The Next Reel Film Podcast

The Next Reel Film Podcast

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The Next Reel Film Podcast episodes

  • Wuxia Unleashed: Leon Hunt & Chris Hamm on Martial Arts and Myth • Cinema Scope • Bonus Episode

    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
    1 hr 19 min
  • Actor Patrick Fabian on The Man Who Would Be King • Movies We Like

    “You call it luck. I call it destiny.”
    Talking About John Huston’s The Man Who Would Be King with our guest, actor Patrick Fabian

    In this engaging episode of Movies We Like, hosts Andy Nelson and Pete Wright are joined by special guest Patrick Fabian to discuss John Huston's epic adventure film, The Man Who Would Be King. Fabian, known for his roles in numerous TV shows and films, including his standout performance as Howard Hamlin in Better Call Saul, shares his passion for this classic movie and how it inspired him to pursue a career in acting.

    Throughout the episode, Fabian delves into his early days as an aspiring actor, from his time as a band president in high school to his decision to pursue a master's degree in theater at Cal State Long Beach. He also shares anecdotes about his experiences working on various television shows and the valuable lessons he learned along the way, such as the importance of persistence and adaptability in the face of rejection.

    As the conversation turns to The Man Who Would Be King, Fabian expresses his admiration for the film's sense of adventure, the strong bond between the lead characters, and the captivating performances by Sean Connery and Michael Caine. The hosts and guest explore the movie's themes, its representation of colonialism, and the enduring appeal of its grand storytelling.

    The Man Who Would Be King is a timeless adventure that continues to enthrall audiences with its sweeping narrative, unforgettable performances, and exotic locales. Andy Nelson, Pete Wright, and Patrick Fabian's engaging discussion about the film and Fabian's fascinating career journey make this episode of Movies We Like a must-listen for fans of classic cinema and those interested in the world of acting. Join them as they celebrate the enduring power of storytelling and the indelible impact that a single film can have on one's life and career.

    Film Sundries

    • Find Patrick on Instagram, Threads, and X/Twitter
    • Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
    • Script Options
    • Theatrical trailer
    • Original Material
    • Letterboxd

    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)

    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:

    • The Web
    • Letterboxd
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Threads
    • X
    • YouTube
    • Flickchart
    • Pinterest
    • Pete 
    • Andy

    What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!

    • You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.
    • Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.
    • Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.
    • Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.
    • Or sign up for AUDIBLE.
    1 hr 5 min
  • Soul Food • The Next Reel

    “My grandma always said, ‘Family pulling together in times of need will make it strong.’”
    The Family That Eats Together: A Discussion of Soul Food

    Before Soul Food hit theaters in 1997, writer and director George Tillman Jr. struggled to get his first feature film made. After selling the script, the production company went under before filming began. Undeterred, Tillman persevered and found new backing from Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds and his wife Tracey. Their shared vision brought Tillman’s semi-autobiographical story to life. Soul Food went on to become a breakout hit, launching Tillman’s career and sparking an ongoing debate about family, culture, and tradition.

    Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 1998 NAACP Image Awards Outstanding Lead Actress in a Motion Picture Nominees series with a conversation about Tillman Jr.’s 1997 film Soul Food.

    Digging into Family, Food, and Forgiveness

    In our lively discussion, we dig into the joys and tensions of the Joseph family’s Sunday dinners. We’re divided on the effectiveness of young Ahmad’s voiceover narration as a narrative device. The family relationships feel authentic, with standout performances from the actresses playing the three sisters – Vanessa Williams, Vivica A. Fox, and Nia Long. However, we take issue with some of the easy storytelling choices, especially regarding Lem’s return to prison. The “fairy tale” ending strains believability more for Andy than Pete, but it does raise thought-provoking questions about the role of food and togetherness in absolving past wrongs.

    More Food for Thought

    • Appreciating the film’s universal messages about family bonds
    • Mama’s troubling role in cultivating the family’s unhealthy diet
    • Brandon Hammond’s sweet portrayal of young Ahmad
    • Michael Beach excelling with an interesting role
    • Director George Tillman Jr.’s growth between this film and The Hate U Give

    Bringing Families Together

    Soul Food succeeds in celebrating the aspirational joy of gathering family around the table. While we question some of the storytelling choices, the performances draw us into the sprawling Joseph family. Throughout our conversation, we find plenty to chew on, from fairy tale endings to the competing pulls of past and future. It makes for a nourishing discussion worth tuning in to. 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 JustWatch
    • Script Options
    • Theatrical trailer
    • Letterboxd

    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:

    • The Web
    • Letterboxd
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Threads
    • X
    • YouTube
    • Flickchart
    • Pinterest
    • Pete 
    • Andy

    What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!

    • You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.
    • Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.
    • Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.
    • Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.
    • Or sign up for AUDIBLE.
    1 hr 17 min
  • Love Jones • The Next Reel

    “Romance is about the possibility of the thing.”
    Love Jones hit theaters in 1997 as writer/director Theodore Witcher’s acclaimed debut. With an eclectic jazz soundtrack and romantic story filled with poetry slams, complex relationships, and career passions, the film earned praise and award nominations. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 1998 NAACP Image Awards Outstanding Lead Actress in a Motion Picture Nominees series with a conversation about Witcher’s 1997 film Love Jones.

    We Are at Odds With These Characters and Their Messy Relationships

    In our lively chat, we dive into the characters and their relationships. We discuss how Andy connect’s with Nina and Darius’ messy, on-again-off-again romance and the realistic motivations behind their poor decisions – whereas Pete does not. Though we don’t always agree, we explore their complex connection and the miscommunications and betrayals that plague their path to love. Their story represents one filled with the universal relationship struggles we all face on the road to maturity. But does the script work? 

    A Few Additional Areas of Conversation Regarding Love Jones

    • Passionate debate on the casting, particularly of lead actor Lorenz Tate – too young and naive or just right?
    • Our differing views on the authenticity of the script and dialogue
    • Examining the photography backdrop and Nina's career motivations
    • The interesting social commentary within the group of friends

    Other Notable Discussion Points

    • Appreciation for the supporting cast like Isaiah Washington and Lisa Nicole Carson
    • The effectiveness of the melancholy jazz score and hip soundtrack
    • Our thoughts on the photography capturing life in 1990s Chicago
    • The timeless nature of relationship struggles depicted

    For a look at the origins of a modern black romance classic, tune in to hear our in-depth conversation on all aspects of Love Jones. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!

    Film Sundries

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

    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:

    • The Web
    • Letterboxd
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Threads
    • X
    • YouTube
    • Flickchart
    • Pinterest
    • Pete 
    • Andy

    What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!

    • You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.
    • Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.
    • Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.
    • Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.
    • Or sign up for AUDIBLE.
    57 min
  • Jackie Brown • The Next Reel

    “Let’s be realistic. Now, sooner or later, they’re going to get around to offering me a plea deal, and you know that. That’s why you are here to kill me.”
    Jackie Brown
    Rides High in Tarantino’s Homage to Blaxploitation

    Quentin Tarantino burst onto the film scene in the 1990s with unique stylistic choices and sharp dialogue. After achieving critical acclaim for Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction, Tarantino turned to Elmore Leonard’s novel Rum Punch for his third directorial effort, Jackie Brown. Set in the seedy underworld of gun runners and bail bondsmen, Jackie Brown pays homage to 1970s blaxploitation films while putting Tarantino’s signature spin on the crime thriller genre.

    Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our 1998 NAACP Image Awards Outstanding Lead Actress in a Motion Picture Nominees series with a conversation about Tarantino’s 1997 film Jackie Brown.

    Fun With Time, Great Performances, and Controversy

    We dive deep into Tarantino’s playful use of time jumps, split screens, and flashbacks to reveal the intricacies of the heist plot. The stellar cast shines, especially Pam Grier in the title role and Robert Forster as the bail bondsman helping her out, not to mention turns by Robert De Niro, Samuel L. Jackson, Bridget Fonda, and Michael Keaton. We also touch on the controversy around Tarantino’s use of the N-word. Overall, we find lots to love in this homage-filled film.

    More Topics From Our Chat

    • Beautiful cinematography and lighting choices
    • Forster and Grier’s heartbreaking final scene
    • Keaton’s surprising but perfect casting
    • The fantastic soundtrack
    • Tarantino’s masterful directing skills on display
    • Great discussion of awards snubs and box office numbers

    Final Thoughts on Jackie Brown

    With its loving homage to 1970s blaxploitation films, great soundtrack, and stellar cast, Jackie Brown shows Tarantino at the height of his powers. We have a great time talking about this underappreciated gem. Check it out, then tune in to hear our conversation. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!

    Film Sundries

    • Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
    • Script Options
    • Theatrical trailer
    • Original Material: Rum Punch by Elmore Leonard
    • Letterboxd

    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:

    • The Web
    • Letterboxd
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Threads
    • X
    • YouTube
    • Flickchart
    • Pinterest
    • Pete 
    • Andy

    What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!

    • You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.
    • Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.
    • Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.
    • Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.
    • Or sign up for AUDIBLE.
    1 hr 6 min
  • Eve’s Bayou • The Next Reel

    “Memory is a selection of images, some elusive, others imprinted indelibly in the brain. The summer I killed my father, I was ten years old.”
    Exploring the Layers of Eve's Bayou

    With her moody directorial debut Eve's Bayou, independent filmmaker Kasi Lemmons immerses us in a vividly realized Louisiana bayou community in the 1960s. Through the eyes of daughter Eve Batiste, we witness the complexity of her affluent African-American family as simmering secrets threaten to tear them apart. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we kick off our series looking at the 1998 NAACP Image Awards Outstanding Lead Actress in a Motion Picture Nominees with a fascinating discussion about Lemmons’ 1997 film Eve's Bayou.

    Capturing the Complexities of Family

    At its core, Eve's Bayou is a film about the intricacies of family - both its warmth and its darkness. We analyze the exceptional performances, particularly from Lynn Whitfield as the dignified matriarch and Debbi Morgan as the insightful aunt. The perspective from daughter Eve gives an intimate viewpoint on the shifting family dynamics.

    More to Explore in Eve’s Bayou

    • Samuel L. Jackson's conflicted performance as the philandering patriarch
    • The talented young cast, especially lead Jurnee Smollett
    • Themes of adultery, legacy, memory and morality
    • Magical realism elements with voodoo and psychic powers

    Eve's Bayou offers no easy answers, only thoughtful examination of family bonds tested by adversity. We thoroughly enjoy analyzing this beautifully crafted and moving film. Check it out then tune in! When the movie ends, our conversation begins!

    Film Sundries

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

    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:

    • The Web
    • Letterboxd
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Threads
    • X
    • YouTube
    • Flickchart
    • Pinterest
    • Pete 
    • Andy

    What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!

    • You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.
    • Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.
    • Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.
    • Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.
    • Or sign up for AUDIBLE.
    1 hr 2 min
  • Costume Designer Antoinette Messam on Amélie • Movies We Like

    Talking About Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s Amélie with our guest, Costume Designer Antoinette Messam

    On this episode of Movies We Like, we speak with costume designer Antoinette Messam about her incredible career in film and one of her favorite movies, Jean-Pierre Jeunet's magical 2001 film Amélie.

    We have a fascinating conversation with Antoinette about her journey into costume design, including rebelling against family expectations, finding her way from fashion to film, and learning on the job. She shares amazing stories about her experience collaborating with directors like Ryan Coogler (Creed), F. Gary Gray (Lift), and Jeymes Samuel (The Harder They Fall, The Book of Clarence), and dressing icons like Sylvester Stallone and Michael B. Jordan.

    When it comes to Amélie, we dive deep into the stunning use of color and how it brings the whimsical world to life. Antoinette explains how the color palette was meticulously constructed through collaboration between the director, production design, costume, and more - truly effortless worldbuilding. We also discuss the joyful spirit of the film, Audrey Tautou’s masterful performance, and how the music perfectly complements the visuals.

    Our chat with Antoinette gives rare insight into the art of costume design and the magic of movies. Amélie is a vibrant, feel-good film with incredible attention to detail that we highly recommend. We have an amazing time learning from Antoinette's experiences and perspectives on this delightful movie.

    Film Sundries

    • Find Antoinette on the web or Instagram
    • Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
    • Script Options
    • Theatrical trailer
    • Letterboxd

    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:

    • The Web
    • Letterboxd
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Threads
    • X
    • YouTube
    • Flickchart
    • Pinterest
    • Pete 
    • Andy

    What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!

    • You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.
    • Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.
    • Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.
    • Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.
    • Or sign up for AUDIBLE.
    1 hr 20 min
  • Waterworld • The Next Reel

    “He’s a wily one, that ichthy-demon.”
    Waterworld
    : Sinking Budgets and Soaring Spectacle

    In the early 1990s, Kevin Costner was riding high after hits like Dances with Wolves and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. He teamed up again with his Robin Hood director Kevin Reynolds for an ambitious post-apocalyptic aquatic adventure called Waterworld. With its massive scale and elaborate water-based sets, the production quickly sank into major budget overruns and production nightmares.

    Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 1995 Golden Raspberry Awards Worst Director Nominees series with a conversation about Reynolds’ 1995 film Waterworld.

    Diving Into Our Waterworld Chat

    We dive deep into the troubled production and how it still managed to deliver an entertaining aquatic spectacle despite going way over budget. The world building stands out, creating an immersive post-apocalyptic seafaring society even if some plot points strain believability.

    More Topics From Our Wide-Ranging Water Chat

    • How the Hollywood sheen holds it back from grittier cult classics like Mad Max
    • Dennis Hopper's gleeful villainy as the Deacon
    • Appreciating the rich world building and visuals despite flaws
    • The differences between the theatrical cut and extended Ulysses version
    • How it stacks up to other Razzie nominees for Worst Director

    In the end, we found Waterworld to be a pleasant surprise given its reputation - an ambitious and imaginative, if imperfect, seafaring adventure. Despite its behind-the-scenes troubles, it delivers aquatic action and world building that entertained us.

    Tune in to hear our full thoughts! The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!

    Film Sundries

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

    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:

    • The Web
    • Letterboxd
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Threads
    • X
    • YouTube
    • Flickchart
    • Pinterest
    • Pete 
    • Andy

    What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!

    • You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.
    • Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.
    • Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.
    • Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.
    • Or sign up for AUDIBLE.
    1 hr 16 min
  • Showgirls • The Next Reel

    "Thrust it! Thrust it!”
    Before the sequins and controversy hit the screen, Showgirls was a script that sparked excitement for its bold take on the glitz and grunge of Las Vegas life. Helmed by Paul Verhoeven and penned by Joe Eszterhas, the duo behind the provocative hit Basic Instinct, expectations were high for this journey into the world of Vegas showgirls. Yet, the resulting film would divide audiences and critics, becoming a cult classic for some and a cautionary tale of excess for others. The backdrop was set for a film that would be discussed and dissected for years to come. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 1995 Golden Raspberry Awards Worst Director Nominees series with a conversation about Showgirls.

    Here's a hint at what we talk about.

    In this deep dive, Pete and Andy explore the contentious legacy of Showgirls, a film that's danced its way into infamy. They discuss the film's place in the 1995 Golden Raspberry Awards as a Worst Director Nominee, debating whether the film's over-the-top style was a misguided misstep or a misunderstood stroke of satirical genius. The hosts don't always see eye-to-eye, revealing a schism in their takes on the film's execution and its thematic intentions. They ponder whether Elizabeth Berkley's performance as Nomi was intentionally exaggerated to serve the film's satirical edge or if it was a misdirection that led to its critical panning. As part of their series on the Razzies, they delve into the broader conversation about what the nomination means for Showgirls and its place in cinematic history.

    Here are a few other points in our discussion.

    • The Dickensian description of the film by some and the evolving public opinion over time
    • The comparison of Verhoeven's direction in Showgirls to his work in RoboCop and other films
    • The potential allegory of Hollywood and selling out as interpreted by Jonathan Rosenbaum
    • The contrasting performances, particularly Berkley's and Gina Gershon's, and their impact on the film's tone
    • The undercurrents of power and gender dynamics within the narrative
    • Our personal reactions to the comedic elements and whether they hit the mark or fell flat

    As we peel back the layers of this high-kicking, high-stakes drama, we find a film that's as polarizing as it is fascinating. Despite its Razzie nods and the debates it sparks, Showgirls remains an electrifying topic of discussion for cinephiles and critics alike. Whether you view it as a glittering satire or a cautionary tale of excess, there's no denying the film's unique place in the landscape of '90s cinema. 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 JustWatch
    • Script Options
    • Theatrical trailer
    • You Don’t Nomi
    • Letterboxd

    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:

    • The Web
    • Letterboxd
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Threads
    • X
    • YouTube
    • Flickchart
    • Pinterest
    • Pete 
    • Andy

    What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!

    • You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.
    • Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.
    • Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.
    • Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.
    • Or sign up for AUDIBLE.
    1 hr 17 min
  • The Scarlet Letter • The Next Reel

    “Why do you wait? Put it on for it is not a badge of my shame, but your own.”
    Roland Joffé took on the challenge of adapting Nathaniel Hawthorne’s classic 1850 novel The Scarlet Letter for the big screen in 1995. With a passion for the source material and a vision to expand the story in ways he felt Hawthorne was restricted from doing, Joffé assembled an impressive cast including Demi Moore, Gary Oldman and Robert Duvall. However, despite his noble intentions, many critics felt Joffé’s reach exceeded his grasp. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 1995 Golden Raspberry Awards Worst Director Nominees series with a conversation about The Scarlet Letter.

    Here's a hint at what we talk about:

    We discuss how Joffé's ambitions to elevate the material and expand the story ended up making the film feel overstuffed and unfocused. The heavy-handed symbolism, like the constantly reappearing "red bird of passion," also didn't work for us. And we both found the new "happy ending" Joffé devised to be a disappointment compared to the novel's more downbeat conclusion. However, we do appreciate his attempts to incorporate more of the indigenous American perspective.

    Here are a few other points in our discussion:

    • The overly sentimental score by John Barry... that’s still an amazing score
    • Whether the principle cast was well-suited for a period drama
    • The absurdity of Robert Duvall's unhinged performance that’s still undeniably entertaining
    • The unnecessary Pearl voiceover narration

    Overall, while we can appreciate some of what Joffé was trying to accomplish, we feel his reach exceeded his grasp in many ways, resulting in a film that feels messy and unsatisfying. But 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 JustWatch
    • Script Options
    • Theatrical trailer
    • Original Material
    • Letterboxd

    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:

    • The Web
    • Letterboxd
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Threads
    • X
    • YouTube
    • Flickchart
    • Pinterest
    • Pete 
    • Andy

    What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!

    • You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.
    • Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.
    • Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.
    • Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.
    • Or sign up for AUDIBLE.
    1 hr 9 min

About The Next Reel Film Podcast

From the publisher's feed

A show about movies and how they connect with Andy Nelson and Pete Wright.