Get Your Popcorn

This week we dive into A Star is Born (2018), Bradley Cooper’s stunning directorial debut and raw, immersive performance. Explore how the film’s music anchors and  elevates the emotional core of the story. With care and authenticity, the film handles themes of addiction and suicide, offering a powerful, nuanced look at fame, love, and loss. Join me as I unpack why this modern classic still resonates so deeply.

I just want you to take another look at this film

References

Bradshaw, Peter. “A Star Is Born Review – Lady Gaga Mesmerises in Streisand’s Shoes.” The Guardian, August 31, 2018. https://www.theguardian.com/film/2018/aug/31/a-star-is-born-review-lady-gaga-bradley-cooper. 

“Review: ‘A Star Is Born’ Brings Gorgeous Heartbreak - The New York Times.” The New York Times, October 3, 2018. https://www.nytimes.com/2018/10/03/movies/a-star-is-born-review-lady-gaga-bradley-cooper.html. 

“A Star Is Born (2018).” Spotify, November 11, 2024. https://open.spotify.com/episode/7yrQu8uDzOstB6fJBOvOEm?go=1&sp_cid=6b42ac3f4dd2047051e7328ac22c8be4&utm_source=embed_player_p&utm_medium=desktop&nd=1&dlsi=60c00a094e9c4483. 

“A Star Is Born - Movie Reviews.” Rotten Tomatoes. Accessed May 16, 2025. https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/a_star_is_born_2018/reviews. 

A star is born. Warner Bros. entertainment, 2018. 

Tallicero, Brian. “A Star Is Born Movie Review & Film Summary (2018).” Roger Ebert, October 5, 2018. https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/a-star-is-born-2018. 

JFK is a story about corruption and conspiracy—about the unsettling possibility that the truth has been buried under layers of lies. Through the eyes of New Orleans District Attorney Jim Garrison, played by Kevin Costner, we see the sheer weight of institutional resistance faced when one man dares to question the official narrative. The film becomes less about proving a single theory and more about exposing a system that thrives on obfuscation, intimidation, and fear. It challenges viewers to consider: what happens when those in power decide that truth is too dangerous to be known?

But beyond the political intrigue and courtroom drama lies a deeper, more personal theme—the profound sorrow and loss that rippled through the American psyche after JFK’s assassination. Stone’s film taps into a collective wound, a sense that something bright and promising was extinguished on that day in Dallas. The president’s death is portrayed not just as the loss of a leader, but as the death of an ideal—the dream of a more just, hopeful America.

References used in the creation of this episode, as always all opinions are my own.

Giglio, James n. “Oliver Stone’s JFK in Historical Perspective.” AHA, March 18, 2025. https://www.historians.org/perspectives-article/oliver-stones-jfk-in-historical-perspective/. 

JFK. United States, United States: Warner Bros., Warner Home Video, 1991. 

“JFK.” Rotten Tomatoes, December 20, 1991. https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1037756-jfk. 

ReelBlend Podcast. “Oliver Stone Talks ‘JFK’ 30th Anniversary.” YouTube, December 29, 2021. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rd8edLxhDeE. 

Stone, Oliver, and Zachary Skylar. “The Internet Movie Script Database (Imsdb).” The Internet Movie Script Database. Accessed April 26, 2025. https://imsdb.com/scripts/JFK.html. 

Blood Diamond: a gripping political thriller set during the Sierra Leone Civil War of the 1990s. The film starkly portrays violence, including the use of child soldiers, forced labor, and the atrocities committed by rebel factions. It sheds light on how the global demand for diamonds fueled the conflict, implicating international markets and consumers in the perpetuation of violence. Through its narrative, “Blood Diamond” underscores the importance of media in uncovering and understanding such complex issues, emphasizing that films can serve as powerful tools for social awareness and change.​

Remember diamonds are forever but so are the impacts of having one.

References used in the creation of this episode. As always all opinions are my own.

Blood diamond screenplay, 2005. https://www.dailyscript.com/scripts/Blood%20Diamond_July_27_2005_draft).pdf.

Blood diamond. United States: Warner Bros. Pictures, 2006.

“Blood Diamond.” Wikipedia, April 21, 2025. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blood_Diamond.

Rich, Joshua. “Leonardo DiCaprio’s ‘“blood Diamond”’ Experience.” EW.com, December 8, 2006. https://ew.com/article/2006/12/08/leonardo-dicaprios-blood-diamond-experience/. 

Bonus episode!! Last night I went to see Sinners! GO see this! It’s masterful, it’s original and it’s exactly what studios need to be putting their money behind. Listen to hear my immediate aftermath thoughts. I will be definitely be circling back to do a deep dive on this film at a later date.

From refugee to ruthless kingpin, Tony Montana’s rise and fall is a cautionary tale. Al Pacino’s performance love it or hate it made a lasting impact on the film industry. I’ll explore the film’s themes of greed, capitalist corruption, and the intoxicating allure of power. Prepare for the over-the-top 80s aesthetics, the quotable dialogue, and why this film, despite its flaws, has cemented its place as a cult classic. Buckle up for a wild ride through the excess and the consequences of chasing the American Dream.

And remember the eyes Chico they never lie!

References used to create this episode. As always all opinions are my own.

“Making of Scarface.” YouTube, October 2, 2016. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILNo-YS9u24.

Pacino, Al. Sonny Boy: A memoir. New York: Penguin Press, 2024

Roff, Don. “Scarface (1983) Beat Sheet Analysis.” Save the Cat!®, December 8, 2023. https://savethecat.com/beat-sheets/scarface-1983-beat-sheet-analysis.

“Scarface (1983 Film).” Wikipedia, April 12, 2025. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scarface_(1983_film).

Scarface. United States: Universal, 1983.

The hills are alive with the Sound of Music this week! Journey back to the Austrian Alps with us as we explore the magic. We’ll delve into the iconic performance of Julie Andrews as the world’s favourite governess, the captivating presence of Christopher Plummer, and the enduring themes that make this film timeless. More relevant now than ever, discover why this story of sugar and spice, with a powerful message at its heart, continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.

The references I used in the creation of this episode. As always all opinions are my own.

References

“The Sound of Music (Film).” Wikipedia, April 10, 2025. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Sound_of_Music_(film).

The sound of music. United States, United States: Twentieth Century-Fox Film Corp., FoxVideo, 1965.

“The Sound of Music.” Rotten Tomatoes, March 2, 1965. https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/sound_of_music

In this week’s episode Silver Linings Playbook. A beautiful story about healing, and the power of human connection. The film’s brave and honest depiction of characters navigating mental illness, brought to life by the incredible talents of Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence. It doesn’t shy away from delving into the often-complex representation of family dynamics when mental health challenges are involved. Make a parlay with me and tune into today’s episode.

Below are the references I used to gather information about the episode. As always all opinions are my own.

Silver linings playbook. United States: Weinstein Company, 2012. https://www.crave.ca/fr/movies/silver-linings-playbook. 

“Silver Linings Playbook.” Rotten Tomatoes, November 16, 2012. https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/silver_linings_playbook. 

“Silver Linings Playbook.” Wikipedia, March 15, 2025. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silver_Linings_Playbook. 

Zhan, Jennifer. “A Timeline of the Allegations against Amsterdam Director David O. Russell.” Vulture, December 24, 2024. https://www.vulture.com/article/david-o-russell-abuse-assault-allegations-timeline.html. 

Jinkies! Can it be? A live action adaption of a cartoon I actually like? Well folks my snobby self hates to admit it but I do love the Scooby doo adaptions, particularly the sequel. I  know I know I know, you don’t need to tell it goes against all I believe in. I know I’m a hypocrite I accept it. 

Seriously though I love this campy classic. This is the the ultimate cartoon adaption. It tries to be nothing more than the cartoon in which it’s based. (with an original mystery however, WB didn’t phone it in like Disney) 

With I think arguably the best casting a film has ever had? Absolutely ICONIC! I love every bit of this little cheesy film and it will forever be in my top 10.  I don’t care what anyone says it’s great. 

So get your favourite latex orange jumpsuit, a box of Scooby Snacks and let’s fucking do this 🔎 👀 👣 

Bonus episode! Did Scooby Doo ignite your passion for horror? Join me as I unmask the secrets behind the iconic cartoon! The evolution of Mystery Inc., from its inception during the golden age of children’s television to its various incarnations across TV, movies (animated and live-action!), and beyond. Get ready to explore how this seemingly silly show subtly planted the seeds for a lifelong love of the spooky and suspenseful!

Anyone order fried sauerkraut? because we’re diving deep into Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood”! This ain’t your average movie review, folks.  I am dissecting this historical fiction, revenge fantasy masterpiece, exploring everything from the stellar supporting cast to its beautifully stylized cinematography. We’ll unpack the thematic layers, Tarantino’s signature dialogue, and yes, even *those* infamous feet! Get ready to analyze the nostalgia, the violence, and the undeniable magic that makes “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” a modern classic. 

Tune into this week’s episode because I’m the devil and I’m here to do the devils work.

Information used to assist me in the creation of this episode are the film itself and the following websites, my opinions on the film and thoughts about it are my own.

References:

Goldberg, Alan, and Alan Goldberg. “Biography/Charles Manson: Journey Into Evil.” Episode. Biography 7, no. 46. A&E, 1995.

Goldberg, Matt. “What Is New Hollywood? The History + Influence of Film’s Most Daring Era.” Backstage, April 4, 2024. https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/new-hollywood-movies-explained-77096/.

Maron, Marc, and Quentin Tarantino. Episode 1239-Quentin Tarantino. Other. WTF with Marc Maron, June 28, 2021. https://open.spotify.com/episode/5JduAPTmLCTwA4VMSdd50s?si=-CfMyk5lRfOUUE7I1m9zZw.

Once upon a time in Hollywood. Culver City, CA: Columbia Pictures, 2019.

“Once upon a Time in Hollywood.” Wikipedia, March 15, 2025. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Once_Upon_a_Time_in_Hollywood