“Our lives are the sum of our choices.”
The Final Mission: Breaking Down Mission: Impossible - The Final ReckoningChristopher McQuarrie's Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning (2025) marks the ambitious conclusion to Tom Cruise's 29-year tenure as IMF agent Ethan Hunt. With a reported budget of $400 million, making it one of the most expensive films ever produced, this eighth installment brings together elements from across the franchise while pushing the boundaries of practical stunt work. The film faced multiple production delays due to COVID-19 and the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike before finally reaching theaters in May 2025. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we return to the Mission: Impossible series in a surprise member bonus episode with a conversation about Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning.A Measured Opening ActPete and Andy discuss the film's extended opening sequence, with Pete finding the first hour somewhat bloated while Andy appreciates the careful franchise connections being established. Both hosts note how the film works to integrate elements from previous installments, particularly callbacks to the first and third films in the series.Standout SequencesThe hosts spend considerable time analyzing two major action sequences: the submarine recovery mission and the climactic biplane chase. Both agree these represent some of the most impressive practical stunt work in the franchise, with particular praise for Tom Cruise's commitment to performing his own stunts even at age 60+.Character Development and CallbacksAn unexpected highlight for both hosts was the return of a particular character from the first film, with Pete particularly praising how his scene with Ethan Hunt emphasized emotional weight over comedy. They also discuss Hayley Atwell's Grace taking up the mantle from Rebecca Ferguson's character, agreeing her presence felt natural within the team dynamic.Key Discussion Points:

• The revelation of the Rabbit's Foot's true nature from Mission: Impossible III
• Gabriel's evolution as an antagonist after being abandoned by the Entity
• The emotional resonance of Luther's sacrifice
• The practical versus CGI elements in the major stunt sequences
• The film's approach to providing closure while leaving possibilities open
• How the movie handles its connections to previous installments
• The evolution of the IMF team dynamic
• Tom Cruise's dedication to practical stunt work

Final ThoughtsWhile Pete and Andy differ slightly on the pacing of the opening act, both agree Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning delivers a satisfying conclusion to the franchise. The combination of practical stunt work, emotional depth, and franchise connectivity creates what they consider a fitting send-off for Tom Cruise's Ethan Hunt. 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

• Watch our conversation on YouTube!
• Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at Letterboxd
• Theatrical trailer
• Original Material

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.

“I got a better chance of handling him when he's pie-eyed. The front seat don't know it, but the back is still pulling the strings.”
Racing Across America with Roger Corman's CannonballIn our latest member bonus episode, we dive into Paul Bartel's 1976 action comedy Cannonball, produced by Roger Corman's New World Pictures. Made with a modest budget of $780,000, this unauthorized take on the real-life Cannonball Baker Sea-to-Shining-Sea Memorial Trophy Dash features David Carradine as a recently released convict entering an illegal cross-country race from Santa Monica Pier to New York. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue our Roger Corman celebration with this early entry in the cross-country racing genre.A Race Without a CountryPete and Andy discuss how Cannonball struggles to create a genuine sense of cross-country scope, with the film seemingly transitioning directly from Los Angeles to New York with little in between. Despite this limitation, they find entertainment value in Paul Bartel's character-focused approach, particularly his own memorable performance as a lounge-singing mobster.Characters Over CarsThe hosts explore how the film compensates for its modest racing sequences by focusing on its eccentric cast of characters. From David Carradine's brooding anti-hero to the three women in their van and Beutell Morris's car thief with questionable pickup lines, the film succeeds more as a character study than as a racing film.Key Discussion Points:
• The surprising involvement of the Shaw Brothers Studio as co-producers
• Notable cameos including Martin Scorsese, Sylvester Stallone, Roger Corman, Don Simpson, Joe Dante, Allan Arkush, and Jonathan Kaplan
• The film's influence on later cross-country racing films like The Cannonball Run
• Paul Bartel's apparent disinterest in car racing affecting the final product
• The real history of the Cannonball Baker race and its enduring legacy
• The impressive array of vehicles featured, including the 1968 Dodge Charger, Pontiac Trans Am, De Tomaso Pantera, Chevrolet Corvette, and 1969 Ford Mustang
• How the film balances action with character development
• The odd subplot involving identical cars and mysterious motivationsThe Legacy of CannonballWhile both hosts found entertainment value in the film, they agree it falls short of both serious racing films and pure chaos movies like Death Race 2000. However, they appreciate its place in racing film history and its influence on later, bigger-budget cross-country racing films.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

• Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at Letterboxd
• Script Options
• Theatrical trailer

Want More?This is a member bonus episode! While we'd love your support, you'll love what membership brings: monthly bonus episodes like this one, ad-free listening, early releases, exclusive Discord channels, and voting rights on future member movies. It truly pays to be a member.Ready to join? Visit TruStory FM to learn more about supporting The Next Reel Film Podcast through your own membership.

“All of us, proving what? That we can go faster, and perhaps remain alive?”
Racing to Glory: John Frankenheimer's Grand Prix (1966)When director John Frankenheimer set out to make Grand Prix in 1966, he faced competition from Steve McQueen's planned racing film. Through strategic negotiations and groundbreaking technical innovations, Frankenheimer created what would become the definitive Formula One racing film of its era, pioneering new camera techniques and shooting during actual F1 races. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we kick off our Car Racing series with a conversation about Grand Prix.A Technical Marvel on the TrackAndy and Pete dive deep into Frankenheimer's revolutionary filming techniques, particularly the mounted cameras that could pan and tilt while cars raced at full speed. The hosts marvel at how the film captures the intense vibrations and physical demands of banking turns at Monza, with Andy noting how this technical authenticity remains impressive even by modern standards.Melodrama vs. Racing ExcellenceWhile both hosts praise the racing sequences, they share frustrations with the film's romantic subplots. Pete and Andy point out how the relationships involving James Garner, Yves Montand, Brian Bedford, Eva Marie Saint, and Jessica Walter often drag down the pacing, though these elements help illustrate the psychological toll of the sport.Team Dynamics and Sport EvolutionPete provides fascinating context about how F1 team structures have evolved since the 1960s, explaining how Grand Prix accurately captured the complex relationships between drivers, engineers, and team owners. The hosts discuss how the film's portrayal of team conflicts remains relevant to modern F1 racing.Key Discussion Points:

• Revolutionary split-screen techniques and their increasing effectiveness throughout the film
• The authenticity of racing sequences filmed during actual F1 events
• Strong performances from Yves Montand and Jessica Walter
• Technical innovations in racing cinematography
• The film's influence on modern racing movies
• Portrayal of team dynamics and driver relationships
• The ending involving the black flag
• Frankenheimer's successful negotiation with Ferrari and other racing teams
• The physical and psychological demands of F1 racing
• Complex relationships between drivers and their romantic partners

Legacy and ImpactBoth hosts agree that while the melodrama may date the film, the racing sequences remain extraordinary achievements in filmmaking. The technical innovations and authentic portrayal of Formula One racing continue to influence modern motorsport films.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

• Evolution of Monza F1 Track - 1922-2024
• Watch our conversation on YouTube!
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“I just can’t accept the idea of universal disease.”
When Science Meets SurvivalVincent Price stars in the first adaptation of Richard Matheson's influential novel I Am Legend, bringing to screen a post-apocalyptic tale that would help define both vampire and zombie genres for decades to come. Directed by Sidney Salkow and Ubaldo Ragona, The Last Man on Earth follows Dr. Robert Morgan as he navigates a world where a mysterious plague has turned the population into vampire-like creatures. Shot in Italy on a modest budget, this AIP production would go on to influence filmmakers from George Romero to Stephen King. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue the I Am Legend series with a conversation about the 1964 film The Last Man on Earth.Scientific Survival vs. Gothic HorrorPete and Andy explore how Vincent Price delivers an unusually restrained performance, trading his typical gothic flourishes for the bone-weary routine of a scientist trying to survive. While Andy found Price's portrayal somewhat lacking in emotional depth, Pete appreciated seeing a different side of the horror icon, particularly in scenes showing the mundane aspects of post-apocalyptic life.The Evolution of Monster MoviesThe hosts discuss how The Last Man on Earth bridges vampire and zombie genres, with creatures that display characteristics of both. They note how the film's scientific approach to vampirism was groundbreaking for its time, though the execution of the monsters themselves often falls short of threatening.Key Discussion Points:

• The film's influence on George Romero's Night of the Living Dead
• Comparing adaptations of I Am Legend across different decades
• The moral implications of survival in a changed world
• Technical aspects of filming in Italy with a limited budget
• The effectiveness of black-and-white cinematography

Adaptation and InnovationBoth hosts agree that while The Last Man on Earth may not be the definitive adaptation of Matheson's novel, it remains the most faithful attempt. They particularly praise the film's exploration of isolation and humanity's capacity for adaptation, even as they critique its rushed pacing and underdeveloped character moments.Notable Elements:

• Vincent Price's lathe workshop scenes
• The empty streets of Rome as a haunting backdrop
• The scientific approach to vampire mythology
• The film's influence on subsequent post-apocalyptic narratives

The Last Man on Earth emerges as a fascinating historical piece that, despite its limitations, helped establish many tropes we now associate with both vampire and zombie genres. 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!Additional Resources

• Video Content: Full episode discussion on YouTube
• International Film Version: Italian-directed cut by Ubaldo B. Ragona (1964)
• Digital Streaming: Available on Apple TV, Amazon Prime, and other platforms (via Letterboxd)
• Film Transcript: Recent fan-created dialogue transcript
• Historical Media: Original 1964 theatrical trailer
• Literary Source: Richard Matheson's 1954 novel "I Am Legend"

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“You sure you thought this all the way through?”
From UFC to the Big Screen: How Amazon's Remake Came to BeAfter years of development, Amazon Studios greenlit a modern remake of the 1989 cult classic Road House with Jake Gyllenhaal stepping into Patrick Swayze's shoes. Doug Liman signed on to direct, bringing his action expertise to the project. The production made headlines when they secured UFC star Conor McGregor for his acting debut, adding authenticity to the film's fight sequences. However, controversy emerged when Amazon decided to skip a theatrical release in favor of streaming, leading to public disagreement between Liman and the studio. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we wrap up this return to our Movies and Their Remakes series with a conversation about Road House (2024).Fighting Talk: Breaking Down This Modern TakeIn our discussion, we explore how this remake both honors and diverges from the original. While Gyllenhaal brings his own charming interpretation to the role of Dalton, the film makes significant changes to the character's backstory that didn't necessarily improve upon the source material. We debate the effectiveness of these changes and whether they serve the story or simply modernize it for the sake of change.Key Elements That Pack a Punch

• Doug Liman's dynamic direction and innovative fight scene cinematography
• The chemistry between Gyllenhaal and McGregor, despite the latter's controversial casting
• Billy Magnussen's entertaining performance as the antagonist
• The shift from the original's Missouri setting to the Florida Keys
• Changes to the musical elements that defined the original

Despite some missteps in attempting to "fix" elements of the original that weren't broken, Road House (2024) delivers as an entertaining action film that stands on its own merits. While we both enjoyed the movie, we recognize it may not quite reach the cult status of its predecessor. 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

• Watch our conversation on YouTube!
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• Script Options
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Support The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:

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“I want you to be nice, until it’s time to NOT be nice.”
From Bar Fights to Box Office: The Making of a Cult ClassicIn the late 1980s, United Artists sought to capitalize on Patrick Swayze's rising star power following the success of Dirty Dancing. The studio paired him with director Rowdy Herrington for what was pitched as "the best drive-in movie ever made." The film's original casting included Annette Bening as Dr. Clay, but she was replaced by Kelly Lynch due to reported chemistry issues with Swayze. Despite initial skepticism from critics, the $15 million production would go on to become a cultural phenomenon. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we return to our Movies and Their Remakes series with a conversation about Herrington’s 1989 film Road House.Bouncing Through the Film's Deeper ThemesThe film cleverly reinterprets classic Western tropes through the lens of late 1980s sensibilities. We discuss how Dalton embodies the archetype of the wandering hero, much like characters from films such as Shane and Seven Samurai. Furthermore, the movie explores themes of authoritarian capitalism through Ben Gazzara's villainous Brad Wesley, while simultaneously delivering crowd-pleasing action sequences and memorable character moments.Elements That Make Road House Stand Out

• Jeff Healey's authentic musical performances that evolve alongside the bar's transformation
• The distinction between bouncers and "coolers" in bar culture
• Sam Elliott's compelling performance as Wade Garrett, despite the ‘controversial’ lack of his signature mustache
• The film's ability to appeal to multiple audiences through strategic character development
• Dean Cundey's cinematography capturing both brutal fight scenes and sensual moments

A Lasting Impact on Popular CultureRoad House has demonstrated remarkable staying power, spawning a theatrical musical adaptation, a direct-to-DVD sequel, and most recently, a high-profile remake. While initially receiving Razzie nominations, the film has been embraced by audiences and reappraised by critics over the years. Both hosts found themselves thoroughly entertained by this blend of philosophy, fisticuffs, and Patrick Swayze's undeniable charisma. 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

• Watch our conversation on YouTube!
• Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at Letterboxd
• Script Options
• Theatrical trailer

Support The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:

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“What good is a sword against sorcery?”
From Barbarian to Family-Friendly FantasyAfter the success of Conan the Barbarian in 1982, producer Dino De Laurentiis wanted to create a more family-friendly sequel. He recruited director Richard Fleischer and turned to comic book writers Roy Thomas and Gerry Conway to craft a PG-rated story. With a screenplay by Stanley Mann, Universal Pictures aimed to broaden the franchise's appeal while maintaining its sword-and-sorcery roots. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue the Conan series with a conversation about Fleischer’s 1984 film Conan the Destroyer.Destroying Expectations with Comic Book FlairThe shift from the gritty, violent tone of the first film to a more lighthearted adventure creates interesting discussion points. While the comic book influence brings fresh energy to the franchise, the movie struggles to balance serious fantasy elements with comedic moments. The addition of characters like Tracey Walter's Malak as comic relief and Wilt Chamberlain's Bombaata as a double-crossing warrior presents both opportunities and challenges for the narrative.A Journey Through Cast and Creative ChoicesThe film showcases notable performances and creative decisions that deserve attention:

• Grace Jones delivers an intense, committed performance as Zula
• André the Giant appears uncredited as the Dagoth monster
• Basil Poledouris returns with another masterful musical score
• The mirror room sequence features impressive practical effects despite questionable creature design
• Sarah Douglas brings regal menace to Queen Taramis
• Olivia d'Abo debuts as Princess Jehnna in an underwritten role

The Legend ContinuesWhile Conan the Destroyer may not reach the dramatic heights of its predecessor, it represents an interesting experiment in broadening the appeal of the franchise. The lighter tone and increased emphasis on humor might disappoint hardcore fans, but the film maintains enough sword-and-sorcery spectacle to remain entertaining. 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

• Watch our conversation on YouTube!
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Support The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:

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“Get it up or I’ll cut it off.”
Roger Corman's Foray into Women in Prison FilmsIn 1971, Roger Corman's New World Pictures sought to capitalize on the success of the women in prison film 99 Women. Working with a low budget, they brought on director Jack Hill who, dissatisfied with the original script, hired Don Spencer to create a new screenplay that would inject more humor into what he considered a preposterous story. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our member bonus Roger Corman series with a conversation about The Big Doll House.Prison Break: Exploring Power, Agency, and ExploitationThe film presents an interesting balance between exploitation elements and female empowerment. While it includes expected genre tropes like mud wrestling and torture scenes, it also subverts expectations by putting men in subservient positions. We discuss how Jack Hill manages to smuggle bigger ideas about institutional corruption and colonial impacts under the guise of spectacle and genre conventions.Behind Bars: Production and Performance

• Pam Grier and Sid Haig deliver standout performances that elevate the material
• The film's use of humor helps offset some of the more exploitative elements
• Shot back-to-back with other prison films in the Philippines to maximize efficiency
• Interesting character dynamics between the six main prisoners
• The film's ending strikes a lighter tone compared to similar genre entries

Throughout our discussion, we explore how The Big Doll House fits into both Corman's broader production approach and Hill's filmography. While Andy prefers the more serious tone found in Women in Cages, Pete finds more value in this film's lighter touch. Despite its exploitation roots, the film manages to deliver entertainment value while sneaking in something of a commentary on power dynamics and institutional corruption. 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

• Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at Letterboxd
• Theatrical trailer

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.

“Not a nick in the blade, I promise you. The butcher was like butter.”
The Origin Story Nobody Asked ForAfter the success of the Hannibal Lecter films, producer Dino De Laurentiis wanted to continue the franchise. When author Thomas Harris initially refused to write another story, De Laurentiis threatened to move forward with different writers. This ultimatum led Harris to craft both the novel and screenplay for Peter Webber's 2007 film Hannibal Rising.Serving Up a Dish Best Not Served At AllThe film fundamentally breaks what makes Hannibal Lecter such a compelling character. Instead of the sophisticated, intellectual monster we've come to know, we get a revenge story that transforms him into more of an anti-hero. This origin tale attempts to explain Lecter's cannibalistic tendencies through trauma and nurture rather than nature, which contradicts the essential mystery of his evil. Additionally, the film mishandles the iconic mask by trying to turn what was originally a tool used by law enforcement to control a dangerous killer into a dramatic prop meant to give young Lecter a superhero-like mystique.A Feast of Discussion Points

• Director Peter Webber's attempts at crafting an elegant period piece clash with the revenge thriller elements
• Gaspard Ulliel's performance, while good, fails to convince as a young version of either Brian Cox or Anthony Hopkins
• Gong Li's talents are wasted in an underdeveloped role as Lady Murasaki
• The beautiful cinematography by Ben Davis can't overcome the weak story
• Unexpected parallels to superhero origin stories, particularly sharing similarities with Magneto's backstory

Despite its impressive production values and occasional moments of visual brilliance, Hannibal Rising represents the low point of the Hannibal Lecter series. The film's attempt to humanize one of cinema's greatest villains ultimately diminishes what made the character so fascinating in the first place. 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

• Watch our conversation on YouTube!
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Support The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:

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The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:

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“Don’t you understand, Will? You caught me because we’re very much alike.”
The Return to Hannibal Lecter's OriginsAfter the box office success of Hannibal in 2001, producer Dino De Laurentiis quickly moved forward with another adaptation of Thomas Harris's work. With Anthony Hopkins agreeing to return one final time as Dr. Hannibal Lecter, they secured Ted Tally to adapt the screenplay and Brett Ratner to direct. The film would serve as both a remake of Michael Mann's Manhunter and a prequel to The Silence of the Lambs. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the Hannibal Lecter series with a conversation about Red Dragon.Devouring the Details of This Psychological ThrillerWhile Red Dragon brings together an impressive ensemble cast including Edward Norton, Ralph Fiennes, and Emily Watson, the film struggles to reach the heights of its predecessors. Despite strong performances and Tally's faithful adaptation of Harris's novel, Ratner's direction lacks the artistic flourishes that made both Manhunter and The Silence of the Lambs so memorable. However, the film does provide fascinating insights into Will Graham's relationship with Lecter and offers a deeper exploration of Francis Dolarhyde's psychological transformation.Additional Elements We Discuss

• The opening sequence showing Graham's capture of Lecter
• The film's nice production design and bland cinematography
• Ratner's safe directorial choices compared to previous directors in the series
• The expanded role of Lecter compared to Manhunter
• Fiennes's portrayal of Dolarhyde and his relationship with Reba
• The changed ending and its closer alignment with Harris's novel

A Serviceable Addition to the SeriesWhile Red Dragon may not reach the artistic heights of earlier entries in the series, it delivers a competent thriller that expands the Lecter mythology. Despite strong performances and production values, the film's conventional approach prevents it from becoming truly memorable. 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

• Watch our conversation on YouTube!
• Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at Letterboxd
• Script Options
• Theatrical trailer
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Support The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:

• Become a member for just $5/month or $55/year
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The Next Reel Family of Film Podcasts:

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• The Film Board
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• The Next Reel Film Podcast
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Connect With Us:

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