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The podcast currently has 355 episodes available.
In the Movie of the Year episode, "1996 Action Figure Draft," the hosts dive headfirst into a playful yet fiercely competitive draft of action figures inspired by the movies, TV shows, and pop culture moments of 1996. With creativity and nostalgia at the forefront, each host builds their ultimate lineup of action figures, selecting from iconic characters, unexpected deep cuts, and some hilariously wild-card choices. As they defend their picks and strategize to outshine one another, listeners are treated to a blend of witty banter, pop culture insight, and surprising revelations about what made 1996 such a dynamic year for fandoms. Who will create the most legendary action figure lineup? Tune in to find out!
This draft isn’t just a free-for-all; it’s structured around classic fantasy archetypes to add a layer of strategy and hilarity. Each host must fill five key positions: wizard, bard, fighter, ranger, and cleric. The wizard role demands a character with mystical or intellectual prowess, sparking debates about the most iconic magical figures of 1996. The bard requires a pick with charisma and flair, leading to unexpected choices that highlight 1996’s quirky pop culture personalities. The fighter slot is all about raw power and combat skills, challenging the hosts to think outside the box while balancing nostalgia with practicality.
The ranger position, embodying agility and resourcefulness, opens the door for characters tied to adventure and exploration. Finally, the cleric brings the healing and moral compass, pushing the hosts to consider who best embodies support and guidance from that year's cultural icons. As the draft progresses, alliances form, rivalries deepen, and the room fills with passionate arguments over what makes a character truly worthy of these roles. Whether it’s a certain red-and-black-clad antihero, a beloved animated duo, or a live-action hero from a blockbuster hit, each pick brings a blend of laughter, surprises, and some seriously persuasive justifications.
Who will emerge victorious in assembling the most balanced and beloved party of action figures? Will the wizard steal the show, or will an unexpected bard choice turn the tide? This episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves pop culture debates, nostalgic deep dives, and a touch of geeky fantasy flair.
In this episode of Movie of the Year, we dive into the haunting world of Breaking the Waves (1996), Lars von Trier’s unforgettable drama that challenges viewers with its exploration of faith, love, and sacrifice. This episode offers insights into Emily Watson’s career-defining performance, von Trier’s complex religious themes, and the raw aesthetic of Dogme 95.
Why should every cinephile experience Breaking the Waves? Join us as we unpack why this groundbreaking film deserves its place in cinematic history.
Emily Watson's Performance: A Breakthrough Role in Breaking the WavesEmily Watson’s portrayal of Bess McNeill in Breaking the Waves is one of the most intense and moving performances of the 1990s. In her film debut, Watson brings innocence, emotional depth, and sheer vulnerability to the character. Her raw approach to Bess’s journey—from devotion to despair and ultimate redemption—is a showcase of talent that resonates deeply with audiences.
Our panel delves into Watson’s acting choices, discussing how she embodies Bess’s unwavering faith and fierce love, and how this performance launched her into a successful career. For fans of powerful, emotionally charged performances, Breaking the Waves is essential viewing.
Lars von Trier’s Vision and Religion in Breaking the WavesBreaking the Waves is rich with themes of spirituality, suffering, and sacrifice. Lars von Trier, known for his unflinching style, presents a story that explores how faith can be both a source of strength and a source of tragedy. As Bess’s life takes increasingly harrowing turns, von Trier invites viewers to confront their own beliefs and moral boundaries.
In this episode, we unpack von Trier’s portrayal of religion—not as a comfort, but as a force that drives Bess toward self-sacrifice. The panel discusses how the director’s exploration of faith and redemption in Breaking the Waves poses questions that resonate deeply, especially for viewers interested in films that challenge traditional moral perspectives.
Dogme 95: The Gritty Realism Behind the MovementThe film is notable for its adherence to Dogme 95 principles, a filmmaking manifesto founded by von Trier and Thomas Vinterberg to bring realism and emotional rawness to cinema. Dogme 95 emphasizes natural lighting, handheld camerawork, and minimal special effects, all of which give Breaking the Waves an unfiltered, almost documentary-like quality.
Our hosts discuss how this aesthetic choice contributes to the film’s unsettling beauty, immersing viewers directly into the rugged coastal landscapes and intimate struggles of Bess’s life. If you’re fascinated by minimalistic, boundary-pushing cinema, this exploration of Dogme 95 is a must-listen.
The movie stands as a cinematic landmark, pushing the boundaries of emotional storytelling, religious themes, and raw visual style. Our Movie of the Year episode encourages listeners to re-examine this classic and consider the lasting influence of Emily Watson’s breakthrough performance, Lars von Trier’s bold narrative choices, and the unfiltered realism of Dogme 95.
If you’re a fan of intense dramas and films that challenge conventional storytelling, tune in to this episode to discover why Breaking the Waves continues to captivate audiences decades after its release.
In this Movie of the Year episode, the hosts dive into Swingers, the iconic 1996 film that brought male friendship, 1990s L.A. nightlife, and swing dancing back into the cultural spotlight. Swingers not only redefined indie cinema but also launched the careers of Doug Liman and Jon Favreau, who would go on to become Hollywood heavyweights. This episode unpacks the film’s timeless appeal by exploring its unique take on male camaraderie, its unforgettable swing dance scenes, and the remarkable backstory of Liman and Favreau’s collaboration.
Male Friendships in Swingers: Redefining Bromance on the Big ScreenOne of Swingers’ enduring legacies is its portrayal of post-breakup male friendships. In this episode, the hosts examine how Jon Favreau’s character, Mike, leans on his friends—most notably the brash yet lovable Trent, played by Vince Vaughn—to overcome heartache and rediscover his confidence. Rather than a cliché “bro” dynamic, Swingers presents male friendships with depth and sincerity, showing how friends help each other through life’s awkward, often painful phases. The podcast explores why these friendships resonate, especially for audiences navigating similar relationships and social struggles.
Doug Liman and Jon Favreau: The Vision Behind SwingersWith just a modest budget, Doug Liman and Jon Favreau created Swingers, a film that captured the spirit of a generation. The hosts discuss how Favreau’s semi-autobiographical script was brought to life by Liman’s guerrilla-style direction, using handheld shots and natural lighting that lend the movie an authentic, documentary feel. Favreau’s clever, fast-paced dialogue—a staple of Swingers—cements the film’s place in pop culture, while Liman’s distinct approach sets the tone for future indie films. The episode highlights how Liman and Favreau went from indie darlings to Hollywood icons and why their collaboration still matters today.
Swing Dancing: A Cultural Revival Captured in SwingersThe swing dancing scenes in Swingers are integral to the film’s style and story, reflecting a broader swing dance revival in the 1990s. The Movie of the Year hosts trace this cultural phenomenon, explaining how the music and dance moves in Swingers helped revive a retro dance form for a new generation. The film’s soundtrack, featuring bands like Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, became synonymous with Swingers’ identity, offering a blend of cool and nostalgia. The podcast discusses how these scenes captured the swing dance revival authentically, making Swingers a time capsule of '90s cool.
Special Guest Conor Kilpatrick from iFanboy Joins the ConversationAdding to the discussion is special guest Conor Kilpatrick from iFanboy, bringing fresh insights and humor to this Swingers deep dive. A fan of both films and comics, Conor connects the Swingers characters with relatable “everyman” qualities that resonate across both movie and comic book fandoms. His perspective adds depth, especially when he compares the film’s characters to beloved archetypes in comic lore, and his energetic contributions make for an engaging episode filled with sharp insights and good laughs.
Why Swingers Is "So Money" and Still RelevantThe hosts close with a look at Swingers’ lasting impact and why it continues to captivate audiences. For fans of indie films, ’90s culture, or anyone who’s ever leaned on friends to get through hard times, this Movie of the Year episode celebrates why the movie remains “so money.” Whether you’re nostalgic for swing dancing or simply curious about the film’s unique take on friendship, this episode offers a comprehensive and entertaining look at Swingers.
Listen to the Episode: Ready to explore Swingers? Tune in now and join the hosts and Conor Kilpatrick as they dissect one of the ’90s most iconic films.
The Taste Buds continue to take a break from revisiting the films of 1996 to keep co-creating a 1996 mixtape! Grab a Surge, make some Bagel Bites, and see what songs get picked!
In this episode of Movie of the Year, the hosts take a break from the silver screen to dive into the sonic landscape of 1996. Join them as they create the ultimate playlist, featuring the most iconic tracks from a year that brought us genre-defining music. From the peak of alternative rock to the rise of hip-hop, and pop hits that still resonate today, they discuss the artists, albums, and unforgettable moments that shaped the soundtrack of '96. Whether you're reliving the glory days or discovering the era for the first time, this playlist is your gateway to the heart of the '90s.
Why 1996 Was a Defining Year for Music1996 was a landmark year in music. With genres like alternative rock, hip-hop, and pop all making waves, the year produced songs that continue to resonate today. It was a time of cultural change and set the stage for the music industry in the late '90s and early 2000s.
Listen to the Mixtape here:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3qZo27PgNeWzVoOXv7Gxp0?si=4954ae3764c34d0b
The Taste Buds take a break from revisiting the films of 1996 to co-create a 1996 mixtape! Grab a Surge, make some Bagel Bites, and see what songs get picked!
In this episode of Movie of the Year, the hosts take a break from the silver screen to dive into the sonic landscape of 1996. Join them as they create the ultimate playlist, featuring the most iconic tracks from a year that brought us genre-defining music. From the peak of alternative rock to the rise of hip-hop, and pop hits that still resonate today, they discuss the artists, albums, and unforgettable moments that shaped the soundtrack of '96. Whether you're reliving the glory days or discovering the era for the first time, this playlist is your gateway to the heart of the '90s.
Why 1996 Was a Defining Year for Music1996 was a landmark year in music. With genres like alternative rock, hip-hop, and pop all making waves, the year produced songs that continue to resonate today. It was a time of cultural change and set the stage for the music industry in the late '90s and early 2000s.
Tune in next week to hear the exciting conclusion, when the playlist on Spotify will be revealed!
In this episode of the Movie of the Year podcast, the hosts dissect Mars Attacks!, Tim Burton’s star-studded, darkly comedic, and satirical take on alien invasion movies. Released in 1996, Mars Attacks! blends sci-fi with Burton’s unique quirky style, creating a cult classic filled with humor, horror, and biting social commentary. This deep dive covers everything from Burton’s vision to the film’s eccentric ensemble cast and the cynical undertones driving the plot.
Tim Burton’s Unique Vision for Mars Attacks!One of the key points discussed in this Movie of the Year episode is Tim Burton’s distinct creative style and how it shapes Mars Attacks!. Known for his darkly whimsical films, such as Edward Scissorhands and Beetlejuice, Burton was at the peak of his career in the 90s. Mars Attacks! fits squarely into his love for campy, exaggerated B-movies, while offering a modern take on the classic alien invasion genre.
The hosts examine how Burton's practical effects and early CGI create an otherworldly yet campy aesthetic. The exaggerated character designs of the Martians, along with their chaotic behavior, reflect Burton’s signature blend of the grotesque and the humorous. His direction adds layers to what could have been a simple homage to 1950s sci-fi, transforming it into something both original and absurdly chaotic.
The podcast explores the impressive ensemble cast of Mars Attacks!, which includes big names like Jack Nicholson, Glenn Close, Annette Bening, Pierce Brosnan, and a young Natalie Portman. Each actor embraces the film’s bizarre and comedic tone, with Nicholson standing out in dual roles as the U.S. President and a sleazy Las Vegas developer.
The Movie of the Year hosts analyzes how Burton uses this all-star cast to subvert genre conventions, frequently dispatching major characters in surprisingly brutal ways. This decision to “kill off” so many stars adds to the film’s unpredictable, chaotic nature. The ensemble cast also highlights the sheer scale of the film, with each actor bringing their unique energy to the outrageous situations they find themselves in—whether it’s running from Martian lasers or trying to reason with the alien invaders.
Exploring the Cynicism in Mars Attacks!Beyond its absurd humor and visual chaos, Mars Attacks! is filled with a biting cynicism about American politics and culture. The podcast delves into how Burton uses the film’s comedic violence and caricatured characters to comment on human arrogance, particularly the overconfidence of government officials, military leaders, and scientists. Despite their resources and plans, humanity is powerless against the relentless, nonsensical violence of the Martians.
This layer of cynicism gives Mars Attacks! its satirical edge, mocking the ineptitude of leadership and blind nationalism. The Movie of the Year hosts discuss how Burton's portrayal of politicians and military figures, who are often more concerned with appearances than solutions, resonates with modern audiences. The film becomes not only an homage to sci-fi but also a darkly humorous critique of societal institutions, offering relevant commentary on government incompetence and human folly.
Guest Star Spotlight: Paul from Waiting for DoomA special treat for this episode is the appearance of Paul, co-host of the Waiting for Doom podcast, which is dedicated to all things Doom Patrol and comic book culture. Paul brings a wealth of knowledge about pop culture and superhero media, making his contributions to the discussion of Mars Attacks! insightful and engaging.
Paul’s podcast, Waiting for Doom, dives deep into the quirky and surreal world of Doom Patrol, a comic book series known for its offbeat characters and unconventional narratives—paralleling the eccentric tone of Mars Attacks! With his background in analyzing outlandish, genre-defying stories, Paul adds a unique layer to the discussion, offering fans of Mars Attacks! an informed viewpoint on why the film resonates with fans of quirky, subversive media.
Paul’s presence also enriches the conversation by drawing parallels between the surreal humor of Doom Patrol and the absurdity of Mars Attacks!, showing how both properties use their outlandish premises to explore deeper themes. His insights into how Burton handles the film’s blend of comedy, horror, and sci-fi offer a fresh perspective for long-time fans and newcomers alike.
The Movie of the Year episode covering Mars Attacks! is a must-listen for fans of Tim Burton, sci-fi, and cult classics. With a star-studded cast, dark humor, and a healthy dose of cynicism, the movie has maintained its place in pop culture, and the podcast offers an insightful analysis of why. From Burton’s signature style to the underlying satirical tones, this episode provides a fresh perspective on a film that still manages to feel relevant today.
Whether you're a die-hard Burton fan or just love a good alien invasion romp, this Movie of the Year episode brings new appreciation for Mars Attacks! and its place in the 90s cinema.
In the latest episode of the Movie of the Year podcast, the panel takes a deep dive into Wes Craven’s 1996 genre-defining film, Scream. A landmark in horror cinema, Scream reinvigorated the slasher genre by blending suspense with self-aware satire. This episode of the podcast explores why Scream still resonates with audiences and how it redefined the horror landscape. With guest star Pete from The Marvel Movie Minute, the discussion ranges from the brilliance of Wes Craven’s direction to the impressive acting of the cast and the motivations behind the film's creation. Whether you’re a die-hard horror fan or a casual moviegoer, this episode is packed with insights that shed new light on one of the most iconic films of the 90s.
Wes Craven Rewriting Horror with ScreamWes Craven’s Scream did more than entertain; it rewrote the rules of horror. The Movie of the Year podcast hosts explore how Craven took the slasher film, a genre in decline by the mid-90s, and injected it with fresh energy. The episode highlights Craven’s clever use of meta-commentary, allowing characters in the film to reference horror clichés while still getting caught in them. This self-awareness made Scream stand out, giving it a unique edge that both honored and subverted the genre’s conventions.
Craven’s use of humor alongside genuine horror is a major talking point. The panel discusses how Scream walked a fine line between parody and suspense, ensuring that the scares never felt cheap despite the film’s satirical tone. By rewriting the narrative rules, Craven breathed new life into a genre that had become predictable, paving the way for a new wave of horror films.
The Acting Skills of the Cast of the Scream!The Movie of the Year episode doesn’t shy away from celebrating the incredible performances that helped make Scream a classic. Neve Campbell’s portrayal of Sidney Prescott, the film’s resilient final girl, takes center stage in the discussion. The hosts praise Campbell for bringing depth to a character that could have been just another slasher movie victim. Sidney’s evolution from a vulnerable teenager to an empowered survivor is one of the reasons Scream became more than a typical horror film.
Courteney Cox’s performance as the ambitious journalist Gale Weathers is another highlight. Cox brought a sharp edge to her role, crafting a character who was ruthless yet likable. The panel also takes time to recognize David Arquette’s quirky portrayal of Dewey, the well-meaning but often bumbling deputy. These performances helped establish Scream’s balance of humor and horror, keeping the film both entertaining and terrifying.
Guest Star: Pete from The Marvel Movie MinuteIn this episode, Pete, co-host of the Marvel Movie Minute podcast, joins the discussion with his unique perspective on Scream. Known for analyzing superhero movies, Pete draws intriguing comparisons between Scream and the modern superhero genre, particularly how both have embraced meta-narratives in recent years. Pete praises the cast, especially Matthew Lillard as Stu, for adding unpredictable energy to the film. He also appreciates how Skeet Ulrich keeps viewers on edge with his portrayal of Billy, a character whose motivations remain unclear until the climactic reveal.
Pete brings a fresh voice to the episode, offering valuable insights into how Scream's characters and story structure continue to influence filmmakers today. His enthusiasm for film analysis helps tie together key elements of why Scream remains a standout in modern cinema.
The Motives of MoviemakingA recurring theme in this Movie of the Year episode is the creative motivation behind Scream. Wes Craven and screenwriter Kevin Williamson set out to critique and celebrate horror movies simultaneously. By the mid-90s, the slasher genre had grown stale with formulaic stories and predictable jump scares. Craven’s mission with Scream was to challenge those conventions while still delivering an engaging horror experience.
The panel delves into the satirical nature of the film, noting how Scream works as both a thriller and a commentary on why audiences love horror. The film asks viewers to think about why certain tropes, like the final girl or the masked killer, endure in horror. The episode examines Craven’s and Williamson’s motives in making a film that wasn’t just about scaring people but about engaging them in a larger conversation about the genre’s mechanics. This approach gave Scream depth, elevating it beyond standard slasher fare.
Why Scream Still Reigns as a Horror ClassicThe Movie of the Year podcast panel concludes with a thoughtful discussion on why Scream continues to hold a special place in the hearts of horror fans. The film’s ability to be both terrifying and self-aware set a new standard for horror filmmaking. Wes Craven’s deft touch, combined with standout performances from the cast, ensured Scream would be remembered as a classic.
The episode emphasizes the film's lasting legacy. Not only did Scream inspire a slew of sequels and imitators, but it also reinvigorated interest in the horror genre as a whole. With its blend of tension, wit, and genre-savvy storytelling, Scream remains a benchmark for what modern horror can achieve. As the panelists note, Craven’s ability to break the fourth wall while maintaining a gripping narrative is a feat few filmmakers have matched since.
This Movie of the Year episode about Scream (1996) is a must-listen for anyone who loves horror films or has a passion for cinema analysis. The panel provides an engaging and insightful look at how Wes Craven redefined the genre with his iconic film. From the stellar performances of the cast to the motives behind the film’s creation, the episode breaks down why Scream continues to resonate nearly 30 years after its release. With guest star Pete from The Marvel Movie Minute adding an extra layer of insight, this episode will leave listeners with a deeper appreciation of Scream and its place in movie history.
Find all of Pete's podcasts here, at TruStory FM!
In this episode of the Movie of the Year podcast, the hosts dive into one of the most controversial films of the 1990s: The People vs. Larry Flynt. Directed by Milos Forman and starring Woody Harrelson and Courtney Love, this 1996 biographical drama tells the story of Larry Flynt, the notorious publisher of Hustler magazine. It’s more than just a courtroom drama, though—it’s a deep exploration of free speech, censorship, and morality, wrapped up in a real-life story that’s as outrageous as it is thought-provoking.
The People vs. the Real Larry Flynt: Champion of Free Speech or Just Provocateur?The conversation kicks off with a look at the real Larry Flynt, the man who built an empire by pushing the boundaries of taste and legality. Flynt was no stranger to controversy, and the film dives headfirst into his most famous battle—his 1988 Supreme Court case, Hustler Magazine v. Falwell, which became a landmark ruling in favor of free speech.
The hosts break down how the film portrays Flynt as both a larger-than-life personality and a defender of First Amendment rights. But they don’t shy away from discussing Flynt's contradictions. Was he truly fighting for free speech, or was he using the legal system to justify his often offensive content? This debate adds depth to the discussion and helps paint a fuller picture of Flynt as both a cultural disruptor and a complicated figure.
Woody and Courtney: A Surprising Dynamic DuoThe hosts then turn their attention to the film's two central performances: Woody Harrelson as Larry Flynt and Courtney Love as his wife, Althea Leasure. Woody Harrelson delivers a career-defining performance, bringing a surprising amount of nuance and vulnerability to a character who could have easily been portrayed as just a crude provocateur. His portrayal of Flynt showcases both the man's relentless pursuit of personal freedom and his inner turmoil.
But it’s Courtney Love who really grabs the spotlight in this episode’s discussion. Known more for her rock star persona than her acting, Love shocked critics and audiences alike with her emotionally raw performance as Althea. The hosts explore how Love’s portrayal of Althea added a layer of tragedy to the film, grounding Flynt’s often chaotic life with real human emotion. The chemistry between Harrelson and Love is another highlight, bringing a sense of authenticity to their relationship and adding emotional depth to the movie.
The People vs Larry Flynt's Milos Forman: Master of MavericksOf course, none of this would have worked without the direction of Milos Forman, a master of telling stories about rebellious, complex characters. The hosts dive into how The People vs. Larry Flynt fits into Forman’s body of work, particularly his fascination with figures who challenge authority, like in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest and Amadeus.
Forman’s direction is both restrained and provocative, allowing the larger themes of free speech and censorship to play out naturally through the story without hitting the audience over the head. His unique background, having lived through censorship in his native Czechoslovakia, gives him a particular sensitivity to these issues. The hosts discuss how this outsider perspective allowed Forman to bring a balanced approach to the story, making it not just a tale about a controversial publisher but a broader commentary on American freedoms.
Why The People vs. Larry Flynt Still MattersAs the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on why The People vs. Larry Flynt remains relevant today. Free speech debates haven’t gone anywhere, and in many ways, they’ve only become more heated. The film’s portrayal of the tension between personal freedom and societal standards still resonates, especially in today’s politically charged climate.
The hosts encourage listeners to revisit the movie, not just for its stellar performances or its historical context, but for its timely relevance. The People vs. Larry Flynt isn’t just a snapshot of a moment in legal history—it’s a reminder of the ongoing debate about the limits of free expression, the role of media, and the fine line between free speech and morality.
The People vs. Larry Flynt - A Thought-Provoking Dive Into a Provocative FilmWhether you’re a fan of Woody Harrelson, fascinated by the real Larry Flynt, or a lover of Milos Forman’s work, this Movie of the Year episode offers a rich, thoughtful dive into The People vs. Larry Flynt. It’s not just a movie review—it’s a conversation about freedom, art, and the complicated personalities that shape both.
This episode is a must-listen for movie lovers and anyone interested in the intersections of film, law, and culture. Tune in to hear the hosts' in-depth analysis of a film that continues to spark debate nearly 30 years after its release.
Related EpisodesOn last week's episode, the Taste Buds eliminated 32 movies from the 1996 bracket. This week, they eliminate 16 more, and finalize the 16 movies that will be eligible to win the trophy for Movie of the Year: 1996!
Check out the season finale for 1984, and the rest of the episodes of Movie of the Year, here!
It's time to dive into the movies of 1996! Fresh off of anointing the 1984 Movie of the Year, the Taste Buds are back at it with 1996! It's one of the most formative years of our young panelists' lives, and they are ready to rip it apart, dig around, and choose the single greatest movie of the year.
Join them, as they start with the Top 64 movies, according to Letterboxd, along with some of their own favorites sprinkled in for good measure. Can their choices, Lone Star, Big Night, and The Truth About Cats and Dogs make it out of the first round, or will they get trounced by the big guns, like Fargo, Trainspotting, and Scream? All we know now is that 64 movies are coming into the CinemaDome, but only 32 are coming out the other side.
And make sure to tune in next week, when they take that 32 down to the 16 movies of 1996 they will be focusing on this season!
Check out the season finale for 1984, and the rest of the episodes of Movie of the Year, here!
The podcast currently has 355 episodes available.
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