Scene This

In today's episode we celebrate Halloween with the ultimate Halloween Movie Draft! We discuss some of the classics, the most terrifying, some deep-cuts and some questionable picks. What does qualify as a Halloween Movie? We get into it.

Chapters

00:32 Introduction

04:09 Draft Order

06:52 Round 1

13:52 Round 2

19:37 Round 3

26:17 Round 4

32:57 Round 5

41:03 Final Round

52:08 Honorable Mentions

55:51 Recap and Wrap Up

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Scene This co-hosts Mike Ornelas, Erica McMullan, and Adrian Cedeno share recent watches before reviewing Clayface and Wicker. Their contrasting reactions weigh pacing, body horror, surreal comedy, gender satire, and what makes each film worth a watch. Mike Ornelas, Erica, and Adrian Gerber wrap up their discussion of Wicker, weighing its surreal period-piece comedy, gender-role satire, jealousy, and questions about the wicker creation’s intelligence. They give their Commodus Scale verdicts, recommend double features for Wicker and Clayface, then draft standout performers from both films.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

03:45 What We've Seen

17:17 Clayface Spoiler Free Review

25:35 Commodus Scale

27:52 Spoiler Review

32:34 Wicker Spoiler Free Review

42:18 Commodus Scale II

46:41 Wicker Spoiler Review

55:02 Double Feature Recommendations

01:02:11 Drafting Stock

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In this episode, we explore the 25th anniversary of the horror film Thir13en Ghosts, discussing its plot, legacy, and how it holds up today. We also delve into other classic horror movies, film industry insights, and fan favorites. We explore its production design, iconic scenes, and cultural impact, along with a lively debate on horror movie tropes and favorite moments.

Key Topics

- The plot and premise of Thir13en Ghosts

- The legacy and cultural impact of Thir13en Ghosts

- Comparison of original and remake versions

- Discussion of horror movie tropes and cliches

- Analysis of cast performances and character choices

- The influence of Thir13en Ghosts on modern horror films

- Fan favorites and memorable scenes

- The role of special effects and set design in horror Production design and special effects in Thir13en Ghosts

- Iconic scenes like the split and bathroom reveal

- Analysis of ghost characters and their underrated aspects

- Cultural and racial stereotypes in horror films

- Debate on horror movie tropes and favorite moments

Chapters

00:40 Introduction & Programming Notes

07:38 What We've Seen This Week

17:15 Thir13en Ghosts

18:56 Categories

40:38 Awards

01:02:02 IMDb Trivia

01:06:26 Wrap Up

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In this episode, we explore the rich themes and stunning visuals of the film La Hija Condor, discuss indigenous culture, and share personal insights on filmmaking and storytelling.

Key Topics

- Themes of colonization and cultural preservation

- Visual storytelling and cinematography by Nicholas Wong

- Performance of first-time actors Maria Magdalena Sanizo and -Marisol Vallejos Montano

- Use of indigenous language and cultural symbols

- Representation of community and tradition in film

- The significance of music and song in indigenous midwifery

- Comparison with other indigenous films and literature

- Impact of film on cultural awareness and education

Chapters

00:24 Introduction

04:33 What We've Seen This Week

19:32 La Hija Condor (Spoiler Free)

30:21 Commodus Scale

35:19 Spoiler Review

43:44 Double Feature Recommendations

49:31 Drafting Stock

52:55 Wrap Up

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In this episode, we dive into the controversial film Primetime, exploring its portrayal of the infamous To Catch a Predator show, the ethical dilemmas it raises, and the performances that stand out. Join us for a candid conversation about media, morality, and the complexities of true crime storytelling.

Key Topics

- The portrayal of Chris Hansen in Primetime

- Ethical considerations in true crime films

- Performance analysis of Robert Pattinson and others

- Media manipulation and audience perception

- The real stories behind the fictionalized scenes

- The impact of true crime on public opinion

- The stylistic choices to evoke 90s/2000s aesthetic

- The role of dramatization and factual accuracy

Chapters

00:44 Introduction

04:41 What We've Seen This Week

14:53 Primetime Spoiler Free Review

25:55 Commodus Scale

28:28 Spoiler Review

35:52 Double Feature Recommendations

40:27 Drafting Stock

45:48 Wrap Up

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In this episode, Miles Williams, artistic director of the Alex Theatre in Los Angeles, shares his journey from theater enthusiast to leading historic theaters, the importance of format in film presentation, and how to adapt theaters for modern audiences. Discover insights on preserving the cinematic experience, programming strategies, and the future of independent theaters.

Key Topics

- Miles Williams' background and journey in theater

- The evolution of the Alex Theatre over 101 years

- The significance of 70mm film and Nolan's Odyssey run

- Adapting historic theaters for modern audiences

- Programming niche and misfit shows in theaters

- The importance of patron experience and community building

- Challenges and strategies for independent theater owners

- The role of format and presentation in cinematic storytelling

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Miles Williams and the Alex Theatre

06:47 The Evolution of the Alex Theatre

11:22 The Impact of 70mm Screenings

17:19 Miles Film Inspirations

20:32 Advise for an Aspiring Theatre Owner

28:10 Under-seen Movie Recommendations

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🎬 Ever felt like a movie's message just hit too close to home? You're not alone!

In this episode, we explore a diverse range of films from the TIFF festival, including dark thrillers, coming-of-age stories, and experimental documentaries. Our hosts share insights, critiques, and personal reflections on each film's themes, storytelling style, and performances. In this episode, we explore the artistic and thematic depths of recent festival films, including discussions on symbolism, mythology, and cultural representation. Our guests share insights on interpreting complex imagery and storytelling techniques, making this a must-listen for film enthusiasts and creators alike.

Chapters

00:33 Introduction

05:29 In Alaska

11:55 Commodus Scale

15:01 The World Before

23:16 Commodus Scale Part II

25:29 Like Magic

32:09 Commodus Scale Part III

34:44 The Bovine with the Curved Horns

42:32 Commodus Scale Part IV

45:36 Ashes

54:14 Commodus Scale Part V

59:33 Erica's Missed TIFF Films Recap

01:02:25 Wrap Up

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In this episode, we explore the latest films from TIFF, including Children Untold, Head to Head, Memories of a Forest, Phoolan, & Salvation. Our panel discusses the themes, performances, and cultural insights of these powerful stories, highlighting their relevance and impact. Our hosts share insights on narrative focus, character arcs, and the importance of storytelling choices.

Key Topics

- The impact of war on children in Children Untold

- Women's rights and societal expectations in Head to Head

- The symbolism of nature in Memories of a Forest

- Cultural insights from Japanese and Iranian films

- The emotional and visual storytelling techniques used in these films The importance of narrative focus in film

- Character development and storytelling

- Analysis of film structure and execution

- The role of flashbacks and real-time storytelling

- Impact of storytelling choices on audience engagement

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to TIFF and the featured films

03:02 Children Untold

12:10 Commodus Scale

16:37 Head to Head

24:20 Commodus Scale Part II

28:05 Memories of a Forest

34:49 Commodus Scale Part III

37:59 Phoolan

47:29 Commodus Scale Part IV

51:39 Salvation

01:05:14 Commodus Scale Part V

01:09:23 Wrap Up

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In this episode, we explore five impactful films from the recent film festivals, discussing their themes, storytelling techniques, and social relevance. Our panel shares insights on movies like Four Seasons in Java, Soy Mario, and Rescue, Infinitely Dense & Sunburn. A mixed bag of films that provided great analytical, spoiler free conversations.

Key Topics

- Analysis of five festival films: Four Seasons in Java, Soy Mario, Rescue, and more

- Themes of social justice, resilience, and cultural identity

- The filmmaking techniques and storytelling styles used in these films

- The emotional and social impact of documentary and narrative cinema

- The importance of representation and authentic storytelling in film Analysis of Sunburn's themes and emotional impact

- Critique of Infinitely Dense's narrative and execution

- Discussion on stylistic choices in indie films

- The importance of storytelling in film reception

- Reflections on the filmmaking process and industry insights

Chapters

00:31 Introduction to TIFF Part I

03:44 Four Seasons in Java

11:41 Commodus Scale Part I

13:05 I Am Mario (Soy Mario)

21:24 Commodus Scale Part II

24:21 Rescue

33:15 Commodus Scale Part III

34:56 Infinitely Dense

42:09 Commodus Scale Part IV

45:59 Sunburn

52:51 Commodus Scale Part V

58:12 Wrap Up

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Dive into the provocative world of filmmaking with Louisa Connolly-Burnham, the talented writer, director, and actress behind the daring short film "The Intimacy Coordinator." This episode unpacks the complexities of power dynamics, addiction, and moral ambiguity through the lens of a female protagonist in a role that challenges traditional narratives. Louisa takes us on a journey of discovery, both of her character and the often-taboo subject matter she explores.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction To The Intimacy Coordinator

00:32 The Writing Process & Character Development

04:25 Power & Gender Dynamics in Film

10:00 Taboo Themes in Film

18:08 Under-seen Movie Recommendation

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