First on Film & Entertainment

First on Film & Entertainment

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First on Film & Entertainment episodes

  • Capturing Truth: The Art of Storytelling in Warfare and The Correspondent
    **Host:** Alex First
    **Guest Critics:** Sandy Kaye, Peter Chris, Greg King
    **Episode Summary:**
    In this gripping episode of First on Film & Entertainment, host Alex First is joined by critics Sandy Kaye, Peter Chris, and Greg King as they dive into two thought-provoking films: *Warfare* and *Drop*. The discussion begins with *Warfare*, a harrowing portrayal of a Navy SEAL mission gone awry in Iraq. The panel praises Alex Garland's direction, highlighting the film's intense realism and emotional depth, which keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Sandy shares her surprise at how much she enjoyed the film, despite her aversion to war movies, while Greg and Peter offer their insights on its immersive sound design and character development. As the conversation shifts to *Drop*, the critics explore its psychological thriller elements, focusing on a mother's desperate struggle against a mysterious texter threatening her son. With a captivating setting and engaging performances, the film's tension builds throughout, leaving the panel debating its twists and overall impact. Listeners can expect a compelling mix of critiques and engaging dialogue, showcasing the power of storytelling in cinema.
    **Highlights:**
    - **Warfare:** A visceral depiction of combat that immerses audiences in the realities of war, praised for its authenticity and intense performances.
    - **Drop:** A thrilling psychological ride that keeps viewers guessing, with standout performances and a gripping narrative.
    - **Cinematic Insights:** The critics discuss the importance of storytelling in film and the impact of real-life events on cinematic narratives.
    00:00:00 - Alex Claydon discusses new technology used on World of Claydon programme
    00:01:41 - People mistakenly believe that Alex Garland is Australian, Peter says
    00:06:07 - The film is about three Navy SEALs in combat in Afghanistan
    00:08:19 - I loved this film and I really don't like war movies
    00:12:35 - Greg King: This is another example of what I call combat porn
    00:14:03 - Peter says he found the film very compelling as a docudrama
    00:16:05 - Peter and Sandy give Warfare an 8 out of 10 rating
    00:16:57 - Drop is an entertaining psychological thriller and it involves some seriously bad trolling
    00:22:02 - Greg Green: The film is a wild, playful nerve wracking thriller
    00:26:09 - Have you seen the Pluto movie? Yes, there is a Pluto movie
    00:26:57 - Greg says he was impressed by the clever construction of the screenplay
    00:28:26 - All right, let's get some scores for this movie which is rated 95 minutes
    00:30:33 - Sandy says Funny Games loses something in the German translation
    00:32:01 - Can we talk about the Correspondent? Because that's one I did see
    00:33:56 - Peter Gresta was arrested by Egyptian authorities in Cairo on 29 December 2013
    00:36:28 - Richard Roxburgh stars as journalist Peter Gresta in The Correspondent
    00:40:53 - Tank M Correspondent gave the film an eight out of 10
    00:43:37 - Peter: I was very impressed by the film. 9 out of 10
    00:46:15 - Creed is the fifth collaboration between Ryan Coogler and Michael B Jordan
    00:46:46 - Smoke and Stack return to Mississippi in 1932 after seven years away
    00:50:01 - Sinners is a horror with a uniquely Southern Gothic lens
    00:53:04 - Peter Krause says this is an unusual African American vampire filmJoin the First on Film & Entertainment team for this dynamic episode, and stay tuned for more insightful film reviews and discussions in the weeks to come!
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    55 min
  • Lights, Camera, Oscars: Navigating the 97th Academy Awards Buzz - S04E05
    **Host:** Alex First
    **Guest Critics:** Sandy Kaye, Peter Krause
    **Episode Summary:**
    In this lively episode of First on Film & Entertainment, host Alex First is joined by critics Sandy Kaye and Peter Krause for a spirited conversation leading up to the 97th Academy Awards. With excitement in the air, the trio discusses the nominations and their predictions for the big night. The episode kicks off with a humorous exchange about the Oscars and the quirky happenings surrounding the event, setting the tone for a fun-filled discussion. The critics delve into the standout films nominated for Best Picture, including *Conclave*, *The Brutalist*, and *Emilia Perez*, sharing their insights on storytelling, performance, and cinematic artistry. Alex challenges Sandy and Peter to a trivia quiz about the longest films in Oscar history, leading to surprising revelations and friendly banter. As the conversation unfolds, they explore the significance of inclusivity in this year's nominations and highlight the contributions of Australian talent in various categories. Listeners can expect a blend of insightful critiques, engaging trivia, and a passionate celebration of film as the Oscars approach.
    **Highlights:**
    - **Oscar Predictions:** A spirited debate on the Best Picture nominees, with *Conclave* and *The Brutalist* emerging as frontrunners.
    - **Trivia Fun:** A light-hearted quiz on the longest films in Oscar history, showcasing the hosts' knowledge and camaraderie.
    - **Australian Talent:** Acknowledgment of the significant contributions from Australian filmmakers and actors in this year's nominations.
    00:00:00 - Sandy Kay and Peter Kraus discuss the Oscars ahead of time
    00:02:52 - There are 10 nominations for best picture this year, Sandy. What have been the longest
    00:05:34 - Alex asks some trivia questions about the Oscar nominations for best picture
    00:08:03 - Three films received 10 or more nominations in this year's Oscars
    00:12:20 - Timothee Chalamet is 12th person to portray Oscar nominee
    00:13:23 - We haven't talked about Australians. We gotta talk about Australians, don't we
    00:15:31 - Porcelain War is nominated for documentary feature Oscar
    00:16:53 - Nominations for best picture go to Conclave, Dune Part 2
    00:21:11 - Sandy says Conclave will win best film
    00:23:29 - So let's go to Best Director. Who do you think will win
    00:26:27 - Peter Howell picks his favourites for best actor and best actress
    00:30:13 - Sandy: I'm rooting for Demi Moore. I think she did a sensational job
    00:32:45 - Peter Sheridan: Excellent film. I think it works extremely well
    00:34:13 - Sandy thinks Kieran Culkin will win Best Supporting Actor
    00:36:01 - Best Supporting Actress, Monica Barbaro for A Complete Unknown
    00:37:26 - Okay, let's go for the next category being Best Original Screenplay
    00:40:08 - We haven't seen a lot of the best animated feature films yet
    00:41:27 - This is Best International Feature. Of international features. Amelia Perez from France nominated in Spanish
    00:42:21 - Dan: I think Seed of the Sacred Fig will win cinematography Oscar
    00:46:39 - Peter Howell gives odds for the Oscars in various categories
    00:49:18 - Best Actor is short priced favourite for Adrian Brody
    00:52:48 - Do you think the host will do a decent job at the Oscars
    00:53:20 - Gene Hackman died at 95 from apparent carbon monoxide poisoning
    00:55:18 - We got to go. Let's, uh, circle the wagons and see how we did at Oscar ceremonyJoin the First on Film & Entertainment team for this engaging episode, and stay tuned for more film insights and reviews in the weeks to come!
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    56 min
  • The Last Showgirl: Pamela Anderson’s Triumph and the Trials of Aging: S04E04
    **Host:** Alex First
    **Guest Critics:** Greg King, Sandy K, Peter Krause
    **Episode Summary:**
    In this captivating episode of First on Film & Entertainment, host Alex First is joined by critics Greg King, Sandy K, and Peter Krause as they delve into the latest cinematic offerings just in time for the Oscar season. The discussion kicks off with *The Last Showgirl*, a gritty portrayal of an ageing Las Vegas showgirl played by Pamela Anderson, who delivers what many are calling the performance of her career. The critics explore the film's emotional depth, character dynamics, and the challenges faced by women in the entertainment industry, with Sandy expressing her surprise at Anderson's compelling portrayal. The conversation then shifts to the darkly comedic short film *The Monkey*, based on a Stephen King short story, where the panel debates its over-the-top gore and humour, with opinions divided on its effectiveness as a horror satire. Finally, the critics share their thoughts on the much-anticipated *Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy*, with mixed reactions to the film's nostalgic charm and character development. Listeners can expect a lively exchange filled with insightful critiques and engaging commentary on contemporary cinema.
    **Highlights:**
    - **The Last Showgirl:** A raw and emotional exploration of the struggles faced by ageing performers, with a standout performance from Pamela Anderson that challenges preconceived notions.
    - **The Monkey:** A pitch-black comedy that blends horror and humour, leaving critics divided on its excesses and appeal.
    - **Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy:** A nostalgic return to the beloved character, sparking discussions about growth, maturity, and the complexities of single parenthood.
    00:00:00 - Around about this time of the year, there are some good movies around
    00:01:04 - The Last Showgirl is a gritty piece about an ageing Las Vegas showgirl
    00:05:29 - Alex says Pamela Anderson looks fabulous in new film Last Show Girl
    00:10:47 - Greg King: I have misgivings about The Last Showgirl
    00:16:03 - Showgirl panelists give their scores on last rated M M movie
    00:17:46 - The Monkey is a pitch black comedy based on a 1980 Stephen King short story
    00:22:43 - Greg: This is one of two gory horror films around town at the moment
    00:23:42 - Peter Moore: I was disappointed by this film. I was expecting it to be stronger
    00:28:45 - Greg says movies in general depict violence in such a way that it motivates
    00:31:31 - There are suggestions now that if somebody sees a violent act they'll film it
    00:36:17 - Greg: Based on how good Pamela Anderson looks, I give this movie three stars
    00:37:39 - Give me a score for the Monkey. Peter, I'm scared to ask
    00:38:35 - Greg Gutfeld was pleasantly surprised by the latest Bridget Jones movie
    00:39:45 - Greg Gutfeld: Were you pleasantly surprised or not about Bridget Jones
    00:41:39 - Sandy says many common names are made up nowadays
    00:44:18 - The film stars Hugh Grant as Bridget Jones
    00:45:49 - Peter Howell was pleasantly surprised by the fourth Bridget Jones film
    00:48:50 - I felt that the Bridget Jones character was regressive in this film
    00:51:53 - Of the four second best movies, where would this one sit
    00:52:57 - Peter says he doesn't always promote Nick because he has his own opinions
    00:54:31 - James Bond is the UK's biggest film franchise, I have to say
    Join the First on Film & Entertainment team for an engaging episode filled with passionate discussions and cinematic insights. Don’t miss out on next week’s exciting film reviews!
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    56 min
  • Baby Girl: Nicole Kidman, Controversy, and the Power of Performance - S04E03
    **Host:** Alex First
    **Guest Critics:** Greg King, Peter Krause, Sandy Jaqui Hammerton
    **Episode Summary:**
    In this riveting episode of First on Film & Entertainment, host Alex First reunites with critics Greg King, Peter Krause, Sandy Kay, and Jaqui Hammerton to dissect a range of films, including the controversial *Baby Girl*. The panel dives into Nicole Kidman's daring portrayal in a film that explores themes of power, sexuality, and personal struggle, sparking a heated debate over its explicitness and underlying messages. Sandy praises Kidman's fearless performance, while Jacqui challenges the panel's views on the film's content, leading to a lively discussion about societal perceptions of female sexuality. As the conversation unfolds, the critics also reflect on the psychological thriller *Companion*, which takes unexpected twists and turns, blending romance with horror in a unique narrative about artificial intelligence and human relationships. The group shares their varied opinions on the film's execution and character development, with Jacqui expressing her unexpected enjoyment of the film's chaotic charm. Finally, the episode concludes with a compelling review of *September 5th*, a gripping dramatization of the tragic events at the Munich Olympics, highlighting the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists during a crisis. The critics commend the film's authenticity and emotional weight, agreeing on its potential Oscar nominations. Tune in for an engaging exploration of contemporary cinema, filled with passionate critiques and insightful commentary.
    **Highlights:**
    - **Baby Girl:** A provocative exploration of female sexuality and power dynamics, featuring a bold performance by Nicole Kidman that ignites debate among the critics.
    - **Companion:** A thrilling ride that subverts expectations, blending romance and horror as it delves into the implications of AI in human relationships.
    - **September 5th:** A powerful docudrama capturing the tragic events of the Munich Olympics, praised for its authenticity and moral complexity, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
    00:03:17 - How sexually explicit do you think Nicole Kidman's Baby Girl is
    00:05:47 - Jackie has the perfect life. She's CEO, her own company going places
    00:06:42 - Nicole Kidman plays Romy Mathis in the upcoming film
    00:08:09 - Baby Girl is in the same sexually charged milieu as Fatal Attraction
    00:10:41 - Sandy says she enjoyed the whole cougar theme in this film
    00:12:13 - Jacquie: I would have liked to have known why Romi didn't seek counselling
    00:15:14 - Did you think Nicole Kidman was sexy in Rabbit Hole
    00:17:33 - Greg, tell me about what the film are, please. Peter: I thought it was a handsome looking production
    00:20:11 - Baby Girl explores issues about women's gender identity and their role in life
    00:21:36 - Apart from perhaps the ending, Harris Dickinson's character is underdeveloped
    00:22:41 - Peter gave Baby Girl a six out of ten. Jackie gave it a seven
    00:25:37 - Jair Ma: Companion is a psychological thriller rated 97 minutes
    00:26:39 - I remember my first meeting with my wife. It was incredibly memorable
    00:26:56 - Ryan Reynolds says he may make a movie about his wife
    00:27:48 - My mobile phone is ringing while we're doing live radio
    00:28:37 - Sophie Thatcher plays Iris in M. McGrime
    00:30:02 - Iris is nervous about saying and doing wrong things around Josh's friends
    00:31:05 - Director Drew Hancock has a vivid imagination with this film
    00:32:25 - While the dangers of AI and robots taking over are certainly apparent in Companion
    00:34:06 - Peter felt Companion sacrificed AI component for revenge crime body count component
    00:37:48 - Alex says there should be an award for best scene of the year
    00:40:11 - Greg: Yeah, because it reminds him of his wife
    00:40:32 - September 5th is the day live sports coverage became live news coverage
    00:42:57 - September 5th is an excellent German film about the 1936 Olympics
    00:46:50 - Greg says September 5th shows how much technology has changed in 50 years
    00:50:23 - My only, um, thing about movie was that it was slightly too technical
    00:52:48 - Greg says September 5th had a very claustrophobic feel
    00:54:00 - Saini, I'm going to ask you something because today has been really bizarre
    00:54:38 - Greg King gives The Grinch a solid 7.5 out of 10
    Join the First on Film & Entertainment team for this dynamic episode, and stay tuned for more film insights and reviews in the weeks to come!
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    56 min
  • S04E02: The Brutalist Breakdown: Oscar Predictions and Cinematic Conversations
    **Host:** Alex First
    **Guest Critics:** Jaqui Hammerton, Sandy Greg King Peter Krause
    **Episode Summary:**
    In this compelling episode of First on Film & Entertainment, host Alex First is joined by critics Jaqui Hammerton, Sandy Greg King and Peter Krause for a vibrant discussion on the cinematic landscape, focusing on the much-anticipated film *The Brutalist*. The critics share their insights on the film's potential to sweep the Oscars, with a lively debate on its merits and the impact of its lengthy runtime of 215 minutes, which includes a unique intermission. The conversation delves into the film's narrative, exploring themes of resilience and the struggles faced by the protagonist, Laszlo Tothe, portrayed by Adrian Brody. The critics highlight the film's exploration of architecture and its raw depiction of elitism and racism, sparking a rich dialogue about the portrayal of historical figures and the emotional weight of their stories. As the episode unfolds, the critics also touch on *A Complete Unknown*, a biopic about Bob Dylan, praising its authenticity and the performances of Timothée Chalamet and Monica Barbaro. The episode wraps up with a discussion on *Maria*, a film depicting the final days of opera legend Maria Callas, which brings forth mixed reviews from the panel regarding its tone and character representation. Listeners can expect a blend of passionate critiques, insightful commentary, and a deep dive into the art of storytelling in film.
    **Highlights:**
    - **The Brutalist:** A thought-provoking exploration of resilience and artistry, with strong performances and a gripping narrative structure. The critics debate its Oscar potential and the significance of its intermission.
    - **A Complete Unknown:** A captivating portrayal of Bob Dylan's early career, featuring outstanding performances and a rich musical backdrop that resonates with both fans and newcomers.
    - **Maria:** A controversial depiction of the opera diva's final days, prompting discussions on the film's focus and the portrayal of its titular character.
    Join the First on Film & Entertainment team for an engaging episode filled with lively discussions and cinematic insights. Tune in next week for more film reviews and cultural commentary!
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    55 min
  • S04E01: A Real Pain: Cousins, Heritage, and the Weight of History
    **Host:** Alex First
    **Guest Critics:** Peter Krause
    **Episode Summary:**
    In this engaging episode of First on Film & Entertainment, Alex First is joined by Peter Krause to dissect the latest cinematic offerings, including Boxing Day releases and New Year's Day premieres. Kicking off the conversation is *A Real Pain*, a film directed by Jesse Eisenberg that follows two cousins on a poignant journey to their grandmother's childhood home in Poland. The critics share their contrasting views, with Alex finding the film dull and lacking depth, while Peter appreciates its psychological nuances and character development, particularly praising Kieran Culkin's performance. The discussion then shifts to *All We Imagine is Light*, a heartfelt portrayal of three women in contemporary India, which both critics commend for its feminist perspective and beautiful storytelling. They also dive into the animated adventure *Sonic the Hedgehog 3*, with Alex enjoying its vibrant chaos, while Peter finds it overly silly and lacking substance. The episode wraps up with a look at *Paddington in Peru*, where Alex revels in its charm and creativity, contrasting with Peter's critique of its departure from the beloved franchise's roots. Finally, they explore the atmospheric horror film *Nosferatu*, where Alex expresses disappointment in its convoluted narrative, while Peter offers a more favourable take on its psychological horror elements. With lively debates and diverse film reviews, this episode is a must-listen for film enthusiasts.
    **Highlights:**
    - **A Real Pain:** A contrasting critique of Jesse Eisenberg's film, exploring themes of family legacy and psychological depth.
    - **All We Imagine is Light:** A commendation for its feminist storytelling and rich character development set in contemporary India.
    - **Sonic the Hedgehog 3:** A lively discussion on the animated franchise's latest instalment, with differing opinions on its appeal and execution.
    - **Paddington in Peru:** A look at the beloved bear's latest adventure, highlighting its charm and the critique of its narrative direction.
    - **Nosferatu:** A debate on the effectiveness of this horror film's storytelling and character portrayals. Tune in for a dynamic exploration of film and entertainment, and prepare for more insightful discussions in the coming weeks!
    00:00:00 - First on film and entertainment. Also looking ahead to what has just been released on Boxing Day
    00:00:41 - A Real Pain opens Jewish International Film Festival and then gets general release
    00:01:53 - The film is about cousins making a pilgrimage to their late grandmother's Poland home
    00:05:10 - Peter: I really liked the film. I think it's very well-written
    00:08:28 - I thought the characters could have been developed further in this film
    00:09:48 - I give the film a six out of ten for its Holocaust representation
    00:13:55 - The film focuses on three women and it's an M rated film
    00:16:37 - Das says Mumbai is another pivotal Persona in the movie
    00:18:01 - All We Imagine as Light is a well-observed film about Indian women
    00:21:50 - Peter: As a franchise this has done particularly well
    00:22:18 - Peter says sonic the hedgehog 3 requires some concentration to follow
    00:24:56 - Peter Carey: Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is ludicrously stupid
    00:28:16 - Black Dog is a Chinese drama set on the edge of the Gobi Desert
    00:30:47 - Peter: I give Black Dog a seven out of ten rating
    00:33:13 - Paddington in Peru is a rather rollicking adventure with the Brown family
    00:36:32 - Peter thought this film diverged from the first two Paddington films
    00:39:25 - Robert Eggers' Nosferatu is a horror film with lengthy running time
    00:43:30 - This is the fourth version of Nosferatu, which premiered in 1922
    00:46:32 - Peter Pan reviews School of Rock the Musical, based on 2003 film
    00:47:40 - Jack Black played the unlikely of teachers in the new Broadway musical
    00:48:33 - Rock singer and guitarist Dewey Finn is hired as a substitute teacher
    00:50:35 - Peter says School of Rock the Musical is a rousing success
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    55 min
  • S03E21: Ghost Light: A Family's Tragic Tale and The Healing Power of Theatre
    **Host:** Alex First
    **Guest Critics:** Greg King, Peter Krause, Jaqui Hammerton
    **Episode Summary:**
    In this episode of First on Film & Entertainment, Alex First, Greg King, Peter Krause, and Jaqui Hammerton explore the nuances of recent cinematic releases. The discussion opens with a deep dive into the emotionally charged film *Ghost Light*, a tale of love, loss, and the healing power of community theatre. The critics commend the authentic performances of the real-life family cast and the film's ability to balance humour with poignant themes of grief and redemption. Alex praises the film's unique approach and the cathartic journey it offers to its characters and audience alike. The conversation transitions to the biographical drama *Lee*, starring Kate Winslet as the formidable war photographer Lee Spitler. The critics debate the effectiveness of the film's narrative structure, with Greg and Jaqui expressing reservations about its framing device. Despite differing opinions, all agree on Winslet's compelling portrayal of Miller as a resilient and complex figure. Peter appreciates the film's historical authenticity and the powerful recreation of Miller's iconic photographs. The episode also highlights Adam Elliot's *Memoir of a Snail*, a stop-motion animation that captivates with its intricate craftsmanship and deeply human storytelling. Peter and Jacqui are enamoured with its bittersweet narrative and the meticulous detail of Elliot's claymation, celebrating its recent accolades at international film festivals. Finally, the critics reflect on *From Hilda With Love*, a harrowing World War II drama that delves into the resistance efforts against the Nazi regime. Peter and Alex commend its gripping storytelling and powerful performances, while Jacqui acknowledges its emotional impact despite some narrative pacing issues.00:00:00 - Greg King says he likes sunny days and warm weather
    00:02:29 - Ghost Light is a deeply affecting story about love and loss
    00:08:08 - Jackie says Ghost Light is a beautiful film about friendship and loss
    00:12:49 - This film explores how art and theatre can become a healing force
    00:15:36 - Ghost Light is the single light that is kept on in a theatre
    00:18:41 - Ghost Light rated M, 116 minutes
    00:20:06 - The movie about Lee Miller is called Lee and is rated M M
    00:21:27 - The film follows Lee Miller as she becomes Vogue's war correspondent during WWII
    00:27:24 - Kate Wiesler gives a strong performance as the iconic wartime photographer
    00:29:32 - Peter: I was very impressed by this film which did have some budgetary problems
    00:31:17 - I didn't particularly like the way that the film was presented and written
    00:34:13 - Greg gave the film six and a half out of ten
    00:36:09 - Adam Elliott's latest film Memoir of a Snail took eight years to make
    00:42:37 - Alex Taylor says he loved Memoir of a Snail twice
    00:48:00 - Memoir of a Snail M rated 94 minutes
    00:48:34 - From Hilda With Love is a harrowing World War II drama
    00:50:50 - Gregory King: From Hilda With Love is a superb film**Highlights:** - **Ghost Light:** A touching exploration of family dynamics and healing through theatre. The critics appreciate its authentic portrayal of grief and the unique casting of a real-life family. - **Lee:** A compelling biopic of Lee Spitler, with Kate Winslet delivering a standout performance. The critics discuss the film's narrative choices and historical significance. - **Memoir of a Snail:** Celebrated for its artistic innovation and emotional depth, Adam Elliot's latest work is praised for its storytelling and visual ingenuity. - **From Hilda With Love:** A gripping depiction of resistance during WWII, noted for its strong performances and impactful narrative. Join the First on Film & Entertainment Timms for thoughtful discussions and in-depth reviews of these diverse films. Tune in next week for more cinematic insights and engaging conversations.
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    55 min
  • S03E20: The Critic and The Apprentice: Power, Corruption, and Compelling Cinema
    **Host:** Alex First
    **Guest Critics:** Jaqui Hammerton, Peter Krause, Greg King
    **Episode Summary:**
    In this spirited episode of First on Film and Entertainment, Alex First is joined by Jaqui Hammerton, Peter Krause, and Greg King to explore the intricacies of cinema and critique. The conversation kicks off with a playful debate on the absence of football and its cultural impact, segueing into a discussion about the evolving role of film critics in today's media landscape. The critics then dive into the period drama *The Critic*, with Alex and Jacqui praising Ian McKellen's compelling performance, while Peter offers a more critical perspective on the film's character development. The episode also features a thorough analysis of *The Apprentice*, a provocative portrayal of Donald Trump's rise, which sparks a lively debate about the film's depiction of power and corruption. Finally, the Timms tackles *Joker: Folie à Deux*, discussing its daring musical elements and the performances of Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga. The episode is filled with passionate critiques, humour, and thoughtful insights, making it a must-listen for film enthusiasts.
    **Highlights:**
    - **The Critic:** Ian McKellen's portrayal of a powerful drama critic in 1930s London is both praised and critiqued, with discussions on the film's exploration of power and manipulation.
    - **The Apprentice:** A deep dive into the controversial depiction of Donald Trump's early years, examining the film's balance of fact and fiction and its commentary on power dynamics.
    - **Joker: Folie à Deux:** The critics offer mixed reviews on this musical sequel, debating its portrayal of mental illness and the chemistry between its lead actors.
    This episode of First on Film and Entertainment offers a rich tapestry of film reviews and cultural commentary. With engaging discussions on the role of critics, the nature of power, and the artistic risks taken in modern cinema, listeners are in for a captivating experience. Tune in next week for more in-depth analysis and lively conversations.
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    57 min
  • S03E19: The Substance: Demi Moore's Age-Defying Comeback
    **Host:** Alex First **Guest Critics:** Jaqui Hammerton, Peter Krause **Episode Summary:** In this thought-provoking episode, Alex First is joined by Jaqui Hammerton and Peter Krause to discuss the latest in film and societal issues. The critics dive into Coralie Fargate's intense new film *The Substance*, starring Demi Moore. The film is dissected for its commentary on fame, beauty, and societal expectations, with discussions on its length and graphic content. The conversation then shifts to the animated family film *The Wild Robot*, praised for its stunning animation and heartfelt storyline, though not without critique of its action-packed conclusion. Finally, the Timms tackles *Transformers 1*, an animated reboot of the beloved franchise, with Alex praising its emotional depth and Peter remaining unconvinced by its narrative. The episode is rich with discussions on gender roles, societal norms, and the power of cinema to spark important conversations.00:00:00 First on film and entertainment with Jackie Hamilton and Peter Kraus
    00:00:54 Alex says he thinks the film could have been shortened
    00:01:23 Is the Substance too long, Jackie? The answer is yes
    00:02:00 Richard Simmons says The Substance is a blistering commentary on body image
    00:08:39 Peter Howell: I think the film goes on a little too long
    00:12:10 Alex: Jackie, I value your opinion. Let's get something clear
    00:12:51 Peter says he loved the first half of the film and then the final quarter
    00:15:54 What is interesting about the film is the story. I don't know how novel the story is
    00:18:59 Alex Bailey says whistling towards women is unacceptable in modern society
    00:24:05 Jackie says respect must be injected into way we go forward
    00:26:10 Jack says MeToo movement is changing attitudes towards women but not changing behaviour
    00:29:06 All right, so let's uh, let's now go back to the movie and let's talk about a score
    00:29:45 Peter: Great movie. Must be seen. With a warning of being R rated
    00:32:18 Community radio station J88FM M needs your support
    00:32:46 The Wild Robot is a delightful take on the Wild robot
    00:36:11 Jack says the characters personalities elevate the spectacle in the new film
    00:40:56 Peter: I thought it was interesting approach to robots dealing with sentient beings
    00:42:35 I really liked Wild Robot. Great voice, uh, cast as always
    00:43:33 Jackie gives Wild Robot eight out of 10; Peter gives lower score
    00:44:54 Do you remember when Spider man transposed from live action to animated
    00:45:38 Alex says Transformers 1 sits comfortably alongside the pantheon of Transformers movies
    00:46:49 There are so many years between James Bond movies that you long for next one
    00:47:34 The story focuses on Orion Pax, who dreams of a better life than mining
    00:49:09 Jackie: I was impressed by the heft of the Transformers reboot
    00:50:32 Peter Krauss: I was never impressed by the live action Transformers films**Highlights:** - **The Substance:** A deep dive into Coralie Fargate's latest film, exploring themes of fame and beauty. The critics debate its graphic nature and Demi Moore's standout performance. - **The Wild Robot:** A charming family film praised for its animation and emotional depth, though critiqued for its action-heavy ending. - **Transformers 1:** Alex applauds the animated reboot for its storytelling and character depth, while Peter remains sceptical about the franchise's direction. This episode of First on Film and Entertainment offers a blend of film reviews and broader societal discussions. From the intense themes of *The Substance* to the heartwarming journey of *The Wild Robot* and the high-octane adventure of *Transformers 1*, the critics provide insightful commentary. Join Alex, Jacqui, and Peter for engaging discussions and tune in next week for more cinematic explorations.
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    55 min
  • S03E18: Speak No Evil: James McAvoy's Sinister Transformation
    **Host:** Alex First
    **Guest Critics:** Greg King, Peter Krause, Jaqui Hammerton
    **Episode Summary:**
    In this engaging episode, Alex First is joined by Greg King, Peter Krause, and Jaqui Hammerton to delve into the latest film releases. Greg King begins with a detailed analysis of the psychological horror thriller *Speak No Evil*, starring James McAvoy. The conversation touches on McAvoy's performance, the film's tension, and comparisons with the original Danish version. The episode also features a review of the family film *Harold and the Purple Crayon*, where the critics discuss its appeal to different age groups and the effectiveness of its blend of animation and live-action. Finally, Greg King reflects on the French biopic *Bonard, Pierre and Marta*, exploring the complex relationship between the post-impressionist painter and his wife.
    00:00:00 " Alex says he went to see speak no evil just because James McAvoy starred
    00:00:58 " Peter says James McAvoy is capable of playing charming but also nasty
    00:01:28 " American family befriend British family while on holiday in Italy
    00:06:53 " I thought the children were particularly good. Both the boy and the girl. Really, really good
    00:07:56 " Gregory King: The ending of this film is much darker than the original
    00:10:03 " Alex: Why do the Americans have a predilection for remakes
    00:15:12 " Are you conscious of reading when you're watching foreign language film
    00:20:06 " Peter says english language version of speak no evil conforms to Hollywood stereotypes
    00:23:16 " What's your favourite colour? Peter, what colour do you like
    00:26:39 " Jackie: I like black and red. And I also like orange. You can guess, Jackie
    00:27:29 " Harold and the purple crayon is a charming family comedy
    00:32:01 " Jacqueline: The combination of animation and live action works really effectively
    00:33:56 " It's got a PG rating. What do you read into it, Greg
    00:38:19 " Peter Canada says the film was pitched as a young audience to develop imagination
    00:42:26 " Peter McCain was intrigued by the biopic about French painter Pierre Bonhard
    00:48:14 " Peter Martin reviews French film about impressionist painter Pierre Bonard
    00:51:09 " The film is largely based on a true story and not on a delusional ranting
    **Highlights:** 
    - **Speak No Evil:** The critics explore the psychological horror thriller featuring James McAvoy. Jaqui appreciates McAvoy's performance but finds the film more comedic than scary. Peter and Greg discuss the differences between the Hollywood remake and the original Danish film, noting the diluted ending in the remake. 
    - **Harold and the Purple Crayon:** Greg King reviews this family film, debating its appeal to various age groups. Greg enjoys the fantasy elements, while Peter and Jaqui feel the film fails to capture the simplicity and charm of the original picture book. 
    - **Bonard, Pierre and Marta:** The critics delve into this French biopic, examining the complex relationship between the painter and his wife. Alex praises the film's intelligent narrative and beautiful cinematography, while Peter appreciates its portrayal of the artistic lifestyle. 
    This episode of First on Film and Entertainment offers a rich mix of film reviews and thoughtful discussions. From the psychological tension in *Speak No Evil* to the imaginative world of *Harold and the Purple Crayon* and the historical depth of *Bonard, Pierre and Marta*, the critics provide nuanced insights into these diverse films. Join us next week for more in-depth analysis and lively conversations.
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    52 min

About First on Film & Entertainment

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Veteran movie and live theatre reviewer, Alex First, is joined weekly by a panel of critics who discuss all things Movies & Entertainment...and some football in season. Help make up your mind…