In this episode of Need Some Introduction, host Victor Anand reviews his top films of 2025, highlighting around 20 notable movies. He also provides insights into recent viewings and shares upcoming podcast plans. Special attention is given to a detailed analysis of the film 'Bugonia,' featuring standout performances by Jesse Plemons and Emma Stone. Join Victor and Darren as they discuss the intriguing elements and thematic depth of 'Bugonia,' explore other recent movies, and look forward to the next season of the podcast.

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00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

00:19 Favorite Films of 2025 and Holiday Season Catch-Up

01:14 Upcoming TV Show Coverage

03:05 Listener Recommendations

06:44 The State of the Box Office and Nostalgia Trends

14:01 Top 20 Films of 2025: Sentimental Value and If I Had Legs I'd Kick You

20:38 Top 20 Films of 2025: Weapons and Blue Moon

26:13 Top 20 Films of 2025: One of Them Days and Bugonia

31:39 Top 20 Films of 2025: Black Bag and Sinners

38:23 Top 20 Films of 2025: Bring Her Back and The Phoenician Scheme

42:34 Magnetic Performances and Stellar Cast

43:43 Exploring the Japanese Film 'Cloud'

45:57 Top 10 Movies and Special Mentions

48:49 Mike Leigh's 'Hard Truths' and Other Highlights

52:49 Diving into the Top 10: 'Train Dreams' and More

53:56 Unexpected Gems: 'Twin Less'

58:45 Jafar Panahi's 'It Was Just an Accident'

01:01:54 Marty Supreme: A Wild Ride

01:05:07 Companion: A Genre-Bending Experience

01:07:11 Top 5 Movies of the Year

01:29:13 Ice Cube's Latest Movie: So Bad It's Good?

01:33:44 Jack Black: The Unexpected Box Office Titan

01:35:59 Sydney Sweeney's Breakout Role in 'The Housemaid'

01:48:07 Yorgos Lanthimos' 'Bugonia': A Masterpiece?

01:58:32 Initial Impressions and Concerns

01:59:43 Breaking Down the Story

02:02:00 Conspiracy Theories and Character Motivations

02:06:44 Comparing to the Original Film

02:11:00 Spoiler Section: Discussing the Ending

02:16:41 Final Thoughts and Reflections

02:30:31 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics

In this episode of 'Need Some Introduction,' host Victor reviews his favorite TV shows of the year, including underappreciated gems and acclaimed favorites. Victor is joined by his wife, Kim, for an in-depth discussion on 'The Pitt,' a medical drama. Kim, a PA with extensive experience in trauma and emergency medicine, provides unique insights into the show's medical accuracy and its portrayal of healthcare challenges. Other shows discussed include 'Your Friends and Neighbors,' 'Dying for Sex,' and 'Task,' among others. The episode also highlights upcoming shows and encourages listener feedback.

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00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

01:18 Upcoming TV Shows and Events

03:54 Honorable Mentions: Underrated Shows

05:37 Black Mirror: Eulogy Episode

10:52 More Underrated Shows

32:58 Top 15 TV Shows of the Year

55:09 Cliffhanger Disappointments

55:46 The Lowdown: Sterling Hard's Masterpiece

57:36 The Rehearsal: Nathan Fielder's Magic Trick

58:21 Top Five: The Task

59:31 Severance: A Remarkable Season

01:00:41 Adolescence: A Profound Experience

01:01:29 Andor: A Smart Exploration

01:03:48 The Pit: A Medical Drama Deep Dive

01:09:52 Medical Realism and TV Dramas

01:39:43 Upcoming Shows and Final Thoughts

Listed Shows:

Black Mirror

The Bear

Poker Face

Down Cemetery Lane

Paradise

Your Friends and Neighbors

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spiderman

Black Rabbit

Devil in Disguise

Dying for Sex

Mr Scorsese 

Peewee as Himself

Deli Boys

White Lotus

Win or Lose

Death By Lightning

The Narrow Path to the Deep North

Common Side Effects/Pantheon

The Studio

Pluribus

The Lowdown

The Rehearsal

Task

Severance

Adolescence 

Andor

The Pitt

In this episode of 'Need Some Introduction,' Victor and Darren discuss a range of topics from recent entertainment releases to year-end reviews. The episode begins with a debate about covering the series 'Fallout' but shifts focus to 'Industry,' which both hosts are excited to discuss. They touch upon their recent experiences with various movies and TV shows, including 'Avatar,' sharing their mixed feelings about Cameron's ongoing saga. The hosts then dive deeply into their top TV series and movies of the year, praising series like 'White Lotus,' 'The Studio,' and 'Andor,' as well as documentaries like 'Unknown Number: High School Catfish' and 'The Perfect Neighbor.' They also highlight standout films such as 'Sinners' and powerful performances from actors like Rose Byrne and Joel Edgerton. Additionally, they mention interesting side notes like the 'Boxing Day' puzzle, current weather conditions, holiday activities, and the unique tendencies of modern viewers, including teenagers binge-watching 'Stranger Things.'

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:54 Holiday Experiences

02:06 Movies and TV Shows Review

07:18 Boxing Day Puzzle

12:28 Movie Reviews and Recommendations

19:00 ‘The Life of Chuck’

33

33:12 ‘Avatar Fire and Ash’

33:45 Struggles with 3D Technology

34:13 New Characters and Family Reactions

35:25 Repetitive Storyline Critique

36:11 Meta Narrative and Visuals

38:22 Character Development and Performances

44:42 Cameron's Personal Themes

47:48 3D Technology and Financial Success

01:02:29 ‘Stranger Things’ Viewing Habits

01:05:29 Top 10 List and Honorable Mentions

01:07:14 ‘King of the Hill’ and Netflix Documentary

01:08:36 The Perfect Neighbor: A Shocking Documentary

01:10:54 American Murder and Other Disturbing Documentaries

01:13:57 White Lotus Season 3: A Sun-Drenched Thriller

01:15:24 Seth Rogan's The Studio: Hilarious and Technically Brilliant

01:17:09 Australian Actors Shine in Art House Films

01:22:06 The Rehearsal Season 2: Nathan Fielder's Genius

01:26:37 Sinners: An Epic Period Horror Drama

01:34:06 Paradise Episode 7: The Day

01:35:01 Adolescence: A Powerful One-Shot Series

01:37:55 Andor: The Best Star Wars Content in Years

Merry Christmas Eve.

We have arrived at the end of the season. Carol gets a cold reminder of the cruelty of indifferent efficiency. 

Remember to email us any of your year end recommendations.

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In this episode of 'Need Some Introduction,' host Victor delves into the penultimate episode of 'Pluribus' Season 1, titled 'Charm Offensive.' Victor breaks down key moments, including Carol's interactions with the Hive Mind and her evolving relationship with Zosia. The episode highlights the charm offensive from both sides, the show's exploration of collective consciousness, and theorizes about the implications of these discoveries.

Additionally, Victor and guest Sona discuss the emotional depth of the characters, the potential future of the series, and their predictions for the season finale. The episode also pays tribute to the late Rob Reiner, reflecting on his influential filmography and impact on pop culture.

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00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

00:48 Upcoming Episodes and Podcast Plans

01:58 Year-End Wrap-Up and Listener Participation

03:38 Movie Reviews and Top 10 Lists

05:15 Stranger Things Finale and Fallout Discussion

06:09 Pluribus Episode Breakdown

08:02 Charm Offensive Analysis

10:03 Carol's Strategy and Hive Mind Dynamics

13:03 Mind Glue and Communication Theories

15:24 Emotional Manipulation and Seduction

18:31 Revelations and Speculations

24:37 The Dating Metaphor and Final Confrontation

46:30 Carol's Emotional Plea

47:04 The Spontaneous Kiss

47:32 Zosia's Morning Routine

48:41 The Radio DJ

49:06 Carol's Illusion

51:05 Manuso's Journey

51:34 Discussion with Sona

52:20 Rob Reiner's Legacy

01:03:47 The Charm Offensive

01:22:36 Carol's Revelation and the Entity's Paradox

01:25:09 The Entity's Mission and Antenna Construction

01:26:32 The Signal Theory and Potential Disruption

01:29:12 Carol's Writing and AI Metaphor

01:35:53 The Entity's True Nature and Weapon Theory

01:44:29 Manuso's Stubbornness and Survival

01:52:23 Final Thoughts and Season Finale Anticipation

In this episode of Need Some Introduction, host Victor and guest Darren discuss the season finale of 'Welcome to Derry,' sharing their mixed feelings about the series. They also dive deep into 'Wake Up Dead Man,' the latest installment in the Knives Out franchise, praising its cast and unique structure while comparing it to its predecessors. Additionally, they touch on recent tragic news events and the impact of social media regulations in Australia. The episode ends with a brief discussion on the disappointing aspects of the Welcome to Derry series and anticipation for upcoming releases like 'Avatar: The Way of Water.'

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00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

00:09 Discussing the Season Finale of 'Welcome to Derry'

01:12 News Segment: Tragic Events and Reflections

02:46 Remembering Rob Reiner's Legacy

08:25 Social Media Ban for Teens in Australia

13:42 Review: 'Wake Up Dead Man' - A Knives Out Mystery

41:36 Fiery Speech and Miraculous Resurrection

42:35 The Mystery Unfolds

44:39 Benoit Blanc's Act of Grace

46:25 Revelations and Symbolism

51:09 Knives Out Series and Rian Johnson's Works

54:56 Derry Show Finale Discussion

01:06:05 Avatar Films and James Cameron's Vision

Victor breaks down the latest episode of Pluribus in a solo episode. Carol takes full advantage of her privilege but hedonic delights are less effective when it comes too easy. On the other hand, Manousos finds nothing at all easy as he tries to traverse most of a continent but gets thwarted by a particularly prickly tree. 

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In this episode of 'Need Some Introduction,' host Victor and co-host Darren discuss various topics including their week-to-week watch updates. After reviewing the new Noah Baumbach film 'Jay Kelly' they delve into their thoughts on the penultimate episodes of HBO’s 'Welcome to Derry,' expressing mixed feelings about its narrative and execution. They also have a deep discussion revering the intricacies and strengths of HBO’s 'Watchmen' series, re-exploring its themes, character development, and exceptional storytelling. The conversation finishes with a peek at upcoming shows and movies they plan to cover in the future episodes including 'Fallout' and Netflix's 'Knives Out' sequel.

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00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:13 Current Shows and Future Plans

00:59 Netflix and HBO Deal Discussion

02:29 Theatrical Releases vs. Streaming

07:30 Upcoming TV Shows and Movies

18:35 Jay Kelly Movie Review

31:38 Welcome to Derry Episode Discussion

33:49 Critique of the Episode's Pacing and Script Issues

35:00 Imagery and Pennywise's Character Design

36:07 Sacrificing Richie: A Questionable Decision

37:57 Overstuffed Plot and Character Development Issues

38:04 Positive Aspects: Opening Scene and Practical Effects

39:17 Flashbacks and Scattershot Filmmaking

42:57 The Military's Plan and Its Flaws

48:23 Madeline Stowe's Daughter Storyline

49:24 Preview of Upcoming Seasons

51:54 Watchmen Rewatch: Highlights and Analysis

01:07:25 Upcoming Reviews and Final Thoughts

In this episode of 'Need Some Introduction,' host Victor and co-host Sona delve into the sixth episode of 'Pluribus' season one. They discuss the plot revelations including Carol's unsettling discovery about the food source, her unexpected trip to Las Vegas, and her interactions with Mr. Dete. They explore the philosophical complexities presented by the show's depiction of an artificial intelligence entity and its implications for the surviving humans. The episode also touches upon Carol's loneliness and her continued resistance to the new world order. Additionally, there is a discussion about the character Min and his own journey of discovery. Finally, the hosts touch on other recommended shows and movies such as 'The Beast in Me' and 'If I Had Legs I Would Kick You.'

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00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving 

03:09 Listener Feedback and Easter Eggs

06:36 Streaming Services and Industry News

11:53 Upcoming TV Shows and Movie Releases

15:59 Episode Breakdown Begins

19:14 Carol's Revelation and Vegas Visit

46:29 A Touching Act of Kindness

47:04 Breakfast and Character Development

47:53 Mr. Diabate's Deeper Understanding

48:29 Carol's Arrogance and Isolation

49:01 Carol's Conspiracy Mode

52:03 The Reality of the Situation

56:08 Manousos' Fascinating Day

58:03 The Journey Begins

01:05:36 Speculations and Theories

01:15:09 The Beast in Me Discussion

01:24:27 End of Year Reflections

In this episode of 'Need Some Introduction,' host Victor is joined by Darren to discuss their latest TV and movie watches. The episode primarily focuses on the sixth episode of 'Welcome to Derry,' while also touching on the unexpected finale of 'The Chair Company,' and individual impressions of Joel Edgerton's performance in 'Train Dreams.' The conversation digs into theories, character developments, and cliffhangers, along with exciting previews and recommendations for upcoming releases. Additionally, the hosts dive into a rewatch of 'Watchmen' and speculate about the next steps for their TV watching schedule, including the upcoming series 'Fallout.'

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00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:30 Thanksgiving Catch-Up and Solo Episode Insights

01:54 Theories and Speculations on TV Shows

03:35 Stranger Things Phenomenon

11:11 Upcoming Netflix Releases and Reviews

15:17 Train Dreams: A Deep Dive

26:23 Chair Company Finale Spoilers

28:55 Unraveling the Dog Conspiracy

29:15 Ron's Son's Unusual Scholarship Plan

29:42 The Big Reveal and Season Finale

30:48 Speculations and Conspiracies

32:02 The Show's Renewal and Future Speculations

35:15 Welcome to Derry: A New Discussion

35:31 Critique of the Current TV Season

36:44 Character Dynamics and Storylines

43:27 Thematic Analysis and Metaphors

49:02 Watchmen: A Deep Dive

52:21 Upcoming Shows and Final Thoughts