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Midday Movies
By Laura Fones and Stephen FrothinghamTV & Film
Midday Movies episodes
- Ep 279: Reimagining “Frankenstein” (2025, Guillermo Del Toro) with Jen & Sarah from Movies & Us Pod
Guests: Jen and Sarah of the “Movies & Us” Podcast
In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen, are joined by Jen and Sarah from the Movies & Us Podcast, to explore Guillermo del Toro's reimagining of Mary Shelley's 1818 novel, “Frankenstein” (2025). The movie stars Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, and Mia Goth, and presents themes of mad ambition, family trauma, and the inhospitable Arctic Circle. The discussion touches on del Toro's unique approach to humanizing monsters, the film’s historical context of Victorian England and the Crimean War, and the emotional complexities of the characters. The conversation also highlights the stunning practical effects, the transformative journey of the creature, and the emotional depth and visual beauty that del Toro brings to this classic tale of terrible parenting. The episode ends with reflections on the film’s staggering emotional weight and its place in del Toro’s impressive filmography.
00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast
00:10 Special Guests: Jen and Sarah from Movies & Us
00:45 Guillermo del Toro's Unique Take on Frankenstein
02:02 Exploring the Themes of Family and Trauma
04:44 Historical Context and Setting
08:29 Character Analysis: Victor and His Relationships
12:21 The Creature's Journey and Development
16:08 The Role of Supporting Characters
19:50 The Creature's Emotional Evolution
27:02 The Climactic Arctic Chase
30:14 Exploring Victor and the Creature's Relationship
32:10 Oscar Isaac's Arctic Adventure
33:02 Victor's Emotional Complexity
35:53 The Creature's Growth and Acceptance
38:23 Guillermo del Toro's Mastery in Practical Effects
40:13 The Impact of Streaming on Film Accessibility
45:36 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective and @facehuggersandfriendspod
For more Jen and Sara follow them at @moviesanduspod and @tvanduspod
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!
52 min - Ep 278: Reviewing “Blade Runner 2049” (2017) with Steven Bernstein (Cinematographer/Writer/Director)
Guest: Steven Bernstein (Writer, Director, Cinematographer)
In this special episode of Midday Movies, Laura and Stephen are joined by acclaimed cinematographer Steven Bernstein (Monster, White Chicks) to deconstruct the visually haunting masterpiece, Blade Runner 2049 (2017).
Moving beyond simple plot summary, the trio dives deep into the philosophy of filmmaking, challenging the modern orthodoxy that "everyone is a storyteller." Steven Bernstein offers a masterclass on visual language, explaining how cinematography bypasses the intellect to hit us directly in the gut—much like music or abstract art.
Topics Discussed:
- The Myth of Storytelling: Why narrative is often just an arbitrary order we impose on a chaotic universe, and how great cinema operates on a visceral, rather than intellectual, level.
- Blade Runner's Visual Legacy: How the "music video look" of the late 70s/early 80s British scene birthed the cyberpunk aesthetic we know today.
- The "Joy" Paradox: A debate on the AI character Joi—can an algorithm achieve true agency? Is our love for "perfect" partners actually a desire for the predictable?
- Behind the Lens: The dangerous history of using "cracker oil" for atmospheric smoke on classic film sets and the tragic cost to cinematographers like Jordan Cronenweth.
00:08 Introducing Special Guest Steven Bernstein
01:06 The Art of Cinematography in Blade Runner 2049
03:09 Visceral Reactions and Cinematic Techniques
08:38 Symbolism and Human Condition in Sci-Fi
10:45 The Role of Ambiguity in Filmmaking
21:21 Realism vs. Idealism in Cinema
26:59 The Imperfection of Heroes
29:13 Exploring Joy's Individuality
30:04 Memories and Personhood
30:30 The Struggle for Independent Agency
31:41 Meaning and Agency in AI
34:47 Biological Predispositions and Programming
37:08 The Complexity of Free Will
42:23 Cinematography and Visual Storytelling
46:47 The Role of Smoke in Cinematography
52:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Memorable Quote: “We experience the world as chaotic... narrative is an imposition of an order on a chaotic and disordered world. That is why cinematography is so important—you can’t understand it exclusively in terms of narrative. You have a visceral or physical gut reaction to the images." — Steven Bernstein
For more thoughts from this thoughtful Hollywood professional, Steven Bernstein, check out the following:
- His new book GRQ being turned into a movie in 2026
- His social media
- His podcast Filmaker and Fans
For more Laura and Stephen, follow@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!
54 min - Ep 277: Reviewing “Weapons” (2025) and The Consequences of Disappearing School Children
In this episode, Laura and Stephen discuss the 2025 film “Weapons,” a spooky and mysterious movie featuring a unique plot and stellar performances from actors linked to the MCU. They delve into the film's strange story about the disappearance of 17 third graders, the intriguing roles played by Julia Gardner, Benedict Wong, and Josh Brolin, and the unexpected horror elements that make it a standout. Tune in to hear more about the film's peculiar scenes, character dynamics, and the upcoming prequel. Streaming on HBO Max.
00:00 Introduction to the 2025 Film 'Weapons'
01:16 Plot Overview: The Mysterious Disappearance
02:09 Key Characters and Performances
03:43 The Investigation and Unraveling the Mystery
06:59 The Unexpected Resolution and Sequel Announcement
08:01 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
10:07 Closing Remarks and Community Engagement
Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod 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!
11 min - Ep 276: Industry Insights & “GRQ the Movie” with Hollywood Writer-Director Steven Bernstein
Insights on Filmmaking and Creativity with Steven Bernstein
In this episode of “Midday Movies,” hosts Laura and Stephen are joined by veteran filmmaker Steven Bernstein. Known for his work on seminal films like “Monster” (2003) and “Like Water for Chocolate” (1992) (as well as fan favorites like “Water Boy” and “White Chicks”) Bernstein shares his deep insights into the filmmaking industry. The discussion delves into the importance of character over story, the chaotic nature of creation, and practical advice for aspiring filmmakers. Bernstein also speaks on the methodology behind his award-winning book and upcoming film, “GRQ the Movie,” and his approach to leadership and collaboration on set. This episode offers a rich, philosophical, and practical understanding of the creative process and the importance of nurturing authenticity in filmmaking.
00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast
00:47 Meet Steven Bernstein: Cinematographer and Director
01:25 Insights on Hollywood and Filmmaking
06:39 The Making of “Monster” (2003): A Turning Point
10:03 From BBC to Music Videos: Early Career
15:17 Radical Philosophy of Creation
19:15 The Language of Cinema
25:25 Character Over Story: A New Approach
29:03 The Future of Filmmaking
35:45 Exploring Literary Interiority
37:03 From Draft to Film Adaptation
37:25 The Creative Process and Self-Discovery
39:28 The Thrilling Plot of “GRQ the Movie”
41:26 Challenges in Filmmaking
48:04 Leadership and Trust on Set
59:51 The Art of Improvisation
01:04:01 Final Thoughts and Farewell
For more thoughts from this thoughtful Hollywood professional, Steven Bernstein, check out the following:
- His new book GRQ being turned into a movie in 2026
- His social media
- His podcast Filmaker and Fans
For more Laura and Stephen, follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod 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!
1 hr 8 min - Ep 275: Reviewing “The Unbinding” (2023, Documentary) When Supernatural Horror Comes with Receipts
The Unbinding: A Paranormal Dive Into Haunted Artifacts
In this episode of Midday Movies, Laura and Stephen discuss their latest Halloween recommendation, “The Unbinding,” a gripping 2023 documentary available on Tubi. They delve into the story discovered on the r/Paranormal subreddit, featuring husband-and-wife supernatural investigators Greg and Dana Newkirk. The documentary explores the terrifying events following the discovery of a haunted statue in the Catskills. Listen as Steven and Laura review the film's detailed documentation of paranormal activity, the intriguing origins of the haunted artifact, and the fascinating dynamic of Greg and Dana's investigative work.
00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter
00:10 Discovering 'The Unbinding'
00:36 Meet Greg and Dana Newkirk
02:05 The Haunted Statue
03:10 The Reddit Post and Paranormal Activity
05:53 Greg and Dana's Background
08:28 The Documentary's Evidence
12:40 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
13:37 Closing Remarks
Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod 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!
15 min - Ep 274: Reviewing “28 Years Later” (2025, Danny Boyle) Tender, Kaleidoscopic Post-Brexit Apocalypse
In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen delve into '28 Years Later', the latest addition to Danny Boyle and Alex Garland's iconic zombie series. Set in a quarantined British Isles, the film follows 12-year-old Spike on his journey through a post-apocalyptic world. The duo discuss the film's medieval undertones, stunning iPhone cinematography, and rich connection to English history. They analyze the character dynamics, especially focusing on Spike's relationship with his father, Jamie, and highlight the unique artistic choices made by Boyle and Garland. With references to historical events and a comparison with earlier films in the franchise, this episode offers a comprehensive review of '28 Years Later'. Join Laura and Stephen as they enthuse over this haunting yet hopeful film that redefines the zombie genre while reflecting on the resilient spirit of British culture.
00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast
00:07 Diving into '28 Years Later'
00:54 Personal Reflections on the Franchise
02:03 The Creative Minds Behind the Series
03:54 The Unique Englishness of '28 Years Later'
05:23 Technical Aspects and Cinematic Choices
06:13 Medieval and Modern Elements
10:08 Spike's Rite of Passage
16:15 The Quarantine and Its Implications
18:20 Eric's Last Moment with His Fiancé
18:32 Medieval Life and Technological Regression
21:25 Spike's Mother's Condition and the Search for a Doctor
22:16 Introduction of Dr. Kelson and the Bone Temple
23:13 Themes of Memento Mori and Memento Amoris
24:42 Spike's Heroic Journey and the Upcoming Sequel
29:07 British Resilience and Cultural Reflection
32:27 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod 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!
35 min - Ep 273: Reviewing “1923” (2022) The “Yellowstone” Prequel Starring Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren
Laura and Stephen delve into the historical drama series “1923,” (2022-2025) a prequel to the popular Paramount show “Yellowstone.” This discussion covers the main plotlines involving the 1920s Dutton family's struggle during an economic crash and a range war in Montana, a World War I veteran's survival and romance in Africa, and the harrowing realities of a Native girl's life in a Catholic residential school. The show features notable performances by Helen Mirren and Harrison Ford and blends themes of tradition vs. modernity, frontier justice, and cultural assimilation, all wrapped in MTV productions' unique stylistic approach. Available on Paramount Plus, “1923” offers a compelling narrative for fans of history, romance, period pieces, and bananas entertainment.
00:00 Introduction and Cat Buddies
00:17 A Story Named 1923
01:08 The Dutton Family and Post-War Economic Struggles
01:33 Range War and Frontier Justice
04:26 Modernity vs Tradition
07:28 Spencer Dutton's African Adventure
10:13 Indigenous Residential Schools
13:22 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
16:16 Conclusion and Sign-Off
Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod 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!
21 min - Ep 272: Exploring HBO's “John Adams” (2008) We Talk Founding Fathers for Election Day 2025
In this episode of “Midday Movies,” Laura and Stephen delve into HBO's acclaimed 2008 mini-series “John Adams.” They highlight the series' meticulous historical accuracy and its nuanced portrayal of key historical figures like John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and George Washington. They discuss favorite scenes, including John Adams' diplomatic encounter with King George III and Benjamin Franklin's unique fashion choices in the French court. The hosts also touch on the broader theme of America's founding fathers being complex, multifaceted individuals. The conversation includes a broader discussion about the nature of leadership, the significance of height in politics, and the blended form of government established by the founding fathers. The episode concludes with a teaser about a forthcoming discussion on the film “Marie Antoinette” and the historical context of Versailles.
00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts on John Adams
00:27 Overview of HBO's John Adams Series
01:24 Character Complexity and Founding Fathers
02:58 Key Moments and Historical Accuracy
04:36 George Washington's Introduction
10:35 Diplomacy and Tension with King George
16:07 Benjamin Franklin's Transformation in France
17: 56 Conclusion and Future Topics
Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod 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!
19 min - Ep 271: Ode to “Scream” (1996, Wes Craven) Harper Bazaar’s #1 Best Halloween Film
In this final installment of their Halloween series for 2025, Laura and Stephen discuss the iconic horror film “Scream,” directed by Wes Craven. They delve into its meta-commentary on the horror genre, its memorable characters like Ghostface, Sidney Prescott, and Gale Weathers, and how it subverted the established rules of slasher films. The hosts also touch on the film's impact on the horror genre, its timeless appeal, and why it remains a standout classic. The episode wraps up with musings on the cultural significance of the movie and notes on how well it holds up over time.
00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast
00:08 Halloween Season Finale: Discussing Scream
00:44 Halloween Spirit and Harper Bazaar's List
01:34 Scream: A Love Letter to Slasher Films
02:05 Iconic Characters and Meta Commentary
02:42 The Rules of Surviving a Horror Movie
05:10 The Opening Scene: Subverting Expectations
06:45 Mid-90s Characters and Small Town Politics
09:13 Meta Commentary and Pop Culture References
14:09 The Killer's Reveal and Final Showdown
18:46 The Enduring Legacy of Scream
22:17 Conclusion and Farewell to Halloween Series
Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod 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!
24 min - Ep 270: Returning to “Psycho” (1960) Hitchcock’s Masterpiece that Changed Horror Cinema Forever
In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen delve into Alfred Hitchcock's 1960 horror classic “Psycho,” exploring its historical significance, Freudian psychological influences, groundbreaking moments, and unparalleled impact on the horror genre and cinema censorship. They discuss the clandestine marketing strategy that kept Norman Bates' character a secret, analyze the film's shocking twists, and consider the roles of Marion Crane and Norman Bates through a psychological lens. Join them for an in-depth conversation about one of cinema's most iconic thrillers.
00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast
00:08 Diving into Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho
01:16 The Impact of Psycho on Cinema
01:54 Exploring the Transgressive Elements of Psycho
03:05 Hitchcock's Innovative Filmmaking Techniques
05:42 The Uncanny and Psychological Depths in Psycho
07:58 Marian Crane's Journey and Parallels with Norman Bates
10:01 The Complex Relationship Between Marian and Norman
15:15 Norman Bates and His Mother Issues
16:06 A Different Path for Norman and Marian
16:45 The Significant Conversation
18:15 Norman's Internal Struggle
20:02 The Unraveling Mystery
23:52 The Iconic Final Scene
26:35 Psycho's Cultural Impact
27:41 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod 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!
33 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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