Episode 95: Sinners

This week on Philosophy in Film, the gang steps into the blood-soaked confessional of Ryan Coogler’s 2025 thriller, Sinners. Nestled in the indie-crime-vampire-redemption-gangster genre, the film follows Eli Morgan, a disgraced pastor-turned-defense attorney, as he’s pulled into the moral murk of faith, failure, and a client who might not be entirely human. Craig hacks away at Producer’s Notes (9:37) with only slight collateral damage, while Alain cracks open the Book of Beauclair (21:04) to lay out Eli’s twilight descent. Chris then lights a candle for Philosopher’s Corner (47:20), tuning into the film’s musical language, where brooding jazz and sacred overtones echo themes of guilt, redemption, and longing. At the Round Table (53:10), the gang debates whether Sinners bites into something meaningful or just bares its fangs, before Reviews (1:43:22) and Mailbag (1:55:35) offer closing testimony from the congregation.

As always, we reflect on the philosophical and non-philosophical burdens carried through the film’s long dark night, because even the damned listen close.

🍻 Featured Beer 🍻 - Irish Red Ale by Sea Change Brewing (Edmonton, AB)

Episode 94: The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

Our long journey through Middle-earth reaches its end as the gang takes on the towering finale of Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy: The Return of the King. Craig lights the beacons with Producer’s Notes (8:03), rallying the realm for the final leg of our quest. Alain draws his sword for the Beauclair Synopsis (20:22), charting the last stand against darkness with Aragorn’s path to the throne and Frodo’s climb toward Mount Doom. Chris raises the light of Eärendil in Philosopher’s Corner (47:28), exploring the steadfast, selfless resolve of Aragorn, whose enduring hope inspires unity and courage in the face of overwhelming odds. The Black Gate then opens for a hearty discussion at The Round Table (1:00:16), before Reviews (1:54:04) and Mailbag (2:05:41) make the final climb in this epic and enduring saga. As always, we reflect on the philosophical and non-philosophical burdens carried along the film’s long road—because even at the end of all things, there’s still light to be found.

🍻 Featured Beer 🍻 - Turning Tides Hazy IPA by Ale Architect X Bent Stick Brewing Co. X Cabin Brewing Co. (All three from Edmonton, AB)

The battle for Middle-earth rages on as Philosophy in Film journeys into The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. This episode delves into the shifting alliances, moral dilemmas, and heroic struggles that define the second chapter of Peter Jackson’s legendary trilogy. Craig sounds the Horn of Helm’s Deep with Producer’s Notes (9:02), while Alain embarks on a perilous march through Synopsis Pass (19:35), charting the intertwined fates of Frodo, Aragorn, and the fractured Fellowship. Chris then lights the way in Philosopher’s Corner (42:38), exploring Sam’s rally of resilience, perseverance, and the fight for a better world. The Round Table (50:34) charges headfirst into the film’s depiction of war, corruption, and perseverance, before Reviews (1:48:24) and #Mailbag (1:58:28) bring messages from the realm of listeners. As always, we discuss the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie—because when all hope seems lost, sometimes the smallest light can guide the way.

TWO Featured Beers by Born Brewing Co. (Calgary, Alberta)

1 - Early Dawn Earl Grey Pale Ale 

2 - Chasing Daylight Black IPA

Sponsor this episode: Magic Mind - www.magicmind.com/pif20 

Use CODE: PIF20 at checkout to receive 20% off any 1-time purchase, or 48% off your first subscription!

The gang at Philosophy in Film embarks on a wild ride with Sean Baker’s Palme d’Or-winning dark comedy, Anora. This episode explores the intricate narrative of Anora Mikheeva, a Brooklyn-based sex worker portrayed by Mikey Madison, whose impulsive marriage to Vanya Zakharov, the son of a Russian oligarch, leads to unforeseen challenges when his family intervenes. Craig reveals his impulsivity as he proposes with Producer’s Notes (7:39), setting the stage for Alain’s 4-carat Beauclair Synopsis (22:18), where he lays out the twists and turns of Anora’s high-stakes journey. Chris then steers Philosopher’s Corner (37:50), examining the transactional and emotional dynamics at play, and what they reveal about power, autonomy, and human connection. The Round Table (49:04) dives into Baker’s sharp social critique while wrestling with the film’s treatment of morally murky characters. Then, in Reviews (1:37:56) and Mailbag (1:50:26), we sort through listener thoughts and reactions before cashing out for the night. As always, we discuss the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie—because in a world of high rollers and low morals, nothing comes without a cost.

Featured Beer: Easy Lover Blonde Ale by Manual Labour Beer Co. (Sherwood Park, Alberta)

Sponsor this episode: Magic Mind - www.magicmind.com/pif20 

Use CODE: PIF20 at checkout to receive 20% off any 1-time purchase, or 48% off your first subscription!

Embark on an epic journey with the gang as we delve into Peter Jackson’s cinematic masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. With the fate of Middle-earth resting on a perilous quest, the crew unites to explore the deep lore, unforgettable characters, and weighty themes that set this legendary saga in motion. Taking his farthest step outside the Shire, Craig sets us on the path with Producer’s Notes (7:16), Alain braves the mines of the Beauclair Synopsis (23:26), and Chris embarks on a quest to unravel the secrets in the Philosopher's Corner (57:36). The council gathers for the Round Table (1:06:13), as the gang breaks down the film’s enduring magic while evading the dark powers that seek them. We take up arms to answer the call of Reviews (1:45:52), before delving too deep and greedily to open up the #Mailbag (1:54:36). Together, we embark on an adventure filled with friendship, courage, and the timeless fight against the forces of darkness. As always, we cast our gaze into the fires of Mount Doom, uncovering the philosophical and non-philosophical treasures forged within.

Featured Beer: Weiss Lightnin' by Bent Stick Brewing Co. (Edmonton, Alberta)

Sponsor this episode: Magic Mind - www.magicmind.com/pif20 

Use CODE: PIF20 at checkout to receive 20% off any 1-time purchase, or 48% off your first subscription!

This week on Philosophy in Film, we light up the holiday season with the 1990 holiday classic, Home Alone! Directed by Chris Columbus and written by John Hughes, this iconic family comedy follows Kevin McCallister, a pint-sized troublemaker accidentally left behind when his family heads to Paris for Christmas. As Kevin defends his home from two bumbling burglars, Harry and Marv, he discovers not only his knack for improvisation but also the true meaning of family and forgiveness. Craig jingles all the way through Producer’s Notes (7:38), Alain unwraps the details with the Beauclair Synopsis (19:46), and Chris delivers a sleigh full of behind-the-scenes fun facts and trivia in Philosopher’s Corner (31:01). The gang gathers around the Round Table (36:35) for a spirited discussion of slapstick ingenuity and nostalgia around this holiday fable, before unwrapping Reviews (1:06:04) and answering all your burning questions in the #Mailbag (1:11:14). As always, we discuss the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie, proving why Home Alone continues to deck the halls with laughter and timeless charm. Merry Christmas, ya filthy animals!

Featured Beer: Wet Bandits Triple IPA by Eighty Eight Brewing Co. (Calgary, Alberta)

Episode 88: Alien: Romulus

Shaking up the release schedule with Episode 88 of Philosophy in Film, the gang boards the hauntingly dark Alien: Romulus, the latest installment in the storied sci-fi horror franchise. Returning to the series’ roots, this new chapter explores themes of survival, creation, and the horrifying unknown. Craig starts the countdown with Producer’s Notes (6:54), setting the stage for Alain’s Beauclair Synopsis (17:12), which pieces together the film’s gripping narrative. Chris navigates the depths of terror and existential inquiry in Philosopher’s Corner (43:35), while the Round Table Discussion (53:29) tackles the movie’s tension, terror, and timeless reflections on humanity's fragility in the face of cosmic horror. The ship’s log concludes with Reviews (1:37:01), breaking down the film’s impact, and Mailbag (1:54:56), featuring your transmissions from deep space. As always, we delve into the philosophical and non-philosophical elements that made Alien: Romulus a spine-chilling voyage into the unknown.

Featured Beer: Twenty Pounder Double IPA by Driftwood Brewery (Victoria, BC)

Episode 89: Pump Up The Volume

This week on Philosophy in Film, the gang cranks up the dial with the 1990 cult classic Pump Up The Volume. Starring Christian Slater as the enigmatic pirate radio DJ Hard Harry, this film delves into themes of rebellion, teenage angst, and the power of uncensored self-expression. From the airwaves of suburban Arizona to the philosophical crossroads of free speech and societal change, Pump Up The Volume asks what it truly means to find your voice in a world that doesn’t want to listen. Craig kicks off the broadcast with Producer’s Notes (7:38), Alain hits the mic with the Beauclair Synopsis (14:47), and Chris amplifies the conversation with Philosopher’s Corner (35:27). The gang dives into the Round Table Discussion (49:08), exploring the film’s raw energy, its critique of authority, and its enduring relevance in the digital age. Finally, let’s turn that dial to Reviews (1:26:14) before we sign off with the Mailbag (1:41:13). As always, we tune into the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie that had us all shouting, “Talk hard!”

Featured Beer: Mixtape Hazy IPA by Polyrhythm Brewing (Edmonton, Alberta)

Episode 87: The Cabin in the Woods

In Episode 87, the Philosophy in Film Podcast descends into the horror-comedy labyrinth of The Cabin in the Woods (2012), where slasher tropes and cosmic horror are delightfully turned inside out. Craig breaks out his sales tactics in Producer’s Notes (8:34), setting the stage for Alain to deliver a chilling Beauclair Synopsis (21:08), diving into the intricate setup of five unsuspecting friends venturing into a remote cabin, only to discover they’re players in a far darker game. Chris unpacks the metaphysical questions lurking beneath in Philosopher's Corner (42:58), dissecting themes of free will, ritual, and our culture’s fascination with horror. The Round Table (50:47) sees the gang debate everything from the film’s genre-blending to its critique of audience complicity, while the Reviews (1:23:41) segment uncovers their personal horror thresholds, wrapping up with #Mailbag (1:33:51). Join us as we open the basement door and explore all the philosophical and non-philosophical layers that The Cabin in the Woods brings to the horror genre.

Featured Beer: Interlude Berliner Weisse by Cabin Brewing Company (Calgary, Alberta)

In our 86th episode, the gang is joined by Dr. Steven Brence as we travel back to the smoky cafes and shadowy alleyways of wartime Morocco with the cinematic classic "Casablanca." This beloved film follows the story of Rick Blaine, an American expatriate who must choose between his love for Ilsa Lund and helping her husband, Victor Laszlo, escape the clutches of the Nazis. The episode begins with Producer’s Notes (6:22), where Craig entertains us with his signature wit that might just rival Rick's own. Alain then delivers a captivating Beauclair Synopsis (13:25), recounting the unforgettable plot and characters that have stood the test of time. Chris dives into Philosopher's Corner (27:45), exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and moral ambiguity that make this film a philosophical treasure trove. The Round Table (33:09) discussion brings passionate debates and fresh insights into the film’s enduring legacy, while Reviews (1:27:05) feature the gang’s personal reflections and favorite moments. As always, we explore all the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie that continue to make hearts swoon and minds ponder. Join us as we explore the emotional and ethical depths of "Casablanca" and remind you why this film will always have a place in cinematic history.

Featured Cocktail: French 75, featuring Strathcona Spirits Gin  Our version includes Prosecco, homemade simple syrup, and lemon juice