Mission 250 Podcast

This week, we watch one of the first films in history to marry sound with film, with a synchronized soundtrack, as well as the first audio cue jump scare. This movie remains surprisingly relevant despite being released over 90 years ago. Sunrise (1927), directed by F. W. Murnau.

This week, we watch the spiritual sequel to Goodfellas, when De Niro and Pesci move from New York to Vegas. Based on the true life story of Frank Rosenthal (who still claims no knowledge of the events depicted in this film), this movie is probably the most historically accurate film we have watched so far. Casino (1995), directed by Martin Scorsese.

BONUS EPISODE! Somehow this movie came up in about 10 episodes in a row, and while its not on the list, we felt it appropriate to watch this classic of 90's cinema. Losers always whine about trying their best, and Nicholas Cage is no loser. Carla was the Prom Queen. The Rock (1995), directed by Michael Bay.

This week, we watch the classic Bergman movie that is Stanley Kubrick's second favorite film of all time. An isolated, accomplished older man reflects on his life choices as he nears death. The story unravels slowly and tells a simple tale, but one that we can all relate to. Wild Strawberries (1957), directed by Ingmar Bergman.

This week, we watch the first silent movie on the list - Starring the legendary Buster Keaton. Based on the true Civil War story, this film is almost entirely a series of chases on trains. The General, directed by Buster Keaton.

This week, we watch the story of the man who suffered from an extremely unfortunate disease that made his appearance monstrous. This film focuses on the time during his life where he met Doctor Treves, played by Hannibal Lecter himself, Sir Anthony Hopkins. The Elephant Man (1980), directed by David Lynch.

This week, we watch the Rocky inspired sports drama, where Nick Nolte drunkenly rambles his way to an oscar nomination, and Tom Hardy muscles are doing their demo reel for The Dark Knight Rises. This film is not so much for the fans of the UFC, but for fans of family drama and The National. Warrior (2011), directed by Gavin O'Connor.

This week, we watch Episode VII, a fantastic entry to the Star Wars saga, where Darth Vader is now a moody teenager, R2D2 is round, and everyone is still making fun of the Millennium Falcon for some reason. We're also glad to see the portly X-Wing fighter makes it this time around. Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015), directed by J.J. Abrams.

This week, we watch the modified story of actual trials that took place in Nuremberg, Germany, after the end of World War II. This film brings up the topic of where to place the guilt for war crimes, and how far down the blame should. Spencer Tracy comes up with some ideas. Judgement at Nuremberg (1961), directed by Stanley Kramer.

This week, we watch the "true" story of Jordan Belfort, the a-hole stock broker that took advantage of hundreds of people for millions of dollars, living it up the entire time, and only had to do two years in prison as a penalty. This movie is hilarious, but also glorifies stealing, drugs, and generally being a terrible person. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013), directed by Martin Scorsese.