Midday Movies

Midday Movies

By Laura Fones and Stephen FrothinghamTV & Film
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Midday Movies episodes

  • Ep 328: “The Age of Innocence” (1993) A Gilded Age Love Triangle that Censures New York Society

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen continue their enchanting Summer of Love series with a deep dive into Martin Scorsese's The Age of Innocence. Adapted from Edith Wharton's classic novel, the film transports us to the opulent yet suffocating world of 1870s New York society, where a tragic love triangle unfolds between Newland Archer (Daniel Day-Lewis), his innocent fiancée May (Winona Ryder), and the captivating Countess Olenska (Michelle Pfeiffer). As they navigate the rigid social hierarchies of their time, the trio grapples with desire, duty, and the haunting consequences of conformity.


    Laura and Stephen dissect the film's rich visual language and thematic depth, exploring how Scorsese's portrayal of societal norms serves as a profound critique of the emotional and social violence inherent in high society. They discuss the significance of the film's floral motifs, the characters' complex dynamics, and the ways in which love is both liberating and imprisoning. With their signature blend of wit and insight, they delve into the nuances of each character's motivations and the societal expectations that shape their lives.


    Join them for an engaging conversation that celebrates the beauty and tragedy of unfulfilled love and the societal constraints that dictate our choices. Whether you're revisiting this cinematic masterpiece or discovering it for the first time, this episode promises to resonate with anyone who has ever felt the weight of societal expectations in their own romantic endeavors!


    Chapters:

    00:00 — Introduction to The Age of Innocence

    01:30 — Overview of the love triangle dynamics

    04:00 — The significance of the film's floral motifs

    08:15 — Exploring the societal critique embedded in the narrative

    12:45 — Character analysis: Newland, May, and Ellen

    18:00 — The emotional and social violence of high society

    22:30 — The role of conformity and individual desires

    27:00 — Final thoughts on the film's legacy and its relevance today


    Don't miss this captivating episode of Midday Movies, where classic cinema meets heartfelt discussion!


    For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod (https://www.instagram.com/middaymoviespod/), @umbrellapodcastcollective (https://www.instagram.com/umbrellapodcastcollective/), and @facehuggersandfriendspod (https://www.instagram.com/facehuggersandfriendspod/)


    Support your favorite film appreciation dynamic duo here buymeacoffee.com/middaymovies (https://buymeacoffee.com/middaymovies)


    Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/middaymusingspod/) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566844645494) Linktree (https://linktr.ee/middaymusingspod%E2%81%A0%E2%81%A0)


    Check out our new merch shop here (https://www.redbubble.com/people/MiddayMusings/shop) for tees, totes, stickers, and more!

    34 min
  • Ep 327: “Before Midnight” (2013) Love in the Forties, Life After Divorce, and Maybe a Greek Tragedy

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen wrap up their deep dive into Richard Linklater's Before Trilogy with the emotionally charged film, Before Midnight. Set nine years after the events of Before Sunset, we find Jesse and Celine navigating the complexities of parenthood with twins and a challenging custody arrangement with Jesse's ex-wife. As they spend a summer in Greece, the land steeped in myth and tragedy, the couple confronts the realities of love, time, and the weight of responsibilities that threaten to unravel their bond.


    Laura and Stephen explore the film's poignant themes, discussing how the idyllic romance of their early years has evolved into a more complicated reality. They delve into the characters' struggles with identity, the pressures of family life, and the haunting specter of past choices. With their signature humor and insightful commentary, they reflect on the depth of Jesse and Celine's relationship and the societal expectations that shape their interactions.


    Join them for a heartfelt conversation that examines the bittersweet nature of love and the inevitable changes that come with time. Whether you're revisiting this cinematic masterpiece or experiencing it for the first time, this episode promises to resonate with anyone who has grappled with the complexities of adult relationships!


    Chapters:

    00:00 — Introduction to Before Midnight

    01:30 — Overview of Jesse and Celine's current life and family dynamics

    04:00 — The significance of the Greek setting and its thematic implications

    08:15 — Exploring the complexities of love and responsibility

    12:45 — The impact of past choices on their present relationship

    18:00 — Analyzing the dialogue and character development

    22:30 — The contrast between youthful romance and adult reality

    27:00 — Final thoughts on the film's legacy and its place within the trilogy


    Don't miss this captivating episode of Midday Movies, where classic cinema meets heartfelt discussion!


    For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod


    Support your favorite film appreciation dynamic duo here buymeacoffee.com/middaymovies


    Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook Linktree


    Check out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers, and more!

    39 min
  • Ep 326: “Before Sunset” (2004) 30-Something Angst, Divorce, and the Lovers’ Reunion on the Seine

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen continue their exploration of the captivating Before Trilogy with the poignant film, Before Sunset. Set nine years after the enchanting Before Sunrise, we reconnect with Jesse, now a successful author, and Celine, whose brief yet impactful encounter with him has inspired his bestselling novel. With only 90 minutes before Jesse's flight, the two must unpack nearly a decade of unspoken feelings and unresolved emotions during their bittersweet reunion in Paris.


    Laura and Stephen delve into the film's exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time, highlighting the depth of Jesse and Celine's relationship as they navigate their intertwined pasts and present realities. They discuss how the characters have evolved since their first meeting, the weight of unfulfilled promises, and the haunting nature of what might have been. With their signature blend of humor and heartfelt analysis, they reflect on the film's emotional resonance and the complexities of adult relationships.


    Join them for an engaging conversation that celebrates the beauty of fleeting moments and the profound impact of love that lingers through the years. Whether you're revisiting this cinematic treasure or experiencing it for the first time, this episode promises to touch your heart and spark your own memories of love and longing!


    Chapters:

    00:00 — Introduction to Before Sunset

    01:30 — Overview of Jesse and Celine's characters and their growth

    04:00 — The significance of their 90-minute reunion

    08:15 — Exploring the themes of love and regret

    12:45 — The impact of time on their relationship

    18:00 — Analyzing the dialogue and emotional honesty

    22:30 — The contrast between their youthful dreams and adult realities

    27:00 — Final thoughts on the film's legacy and its place in the romance genre


    Don't miss this captivating episode of Midday Movies, where classic cinema meets heartfelt discussion!


    For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at@middaymoviespod (https://www.instagram.com/middaymoviespod/), @umbrellapodcastcollective (https://www.instagram.com/umbrellapodcastcollective/), and @facehuggersandfriendspod (https://www.instagram.com/facehuggersandfriendspod/)


    Support your favorite film appreciation dynamic duo here buymeacoffee.com/middaymovies (https://buymeacoffee.com/middaymovies)


    Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/middaymusingspod/) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566844645494) Linktree (https://linktr.ee/middaymusingspod%E2%81%A0%E2%81%A0)


    Check out our new merch shop here (https://www.redbubble.com/people/MiddayMusings/shop) for tees, totes, stickers, and more!

    39 min
  • Ep 325: Prestige Romance “Before Sunrise” (1995) A Whirlwind Night of Love and Philosophy in Vienna

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen dive into the enchanting world of Richard Linklater's Before Sunrise, a 1995 romantic classic that captures the fleeting beauty of connection. Starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, the film follows two young travelers who meet on a train in Europe and decide to spend an unforgettable night exploring Vienna. With a backdrop of candid conversations and spontaneous adventures, they grapple with life's big questions while experiencing the thrill of a deepening bond, all within the constraints of a single night.


    Laura and Stephen explore the film's rich dialogue and emotional depth, highlighting the character dynamics between Jesse, the American backpacker, and Celine, the French university student. They discuss the nuances of their relationship, the philosophical themes woven throughout their conversations, and the film's unique ability to evoke the essence of falling in love. With their signature blend of humor and insight, they reflect on the characters' journeys of self-discovery and the societal implications of their romantic escapades.


    Join them for a heartfelt discussion that celebrates the magic of fleeting moments and the transformative power of love. Whether you're revisiting this cinematic gem or experiencing it for the first time, this episode promises to resonate with anyone who has ever felt the thrill of a brief connection that lingers long after the moment has passed!


    Chapters:

    00:00 — Introduction to Before Sunrise

    01:30 — Overview of Jesse and Celine's characters

    04:00 — The significance of their spontaneous night in Vienna

    08:15 — Exploring the film's dialogue and philosophical themes

    12:45 — The impact of youth and connection on the narrative

    18:00 — Analyzing the cultural contrasts between Jesse and Celine

    22:30 — The role of chance encounters in shaping our lives

    27:00 — Final thoughts on the film's legacy and its place in the romance genre


    Don't miss this captivating episode of Midday Movies, where classic cinema meets heartfelt discussion!


    For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod


    Support your favorite film appreciation dynamic duo here https://buymeacoffee.com/middaymovies


    Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook Linktree


    Check out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers, and more!

    30 min
  • Ep 324: “The Apartment” (1960) Romance in the Time of Organizational and Sexual Politics

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen continue their exploration of romance in cinema with the Billy Wilder classic, The Apartment. Released in 1960 and starring the incomparable Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine, this film dives into the cutthroat world of corporate America, where Lemmon's character, C.C. Baxter, lends out his apartment to company executives for their extramarital affairs in hopes of climbing the corporate ladder. What ensues is a sharp satire filled with humor, romance, and poignant social commentary that has influenced countless films and television shows, including the iconic Mad Men.


    Laura and Stephen dissect the film's intricate narrative, exploring the complexities of love, ambition, and the darker sides of human relationships. They discuss the dynamic between C. C. Baxter and MacLaine's character, Fran Kubelik, and the societal norms that shape their interactions amidst the backdrop of a bustling New York City insurance agency. With their trademark wit and insightful analysis, they delve into the film's rich character development, including the antagonistic yet charismatic Mr. Sheldrake, and the unique blend of comedy and drama that defines Wilder's work.


    Join them for an engaging conversation that celebrates the timelessness of The Apartment and its exploration of the human condition, loneliness, and the pursuit of love amidst the chaos of life. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to this classic, this episode will surely reignite your appreciation for this cinematic gem!


    Chapters:

    00:00 — Introduction to The Apartment

    01:30 — Overview of the main characters and their dynamics

    03:15 — The significance of corporate culture in the 1960s

    05:45 — Exploring the themes of love and ambition

    10:00 — The role of social commentary in Wilder's work

    15:30 — Jack Lemmon's portrayal of C.C. Baxter

    20:00 — The dark humor and satirical elements of the film

    25:15 — Fran Kubelik as a representation of women in the workplace

    30:00 — Final thoughts on the film's legacy and impact


    Don't miss this captivating episode of Midday Movies, where classic cinema meets heartfelt discussion!


    For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod


    Buy us a Popcorn to support Midday Movies 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!

    32 min
  • Ep 323: “It Happened One Night” (1934) How This Classic Swept the Oscars and Invented the RomCom

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen continue their intrepid trek through classic romance with the iconic screwball comedy, It Happened One Night. This 1934 film, featuring the unforgettable pairing of Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert, tells the story of a working-class newspaperman and a spoiled heiress who find themselves on a raucous road trip to New York City at the height of the Great Depression. Their hilarious misadventures amount to not only a battle of the sexes but also a clash of social classes, all while showcasing an undeniable chemistry that has stood the test of time.


    Laura and Stephen dive deep into the film’s rich narrative, exploring its groundbreaking impact on the screwball comedy genre and the cultural commentary it provides. They discuss the dynamic between Gable and Colbert, their witty banter, and the societal norms that shape their interactions. With humor and insightful analysis, they highlight the film’s clever storytelling, memorable characters, and its historical significance, including its impressive sweep of the Academy Awards.


    Join them for a delightful conversation that celebrates the charm of classic cinema, the exploration of class and gender dynamics, and the sheer joy of watching two iconic leads navigate their way through love and laughter. Whether you're revisiting this timeless classic or experiencing it for the first time, this episode is sure to ignite your passion for film!


    Chapters:

    00:00 — Introduction to It Happened One Night

    01:15 — Overview of the main characters and their dynamics

    03:45 — The significance of screwball comedy in film history

    05:30 — The Great Depression's influence on the narrative

    10:00 — Exploring the battle of the sexes and classes

    15:20 — Memorable scenes and character interactions

    20:00 — The cultural impact of Clark Gable's performance

    25:15 — The film's Academy Awards sweep

    30:00 — Final thoughts on the film's charm and legacy


    Don't miss this captivating episode of Midday Movies, where classic cinema meets heartfelt discussion!


    For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod


    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!

    31 min
  • Ep 322: “Sabrina” (1954) A Love Triangle, a Parisian Makeover, and a Long Island Cinderella

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen embark on a charming journey through the classic romance of the 1954 film, Sabrina. Starring the iconic Audrey Hepburn, alongside Humphrey Bogart and William Holden, this delightful tale follows Sabrina Fairchild, the daughter of a chauffeur, as she transforms from a love-struck girl into a sophisticated Parisian woman, capturing the hearts of two brothers from the affluent Larrabee family. With themes of love, class disparity, and self-discovery, Sabrina is a timeless Cinderella story set against the backdrop of Long Island high society.


    Laura and Stephen dive into the film's rich character dynamics and the captivating performances of its leads. They discuss Sabrina's enchanting glow-up, the contrasting personalities of the Larrabee brothers, and the societal expectations that shape their relationships. With insightful commentary and plenty of humor, they explore the film's clever writing, directed by the legendary Billy Wilder, and how it remains relevant today.


    Join them for a lively conversation that delves into the intricacies of romance, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness. Whether you're revisiting this classic or experiencing it for the first time, this episode promises to rekindle your love for cinematic storytelling!



    Chapters:

    00:00 — Laura and Stephen discuss today's featured movies on Midday Movies podcast

    01:23 — Sabrina is a 1954 adaptation of Samuel Taylor's Broadway hit Sabrina Fair

    02:28 — The Great Gatsby takes place in Long island society

    07:01 — The staff that works for Sabrina is incredibly invested in her journey

    08:23 — Sabrina is very distracted by her love of David on their Paris journey

    14:28 — Linus and Sabrina develop a little chemistry on the tennis court

    16:30 — Linus is trying to keep Sabrina away from David

    17:22 — Linus is an industrialist of the highest. And he's passionate about development

    19:44 — Linus is perhaps my favorite male character in the 1950s

    20:55 — There is a lot about classism in this movie, though

    21:51 — There's a 30 year age gap between Sabrina and Linus

    26:33 — Sabrina is a fascinating member of the Hollywood class just in and of himself

    28:58 — Edith Head was the costume designer on Sabrina. She won the Academy Award for best costume design

    29:42 — Humphrey Bogart and William Holden hated each other on this film

    31:57 — Stephen and Laura discuss Sabrina on today's Midday Movies


    Don't miss this enchanting episode of Midday Movies, where classic cinema meets heartfelt discussion!

    For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod

    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!

    35 min
  • Ep 321: “Heated Rivalry” (2026) The Game-Changing Romance Series that Started a Booktok Revolution

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen dive into the sizzling world of romance and rivalry with the international hit series, Heated Rivalry. Based on Rachel Reed's Game Changers book series, this captivating show follows the lives of two Major League Hockey stars, Ilya Rozanov and Shane Hollander, as they navigate the complexities of ambition, rivalry, and a magnetic connection that transcends the ice. Over the course of eight years, the duo grapples with love, denial, and self-discovery, all while the supporting characters offer insights that challenge their understanding of identity and acceptance.


    Laura and Stephen share their excitement for this much-requested series, highlighting its emotionally intelligent portrayal of closeted queer athletes in a hyper-masculine sport. They discuss the dynamic relationship between the leads, their contrasting backgrounds, and the impact of their friends, including the beloved Scott Hunter, who becomes an unexpected source of inspiration and support. With humor and heartfelt moments, this episode captures the essence of Heated Rivalry and why it has resonated with audiences worldwide.


    Join them for an insightful discussion that explores themes of love, identity, and the pressures of professional sports. Whether you're a fan of the book series or new to the show, this episode will leave you eager to catch up on all the drama and romance!


    Chapters:

    Introduction to Heated Rivalry

    Overview of the main characters and their dynamics

    The significance of rivalries in sports and relationships

    Exploring the supporting characters and their roles

    The emotional journey of Ilya and Shane

    Scott Hunter's impact on the narrative

    Final thoughts on the show's themes and appeal


    Don't miss this engaging episode of Midday Movies, where cinematic exploration meets heartfelt conversation!


    For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod


    We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NFCS2GM).


    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!

    36 min
  • Ep 320: “Off Campus” (Prime, 2026) Summer of Love Kicks Off With Hockey’s Hottest (Straight) Romance

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen take a delightful plunge into the world of romance and hockey with Prime Video's hit series, “Off Campus.” Based on Elle Kennedy's best-selling book series, this charming show introduces us to Hannah Wells, a dedicated music major, and Garrett Graham, the charismatic captain of Briar University's hockey team. As they navigate the complexities of college life, a unique deal is struck—Hannah helps Garrett academically while he assists her in winning the heart of a boy she likes. Cue the fake dating trope that leads to unexpected feelings and heartwarming moments!


    Laura and Stephen share their thoughts on the show's engaging characters, from the lovable main couple to their diverse friend groups, all of whom bring authenticity and warmth to the narrative. They discuss the modern rom-com elements that make Off Campus stand out, as well as the emotional intelligence displayed by its characters. With plenty of humor, romance, and relatable college experiences, this episode captures the essence of why viewers are falling in love with the series.


    Join them for a fun and insightful discussion that explores the themes of friendship, ambition, and the complexities of young love. Whether you're a fan of the book series or new to the show, this episode is sure to get you excited for the Summer of Love!


    Chapters:

    • ​Introduction to Off Campus
    • ​Overview of the main characters and their dynamics
    • ​The fake dating trope and its implications
    • ​Discussing the friend groups and their authenticity
    • ​Emotional intelligence in character development
    • ​Comparison with Heated Rivalry
    • ​Final thoughts on the show's charm and appeal

    Don't miss this captivating episode of Midday Movies, where cinematic exploration meets heartfelt conversation!


    For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at ⁠⁠@middaymoviespod⁠⁠, ⁠⁠@umbrellapodcastcollective⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠@facehuggersandfriendspod⁠⁠


    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!

    34 min
  • Summer of Love - Off Campus

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen take a delightful plunge into the world of romance and hockey with Prime Video's hit series, Off Campus. Based on Elle Kennedy's best-selling book series, this charming show introduces us to Hannah Wells, a dedicated music major, and Garrett Graham, the charismatic captain of Briar University's hockey team. As they navigate the complexities of college life, a unique deal is struck—Hannah helps Garrett academically while he assists her in winning the heart of a boy she likes. Cue the fake dating trope that leads to unexpected feelings and heartwarming moments!





    Laura and Stephen share their thoughts on the show's engaging characters, from the lovable main couple to their diverse friend groups, all of whom bring authenticity and warmth to the narrative. They discuss the modern rom-com elements that make Off Campus stand out, as well as the emotional intelligence displayed by its characters. With plenty of humor, romance, and relatable college experiences, this episode captures the essence of why viewers are falling in love with the series.





    Join them for a fun and insightful discussion that explores the themes of friendship, ambition, and the complexities of young love. Whether you're a fan of the book series or new to the show, this episode is sure to get you excited for the Summer of Love!





    Chapters:


    ​00:00 — Introduction to Off Campus

    ​02:15 — Overview of the main characters and their dynamics

    ​10:00 — The fake dating trope and its implications

    ​20:30 — Discussing the friend groups and their authenticity

    ​30:45 — Emotional intelligence in character development

    ​40:00 — Comparison with Heated Rivalry

    ​50:15 — Final thoughts on the show's charm and appeal





    Don't miss this engaging episode of Midday Movies, where cinematic exploration meets heartfelt conversation!





    For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at ⁠@middaymoviespod⁠, ⁠@umbrellapodcastcollective⁠, and ⁠@facehuggersandfriendspod⁠





    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!

    34 min

About Midday Movies

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to the Midday Movies podcast, provider of fun, funny, and thoughtful media reviews 2-3x a week. Streaming on @radiotacoma101.9 every Tues/Thurs/Sat at 3pm.

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