By TruStory FM
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The podcast currently has 1,833 episodes available.
“Anyone trying to leave the train by force will be stopped by force.”
An All-Star 70s Disaster Film Mash-Up
The 1970s saw a surge in the popularity of disaster films, with movies like The Poseidon Adventure, The Towering Inferno, and Earthquake captivating audiences. In 1976, director George P. Cosmatos and producer Carlo Ponti joined forces to create their own entry in the genre: The Cassandra Crossing. With an all-star ensemble cast including Sophia Loren, Richard Harris, Burt Lancaster, Martin Sheen, OJ Simpson, and Ava Gardner, the film aimed to capitalize on the decade's love for big-budget spectacles filled with peril and suspense. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we wrap up this return to our Disease Films series with a conversation about The Cassandra Crossing.
Sneezing in Rice and Other Disastrous Delights
In this episode, we dive into the various disasters that unfold throughout The Cassandra Crossing. From the initial release of a deadly virus on a train to the impending collapse of the titular bridge, the film keeps the stakes high and the tension palpable. And know that we say that you have to go into this movie ready for its not-so-great quality that makes it fun... at least to us. We discuss how the movie effectively captures the sense of paranoia and fear surrounding the spread of disease, a theme that resonates strongly within our series. Additionally, we explore the film's campy and over-the-top moments, such as the infamous scene involving a sneeze and a bowl of rice, which contribute to its overall entertainment value.
Exposing the Flaws and Celebrating the Fun
While we acknowledge some of the film's shortcomings, such as the reliance on stereotypes and the clunky exposition, we also celebrate the elements that make The Cassandra Crossing an enjoyable viewing experience for us. From the performances of the all-star cast to the violent final crash, the movie offers plenty of reasons to sit back and enjoy the ride. Again... be in the mood for it or it may not work for you as well as it did for us.
Other topics covered in this episode include:
• The impressive ensemble cast and their performances
• The film's commentary on government secrecy and the U.S. military's involvement in bioweapons research
• The effectiveness of the movie's score in heightening the suspense
• The role of Lee Strasberg and his character's surprising backstory... and exposition
A Thrilling Journey Worth Taking
Despite its flaws, The Cassandra Crossing remains a perhaps junky but goofy-fun-if-you’re-in-the-right-mood example of the 1970s disaster film genre, delivering a thrilling and entertaining journey from start to finish. Its exploration of themes related to disease and paranoia, combined with its star-studded cast and grand-scale spectacle, make it a film worth discussing and revisiting. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries
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“The reason, Mr. Gashade, for the hunt is the kill.”
A Low-Budget Western from the Corman-Hellman-Nicholson Trio
After impressing producer Roger Corman with their previous work, director Monte Hellman and actor Jack Nicholson presented him with a spec script, but Corman had a different idea. He proposed that they make two Westerns instead, giving them three weeks to shoot each film. Hellman and Nicholson agreed, and the result was a pair of existential Westerns – The Shooting and Ride in the Whirlwind – shot in 1965 in Utah. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our 12-episode, 14th season-long Roger Corman series with a conversation about The Shooting, our second installment and member bonus episode.
Unraveling the Mysteries of The Shooting
In this episode, we delve into the enigmatic world of The Shooting, discussing the film's unique narrative structure and the questions it raises. We explore the mysterious characters, their motivations, and the shocking revelation at the end. The story follows a former bounty hunter turned miner who is hired by a woman to track down an unknown individual. As they embark on their journey, they are pursued by a menacing gunslinger clad in black. Throughout our conversation, we examine how the film's minimalistic approach and existential themes set it apart from traditional Westerns of the era.
The Corman Connection and the Film's Place in Cinema History
We discuss how The Shooting fits into the larger context of Roger Corman's productions and its significance in the careers of Monte Hellman and Jack Nicholson. The film's low-budget, experimental nature aligns with Corman's reputation for producing cost-effective, boundary-pushing cinema. We also explore how The Shooting, along with its companion piece, Ride in the Whirlwind, served as a precursor to the independent, counterculture-influenced films of the late 1960s and early 1970s.
A Divisive Film: Contrasting Opinions
While Andy enjoyed The Shooting, finding its fatalistic and existential themes compelling, Pete struggled to connect with the film. He found the experimental editing choices and the overall pacing to be challenging, making it a difficult watch for him. Despite their differing opinions, both hosts agree that the film's ambiguity and unconventional approach make it a unique entry in the Western genre.
Other Topics Covered in the Episode
A Thought-Provoking and Unconventional Western
While Andy appreciated The Shooting's ambiguity and haunting atmosphere, Pete ultimately deemed it a "Casablanca movie," alluding to the exchange between Rick and Ugarte in the classic film: "You despise me, don't you?" "If I gave you any thought, I probably would." Despite their contrasting views, both hosts agree that the film remains a testament to Corman’s passion for cranking out low budget films and giving experimenting filmmakers like Monte Hellman and Jack Nicholson the chance to play. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries
This is a member bonus episode. We'd love it if you became a member to support our show, but you’d love it because of everything you get. We have monthly member bonus episodes that only members can access. You also get other monthly member bonus episodes, access to members-only Discord channels, and early releases for every episode. Plus, no ads! And you get to vote on the movies we discuss in our members only episodes! What can we say? It pays to be a member. Learn more about supporting The Next Reel Film Podcast through your own membership — visit TruStory FM.
“She doesn’t know it yet, but she’s hunting us.”
How a Virus Spreads Through Language
The 2008 Canadian horror film Pontypool, directed by Bruce McDonald and written by Tony Burgess, was inspired by Orson Welles' famous radio broadcast of War of the Worlds. Originally, Burgess envisioned the entire film as a radio play, with the main character Grant Mazzy reading the script accompanied only by a visual of the blue waveform. While this concept wasn't fully realized, it heavily influenced the confined, constrained storyline of the radio station employees trying to make sense of the outbreak consuming their small town. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the Disease Films series with a conversation about Pontypool.
Dissecting the Viral Outbreak in Pontypool
One of the most intriguing aspects of Pontypool is how the horror unfolds through the limited perspective of the radio station employees. As Grant Mazzy, Sydney Briar, and Laurel-Ann Drummond receive increasingly disturbing reports from Ken Loney in the "Sunshine Chopper," the tension builds before the true nature of the viral outbreak is revealed. The film's unique approach to storytelling keeps the audience engaged, even when the explanation for the virus itself may seem a bit far-fetched.
Throughout our discussion, we explore the metaphorical implications of a virus that spreads through the English language. As a Canadian film, Pontypool seems to comment on the value of traditionalism and the French language in Ontario, while also critiquing the potentially damaging influence of American shock jock radio. The film's central conceit – that language itself can become contagious and dangerous – resonates even more strongly in today's era of social media and misinformation.
Other Highlights from Our Conversation
Pontypool may not be a perfect film, but its clever premise and thought-provoking themes make it a worthwhile entry in the Disease Films series. By confining the action to the radio station and relying on reports from outside, the movie creates a sense of claustrophobia and dread that keeps the audience engaged despite the sometimes flimsy explanation for the virus itself. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries
Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.
Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community!
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What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!
“I think, therefore I scam.”
The Sundance Struggle of Wendell B. Harris Jr.'s Sensational Con Artist Story
In 1989, writer-director-actor Wendell B. Harris Jr. crafted a stunning debut feature, Chameleon Street, based on the incredible true story of con artist William Douglas Street Jr. Despite winning the Grand Jury Prize at the 1990 Sundance Film Festival, Harris faced immense difficulties securing distribution for his groundbreaking film. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the One-and-Done series with a conversation about Chameleon Street.
Unraveling the Layers of a Chameleon's Tale
Throughout our discussion, we dive into the fascinating layers of Chameleon Street, from its energetic and in-your-face production style to the subversive commentary on race and identity. We explore how Harris Jr. taps into the con artist's perspective, using voiceover narration and camera techniques to create a thrilling cinematic experience that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.
As part of our One-and-Done series, we also delve into the unfortunate reality of Harris Jr.'s struggle to make more films after this impressive debut. Despite his undeniable talent and the film's critical acclaim, the Hollywood system failed to provide him with the opportunities he deserved.
Unpacking the Complexities of Identity and Representation
A One-and-Done Wonder Worth Rediscovering
Chameleon Street is a testament to Wendell B. Harris Jr.'s immense talent as a filmmaker and storyteller. Through his deft handling of the subject matter and innovative storytelling techniques, Harris Jr. crafts a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of identity, race, and the art of the con. While it's disheartening that he never had the chance to make another feature film, Chameleon Street remains a powerful and essential piece of cinema that deserves to be celebrated and rediscovered by audiences today. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries
Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.
Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community!
Here’s where you can find us around the internet:
What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!
“Well I’ll be greased and fried! What’s the circus doing up in these parts?”
The Chiodo Brothers and Their Creature Feature Legacy
Before Killer Klowns from Outer Space, the Chiodo Brothers – Charles, Edward, and Stephen – had already made a name for themselves in the special effects world of the 1980s. With credits on films like Critters and sequences in RoboCop, they were well-versed in creating practical effects and creature designs. Killer Klowns from Outer Space represented an opportunity for them to showcase their skills in a feature-length film, with Stephen Chiodo taking on the role of director. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the One-and-Done series with a conversation about their 1988 film Killer Klowns from Outer Space.
Clowning Around with Horror Tropes and Twisted Expectations
In our discussion, we marvel at how Killer Klowns from Outer Space gleefully subverts classic clown tropes, turning seemingly innocent gags into sinister and often grotesque moments. From the balloon animal hunting dog to the shadow puppet T-Rex that devours its victims, the film consistently surprises and delights with its inventive use of clown iconography. However, we question whether the horror-comedy balance always lands, with some scenes leaning more heavily into the absurd than the truly frightening.
A Trio of Heroes and the Trope of Incompetent Authority Figures
Throughout our conversation, we explore the dynamics between the film's central trio – Mike, Debbie, and Dave – and how their relationships evolve as they face the alien clown threat. We also examine the trope of young heroes pitted against incompetent authority figures, a common theme in 1950s-era B-movies that Killer Klowns from Outer Space both embraces and satirizes.
Other topics we cover include:
Why Killer Klowns from Outer Space Endures as a Cult Classic
Despite its status as a one-and-done feature for director Stephen Chiodo, Killer Klowns from Outer Space has endured as a beloved cult classic. Its unique blend of horror and comedy, combined with the Chiodo Brothers' imaginative creature designs, has helped it stand the test of time. While it has some soapy acting and feels of its era, we ultimately find Killer Klowns from Outer Space to be a delightful and entertaining entry in the realm of 1980s horror-comedy. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries
Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.
Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community!
Here’s where you can find us around the internet:
What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!
“In this world of guns and knives, wherever Tang Lung may go to, he will always travel on his own.”
Bruce Lee's One-and-Done Showcase of Martial Arts Mastery
In 1972, Bruce Lee was already a rising star in the martial arts film world, having starred in a handful of successful films. However, he had yet to have the opportunity to fully showcase his unparalleled fighting skills on his own terms. That all changed with The Way of the Dragon, a film that allowed Lee to demonstrate his incredible martial arts prowess while also taking on the roles of writer, director, and producer. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the One-and-Done series with a conversation about The Way of the Dragon.
Exploring the Comedic Side of Kung Fu and the Legendary Bruce Lee
In our discussion, we delve into the humor infused throughout The Way of the Dragon, from the situational comedy to Bruce Lee's character-driven gags. While the film's comedic elements may not land for everyone, they provide an intriguing glimpse into the lighter side of the kung fu genre. We also examine Bruce Lee's importance to the world of martial arts cinema and how his unique style and charisma helped popularize the genre on a global scale.
The Way of the Dragon may not be a perfect film, but it stands as a testament to Bruce Lee's immense talent and enduring legacy. His only directorial effort provides a platform for him to showcase his unrivaled martial arts skills and offers a fascinating glimpse into what could have been had he not tragically passed away at a young age. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries
Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.
Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community!
Here’s where you can find us around the internet:
What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!
“You didn't mean it. You never mean it. You didn't mean it the time when you put up the bouquet with the 'get well' card in the funeral parlor, and sent the black lilies to the old lady in the hospital, you didn't mean it.”
Roger Corman's 38th Film in 5 Years
The year was 1960. The American movie landscape was dominated by Westerns, sword-and-sandal epics, and Rock and Roll musicals. But in the underbelly of Hollywood, a different kind of movie was brewing. This was the era of exploitation cinema, and Roger Corman was its undisputed king. With a knack for spotting talent and squeezing every penny out of a budget, Corman churned out low-budget genre films at an astonishing rate. The Little Shop of Horrors was one of them. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we kick off our Member Bonus Roger Corman series with a conversation about his 1960 film The Little Shop of Horrors.
Don't Feed the Jokes
In this episode, we dig into the fascinating backstory of how The Little Shop of Horrors came to be, a film shot in just two days on a set borrowed from another Corman production, A Bucket of Blood. We marvel at Corman's legendary efficiency and his ability to create entertaining films on a shoestring budget. We also discuss the film's unique blend of horror and comedy, noting how the comedic elements ultimately overshadow the horror, making for a surprisingly funny viewing experience. We analyze the film's sharp, witty dialogue, packed with puns, wordplay, and topical references that would have resonated with audiences in 1960.
Other Buds to Snip From This Conversation
The Little Shop of Horrors is a fascinating time capsule of early 1960s filmmaking and a testament to Roger Corman's ingenuity and talent. It's a fun, fast-paced, and surprisingly funny film that holds up remarkably well today. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries
This is a member bonus episode. We'd love it if you became a member to support our show, but you’d love it because of everything you get. We have monthly member bonus episodes that only members can access. You also get other monthly member bonus episodes, access to members-only Discord channels, and early releases for every episode. Plus, no ads! And you get to vote on the movies we discuss in our members only episodes! What can we say? It pays to be a member. Learn more about supporting The Next Reel Film Podcast through your own membership — visit TruStory FM.
“How can you tell what’s a dream or what’s real when you can’t even tell when you’re awake or when you’re asleep?”
Dalton Trumbo's Controversial Anti-War Classic
In 1971, blacklisted screenwriter Dalton Trumbo adapted his own 1939 anti-war novel Johnny Got His Gun for the big screen. The film marked Trumbo's directorial debut and only feature film as director. Set during World War I, the story follows a young American soldier who becomes a quadruple amputee after being hit by an artillery shell. Trumbo's powerful critique of war and its devastating effects on soldiers resonated strongly in the Vietnam War era. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the One-and-Done series with a conversation about Johnny Got His Gun.
Locked-In Horror: A Haunting Tale of War's Casualties
We dive deep into the film's harrowing portrayal of Joe Bonham, played by Timothy Bottoms, as he struggles with his horrific injuries and loss of autonomy. The movie's exploration of disability rights and the dehumanization of wounded veterans sparks a thoughtful discussion. We examine how Trumbo's adaptation differs from his novel, particularly in its use of flashbacks and dream sequences to break up the claustrophobic hospital scenes. While we appreciate the film's powerful anti-war message, we debate the effectiveness of some of its more surreal elements.
Other points of discussion include:
• Timothy Bottoms' compelling performance as Joe Bonham
• The impact of Jason Robards as Joe's father
• Donald Sutherland's portrayal of Christ in dream sequences
• The film's bleak ending and its emotional impact
• Comparisons to other "locked-in" films like The Diving Bell and the Butterfly
• Trumbo's transition from novelist to filmmaker
A Thought-Provoking Journey Through War's Aftermath
Johnny Got His Gun remains a powerful and disturbing examination of war's human cost. While we found some aspects of the film more effective than others, we agree that it's an important work that continues to resonate decades after its release. Its unflinching look at the physical and psychological toll of combat makes it a challenging but worthwhile viewing experience. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries
Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.
Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community!
Here’s where you can find us around the internet:
What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!
“I don’t have anything. Never did have anything. Never will have anything.”
The Tale of Barbara Loden's Unsung Masterpiece
In the late 1960s, actress Barbara Loden came across a newspaper article about a woman on trial for bank robbery who thanked the judge for her sentence. Perplexed by what could drive a woman to such a point, Loden crafted a story that would become her sole feature film, Wanda. Despite being married to acclaimed director Elia Kazan, Loden struggled to get the film made, eventually scraping together a meager budget and shooting on 16mm. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the One-and-Done series with a conversation about Wanda.
A Portrait of Aimlessness and Apathy in Rural America
On the surface, Wanda may seem like a bleak and meandering character study, but it's precisely those qualities that make it such a fascinating film. We dive into Loden's raw, cinema verité-style approach to storytelling, which eschews traditional Hollywood structure in favor of a more naturalistic portrayal of its titular character's directionless existence. From her passive acceptance of a divorce that leaves her children in the care of their father to her listless drift into a life of crime with a small-time thief, Wanda's journey is one of quiet desperation and longing for purpose.
Throughout our discussion, we grapple with the film's deliberate pacing, sparse cinematography, and lack of a traditional character arc. While Pete finds the film's unrelenting bleakness and Wanda's apparent lack of agency challenging, Andy argues that the film's power lies in its unflinching portrayal of a marginalized woman's experience.
Wanda may not be an easy watch, but it remains a powerful and uncompromising portrait of a woman adrift in a world that offers her little in the way of hope or purpose. Barbara Loden's singular vision and commitment to telling an untold story make this a film that demands to be seen and discussed. Despite our differing reactions to the film, we both agree that Wanda is a work of undeniable importance and a testament to Loden's talent as a filmmaker. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries
Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.
Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community!
Here’s where you can find us around the internet:
What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!
“Now that you know everything about me, you still love me?”
A Twisted Love Story and a Director's Only Film
The Honeymoon Killers, released in 1970, is a crime drama based on the real-life story of Raymond Fernandez and Martha Beck, the infamous "Lonely Hearts Killers" who murdered as many as 20 women in the 1940s. The film was originally set to be directed by a young Martin Scorsese, but after a start too slow for the budget, the project was handed over to the producer’s friend and roommate Leonard Kastle, a composer and opera director with no prior filmmaking experience. Kastle had written the screenplay and so was asked to also direct the film, which would be his only foray into the world of cinema. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the One-and-Done series with a conversation about The Honeymoon Killers.
Discussion Points
A Singular Vision Worth Rediscovering
Despite its grim subject matter and challenging characters, The Honeymoon Killers remains a fascinating and singular work of cinema, one that showcases Leonard Kastle's unique vision, the fearless performances of its lead actors, and Oliver Wood's evocative cinematography. It's a shame that Kastle never directed another film, as his debut suggests a talent for crafting complex, emotionally charged stories that push the boundaries of conventional Hollywood storytelling. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries
Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.
Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community!
Here’s where you can find us around the internet:
What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!
The podcast currently has 1,833 episodes available.
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