Movie of the Year 1999The 1999 Primetime Movie Draft

The draft is back—and it’s time to finish building the ultimate 1999 TV network! In this second and final installment of the Movie of the Year Podcast’s 1999 TV Draft, the Taste Buds—Mike, Ryan, and Greg—return to battle it out for TV supremacy. With their first-round picks locked in from last week, the stakes are even higher as they fill out their lineups, argue over strategy, and fight for the crown of Prime-Time King.

The Final Rounds: Completing the Lineups

With the children’s show, network sitcom, network drama, non-network scripted show, unscripted show, and wild card categories still in play, every choice matters. The snake draft continues, and this week’s episode sees the Taste Buds strategizing, scheming, and occasionally sabotaging each other to build the most unbeatable channel of 1999.

Deep Dive: The Best TV Shows of 1999

If the first half of the draft was about setting the foundation, this finale is all about going big. The hosts revisit 1999’s best shows with fresh context and clever analysis, highlighting why this year was such a groundbreaking moment in television. From the golden age of network dramas to the wild rise of reality TV, every pick is fueled by nostalgia—and more than a few heated debates.

Who Really Won?

After all the picks are in, the Taste Buds compare their completed lineups and make their cases for victory. Who built the channel that would have crushed the Nielsen ratings in 1999? Which draft choices aged like fine wine, and which ones were pure Y2K panic? Listen in to hear their verdicts—and then cast your own vote by emailing [email protected] with your pick for the winner.

Nostalgia, Laughs, and the End of the Draft

This finale isn’t just about competition; it’s a celebration of the year that changed TV forever. The Taste Buds look back on the cultural impact of these shows, share behind-the-scenes trivia, and crack each other up along the way. It’s a perfect blend of humor, pop culture insight, and pure 1999 nostalgia.

FAQ About the 1999 TV Draft

What is a TV draft?

Just like fantasy sports, but instead of athletes, you’re drafting TV shows to build your dream lineup.

What categories do they draft?

Each Taste Bud must pick:

• A children’s show
• A network sitcom
• A network drama
• A non-network scripted show
• An unscripted show
• A wild card

Who are the hosts?

The Taste Buds—Mike, Ryan, and Greg—are your guides through all things pop culture, blending expertise and comedy in every episode.

How can I join the fun?

Subscribe to the podcast and email your own 1999 lineup—or vote on the winner—at [email protected].

The Grand Finale: A Trip Back to 1999

Whether you’ve been following since Part 1 or are just jumping in now, this second episode delivers the laughs, debates, and nostalgia that make Movie of the Year a must-listen. From the draft drama to the final showdown, this is your ticket back to the golden era of television.

Listen now, subscribe to the Movie of the Year Podcast, and share this epic two-part draft with every pop culture fan you know.

Movie of the Year 1999The 1999 Primetime Movie Draft

What happens when you take the rules of fantasy sports and apply them to television? In this special Movie of the Year Podcast episode, the Taste Buds—Mike, Ryan, and Greg—compete in the 1999 TV Draft to create the most unbeatable prime-time lineup. Using a snake draft format, each Taste Bud must carefully choose shows across categories to form the ultimate channel designed to dominate ratings and win over viewers.

How the 1999 TV Draft Works

Here’s the setup: each participant must draft six shows from 1999. The categories include:

• A children’s show
• A network sitcom
• A network drama
• A non-network scripted show
• An unscripted show
• A wild card

By the end, the Taste Buds will have created three competing networks—and the audience gets to decide who built the strongest lineup.

Best TV Shows of 1999: A Year of Prime-Time Gold

The year 1999 wasn’t just about Fight Club and The Sixth Sense—it was also a landmark year for television. From beloved children’s programming to edgy dramas and reality TV’s first wave, 1999 offered a wide spectrum of shows that shaped culture. This episode dives deep into the best TV shows of 1999, giving each pick context, nostalgia, and plenty of jokes.

Who Won the Draft? Competitive Spirit in Action

The Taste Buds argue passionately for their picks, roasting each other’s choices and defending their own. Which fictional lineup would have pulled the biggest Nielsen ratings? Which network would have ruled the late ‘90s? Tune in to hear who the panel thinks came out on top—and then email in your thoughts to [email protected].

Bonus Laughs and Nostalgia

Like all good Movie of the Year episodes, this draft is more than competition—it’s a love letter to pop culture. The Taste Buds reflect on the impact of these shows, debate their legacies, and remind listeners why 1999 remains one of the most exciting years for TV.

FAQ About the 1999 TV Draft

What is a TV draft?

A TV draft works just like a fantasy sports draft, except instead of players, you’re drafting TV shows to build the best possible lineup.

What are the categories for this draft?

Each Taste Bud must pick a children’s show, a network sitcom, a network drama, a non-network scripted show, an unscripted show, and a wild card.

Who are the hosts of Movie of the Year?

The Taste Buds—Mike, Ryan, and Greg—are longtime podcasters and pop culture experts who debate and laugh their way through movies, TV, and more.

How can listeners participate?

Subscribe, email in your own line-ups, or vote on who you think won by emailing [email protected].

Final Thoughts: The Ultimate 1999 Nostalgia Trip

Whether you grew up watching these shows or you’re discovering them for the first time, the 1999 TV Draft is a hilarious trip back to one of television’s most iconic years. With categories spanning all of prime time and a competitive snake draft format, the Taste Buds bring humor, analysis, and nostalgia to every pick.

🎧 Listen now, subscribe to the Movie of the Year Podcast, and share this episode with fellow TV and pop culture fans.

Movie of the Year: 1999Three Kings (feat. Best Movie Year Ever author Brian Raftery!)

In this episode of Movie of the Year, the Taste Buds dive deep into Three Kings, the 1999 Gulf War satire movie directed by David O. Russell. Set in the aftermath of the Persian Gulf War, the film follows a group of U.S. soldiers—played by George Clooney, Ice Cube, and Mark Wahlberg—as they set out on a gold heist and instead face the moral complexities of war. This Three Kings movie blends action, comedy, and political commentary while paying homage to war films of the past.

War and Morality in the 1999 Three Kings Movie

We explore how Three Kings uses the Gulf War setting to comment on U.S. foreign policy, the chaos of post-war Iraq, and the blurred lines between heroism and self-interest. The film is not just a war movie—it’s a war satire and a war comedy-drama rolled into one, making it a unique entry in late-90s cinema.

David O. Russell’s Bold Directing Style

From unconventional camera techniques to sharp tonal shifts, Three Kings is a prime example of David O. Russell’s fearless filmmaking. We discuss how his approach, both on and off set, shaped the movie’s lasting legacy and why it stands apart from other Gulf War movies.

Three King's Multicultural Cast Redefines the War Genre

With a diverse lineup that includes Clooney, Wahlberg, and Ice Cube, Three Kings challenges typical casting for war movies. We break down how the characters’ backgrounds and performances enhance the story’s authenticity and cultural reach.

Guest Panelist: Brian Raftery

Joining us is Brian Raftery, author of the upcoming book on Hannibal Lecter’s cinematic history. Brian also created the acclaimed Ringer mini-series Mission Accomplished, chronicling the making of Three Kings and the tension between David O. Russell and his cast. His behind-the-scenes insight adds depth you won’t find anywhere else.

Find all of Brian Raftery's everything here, including his book Best. Year. Ever. How 1999 Blew Up The Big Screen. 

Bonus Segment: Magnolia (1999)

As a special treat, the Taste Buds also discuss Paul Thomas Anderson’s sprawling epic Magnolia, another standout from the cinematic powerhouse year of 1999. They examine how both Magnolia and Three Kings reflect the ambitious, risk-taking spirit of late-90s filmmaking.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, our Three Kings podcast episode offers fresh insights into one of the boldest war films of the decade. Listen now to hear how this Gulf War satire still resonates today.

Movie of the Year: 1999The Sixth Sense (feat. Jay Sherer!)Chilling Classics and Narrative Genius in The Sixth Sense

In this spine-tingling episode of Movie of the Year, the Taste Buds turn their third eyes toward M. Night Shyamalan’s unforgettable thriller, The Sixth Sense. Released in 1999, this film didn't just scare audiences—it redefined what moviegoers expected from psychological thrillers and suspenseful ghost stories. The Taste Buds examine what made The Sixth Sense an instant classic and how it continues to haunt and inspire audiences to this day.

The Sixth Sense's Twist Ending: Spoiler Alert (Sort Of)

You know the twist—but how did we get there? The Taste Buds break down the legendary ending of The Sixth Sense, discussing how Shyamalan masterfully planted clues throughout the film. This segment explores how the reveal reshaped the entire narrative, altered how we engage with movies, and elevated twist endings to a pop culture staple. It’s one of the most talked-about twist endings in cinematic history, and for good reason.

Death and Horror in The Sixth Sense: What Scares Us Most

At its core, The Sixth Sense is a meditation on death, grief, and unresolved trauma. The Taste Buds explore how the film uses horror to probe deeper emotional truths, crafting scares not from jump cuts alone, but from the deeply human fear of being unseen and unheard. This is horror with heart—and it hits hard, echoing themes found in other 1999 horror films like The Blair Witch Project.

The Sixth Sense Performances: Toni Collette Deserved an Oscar

Beyond its eerie mood and smart script, The Sixth Sense shines thanks to stunning performances. Haley Joel Osment delivers one of the most iconic child performances in movie history, and Bruce Willis brings a quiet depth to a role that surprises in more ways than one. The Taste Buds also spotlight Toni Collette’s heartbreaking turn as a mother grappling with the unknown. The performances anchor the film’s emotional weight and elevate the ghost story to something transcendent.

Guest Panelist Jay Sherer: Talking Story with The Story Geeks

This week’s episode features special guest Jay Sherer, host of The Story Geeks Podcast. Jay brings his storytelling expertise and love for genre film to help unpack why The Sixth Sense is more than just a horror movie—it's a masterclass in character, pacing, and emotional resonance. Jay also draws fascinating comparisons to other narrative-driven films, such as Unbreakable and Signs.

Bonus Segment: Enter Fight Club

In a special bonus segment, the Taste Buds take on another 1999 mind-bender: Fight Club. What connects Fight Club and The Sixth Sense beyond their jaw-dropping endings? The Taste Buds compare their thematic undercurrents, narrative structures, and cultural impacts, offering fresh perspectives on how these two films reflect the anxieties of the late 1990s. It’s a one-two punch of psychological cinema that still packs a wallop.

FAQ About The Sixth Sense Podcast Episode

Who is Jay Sherer?

Jay Sherer is the host of The Story Geeks Podcast, a show that dives deep into the themes and structure of genre storytelling.

Why is The Sixth Sense still relevant today?

Its emotional core, brilliant performances, and unforgettable twist make it a timeless classic that continues to inspire filmmakers.

Final Thoughts: We See Greatness in The Sixth Sense

Whether you're revisiting The Sixth Sense for the first time in years or analyzing its ghostly layers for the hundredth time, this episode of Movie of the Year delivers sharp analysis, lively discussion, and plenty of surprises. From death and horror to unforgettable performances and twist endings, the Taste Buds see what others might miss.

🎧 Listen now, subscribe to Movie of the Year, and share this haunting episode with fellow movie lovers.

Check out the rest of the 1999 season, which includes movies like 

Run Lola Run!

South Park!

The Iron Giant!

Movie of the Year: 1999All About My Mother vs. The MummyWhen Pedro Met Popcorn

In this special bonus podcast episode of Movie of the Year, the Taste Buds take a detour from draft formats and single-film deep dives to bring you a dynamic double feature: Pedro Almodóvar’s All About My Mother (1999) and Stephen Sommers’ The Mummy (1999). One is an emotionally complex, internationally acclaimed art film. The other is a crowd-pleasing adventure spectacle. And yet—they share more than you might think.

This podcast review examines how both films, in vastly different genres and tones, serve as love letters to the movies that came before them. Whether referencing classic melodrama or 1930s monster movies, All About My Mother and The Mummy demonstrate that the films of 1999 have a cinematic legacy as enduring as their memory.

All About My Mother (1999) Movie Review: The Emotional Epic

Pedro Almodóvar’s All About My Mother is an intricate, compassionate examination of motherhood, identity, and grief. The film is suffused with references to cinema—from All About Eve to A Streetcar Named Desire. The Taste Buds analyze how Almodóvar uses visual language and character archetypes to update and honor classic Hollywood and European melodramas, while giving voice to marginalized characters rarely centered on screen.

The Mummy (1999) Movie Discussion: A Popcorn Adventure with Classic Roots

In contrast, The Mummy updates the 1930s Universal monster movies for a late-’90s audience. With Brendan Fraser as a swashbuckling hero and Rachel Weisz as a brainy librarian-turned-explorer, the film balances horror, comedy, and romance in a pulpy, action-packed romp. The Taste Buds explore how The Mummy evokes the spirit of early adventure films while reinventing its archetypes for a modern audience.

Cinema About Cinema: Film History as Foundation

Despite their differences, All About My Mother and The Mummy are united by their referentiality. Both films use a rich knowledge of film history—not as a crutch, but as a launching point. Almodóvar weaves old film tropes into new emotional truths. Sommers crafts a blockbuster that lovingly revives and retools a genre. The Taste Buds discuss how both directors use nostalgia not as imitation, but as inspiration.

The Taste Buds Dig In: Movie Podcast Panel Reactions

The panelists share their favorite moments from both films, comparing the emotional stakes, visual aesthetics, and thematic resonance. How does The Mummy’s big-budget spectacle stack up against the intimate drama of All About My Mother? Which film aged better? And what do they reveal about what cinema meant in 1999?

Different Genres, Same Passion for Cinema

All About My Mother and The Mummy may live in different cinematic universes, but both show how the movies of 1999 mined the rich soil of film history to grow something bold and fresh. Whether it’s Pedro Almodóvar’s poignant melodrama or Stephen Sommers’ thrilling adventure, both films prove that storytelling evolves through homage and reinvention.

🎧 Listen now to this bonus episode of Movie of the Year—your go-to movie podcast for deep dives into the greatest films of 1999—and celebrate the dual brilliance of All About My Mother and The Mummy.

📲 Subscribe to Movie of the Year for more deep dives into 1999’s most memorable films, including bonus episodes like this one covering All About My Mother and The Mummy.

Movie of the Year: 1999Run Lola Run (feat. Keith Phipps!)Why Run Lola Run Still Speeds Ahead

In this high-octane episode of Movie of the Year, the Taste Buds tackle Tom Tykwer’s groundbreaking film Run Lola Run, one of the most iconic international films of 1999. Through frenetic pacing, looping timelines, and multimedia storytelling, Run Lola Run challenged narrative norms and redefined cinematic structure for a generation.

Joined by guest film critic Keith Phipps, co-host of Your Next Picture Show, the panel examines what makes Run Lola Run a modern classic. They also revisit horror history in a bonus segment about The Blair Witch Project.

Lola: Run Lola Run’s Unstoppable Heroine

Franka Potente’s Lola is a force of nature. With her fire-red hair and relentless sprint through Berlin, she embodies urgency, love, and power. The Taste Buds explore Lola’s role as more than just a protagonist—she’s a symbol of agency, chance, and emotional propulsion. Why does Lola resonate so deeply with audiences 25 years later?

Time, Destiny, and Choice in Run Lola Run

At the core of Run Lola Run is a meditation on fate, free will, and chaos theory. Through its triptych structure—three timelines with radically different outcomes—Run Lola Run asks: what if one second could change everything? The Taste Buds dissect how the film explores the butterfly effect, choice vs. destiny, and the role of memory in shaping the future.

Multimedia Mayhem: The Visual Language of Run Lola Run

This movie was ahead of its time in visual storytelling. Tykwer fuses live-action footage, flash animation, time-lapse photography, and techno music into a pulse-pounding montage. The panel breaks down how the film’s use of multimedia created a hyper-stylized, immersive experience that continues to influence filmmakers today.

Guest Panelist: Keith Phipps from Your Next Picture Show

Film critic and podcast host Keith Phipps joins the Taste Buds to bring his expertise on European cinema, genre-bending narratives, and 1999’s cinematic landscape. As a founding editor of The A.V. Club and co-host of Your Next Picture Show, Keith provides sharp context and deep analysis that elevate the episode’s exploration of Run Lola Run.

Bonus Segment: The Blair Witch Project and Found Footage Innovation

In a special bonus segment, the Taste Buds revisit another 1999 cultural landmark: The Blair Witch Project. They discuss the film’s revolutionary use of found footage, viral marketing, and psychological horror. How did this minimalist thriller terrify a generation and launch a new genre? The Taste Buds dig into the mythology, legacy, and impact of this indie phenomenon.

Related Episodes You’ll Love

• South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut – 1999 Movie Podcast
• The Green Mile - 1999 Movie of the Year
• The Iron Giant – 1999 Movie Podcast

Final Thoughts: Run Lola Run as a Cultural Sprint

This movie isn’t just a 1999 film—it’s a cultural event that captured the anxiety, optimism, and possibility of a new millennium. Through Lola’s sheer willpower and the film’s bold narrative experiments, it challenges us to rethink how stories are told—and how our choices shape the future.

 

 

Movie of the Year: 1999South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut (feat. Nate Ragolia!)Why South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut Still Matters

In this hilariously unfiltered episode of Movie of the Year, the Taste Buds revisit the notorious 1999 film South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut. Blending satirical genius with musical chaos, the movie left a cultural impact, and the Taste Buds are here to explore how it still resonates 25 years later.

With its fearless takedown of American censorship, over-the-top commentary on masculinity, and rare-for-its-time portrayal of homosexuality, South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut is more than just fart jokes and foul language. It’s a surprisingly poignant time capsule of late-‘90s anxiety, and the Taste Buds break it all down.

Censorship in South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut

No movie waged war with the MPAA quite like this one. The Taste Buds analyze how South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut skewers moral panic, parental outrage, and the hypocrisy of the film rating system. From the “R” rating controversy to the meta-commentary built into the plot, this section reveals why censorship is the film’s true villain.

Masculinity and War: Boys Being Boys

South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut builds its central conflict around immature boys triggering a global catastrophe. The Taste Buds examine how the film employs absurd humor to expose the fragility of masculinity and the toxic expectations society places on young men. Expect debate on whether Cartman is the id of American manhood—or just a chaotic neutral goblin.

Homosexuality and Big Gay Al: A Queer Subtext

In a surprising turn for a 1999 mainstream animated movie, South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut includes a sympathetic queer character in Big Gay Al. The Taste Buds discuss the film’s portrayal of homosexuality, including its satirical (yet sincere) celebration of queer identity. From Saddam and Satan’s toxic romance to the hopeful notes of Big Gay Al’s song, the film blends camp and commentary in unexpected ways.

Guest Panelist: Nate Ragolia from Debut Buddies

Special guest Nate Ragolia, co-host of the movie podcast Debut Buddies, joins this episode with insightful takes and a deep appreciation for chaos. Nate helps the Taste Buds unpack why South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut still resonates today, from its musical theater references to its unflinching (and hilarious) view of American culture.

Related Episodes You’ll Love:

• The Iron Giant – 1999 Movie Podcast
• The Green Mile – 1999 Movie Podcast
• The Action Figures Draft – Movie of the Year

Final Thoughts: Revisiting South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut

South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut is more than a relic of juvenile rebellion—it’s a cultural commentary wrapped in fart jokes and musical numbers. Whether you’re a longtime fan or revisiting it for the first time, the Taste Buds’ discussion offers new reasons to appreciate the film’s satire, boldness, and weird emotional resonance.

Stream the episode now and rediscover why South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut still punches up, punches through, and—occasionally—sings its way into our hearts.

Movie of the Year: 1999The Action Figure Draft, Part IIDrafting the Ultimate 1999 Action Figures

In this action-packed and comedic finale of the Movie of the Year podcast, the Taste Buds complete their dream teams of 1999 movie characters in The Action Figures Draft. Inspired by Dungeons & Dragons character classes like Bard, Cleric, Druid, Fighter, and Wizard, each panelist must create the most powerful and ridiculous team of would-be action figures.

From cult favorites to blockbuster icons, no character is off-limits in this chaotic snake draft showdown. Whether you're here for the laughs or the nostalgia, this episode blends pop culture nerdery with competitive spirit.

What Is the Action Figures Draft?

The Action Figures Draft is where the Taste Buds channel their inner dungeon masters to pick a five-member team of fictional characters from 1999 films. The twist? Each character must fill a D&D role: Bard, Cleric, Druid, Fighter, and Wizard.

Each panelist—including guest Taste Bud Taylor—must strategize their picks while balancing power, flair, and absurdity. Do you build the strongest team? Or the weirdest shelf of plastic heroes?

1999 Movies Meet Dungeons & Dragons

This isn't just about cool characters. It's about team synergy and hilarious storytelling. The Taste Buds debate who makes a better Fighter: Neo or The Mummy’s Rick O’Connell? Should you pick The Blair Witch for Druid just for the chaos? What accessories would The Iron Giant’s action figure come with?

The draft style is classic snake format, so the stakes rise with each passing round. The Taste Buds argue, laugh, and justify their boldest choices.

Meet the Draft Teams: Bard, Cleric, Druid & More

• Bard – Most charismatic or musical pick
• Cleric – The team’s support and healing presence
• Druid – Nature-powered, mystical, or shape-shifting characters
• Fighter – The brute strength, heavy-hitter type
• Wizard – Powers, tech, or unexplained magic

Special Guest Taste Bud: Taylor

Returning guest Taylor adds their signature unpredictable energy to the panel. Known for deep pulls and unfiltered commentary, Taylor’s presence ensures that this draft spirals into the delightfully absurd.

Related Episodes You’ll Love:

• The Green Mile
• The Iron Giant
• Election

Final Thoughts: The Best Action Figures That Never Were

The Action Figures Draft proves that 1999 movie characters are still larger than life—and perfect for plastic. Whether you're a longtime fan of Movie of the Year or just want to imagine Jar Jar Binks as your team’s Bard, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Listen now to the Action Figures Draft and decide which team of imaginary toys reigns supreme!

Movie of the Year: 1999The Action Figure DraftDrafting the Ultimate 1999 Action Figures

In this action-packed and comedic episode of the Movie of the Year podcast, the Taste Buds assemble their dream teams of 1999 movie characters in The Action Figures Draft. Inspired by Dungeons & Dragons character classes like Bard, Cleric, Druid, Fighter, and Wizard, each panelist must create the most powerful and ridiculous team of would-be action figures.

From cult favorites to blockbuster icons, no character is off-limits in this chaotic snake draft showdown. Whether you're here for the laughs or the nostalgia, this episode blends pop culture nerdery with competitive spirit.

What Is the Action Figures Draft?

The Action Figures Draft is where the Taste Buds channel their inner dungeon masters to pick a five-member team of fictional characters from 1999 films. The twist? Each character must fill a D&D role: Bard, Cleric, Druid, Fighter, and Wizard.

Each panelist—including guest Taste Bud Taylor—must strategize their picks while balancing power, flair, and absurdity. Do you build the strongest team? Or the weirdest shelf of plastic heroes?

1999 Movies Meet Dungeons & Dragons

This isn't just about cool characters. It's about team synergy and hilarious storytelling. The Taste Buds debate who makes a better Fighter: Neo or The Mummy’s Rick O’Connell? Should you pick The Blair Witch for Druid just for the chaos? What accessories would The Iron Giant’s action figure come with?

The draft style is classic snake format, so the stakes rise with each passing round. The Taste Buds argue, laugh, and justify their boldest choices.

Meet the Draft Teams: Bard, Cleric, Druid & More

• Bard – Most charismatic or musical pick
• Cleric – The team’s support and healing presence
• Druid – Nature-powered, mystical, or shape-shifting characters
• Fighter – The brute strength, heavy-hitter type
• Wizard – Powers, tech, or unexplained magic

Special Guest Taste Bud: Taylor

Returning guest Taylor adds their signature unpredictable energy to the panel. Known for deep pulls and unfiltered commentary, Taylor’s presence ensures that this draft spirals into the delightfully absurd.

Related Episodes You’ll Love:

• The Green Mile
• The Iron Giant
• Election

Final Thoughts: The Best Action Figures That Never Were

The Action Figures Draft proves that 1999 movie characters are still larger than life—and perfect for plastic. Whether you're a longtime fan of Movie of the Year or just want to imagine Jar Jar Binks as your team’s Bard, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Listen now to the Action Figures Draft and decide which team of imaginary toys reigns supreme!

Movie of the Year: 1999The Iron Giant (feat. Kate Dellis!)Introduction: Why The Iron Giant Still Matters

In this episode of the Movie of the Year podcast, the Taste Buds explore the enduring appeal of The Iron Giant, Brad Bird’s 1999 animated masterpiece. The podcast delves into how the film’s powerful themes, from Cold War anxiety to a redefinition of masculinity, continue to resonate with audiences.

Whether you’re an animation aficionado or a first-time viewer, this deep dive into Brad Bird's masterpiece highlights why it remains a defining piece of cinematic art.

War and Fear: The Cold War in The Iron Giant

Set in 1950s America, the film uses its period setting to mirror the paranoia and tension of the Cold War. The Taste Buds analyze how the film reflects societal fears of the unknown and the consequences of militarization.

With the government’s aggressive pursuit of the Giant symbolizing real-world escalation, the episode illustrates how the film's anti-war message is as relevant today as it was in 1999.

Masculinity and Emotion: Redefining the Hero in The Iron Giant

The movie reimagines masculinity through its characters’ emotional depth. The Taste Buds break down how Hogarth’s bravery, Dean’s unconventional masculinity, and the Giant’s compassion offer a fresh take on heroism.

By challenging traditional gender roles and emphasizing vulnerability, the film delivers a powerful commentary on what it means to be truly strong.

A New Style of Animation: Artistry in Motion

The podcast dives into The Iron Giant’s distinctive animation style, blending traditional 2D with early CGI to create a timeless visual aesthetic. The Taste Buds discuss Brad Bird’s directorial choices and how the film’s clean lines, muted palette, and expressive character designs contributed to its cult status.

This segment also touches on the film’s place in animation history and why it remains influential.

Guest Panelist Spotlight: Kate Dellis from WGBH

Special guest Kate Dellis, a producer at WGBH, joins the Taste Buds to offer her unique perspective on The Iron Giant. Kate shares insights into the film’s emotional complexity and artistic innovation.

Her thoughtful analysis helps elevate the discussion and adds depth to the podcast’s exploration of the movie’s legacy.

Additional Resources

• Brad Bird on The Iron Giant’s Legacy – NPR
• Animation World Network on The Iron Giant
• Movie of the Year: The Green Mile Episode

Final Thoughts: The Iron Giant Still Soars

Twenty-five years after its release, The Iron Giant continues to inspire with its timeless message of peace, compassion, and identity. On this episode of the Movie of the Year podcast, the Taste Buds and guest Kate Dellis reveal how the film’s themes of war, masculinity, and groundbreaking animation combine to create a true classic.

If you love thoughtful movie analysis and want to understand why The Iron Giant remains essential viewing, this episode is a must-listen.