Review It Yourself

Review It Yourself

Download on the App Store

Review It Yourself episodes

  • The Untouchables (1987) Part One with co-host Sarah

    Corruption, crime, and Connery—diving deep into De Palma’s classic.


    In this episode of Review It Yourself, we break down the first half of The Untouchables—the iconic Prohibition-era crime thriller directed by Brian De Palma. Joined by co-host Sarah, we explore the film’s powerful opening act, its larger-than-life characters, and why this stylish gangster epic still commands attention nearly four decades later.


    From the tense cat-and-mouse battle between federal agent Eliot Ness and Chicago crime boss Al Capone, to the unforgettable performances by Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, and Robert De Niro, we unpack what makes this film such a standout in the gangster genre. Is it the script? The score? The mythologising of law enforcement? Or Connery’s scene-stealing gravitas?


    Expect thoughtful film analysis, sharp opinions, historical context around Prohibition-era Chicago, and a discussion about how Hollywood reshapes real-life events into cinematic legend. Whether you’re a long-time fan of classic crime dramas or discovering this film for the first time, this episode offers insight, debate, and plenty of appreciation for one of the 1980s’ most celebrated gangster movies.


    We discuss:

    • The film’s themes of justice, morality, and myth-making
    • The dynamic between Ness and Malone
    • De Palma’s directorial style and use of tension
    • Performances that elevate the material
    • How The Untouchables compares to other mob classics


    If you love deep-dive movie reviews, classic cinema breakdowns, and honest film discussion, this episode is for you.


    Please Note: There are direct quotes used in this review, which include the use of contextual slurs/stereotypes. These are used purely as quotes from the film and to aid discussion, as the film's dialogue reflects the bigoted, harsh atmosphere of 1930's Prohibition-Era Chicago. There is no intention to cause offence or distress.


    Follow & Contact Review It Yourself:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021

    X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview

    BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social

    Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021

    Email: [email protected]


    Support the Podcast:

    If you enjoy Review It Yourself, please:

    • Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast platform
    • Leave a 5-star rating and written review on Apple Podcasts to help boost visibility
    • Share this episode with fellow film fans
    • Follow us on social media for updates and future episodes

    Your support helps the podcast grow, reach new listeners, and continue producing in-depth film reviews.


    Part Two of our The Untouchables discussion available now—where we continue analysing the film’s most iconic sequences and its lasting legacy in crime cinema.


    Listen now and decide for yourself… is The Untouchables truly untouchable?

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 hr 4 min
  • The Time Machine (1960) with co-host Sarah

    Travel millions of years into the future with this classic sci-fi review


    In this episode of Review It Yourself, we jump into one of the most influential science-fiction films ever made: The Time Machine (1960). Inspired by the legendary novel by H.G. Wells, this classic movie helped shape the way audiences imagine time travel on screen.


    Sarah returns to the podcast after her holiday (and a memorable rant about the state of air travel), joining the discussion as we explore the timeless ideas behind this iconic film. From the eerie future world of the Eloi and the Morlocks to the ground-breaking practical effects that brought time travel to life, this episode dives deep into why The Time Machine (1960) still matters today.


    We also talk about the themes beneath the surface:

    • The film’s commentary on class division and humanity’s future
    • The fascinating design of the Morlocks and Eloi societies
    • The enduring appeal of practical effects and classic sci-fi filmmaking
    • Whether the story still resonates with modern audiences
    • Comparisons with the later Time Machine adaptations, including the 2002 version starring Guy Pearce

    If you love classic science fiction, time travel stories, or thoughtful film discussions, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and a fresh perspective on a genre-defining movie.


    In This Episode

    • Why The Time Machine (1960) became a sci-fi classic
    • The influence of H.G. Wells’ original novel
    • The disturbing future vision of the Eloi and Morlocks
    • How the film’s special effects were ahead of their time
    • A discussion of the story’s deeper social commentary
    • Why time travel stories continue to fascinate audiences


    Recommended Reading

    If you enjoyed this episode, check out the original novel:

    • The Time Machine by H.G. Wells – the ground-breaking sci-fi story that inspired the film and shaped the time-travel genre.


    Follow & Contact Review It Yourself:

    Stay connected with the podcast and join the conversation:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021

    X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview

    BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social

    Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021

    Email: [email protected]


    Support the Podcast

    If you enjoy Review It Yourself, please consider supporting the show:

    • Follow or subscribe on your favourite podcast platform
    • Leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify
    • Share the episode with friends who love film and TV discussions
    • Tag the podcast on social media and join the debate
    • Your support helps more listeners discover the show and keeps new episodes coming.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    2 hr 15 min
  • From Halloween (1978) to Halloween Ends (2022): 'Horror in Haddonfield: The Untold Stories of Halloween' (2025 Book) with Author and Journalist Andrew Grevas
    Evil never dies: deep dive into Halloween’s legacy and lore!

    In this electrifying episode of Review It Yourself, we explore the terrifying brilliance and enduring cultural impact of the Halloween franchise — from Halloween (1978) to Halloween Ends (2022), and every film in-between!— with journalist and author Andrew Graves, author of 'Horror in Haddonfield: The Untold Stories of Halloween'.


    If you’re a horror fan, a lover of film history, or fascinated by long-running movie franchises, this episode is essential listening.


    A passionate deep dive into the Halloween franchise

    Andrew Graves, author of Horror in Haddonfield, joins Sean for an unfiltered, in-depth conversation about one of the most iconic horror series, Halloween.

    We explore:

    • The psychology and legacy of Michael Myers
    • Why Dr. Loomis (played by Donald Pleasence) is just as essential as The Shape himself
    • The evolution of Laurie Strode, immortalised by Jamie Lee Curtis
    • The highs, the controversies, and the reinventions across the entire Halloween timeline
    • Honest thoughts on Halloween (2018), Halloween Kills (2021), and Halloween Ends (2022).
    • The Nights He Never Came Home: Unrealised Halloween films


    This isn’t just a review — it’s a celebration and critical examination of horror cinema, franchise storytelling, and what keeps audiences returning to Haddonfield decade after decade.


    About the Guest: Andrew Graves

    Andrew Graves is a journalist and horror author whose book Horror in Haddonfield serves as a comprehensive love letter to the Halloween series. The book dives into untold stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and deep franchise analysis — essential reading for fans of slasher cinema and horror history.


    📖 Get the Book

    Search Horror in Haddonfield by Andrew Graves on major book retailers including Amazon and independent bookstores.


    🎙 Follow Andrew Graves

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andrew.grevas/

    Twitter/X: @AndrewGrevas

    Contact: [email protected]


    Why This Episode Matters

    The Halloween franchise isn’t just a horror series — it’s a blueprint for modern slasher films. From its minimalist score to its atmospheric tension, its influence can still be felt across contemporary horror.


    In this episode we explore:

    • The importance of Dr. Loomis as the moral and psychological anchor of the franchise
    • How franchise storytelling survives actor changes and timeline resets
    • What makes Michael Myers such an enduring symbol of evil
    • Whether later sequels honour or undermine the original vision


    Whether you agree, disagree, or just love hearing horror fans passionately debate — this is the kind of conversation you’d have if you ran into your mates at the pub after a Halloween marathon.


    Listen, Follow & Support Review It Yourself

    If you enjoy Film reviews without the faff, make sure you stay connected:


    📲 Follow on Social Media
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021
    • X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview
    • BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021
    📧 Email the Show

    [email protected]

    Got a film you want reviewed? Want to collaborate? Get in touch.


    Support the Podcast

    If you love what you hear:

    • Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform
    • Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help more horror fans discover the show
    • Share the episode with fellow Halloween devotees
    • Recommend the podcast on social media

    Your support keeps Review It Yourself independent, growing, and proudly faff-free.


    If you’re searching for:

    • Halloween franchise analysis
    • Horror film deep dives
    • Michael Myers character breakdown
    • Dr. Loomis appreciation
    • Halloween book recommendations
    • Horror podcast discussions

    — this episode delivers all that and more.


    Press play… because evil doesn’t die tonight — or any night.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 hr 29 min
  • Ghostbusters (1984) with Author, and Paranormal Historian Rob Kirkup from 'How Haunted? Podcast'
    Who you gonna call? Ghostbusters!


    In this electrifying episode of Review It Yourself, we bust ghosts and break down the timeless supernatural comedy classic Ghostbusters — joined by special guest Rob from 'How Haunted? Podcast'.


    If you love 80s movies, paranormal investigations, horror-comedy crossovers, or in-depth film analysis, this is the Ghostbusters podcast episode you’ve been waiting for.

    Rob brings real paranormal podcasting experience to the discussion, giving a unique perspective on hauntings, scepticism, and how Ghostbusters blends supernatural lore with sharp comedy. Together, we explore whether the film still stands as the gold standard for horror-comedy — and why it continues to influence pop culture decades later.




    Why Ghostbusters Still Works Today:

    From iconic performances and endlessly quotable dialogue to ground-breaking practical effects, Ghostbusters isn’t just nostalgia — it’s cinematic lightning in a bottle.


    In this episode, we discuss:

    • The genius of the character dynamics and comedic timing
    • How the film balances horror, sci-fi, and comedy
    • The portrayal of paranormal investigation vs “real” hauntings
    • The cultural impact of Ghostbusters on film and fandom
    • Whether modern audiences still connect with it


    If you’re searching for:

    • A Ghostbusters 1984 review podcast
    • A horror comedy film analysis
    • A paranormal perspective on Ghostbusters
    • 80s movie breakdowns

    You’ve found your people.




    About Our Guest – Rob from How Haunted?

    Rob Kirkup is the host of How Haunted?, a podcast exploring real-life paranormal encounters, strange phenomena, and unexplained experiences. With a balanced and open-minded approach, Rob examines ghost stories and supernatural reports with curiosity and grounded analysis.

    🎙 Listen to How Haunted? Podcast wherever you get your podcasts

    📲 Follow and connect via social media by searching How Haunted? Podcast

    • 📩 For listener stories and enquiries, reach out through the podcast’s website: https://www.how-haunted.com/
    • If you’re fascinated by real hauntings, ghost stories, and paranormal investigations, make sure to check out Rob’s show





    Follow & Contact Review It Yourself

    Stay connected with Review It Yourself for more intelligent reviews, interviews, and deep dives into books and films:

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021
    • X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview
    • BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021
    • Email: [email protected]

    For guest enquiries, collaborations, or listener feedback, email directly — the show welcomes thoughtful discussion and future topic suggestions.



    ☕ Support the Show:

    • If you enjoy the content, you can support Review It Yourself by leaving a 5-star review or sharing the episode with friends.
    • Follow for episode updates and film discussions
    • Message with film suggestions, collaboration ideas, or feedback

    Your ratings, reviews, and shares directly support the growth of independent podcasting.


    Whether you’re a die-hard Ghostbusters fan, a paranormal enthusiast, or someone who just loves smart film analysis, this episode delivers humour, nostalgia, and thoughtful discussion in equal measure.


    Because sometimes the only way to truly appreciate a classic… is to Review It Yourself.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 hr 14 min
  • Dik Barton: Deep-Sea Explorer, Titanic and Mary Rose Diver, Speaker and World Adventurer

    Deep-sea Exploration, Titanic dives and life on the ocean floor.


    In this extraordinary episode of Review It Yourself, we dive into the real-world adventures of legendary deep-sea explorer and diver Dik Barton — a man who has descended to historic wrecks including RMS Titanic and worked on the raising of the Mary Rose.


    From extreme underwater conditions to the emotional reality of visiting one of the world’s most famous shipwrecks, this episode explores what it’s truly like to work where history rests: on the ocean floor.


    If you’re searching for Titanic diving stories, deep-sea exploration insights, or first-hand accounts from historic wreck dives, this conversation delivers authenticity, expertise, and unforgettable moments.


    What It’s Really Like Diving to Titanic!


    Most people know Titanic through films and documentaries. Few have been on the seabed beside her.


    Dik Barton shares:

    • The physical and psychological demands of deep-sea diving
    • What it feels like approaching Titanic in darkness
    • The technology used in extreme underwater exploration
    • The dangers professional divers face
    • His experiences working on the Mary Rose recovery project
    • Life lessons learned from decades beneath the surface


    This episode blends maritime history, technical diving expertise, and personal storytelling into a gripping and human exploration of underwater discovery.


    History Beneath the Surface.


    Having worked on projects connected to both RMS Titanic and the raising of the Mary Rose, Dik offers rare insight into how underwater archaeology intersects with adventure, preservation, and respect for the past.


    This isn’t theory — it’s lived experience from someone who has operated in some of the most extreme environments on Earth.


    About Dik Barton:


    Dik Barton is a professional deep-sea diver, explorer, speaker and world adventurer. With decades of experience in commercial diving and historic wreck exploration, he brings unmatched credibility to discussions of maritime history and underwater operations.


    Connect with Dik Barton:

    Please see:


    Dik Barton's Website: https://dikbarton.com/

    This includes information about the Titanic Expert Club.


    White Star Heritage:

    https://whitestarheritage.com/


    Why You Should Listen.


    This episode is essential for anyone interested in:

    • Titanic exploration
    • Deep-sea diving careers
    • Underwater archaeology
    • Mary Rose recovery history
    • Real-life extreme adventure stories
    • Maritime history interviews


    It’s a powerful, grounded discussion that moves beyond myths and into the lived reality of exploration.


    Follow & Contact Review It Yourself

    Stay connected with Review It Yourself for more in-depth interviews and thoughtful discussions:

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021
    • X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview
    • BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021
    • Email: [email protected]


    For guest enquiries, collaborations, or listener feedback, email directly — the show welcomes your thoughts and topic suggestions.


    Every review and share helps grow the podcast and secure more fascinating expert guests.


    Descend into history. Experience the reality of deep-sea exploration.


    Thank You to Clifford Ismay.


    Correction: Sean was trying to recall Bill Sauder's description of the smell of artefacts "the smell that comes off it is perfectly alien, perfectly fetid, you know it's a kind of death you have never experienced", from a National Geographic documentary. Bill Maynard was an actor on Heartbeat who played Greengrass.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    58 min
  • Did Abnormal Refraction Doom The Titanic? 'Titanic: A Very Deceiving Night' (2012 Book) with Author, Historian and TV Presenter Tim Maltin
    Did Abnormal Refraction Doom The Titanic?


    In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of Review It Yourself, Sean sits down with renowned historian, author and TV presenter Tim Maltin to explore one of the most compelling alternative explanations behind the sinking of RMS Titanic — the Abnormal Refraction Theory.


    Drawing from his ground-breaking research in Titanic: A Very Deceiving Night, Tim explains how rare atmospheric conditions on 14 April 1912 may have distorted visibility in the North Atlantic. Could a natural optical illusion have delayed iceberg warnings, confused distress signals, and changed history forever?


    If you’re searching for Titanic history, Titanic iceberg theories, or scientific explanations behind the Titanic disaster — this episode delivers evidence, clarity, and serious debate.



    A Deceptive Night in the North Atlantic


    Most Titanic discussions focus on speed, lifeboat numbers, or Captain Smith’s decisions. But Tim Maltin’s research introduces a fascinating scientific dimension:

    • What is abnormal atmospheric refraction?
    • How can mirage effects alter visibility at sea?
    • Did false horizons hide the iceberg?
    • Were distress rockets misinterpreted due to optical distortion?
    • Could this explain the mysterious “nearby ship” debate?


    Blending maritime history, meteorology and survivor testimony, this episode re-examines one of history’s most analysed disasters with fresh, data-driven insight.


    Whether you’re a Titanic enthusiast, maritime historian, or fan of investigative book discussions, this is essential listening.



    About Tim Maltin

    Tim Maltin is a leading British historian specialising in maritime history and the RMS Titanic. His research has been featured in international documentaries and media investigations examining the science behind the sinking.



    Connect with Tim:
    • Website: https://www.timmaltin.com
    • X (Twitter): @TimMaltin
    • Book: Titanic: A Very Deceiving Night (available worldwide via major retailers)

    If you want the full scientific and historical breakdown of this theory, his book is a must-read.


    Tim's Book Recommendations (which Sean has ordered):


    -'The Ship That Stood Still' by Leslie Reade.

    -'A Titanic Myth: The Californian Incident' by Leslie Harrison.



    Why This Episode Matters

    This episode is perfect for listeners interested in:

    • Titanic disaster analysis
    • Alternative Titanic sinking theories
    • Maritime optical illusions and mirages
    • Historical myth-busting
    • In-depth book discussions

    It’s a compelling blend of science and storytelling that challenges what we think we know about Titanic’s final hours.



    Follow & Contact Review It Yourself

    Stay connected with Review It Yourself for more intelligent reviews, interviews, and deep dives into books and films:

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021
    • X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview
    • BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021
    • Email: [email protected]

    For guest enquiries, collaborations, or listener feedback, email directly — the show welcomes thoughtful discussion and future topic suggestions.



    Subscribe, Rate & Support the Podcast

    If you enjoy independent, in-depth conversations like this:

    • Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
    • Follow on Spotify
    • Leave a 5-star rating and written review
    • Share the episode with Titanic history fans
    • Recommend Review It Yourself on social media


    Every rating, review and share helps grow the podcast and bring more expert guests to the show.

    If this episode changed how you see the Titanic disaster, don’t keep it to yourself.

    Follow, subscribe, and join us next time on Review It Yourself — where we examine the stories you think you already know.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 hr 19 min
  • The Only Olympic-Class Liner That Didn't Get A Film: 'RMS Olympic: Titanic's Sister' (2015 Book-Second Edition) with Author and Historian Mark Chirnside

    The forgotten liner that outshone Titanic in real life.


    What if the most dramatic story of the Olympic-class liners isn’t the one you’ve seen on film?


    In this fascinating episode of Review It Yourself, we uncover the extraordinary true story of RMS Olympic — the ship often overshadowed by her ill-fated sister, Titanic — but whose career was packed with mutiny, collisions, U-boats, innovation, and wartime heroics.


    Sean and maritime historian guest Mark Chirnside dive deep into the remarkable history behind his definitive book, RMS Olympic: Titanic's Sister. First published in 2004 and expanded in its 2015 second edition, this meticulously researched volume restores Olympic to her rightful place in maritime history.


    Far from being the “boring older sister,” Olympic earned the nickname “Old Reliable” for good reason. She survived a major collision with HMS Hawke, served with distinction during the First World War, transported thousands of troops, and even rammed and sank a German U-boat. While Titanic’s story has dominated popular culture, Olympic’s 24-year career tells a powerful story of resilience, adaptation, and maritime safety reform in the early 20th century.


    In this episode, we explore:

    • Why Olympic has been historically overlooked
    • The myths and misconceptions surrounding the Olympic-class liners
    • The ship’s vital wartime service and technical innovations
    • How historical narratives are shaped — and sometimes distorted
    • The research process behind writing a definitive maritime history


    Mark shares insights into archival research, the challenges of correcting the historical record, and why Olympic deserves far greater recognition among historians and enthusiasts alike.


    About the Guest

    Mark Chirnside is a respected maritime historian specialising in White Star Line and Cunard liners of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His work is known for its depth, accuracy, and myth-busting clarity.

    Find Mark's Website 'Mark Chirnside's Reception Room' (including blog) Here: https://markchirnside.co.uk/


    Listen & Subscribe

    If you enjoy deep dives into film, history, and cultural storytelling without the faff, make sure you’re subscribed to Review It Yourself on Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts.

    New episodes explore films, historical subjects, and fascinating guests — always with sharp insight and honest analysis.




    Support the Podcast

    Love the show? Here’s how you can help:

    • Follow and subscribe on your podcast platform
    • Leave a 5-star rating and written review
    • Share the episode with fellow Titanic and maritime history enthusiasts
    • Follow Review It Yourself on social media for updates and bonus content


    Your support helps the podcast grow, attract expert guests, and continue producing in-depth conversations like this one.

    If you thought you knew the full story of the Olympic-class liners, this episode might just change your perspective.



    Follow & Contact Review It Yourself

    Stay connected with Review It Yourself for more intelligent reviews, interviews, and deep dives into books and films:

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021
    • X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview
    • BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021
    • Email: [email protected]


    For guest enquiries, collaborations, or listener feedback, email directly — the show welcomes thoughtful discussion and future topic suggestions.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 hr 21 min
  • Titanic Sinks Tonight (2025 BBC TV Mini-Series) Part Two with Clifford Ismay, Author of 'Understanding J. Bruce Ismay' and Jamie Borsato, host of 'Old Shipping Lines' YouTube Channel
    A bold retelling of Titanic’s final hours — but does it sink or swim?


    In this explosive deep-dive, we tackle Titanic Sinks Tonight, the BBC’s ambitious 2025 dramatised documentary charting the final hours of the world’s most infamous liner, RMS Titanic.

    Did the series finally get the facts right? Or did it fall into the same old traps that have haunted Titanic storytelling for over a century?

    Joined by returning guests Clifford Ismay and Jamie Borsato, we unpack the performances, the politics, the AI reconstructions, and the controversial portrayal of J. Bruce Ismay — descendant in the hot seat included.



    What We Cover in This Episode
    • The unusual “interview testimony” format — innovative or immersion-breaking?
    • Historical accuracy vs dramatic licence
    • The portrayal of Captain Smith and the chain of command
    • Lifeboat myths and Board of Trade regulations
    • The modern political framing — necessary context or misplaced commentary?
    • AI ship models and visual inconsistencies
    • The handling (or mishandling) of J. Bruce Ismay
    • Why some creative decisions felt oddly judgmental
    • Whether this ranks among the better modern Titanic documentaries

    If you care about Titanic history, maritime storytelling, or documentary ethics — this conversation is essential listening.


    Special Guest: Clifford Ismay

    Clifford Ismay is the author of:

    📘 Understanding J. Bruce Ismay: The Man They Called The Coward of Titanic

    A detailed historical reassessment of one of Titanic’s most controversial figures, separating myth from documented fact.

    Clifford offers rare insight as a relative of J. Bruce Ismay and challenges long-standing misconceptions repeated yet again in this BBC production.

    Find Cliff on:

    X/Twitter: @CliffIsmay

    Instagram: @ismay_titanic





    Special Guest: Jamie Borsato

    Jamie Borsato is the creator and host of the Old Shipping Lines YouTube channel.

    His channel features:

    • Detailed Titanic animations
    • Maritime history breakdowns
    • Ship reconstructions
    • Deep dives into Olympic-class liners

    📺 Subscribe to Old Shipping Lines on YouTube to see some of the most passionate independent maritime content online.

    Find Jamie on:

    Twitter/X: @oldshippingline

    Instagram: old_shipping_lines

    YouTube: @OldShippingLines





    Key Themes ExploredAccuracy vs Agenda

    We examine how Titanic Sinks Tonight blends inquiry testimony with dramatisation — but does this approach flatten complex historical nuance?





    The Ismay Question

    Once again, J. Bruce Ismay is placed centre stage. But did the series fairly reflect:

    • His role aboard Titanic?
    • The reality of his retirement from the IMM?
    • The long-standing myths about lifeboats and ownership?

    Clifford Ismay provides context rarely heard in mainstream productions.





    AI and Visual Reconstruction

    The BBC leaned into AI modelling for parts of the sinking. We discuss:

    • Visual inconsistencies
    • Hull damage depiction errors
    • Whether AI enhances or undermines historical storytelling





    Why This Episode Matters

    Titanic documentaries shape public understanding. When inaccuracies are repeated, they become accepted “truth.”

    This episode challenges viewers to think critically about:

    • Historical storytelling
    • Documentary responsibility
    • The fine line between drama and distortion

    Whether you loved or hated the series — you’ll never see it the same way again.






    Follow & Contact Review It Yourself

    Stay connected with Review It Yourself for more intelligent reviews, interviews, and deep dives into books and films:

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021
    • X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview
    • BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021
    • Email: [email protected]



    Listen If You’re Interested In:
    • Titanic history
    • Maritime disasters
    • Historical accuracy debates
    • Film & TV criticism
    • J. Bruce Ismay reassessment


    Grab a cup of tea, settle in, and join us as we ask:

    Did Titanic Sinks Tonight honour history — or repeat it poorly?

    Let us know your thoughts — and as always enjoy: Film reviews without the faff.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 hr 17 min
  • Titanic Sinks Tonight (2025 BBC TV Mini-Series) Part One with Clifford Ismay, Author of 'Understanding J. Bruce Ismay' and Jamie Borsato, host of 'Old Shipping Lines' YouTube Channel
    A bold retelling of Titanic’s final hours — but does it sink or swim?


    In this explosive deep-dive, we tackle Titanic Sinks Tonight, the BBC’s ambitious 2025 dramatised documentary charting the final hours of the world’s most infamous liner, RMS Titanic.

    Did the series finally get the facts right? Or did it fall into the same old traps that have haunted Titanic storytelling for over a century?

    Joined by returning guests Clifford Ismay and Jamie Borsato, we unpack the performances, the politics, the AI reconstructions, and the controversial portrayal of J. Bruce Ismay — descendant in the hot seat included.


    What We Cover in This Episode
    • The unusual “interview testimony” format — innovative or immersion-breaking?
    • Historical accuracy vs dramatic licence
    • The portrayal of Captain Smith and the chain of command
    • Lifeboat myths and Board of Trade regulations
    • The modern political framing — necessary context or misplaced commentary?
    • AI ship models and visual inconsistencies
    • The handling (or mishandling) of J. Bruce Ismay
    • Why some creative decisions felt oddly judgmental
    • Whether this ranks among the better modern Titanic documentaries

    If you care about Titanic history, maritime storytelling, or documentary ethics — this conversation is essential listening.




    Special Guest: Clifford Ismay

    Clifford Ismay is the author of:

    📘 Understanding J. Bruce Ismay: The Man They Called The Coward of Titanic

    A detailed historical reassessment of one of Titanic’s most controversial figures, separating myth from documented fact.

    Clifford offers rare insight as a relative of J. Bruce Ismay and challenges long-standing misconceptions repeated yet again in this BBC production.

    Find Cliff on:

    X/Twitter: @CliffIsmay

    Instagram: @ismay_titanic




    Special Guest: Jamie Borsato

    Jamie Borsato is the creator and host of the Old Shipping Lines YouTube channel.

    His channel features:

    • Detailed Titanic animations
    • Maritime history breakdowns
    • Ship reconstructions
    • Deep dives into Olympic-class liners

    📺 Subscribe to Old Shipping Lines on YouTube to see some of the most passionate independent maritime content online.

    Find Jamie on:

    Twitter/X: @oldshippingline

    Instagram: old_shipping_lines

    YouTube: @OldShippingLines




    Key Themes ExploredAccuracy vs Agenda

    We examine how Titanic Sinks Tonight blends inquiry testimony with dramatisation — but does this approach flatten complex historical nuance?




    The Ismay Question

    Once again, J. Bruce Ismay is placed centre stage. But did the series fairly reflect:

    • His role aboard Titanic?
    • The reality of his retirement from the IMM?
    • The long-standing myths about lifeboats and ownership?

    Clifford Ismay provides context rarely heard in mainstream productions.




    AI and Visual Reconstruction

    The BBC leaned into AI modelling for parts of the sinking. We discuss:

    • Visual inconsistencies
    • Hull damage depiction errors
    • Whether AI enhances or undermines historical storytelling




    Why This Episode Matters

    Titanic documentaries shape public understanding. When inaccuracies are repeated, they become accepted “truth.”

    This episode challenges viewers to think critically about:

    • Historical storytelling
    • Documentary responsibility
    • The fine line between drama and distortion

    Whether you loved or hated the series — you’ll never see it the same way again.





    Follow & Contact Review It Yourself

    Stay connected with Review It Yourself for more intelligent reviews, interviews, and deep dives into books and films:

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021
    • X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReview
    • BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021
    • Email: [email protected]


    Listen If You’re Interested In:
    • Titanic history
    • Maritime disasters
    • Historical accuracy debates
    • Film & TV criticism
    • J. Bruce Ismay reassessment


    Grab a cup of tea, settle in, and join us as we ask:

    Did Titanic Sinks Tonight honour history — or repeat it poorly?

    Let us know your thoughts — and as always enjoy: Film reviews without the faff.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1 hr 14 min
  • The Ships That Played The Titanic On Film: 'Titanic The Movie Ships' (2025 Book) with Author and Historian Richard M. Jones

    Richard M. Jones joins Sean to discuss his 2025 book 'Titanic The Movie Ships'.


    The book explores the four ships which stood in for the Titanic during films over the years, the Asturias, Athinai, Cap Arcona and Queen Mary.


    Chapters:

    0:05 Welcome to Maritime Month

    2:07 The Inspiration Behind Titanic Books

    4:45 The Impact of Disasters on Memory

    8:49 The Stories of Iconic Ships

    12:16 The Fascinating World of Hovercraft

    14:31 Uncovering Tragic Maritime Histories

    20:55 Rich's Honeymoon onboard the Queen Mary

    35:33 Ghost Tours and Marital Adventures

    42:18 The Legacy of Maritime Museums

    47:06 Discovering Titanic Connections

    52:57 Future Projects and Upcoming Works


    Thanks for Listening!


    Find us here: 

    X: @YourselfReview

    Instagram: reviewityourselfpodcast2021

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    56 min

About Review It Yourself

From the publisher's feed

Film Reviews without the Faff! With Sean from the North and Sarah from the South. New episodes every Sunday!

Hosted on Acast. See