The Actor and The Engineer Podcast

In this episode we dive deep into Tim Burton's latest release, 'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.’ We explore themes of superstition and tradition, debate the necessity of sequels, and scrutinize Burton's storytelling and visual style. We also discuss notable cast performances, practical effects versus CGI, and ponder the future of the movie franchise.  We get into the original 'Beetlejuice,' the impact of nostalgia, and whether the sequel holds up to the hype.

In this episode we dive into the movie 'Strange Darling,' exploring its unique cinematography, storytelling techniques, and the intriguing performances by Willa Fitzgerald and Kyle Gallner. We examines the layers of the plot, the use of 35mm film, and the thematic elements that challenge the audience's perceptions and judgments. It is definitely one of the must-see movies of the year.

00:00 Introduction

01:29 Paul’s Introduction to Willa Fitzgerald

02:53 Initial Impressions of the Movie

03:03 Cinematic Techniques and Influences

06:13 Spoiler Alert: Deep Dive into Plot

07:34 Theater Experience and Audience Reactions

08:54 Analyzing Character Decisions

10:20 Themes and Moral Complexities

21:01 Doomsday Preppers and Irony

24:26 Director's Background and Inspiration

28:52 Vision and Execution

33:14 Cinematography and Color Theory

40:36 Audience Reactions and Film Impact

43:00 Character Motivations and Plot Twists

51:56 Performances

In this episode we talk about the much-anticipated 'Alien Romulus' movie. We discuss the impact of spoilers, filmmakers' choices about secrecy, and guarded plot twists. Key highlights include their our on CGI and ethical considerations of using deceased actors' likenesses, as well as character dynamics and cinematography. Additionally, we explore broader themes in the Alien franchise, draw connections to previous installments like 'Aliens' and 'Prometheus,' and discuss the evolution of character arcs.

This week we explore Deadpool and Wolverine’s fan service elements, the challenges of blending different character tones, and the impact of pop culture references. The discussion also touches on the broader context of comic book adaptations and the significance of incorporating classic costumes and character arcs. We talk about the performances of Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, and Emma Corrin, and contemplate the future direction of the Deadpool franchise within the MCU.

00:48 Movie Spoilers and Audience Reactions

02:14 Theater Experience and Etiquette

09:12 Fan Service and Character Redemption

26:56 Deadpool's Humor and Future in MCU

35:01 Comic Book Narratives in Films

35:53 Logan's Legacy and Variant Possibilities

37:20 Deadpool's Meta Humor

38:32 Chris Evans' Unexpected Cameo

39:19 Fantastic Four Reboot

43:36 Deadpool's Emotional Beats

46:40 Music used in the Fight Scenes

52:26 Deadpool's Future and Franchise Longevity

55:09 Cassandra Nova's Character

01:00:50 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

In this episode we discuss our cinematic experiences, the emotional and thematic depth of the movie, and the performances of Lupita Nyong'o and Joseph Quinn. We get into the character dynamics, the expanded universe of the Quiet Place franchise, and speculate on future installments. Listen as we explore the film's intricate details, from jump scares to character motivations, and ponder on the broader implications of the story's continuity.

00:00 Introduction

00:36 Discussing 'A Quiet Place' Experience

02:45 Audience Behavior and Movie Theaters

04:01 Movie Rules and Character Dynamics

17:01 Joseph Quinn and Character Backstories

18:26 Lupita Nyong'o's Unique Role

21:17 Character Motivations and Film Analysis

25:24 Plot Inconsistencies and Missed Opportunities

29:44 Character Dynamics and Performances

30:36 Director and Filmmaking Insights

33:10 The Role of Vulnerability and Survival

36:57 Final Thoughts and Future Speculations

50:01 Concluding Remarks

In this episode of 'The Actor and the Engineer,' Paul James and Josh Knapp delve into the complexities of Yorgos Lanthimos's 'Kinds of Kindness.' They discuss the balance between humor and existential dread in the film, its three distinct vignettes, and the thematic elements of control, belief, and absurdity. The conversation also touches on the deliberate choice of visual elements, such as color schemes and costume design, as well as the controversial aspects of screenwriting and character decisions that challenge viewers on multiple levels.

Join Josh Knapp (the broadcast engineer) and Paul James (the actor) as they delve into the Mad Max saga. From Josh's newfound appreciation for Mad Max: Fury Road to analyzing the impact of various characters and films, this episode covers it all. They discuss the evolution of the series and character arcs across the series.  This engaging discussion also considers the broader context of dystopian movies and the challenges of filmmaking.

00:00 Introduction and Hosts

00:16 Diving into Mad Max: Fury Road

00:40 First Impressions and Rewatching

02:05 Comparing Mad Max Films

05:38 Furiosa: A Critical Look

14:56 Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome Discussion

17:20 Analyzing the Mad Max Universe

19:10 Furiosa's Character and Future

38:21 Furiosa's Backstory and Initial Questions

39:06 Defending the Green Place

41:07 Tom Hardy and On-Set Conflicts

41:55 The Pressure of Being a Leading Actor

43:55 Michelle Pfeiffer's On-Set Interaction

51:33 Chris Hemsworth's Performance in Furiosa

56:02 Comparing Villains in the Mad Max Saga

01:02:11 Dystopian Films and Their Impact

01:05:45 Mel Gibson's Hamlet and Accents in Mad Max

01:07:19 Concluding Thoughts on the Mad Max Saga

01:09:22 Final Remarks and Outro

This week we catch up on what we have been watching, like The Fall Guy, The Green Mile, Rom Coms, Babylon, Cabaret and The Bodyguard?

In this episode we volley our opinions on Luca Guadanino's new tennis film with Zendaya, a Prince and West Side Story's Riff. Scored by Reznor and Ross, this movie has more meat on its bones than a standard sports movie.

In this episode we talk about Alex Garland's film about war and the role journalists play in society. It includes a great score, cool song selection and strong performances by the Dunst/Plemons crew.