penchant for action-comedy. Together, we unravel the entwined threads of humor, stunt work appreciation, and the nuanced performances that set Gosling’s projects apart, all while Marcus offers anecdotes from his own experiences in the industry.

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Get ready to step onto the court with the enthralling narratives of Luca Guadagnino's "Challengers," where the suspense of tennis matches serves as a backdrop for an exploration of deeper emotional and thematic complexities. Alex and Max Fosberg, delve into the nuances of Guadagnino's storytelling, examining how the film weaves together threads of ambition, sexuality, and personal turmoil. We invite you to join our passionate discussion as we scrutinize the hypnotic score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, and how it complements the visceral intensity of the on-screen drama, all while drawing thoughtful parallels with Guadagnino's other cinematic gems like "Call Me by Your Name" and "Bones and All."

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Alex and Max, spring clean their movie watchlists and delve into the heart of cinema's evolution. The surprising success of films like 'Abigail' in theaters, we're discussing it all. Discover how the film industry's pivot towards modestly budgeted projects is redefining what stories make it to the big screen, and what this means for the streaming giants recalibrating their strategies.

Feel the buzz of the cinema's potential resurgence where the communal experience of a packed theater could reign supreme once more. We share early impressions of 'Challengers' starring Zendaya, directed by Luca Guadagnino, while carefully avoiding spoilers. Meanwhile, our critique of a new horror movie reveals how it revives the delightful terror of early 2000s and 80s B-movies, complete with good kills and cheesy one-liners. We also navigate through the landscape of horror, looking at how creative choices in recent films enhance the genre's rich storytelling tradition.

As we explore the latest in film, we consider the implications of filmmaker splits, like that of the Safdie brothers, and ponder the returns to familiar themes by iconic directors such as Spielberg. Guillermo del Toro's dive into the Frankenstein lore is up for debate—will this remake strike the same chord as his original masterpieces? Join our conversation, and don't forget to engage with us on social media for a look at what's to come in the world of movies.

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Pop the cork and join as we mark a whopping 200 episodes of cinematic banter and insights with a blockbuster bash! From discussing the evolution of our film-watching habits to conjuring up what-if scenarios of superhero movies through the lenses of distinct directors, we've got a feast for your film-loving soul. A nostalgic journey awaits as we reflect on the milestones since our debut in 2020, and with the help of our ever-eager intern Timm, we navigate the glamorous and sometimes quirky world of Hollywood.

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