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In this episode of 'Midday Movies,' hosts Laura and Stephen celebrate the 50th anniversary of the iconic summer blockbuster 'Jaws,' directed by Steven Spielberg and scored by John Williams. They delve into fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, including Spielberg's early career (and his break-in at the Universal Studios lot) and the logistical challenges of filming with a malfunctioning mechanical shark named Bruce. The discussion covers the cultural impact of 'Jaws,' the dynamic between cast members, and how the film's production troubles contributed to its legendary status. With insights into the film's realistic elements and emotional depth, Laura and Stephen highlight why 'Jaws' remains a timeless piece of cinema.
00:00 Welcome to Midday Movies
00:06 Celebrating 50 Years of Jaws
00:33 Personal Reflections on Jaws
01:33 The Making of Jaws: Behind the Scenes
03:06 Steven Spielberg's Journey
04:19 Jaws: A Timeless Classic
12:21 The Characters of Jaws
13:37 The Real-Life Inspirations
17:34 The Shark Attacks
21:49 The Big Event: July 4th at Amity
22:15 Quint and the Moby Dick Transformation
22:50 Behind the Scenes: Actor Tensions
25:40 The Realism of 70s Filmmaking
29:22 Iconic Music and Dynamic Scoring
31:37 The Shark Cage Incident
33:42 Spielberg's Journey and Jaws' Legacy
38:55 The Importance of Practical Effects
39:15 Puppets and the Arts
40:47 Final Thoughts and Farewell
And look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025).
Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”
We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.
Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook Linktree
Check out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
In this episode, Shea (of the Rainy Day Rabbit Holes Podcast), Laura, and Stephen gather to passionately discuss and rank their favorite and least favorite movies from the Alien franchise. From the 1979 original 'Alien' to the more recent 'Alien Romulus,' they dive into the elements that make each film unique. They also touch on the character development, special effects, and the overall impact of each movie on the franchise. The conversation extends to 'Aliens,' 'Prometheus,' and 'Alien: Covenant,' exploring the rich lore and intricate storytelling that have captivated audiences for decades. Tune in to hear their rankings, personal preferences, and why they believe the Alien franchise remains one of the best in cinematic history.
00:00 Introduction and Alien Franchise Love
00:45 Ranking the Alien Movies: Shea's List
04:16 Ranking the Alien Movies: Laura's List
05:04 Alien Romulus and Prometheus Discussion
06:14 David and the Alien Series
09:24 Michael Fassbender and Insecurity
10:56 Aging and Confidence
11:48 The Fear of Being Watched
11:58 Embracing Middle Age
12:16 Ranking the Alien Movies
12:49 The Genius of Alien and Aliens
14:28 Prometheus: A Controversial Favorite
17:00 The Flaws in Prometheus
18:17 Alien Franchise: A Legacy of Chaos
22:27 Anticipation for Alien Earth
In this episode of “Midday Movies,” hosts Laura, Stephen, and guest Jason from the 'Rainy Day Rabbit Holes' podcast delve into “Alien vs. Predator” (AvP, 2004). They discuss the film's setting in an Antarctic pyramid, the characters including Alexa Woods and Charles Bishop Weyland, the intriguing crossover of iconic extraterrestrial creatures, and the themes of camaraderie and conflict. Conversations also touch upon the influences of director Paul W.S. Anderson, the complexities of predator and human alliances, and the film's reception and legacy within its genre. Join the engaging discussion filled with nostalgia, theory, and spirited debate about the first crossover film combining the famous Alien and Predator universes.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:09 Alien vs. Predator: Movie Synopsis
00:44 Casual Banter and Guest Introduction
02:33 Initial Impressions and Personal Takes
03:44 Exploring the Movie's Setting and Characters
06:37 Predator Lore and Human Sacrifice
10:22 The Predator-Human Alliance
20:11 Character Dynamics and Relationships
26:57 Paul WS Anderson's Signature Touches
27:09 The Puzzle Box Era
28:29 Predator and Human Team-Up
29:34 The Alien Head Armor Revelation
32:58 Genre Films and Michael Bay
35:10 Alien vs Predator: A Genre Film
38:15 Expanding the Predator Universe
39:31 Found Family in Sci-Fi
42:15 Genre Films and Audience Expectations
47:45 Thematic Depth in Alien and Predator Films
48:33 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
And look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025).
Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”
We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.
Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook Linktree
Check out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
In this episode of 'Midday Movies,' hosts Laura and Stephen, joined by guest Jason from the 'Rainy Day Rabbit Holes' podcast, dive into “Alien Resurrection,” (1997) the final entry in the original Ripley quadrilogy. Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet (“Delicatessen”, “Amelie”) and written by Joss Whedon (“Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Firefly”), the film is praised for its unique characters, production design, and distinct 90s genre tropes. The discussion covers the movie's memorable scenes, competent direction, strong performances, especially by Sigourney Weaver and Winona Ryder, and its underrated place within the Alien franchise. Listen in for a deep dive into why 'Alien Resurrection' is a thrilling and underappreciated action movie.
00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast
00:10 Discussing Alien Resurrection
01:06 Guest Introduction: Jason
01:59 First Impressions of Alien Resurrection
02:53 Ripley's Character Evolution
04:22 Winona Ryder's Role and Impact
06:01 World Building and Director's Influence
12:20 Underwater Scene Challenges1
6:56 Alien Intelligence and Relationships
20:23 The Newborn's Strength and Choices
20:46 Alien Hive Mind and Human DNA Integration
21:46 Ripley's Bond and Betrayal
22:20 Joss Whedon's Influence and Script Analysis
22:50 Evolution of the Alien Universe
25:03 Alien Resurrection's Unique Style and Competence
29:53 Sigourney Weaver's Performance and Characterization
33:34 Michael Wincott and Memorable Characters
37:51 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
And look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025).
Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”
We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.
Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook Linktree
Check out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
The Intriguing Case of the McMinnville UFO Photos
Laura and Stephen present a crossover episode from the Mysterious PNW podcast, where hosts Jen and Sarah delve into the 1950 McMinnville UFO photographs taken by Evelyn and Paul Trent in Oregon. They explore the history, examine the images, consider expert analyses, and discuss the impact of the photos over the years. Despite differing opinions on their authenticity, the photos have sparked ongoing debate and contributed to UFO lore. The episode also highlights McMinnville's annual UFO festival celebrating the famous sighting.
00:00 Introduction to the Crossover Episode
01:09 Meet the Hosts of Mysterious PNW
02:42 The McMinnville UFO Sighting Begins
05:19 Analyzing the UFO Photos
09:21 Public Reaction and Media Coverage
15:15 Skepticism and Controversy
17:27 The Trent's Experience and Legacy
27:43 Bruce McAbee's Investigation
28:38 Debunking Attempts and Hoax Theories
30:03 Public Fascination and Media Coverage
32:27 Skepticism and Conflicting Stories
34:24 Modern Analysis and Findings
35:30 The Trents' Final Years and Legacy
39:23 McMinnville UFO Festival
41:44 Conclusion and Listener Engagement
In this episode of “Midday Movies,” hosts Laura, Stephen, and special guest Bryon dive into the 2017 film “Alien: Covenant,” the second installment in the 21st-century Alien franchise. Joined by Bryon Kershaw from the “Spirits and Monsters of Old Seattle Podcast”, the discussion ranges from reflections on David the Android's theological journey, the film's rich religious subtext (as embodied by Billy Crudup & Katherine Waterston’s characters), and connections to previous Alien installments.
The podcast explores character dynamics, particularly between David and Walter (both played by Michael Fassbender), as well as the evolution of the Alien series under Ridley Scott's direction. Light spoilers are present, and the team delves deeply into themes of creation, love, and antagonism in the context of the Alien universe.
00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast
00:16 Introducing Alien Covenant and Special Guest Brian Kershaw
00:43 Initial Reactions and Spoilers Warning
01:47 Discussing the Characters and Plot of Alien Covenant
02:29 David and Walter: The Androids' Journey
04:22 Exploring the Themes of Faith and Creation
09:49 The Crew's Dynamics and Relationships
17:44 David's Descent into Madness24:08 HR Giger's Influence and Fun Facts
26:58 Adorable Baby Xenomorphs and Timeline Changes
27:59 David's Medieval Alchemist Lair
28:28 Engineer Technology and Ancient Scrolls
28:59 Dr. Shaw's Distress Signal and Engineer Tech
30:37 Walter and David's Relationship
30:54 Advanced Human Technology in Alien Covenant
31:57 Colonists' Backstories and Motivations
34:42 David's Perspective on Humans
35:12 Ridley Scott's Exploration of Creation and Mortality
36:25 Studio Influence on Alien Covenant
44:04 David's Cliffhanger Ending
45:43 Final Thoughts and Future Speculations
And look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025).
Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”
We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.
Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook Linktree
Check out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
In this episode of 'Midday Movies,' hosts Laura, Stephen, and Shea Drury from the 'Rainy Day Rabbit Holes' podcast dive into the third installment of the original Alien series, 'Alien 3.' Directed by David Fincher, 'Alien 3' is known as one of the more controversial films in the franchise. The conversation covers the unique setting of Fury 161, a decommissioned prison planet, the survivalist themes, and the complexities of Ripley's character. They also discuss Fincher's distinctive directorial style, the religious undertones, and the evolution of the Alien franchise. Join them for an engaging discussion filled with detailed analysis, trivia, and humor.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:08 Discussing Alien 3: Setting the Scene
00:48 Characters and Setting in Alien 3
04:15 Plot Holes and Thematic Elements
10:16 Ripley's Evolution and Relationships
15:56 Alien Runner and Unique Alien Traits
21:28 Alien Franchise and Cultural Impact
24:46 Misogyny in Corporate and Space Environments
25:21 The Shoulder Pad Trend
26:25 Cornbread and Aliens
27:01 David Fincher's Fatalism
29:13 Iconic Visuals and Characters
32:13 Ripley's Struggle and Sacrifice
33:50 Theories and Synthetic Humans
36:07 Chat GPT and Diplomacy
38:46 Alien 3: A Controversial Movie
44:15 Alien Resurrection and Beyond
46:24 Conclusion and Future Discussions
And look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025).
Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”
We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.
Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook Linktree
Check out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
Join hosts Laura, Stephen, and special guest Shea from the Rainy Day Rabbit Holes podcast on Midday Movies as they delve into James Cameron's iconic film 'Aliens.' In this episode, they explore why 'Aliens' is often hailed as one of the best action films in American cinema, discussing its characters, influences, and connections to contemporary films. They also touch on the upcoming FX series 'Alien Earth,' and share insights into the film's iconic moments, production details, and lasting impact on the sci-fi genre. Perfect for fans gearing up for more alien action this summer.
00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast
00:14 Special Guest Introduction
00:38 Discussing the Impact of 'Aliens'
02:05 Iconic Characters and Performances
04:44 James Cameron's Love for Machines
08:25 Military Themes and Firepower
13:31 Character Dynamics and Relationships
17:05 Exploring the Colony and Corporate Sinister Plans
17:34 Analyzing the Male Lead in 'Tower of Terror'
17:46 Trust Issues in Movies
18:13 Upcoming Podcast: Facehuggers and Friends
18:44 James Cameron's Anti-Capitalist Themes
20:09 Ripley's Motherhood Journey
27:16 The Alien Lifecycle Mystery
28:51 Alien Society and Reproduction
33:37 Excitement for 'Alien Earth' Series
35:45 Final Thoughts and Cross-Promotion
And look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025).
Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”
We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.
Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook Linktree
Check out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
Hosts Laura and Stephen delve into the unique Polish animated film 'The Peasants' in their podcast 'Midday Movies.' The innovative film, directed by filmmaking couple Hugh and DK Welchman, is composed of 40,000 oil paintings and based on the 1924 Nobel Prize-winning novel by Wladyslaw Stanislaw Reymont. The film uses six paintings per second to create a visually stunning narrative about Jagna (played by Kamila Urzedowska), a young woman defying societal norms in her traditional 19th-century village. Despite lighthearted beginnings, the story turns dark, reflecting societal versus natural values. The film, Poland's official entry to the 96th Academy Awards, is now streaming on Netflix, portraying a beautiful yet poignant tale with unique visual artistry.
And look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025).
Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”
We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.
Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook Linktree
Check out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
In this episode of ‘Midday Movies,’ hosts Laura and Stephen discuss Studio Ghibli's emotionally potent film ‘Grave of the Fireflies,’ directed by Isao Takahata and based on the acclaimed book of the same name. The film tells the harrowing tale of two children, Seita (voiced by Tsutomu Tatsumi) and Setsuko (Ayano Shiraishi), struggling to survive in Japan during the final days of World War II. Despite being an animated film, ‘Grave of the Fireflies’ is an unflinching portrayal of war's human cost. The hosts explore the film's unique narrative style, the cultural and generational differences in its reception, and the director's personal experiences that influenced the movie's creation. They delve into themes of survival, innocence, and societal expectations, making a compelling case for why this film stands as one of the most affecting war movies ever made. ‘Grave of the Fireflies’ is now streaming on Netflix.
And look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025).
Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”
We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.
Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook Linktree
Check out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
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