The Film Board

The Film Board gathers to dissect the 2024 remake of The Crow, starring Bill Skarsgård, and find themselves sharply divided. Pete Wright and panelists Ocean Murff and Matthew Fox, self-described goths, express their deep connection to the original film and its place in their own personal histories. For them, the 1994 The Crow, soundtracked by The Cure and pals, and drenched in shadow, was more than just a movie; it was a cultural touchstone. The remake, awash in sunlight and overstuffed with backstory, leaves them cold.JayJay brings the dissent, however. He finds himself surprisingly enthusiastic about the remake's approach to lore and its unflinching embrace of graphic violence. He draws a compelling comparison between the two films and their respective places within the ever-evolving landscape of comic book movies.Is this a case of “emo kids” trying to remake a goth classic? Can a film with such a devoted following ever be successfully reimagined, or is the 2024 The Crow destined to live in the shadow of its predecessor? Tune in as the panel grapples with these questions and more.Film Sundries

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In "Alien: Romulus," director Fede Alvarez takes us on a thrilling journey back to the heart of the Alien franchise, capturing the essence of what makes these films so captivating. The movie expertly weaves together the themes of corporate greed, human exploitation, and the terrifying mystery of biological destruction that have become synonymous with the series.Alvarez, known for his mastery of suspense and horror, proves to be an excellent choice to helm this installment, investing in rich sets and practical creature effects that immerse the audience in the claustrophobic and dangerous world. The film plays to the strengths of the franchise, delivering the familiar beats that fans have come to love and expect.But, this is The Film Board. So, where does it stumble? Don’t worry: Steve Sarmento, Tommy Metz III, and Pete Wright found it and litigate the quibbles that give the film a real third-act, “Huh?” Despite this, "Alien: Romulus" remains a solid entry in our favorite era of the Alien franchise and we’re just feeling grateful that the act of us talking about it didn’t jinx it from the jump. You’re welcome, everybody.Film Sundries

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The Film Board Gathers! This month, Pete Wright and panelists Justin JJ Jaeger, Tommy Metz III, and Ocean Murff dive deep into the much-anticipated Marvel movie "Deadpool & Wolverine." The film brings together two iconic characters shaped by Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman in a meta-filled, fourth-wall-breaking adventure that has left audiences and critics divided. Maybe? Probably.We grapple with the film's overwhelming self-referential humor and the sheer number of inside jokes and Easter eggs scattered throughout, but not for very long. For us, the constant winking and nodding was the perfect fit for the Deadpool character.As the discussion unfolds, we explore how "Deadpool & Wolverine" pays homage to and pokes fun at the Fox Studios' X-Men movies, the very films that paved the way for the Marvel Cinematic Universe's success. We also probe the movie's handling of the multiverse concept and its potential implications for the future of the MCU.Film Sundries

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• The Next Reel Film Podcast
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Pete, Tommy, and Steve put themselves in a box with a golden bird meant for a zoo and they all just wait for an audience. You might think we’re talking about podcasting. No, we’re podcasting about the latest from the family Night Shyamalan with Ishana Night Shyamalan’s debut, THE WATCHERS.What’s going on with this movie? Why does it … you know… do what it does? It’s beautiful, there’s no doubt about it. But as lovely as it is, it’s just as confusing. Our challenge this week is not to come up with all kinds of great reasons for you to see it. Not at all. Our challenge this week is to justify why we can come up with all kinds of reasons why you probably shouldn’t.
Film Sundries

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On the latest episode of The Film Board, Pete Wright and panelists Steve Sarmento, Tommy Metz III, and Ocean Murff dive deep into the dystopian world of Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.The long-awaited prequel to Mad Max: Fury Road tells the origin story of the fierce warrior Furiosa, played by Anya Taylor-Joy. Director George Miller returns to the wasteland, crafting a film that is part Shakespearean saga, part high-octane action thriller.The panelists grapple with the movie's themes of survival, hope, and what it means to be human in a brutal world. They explore how the episodic structure, marked by chapter breaks, sets Furiosa apart from its predecessor.While some argue the stakes feel lower since the ultimate fates of key characters are known, others find the emotional journey compelling nonetheless. The film's focus on Furiosa's transformation from a child of the Green Place into a hardened imperator is what gives it heart.Questions arise about the movie's reliance on CGI compared to the more practical effects of Fury Road. But even when the visuals falter, the panelists agree Miller's daring vision still shines through.Tune in for a lively discussion that covers everything from Furiosa's tragic loss to Chris Hemsworth's divisive turn as an over-the-top villain. With thoughtful analysis and a few friendly disagreements, The Film Board crew takes you on an engrossing ride through the Mad Max universe.Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga may not be the movie everyone expected, but it's certainly one that gives fans plenty to talk about.Film Sundries

• Hear The Next Reel’s conversations about the films of the Mad Max saga
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• The Souvenir on Trailer Rewind
• The Adrian Moment on TruStory FM

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The Film Board gathers! This month, host Justin Jaeger is joined by Steve Sarmento and Tommy Metz III to litigate Alex Garland's provocative new film "Civil War." The movie depicts a dystopian near-future America fractured by a second civil war, following a group of journalists on a perilous trek to interview the authoritarian president.We dive into the film's central themes—what it means to bear witness to war, how allegiances break down in times of chaos, and whether the movie serves more as a warning or simply a brutal glimpse of "what if." We debate Garland's motivations in making the film now, at a time when a shocking 40% of Americans believe a civil war could happen in the next decade.JayJay, with his background in TV journalism, scrutinizes the portrayal of war photographers and the language they use. Steve sees Apocalypse Now in the journey into the heart of darkness. And Tommy ponders if the film depicts how quickly social order and humanity could unravel in a new American civil war.The discussion touches on the graphic war violence that eventually numbs the viewer, mirroring the journalists' experience. We question if the movie succeeds more in its fictionalized character studies than its social commentary over the ambiguous world-building around the politics of the fractured states.We grapple with the unsettling implications of Civil War. Is it a sensationalized dystopian vision, an urgent cautionary tale, or a mix of both? The differing perspectives make for a solid conversation about one of the year's polarizing films.Film Sundries

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The Next Reel’s Family of Film Podcasts

• Cinema Scope
• The Film Board
• Freely Adapted (coming soon!)
• Movies We Like
• The Next Reel
• The Next Reel Shorts (retired)
• One Minute for Old Men (coming soon!)
• The Saturday Matinée (retired)
• Silver Linings (retired)
• Sitting in the Dark
• Three of a Kind (retired)
• Trailer Rewind (retired)

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The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:

• Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and Movements
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• The Next Reel Film Podcast
• Sitting in the Dark

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In this inaugural episode of Cinema Scope, host Andy Nelson is joined by professors Leon Hunt and Chris Hamm to explore the captivating world of wuxia, a Chinese film genre that blends philosophy, action, and legend. They discuss the key elements that define wuxia, such as the chivalrous heroes, period settings, and fantastical elements, as well as the concept of jianghu, a unique world within wuxia stories.Leon and Chris trace the evolution of wuxia from its roots in early Chinese literature to its influence on other genres, including Hollywood blockbusters. They also highlight notable works like A Touch of Zen, The Bride with White Hair, and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, analyzing their contributions to the development and popularity of wuxia cinema.This engaging and informative episode will deepen your appreciation for the richness and complexity of the wuxia genre, inspiring you to explore more of these captivating films.Film Sundries

• Recommended and Discussed Movies
  • Come Drink With Me on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • Golden Swallow on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • The New One-Armed Swordsman on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • A Touch of Zen on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • The Magic Blade on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • Last Hurrah for Chivalry on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • The Butterfly Murders on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • Swordsman II on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • The Bride with White Hair on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
• Our Letterboxd List
• Dr. Leon Hunt’s books
  • Kung Fu Cult Masters
  • Mario Bava: The Artisan as Italian Horror Auteur
• Chris Hamm’s books
  • The Unworthy Scholar from Pingjiang: Republican-Era Martial Arts Fiction
  • Paper Swordsmen: Jin Yong and the Modern Chinese Martial Arts Novel

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In the vast expanse of cinematic storytelling, few tales grip the imagination like Frank Herbert's "Dune." As Denis Villeneuve's vision unfolds in "Dune: Part Two," the Film Board gathers to unravel the complex tapestry of prophecy, power, and the perils of messianic fervor.Pete Wright, along with acolytes Steve Sarmento and Matthew Fox, embark on a journey through the dunes of Arrakis, where the line between hero and conqueror blurs like a mirage. As Paul Atreides grapples with his destiny, the specter of religious manipulation looms large, a testament to Herbert's prescient critique of the weaponization of faith.Yet, in the hands of Villeneuve, the narrative takes on new dimensions. Chani, once relegated to the sidelines, emerges as a voice of reason amidst the swirling sands of fanaticism. Her perspective challenges not only Paul but the audience, forcing us to confront the seductive allure of the messianic trap.The parallels between Herbert's world and our own become increasingly apparent. The Film Board dissects the Abrahamic roots of the messianic mythos, tracing the threads that bind the Fremen's fervor to the real-world complexities of organized religion and the mobilization of indigenous peoples.In the end, "Dune: Part Two" emerges as more than a mere sequel; it is a mirror held up to our own struggles with faith, power, and the consequences of unchecked belief. As the credits roll and the twin moons of discourse and reflection set, we are left to ponder the eternal question: in the face of prophecy, do we have a choice, or are we all swept up in the inexorable tide of destiny?Film Sundries

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The spy action comedy "Argylle" arrives in theaters this month with an all-star cast but mixed critical reviews. The film comes from director Matthew Vaughn, known for stylized spy franchises like "Kingsman." It also represents Apple TV+'s most ambitious foray into major theatrical releases to date."Argylle" stars Henry Cavill as the titular super spy, alongside Bryce Dallas Howard, Sam Rockwell, Bryan Cranston, Catherine O'Hara and others. The convoluted plot involves uncovering a global conspiracy which is the cinematic equivalent of a snake eating another snake that is eating a USB stick.But the major talking point is a surprise twist ending that just does some stuff to Vaughn’s cinematice universes. Vaughn has hinted at ambitions to build a spy movie universe for years. The "Argylle" twist formally bridges a bunch of his prior work.But box office has been soft for recent Vaughn spy installments, raising questions about appetite for an interconnected spy world. "Argylle” is underperforming right now.The film's source novel also has an unusual backstory. Vaughn originally wanted to adapt "I Am Pilgrim," but couldn't secure rights. So he enlisted that book's author Terry Hayes along with Tammy Cohen to pen an "Argylle" novel as if it were written by Bryce Dallas Howard's character. That doesn’t make the story of the movie any easier.Film Sundries

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• Argylle: A Novel
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The Film Board Gathers! The gang of thugs is here to take on a movie currently in theaters, and this month, we have Michael Mann’s return to the big screen with “Ferrari.” Join Pete Wright with Tommy Metz III and Justin "JJ" Jaeger as they unpack the high-octane drama that has raced into theaters. Mann's return to the big screen after a lengthy hiatus has been much anticipated, with "Ferrari" taking the spotlight. The film, lensed with the sharp eye of Erik Messerschmidt, dives deep into the life of the legendary Enzo Ferrari, whose passion for racing is as much a part of his identity as the iconic vehicles bearing his name. However, it's not all smooth driving; the hosts discuss the mixed reactions from their broader social circles, hinting at a narrative that may have missed some turns.They tackle the performances head-on, with one in particular sparking controversy — a character whose Italian accent may have veered off track. The narrative structure of the film is another point of contention, with the hosts questioning whether the story's stakes were effectively established and if the portrayal of the pivotal Mille Miglia race hit the mark.Despite the debate, there's a clear appreciation for the craftsmanship behind "Ferrari." The cinematography scores high marks from the crew, even if some performances do not. And as always, the conversation isn't just about the film itself but what it represents, both in the pantheon of racing movies and in Mann's own storied career.Film Sundries

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• Enzo Ferrari: The Man and the Machine by Brock W. Yates
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