Episodes

  • Why do I want to be liked by Hannibal in Silence of the Lambs?

    Why do I want to be liked by Hannibal in Silence of the Lambs?
    Sep 17 2024
    In this episode, Greg and Meredith delve into the iconic film 'Silence of the Lambs,' exploring its box office success, character dynamics, and the performances of Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins. They discuss the film's themes of gender and power, the representation of trans identities, and the cinematic techniques that contribute to its legacy. The conversation also touches on the cultural impact of the film and its place in horror cinema history, culminating in a thoughtful analysis of storytelling and character development. 00:00 - Introduction to Silence of the Lambs 02:58 - Box Office Success and Movie Economics 05:48 - Character Analysis: Hannibal Lecter and Clarice Starling 08:52 - Jodie Foster's Career and Performance 11:57 - Themes of Gender and Power Dynamics 15:07 - Trans Representation and Misconceptions 18:11 - Cinematic Techniques and Storytelling 20:58 - The Role of Anthony Hopkins in the Film 23:53 - Comparative Analysis of Horror Films 27:01 - Cultural Impact and Legacy of the Film 29:50 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 18 mins
  • A spooky season must watch, Night of the Comet

    A spooky season must watch, Night of the Comet
    Sep 10 2024
    In this conversation, Greg and Meredith discuss the movie 'Night of the Comet' and explores the topic of spooky season movies. They mention other Halloween-themed movies that could be covered and discusses the slasher film genre. The conversation also touches on Italian horror movies, the concept of 'making it,' and the effects of the comet in the movie. The conversation concludes with a discussion of the movie's ending and the future of the characters. They touch on the comedic timing, the low budget and impressive production value, the love of movies evident in the film, and the rejection of gender norms. They also discuss the impact of restrictions and limitations on filmmaking in different eras and the role of cinema in shaping culture. Overall, they find the movie to be a fun and nostalgic experience. 00:00 - Spooky Season Movies 09:03 - The Effects of the Comet 19:06 - The Concept of 'Making It' 22:20 - Shopping Mall Scene 26:22 - Abduction and Underground Bunker 31:27 - Happy Ending and Rebuilding Civilization 33:18 - Kelli Maroney's standout performance 37:36 - A love letter to movies 40:25 - Nods and references to other movies 41:20 - The choice to not choose 44:10 - Making the most of a limited budget 48:04 - The influence of past cinema on filmmakers 53:27 - Encouraging viewers to watch Night of the Comet Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • The midnight movie that inspired Beetlejuice?

    The midnight movie that inspired Beetlejuice?
    Sep 3 2024
    In this conversation, Gregory and Meredith discuss the movies Beetlejuice and Forbidden Zone. They explore the connection between Danny Elfman and Tim Burton, the transgressive nature of Forbidden Zone, and the iconic music in Beetlejuice. They also touch on the racial stereotypes and controversial elements in Forbidden Zone. Overall, they delve into the unique and unconventional aspects of both films. In this conversation, Gregory and Meredith discuss various topics related to the movie Beetlejuice, including the cast, production design, themes, and potential sequel. They also go on tangents about other movies and directors. The conversation is filled with insights, opinions, and personal anecdotes. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Watching Forbidden Zone 04:22 - The Connection Between Danny Elfman and Tim Burton 06:07 - Exploring the Transgressive Nature of Forbidden Zone 11:09 - The Chaotic Musical Fantasy of Forbidden Zone 18:31 - Controversial Elements in Forbidden Zone 31:45 - The Gina Davis Institute 32:11 - The Awesome Cast of Beetlejuice 33:04 - Michael Keaton's Iconic Role and Improvisation 36:10 - Delia's Aesthetics and Interior Decorating 38:49 - Rating and Language in Beetlejuice 41:49 - The Corny Humor and Improvisation in Beetlejuice 44:40 - Bill Murray and Chevy Chase's Conflicts 54:22 - Directors' Aesthetics and Competence Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • The best movie of 1991?

    The best movie of 1991?
    Aug 27 2024
    The Rocketeer is a 1991 film set in the late 1930s that follows the story of Cliff Seacord, a stunt pilot who becomes a superhero known as the Rocketeer. The movie was initially released as a Disney film but later changed to Touchstone due to its uncertain target audience. The film has pacing issues and struggled to find its audience, but has gained a cult following in recent years. The cast includes Billy Campbell as Cliff, Jennifer Connelly as Jenny, and Timothy Dalton as the villain Neville Sinclair. The movie draws on real rumors and Hollywood history, incorporating elements like Howard Hughes and Errol Flynn. It also features nods to Betty Page and the Zeppelin. Overall, The Rocketeer is a nostalgic and visually appealing film that blends adventure, romance, and superhero elements. The conversation covers various topics including the iconic Ennis House, the difference between steampunk and diesel punk and production rumors. Meredith and Greg also discuss alternate universe shows and the potential revival of The Rocketeer franchise. 00:00 - Introduction and Childhood Memories 09:26 - Setting and Historical Context 15:06 - The Unpredictability of Success in the Film Industry 18:23 - Real Rumors and Hollywood History in The Rocketeer 25:32 - The Cult Following and Legacy of The Rocketeer 27:41 - The Iconic Ennis House and Its Film References 30:00 - The Fascination with Zeppelins 35:32 - Steampunk vs. Diesel Punk 51:39 - The Battle to Keep The Rocketeer's Helmet 53:57 - The Potential Revival of The Rocketeer Franchise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • Flubber?! I hardly knew her!

    Flubber?! I hardly knew her!
    Aug 20 2024
    In this conversation, Greg and Meredith discuss the 1997 movie Flubber and its various aspects, the plot, the science behind Flubber, the characters, and the 'The Absent Minded Professor' of which it is a remake. They also discuss various inventions and technological advancements, including the internet, cell phones, electric cars, wearables, and GPS. They also talk about the Cybertruck and its polarizing design. The conversation then shifts to the character Weebo, a flying robot. They discuss the role of Weebo in the movie and the themes of AI and robot souls. The conversation touches on other Robin Williams movies and Disney remakes. The episode concludes with a discussion about the nostalgic vibe of Flubber and the connections to other Disney films. 00:00 - Introduction and Background 03:13 - Exploring the Plot and Science of Flubber 06:09 - The Inconsistencies in Flubber's Story 08:57 - The Cultural Context of Flubber 12:12 - The Impact of Flubber on Society 23:26 - Exploring Inventions and Technological Advancements 24:22 - The Polarizing Design of the Cybertruck 27:14 - The Role of Weebo and the Themes of AI and Robot Souls 29:04 - Robin Williams and His Mix of Comedy and Seriousness 44:10 - The Nostalgic Vibe of Flubber and Disney Remakes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    53 mins
  • 'Dinosaurs' tried to warn us

    'Dinosaurs' tried to warn us
    Aug 13 2024
    Greg and Meredith discuss the sitcom 'Dinosaurs' and explore various aspects of the show, including its production, themes, and characters. The hosts analyze the dark and satirical elements of the show, as well as its commentary on relationships and societal issues. They also touch on the casting choices and the use of puppets in the series. The conversation raises questions about the intended audience of the show and its meta elements. Overall, the hosts provide insights and observations about 'Dinosaurs' and its significance. They talk about other puppet-based shows like Alf and Zoobilee Zoo. They also touch on the concept of pilot episodes and how they can differ from the final show. The conversation veers into nostalgia and childhood memories, including the experience of watching scary shows as kids. They end the conversation with a discussion about THC cocktails and the potential for a puppet-based show on Netflix. 00:00 - Introduction and Nostalgia for 'Dinosaurs' 03:02 - The Dark and Satirical Elements of the Show 07:42 - The Commentary on Humanity in 'Dinosaurs' 12:06 - The Depiction of Relationships in 'Dinosaurs' 16:11 - Species-Blind Casting in 'Dinosaurs' 18:48 - Is 'Dinosaurs' a Sitcom for Dinosaurs? 20:44 - The Absence of a Laugh Track and Its Effect 22:36 - The Meta Elements and Potential Interpretations 23:31 - Notable Episodes and Impact of 'Dinosaurs' 24:23 - The Green Menace 26:00 - The Simpsons and TV in the 90s 27:50 - Neurodivergency and Aphasia 29:05 - TV Shows with Puppets 32:56 - Alf as a Mascot 35:29 - Farscape and Other Puppet Shows 37:27 - Broadcast Television and Local Affiliates 39:19 - Puppet Shows and Haunted Hotels 44:49 - The Evolution of Pilot Episodes 46:38 - Columbo and TV Movies 47:35 - THC Cocktails and Netflix Pitches Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    56 mins
  • The Xfiles, do you believe?

    The Xfiles, do you believe?
    Aug 6 2024
    In this episode of Midnight Local, Greg and Meredith discuss the pilot episode of The X-Files. They talk about their personal experiences with the show, the dynamic between Mulder and Scully, and the cinematic quality of the series. They also touch on the recurring themes of skepticism and belief, as well as the show's commitment to visual storytelling. The episode explores the plot of the pilot, which involves mysterious deaths and alien abductions. Overall, the conversation provides insights into the cultural impact and enduring popularity of The X-Files. The conversation explores the themes of belief, skepticism, and the influence of childhood experiences on one's worldview. It delves into the personal experiences of a family members strong belief in the supernatural and the paranormal. The X-Files is praised for its successful pilot episode, which sets up the overarching plot of government conspiracy and introduces the iconic characters. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the influence of cinema on television and the challenges of being a parent in the digital age. 00:00 - Introduction and Personal Experiences 01:27 - The Cultural Impact of The X-Files 02:11 - The Format and Structure of the Show 03:02 - The Challenges of Watching TV Shows in the Past 05:24 - Exploring the Pilot Episode 08:14 - The Dynamic Between Mulder and Scully 09:08 - The Role Reversal of Gender Stereotypes 10:01 - The Supernatural and Science Fiction Elements 13:43 - The Cinematic Quality of The X-Files 20:00 - Comparing The X-Files to Other Shows 26:51 - Unraveling the Mystery of the Pilot Episode 28:41 - Skepticism vs. Belief in The X-Files 29:08 - Belief vs. Skepticism 30:07 - Influence of Childhood Experiences 31:55 - The Appeal of the X-Files 36:05 - The Effective Pilot Episode 41:29 - Cinematic Influences 55:42 - Challenges of Parenting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • VEEP was right!

    VEEP was right!
    Jul 30 2024
    In this episode of Midnight Local, Greg and Meredith discuss the TV show Veep and its parallels to real-world politics. They share their impressions of the show, including the shaky camera style and the unlikeable characters. They also discuss the dynamics of dysfunctional office environments and the chaos that comes with working in politics. The conversation touches on the authenticity of political shows and the balance between dialogue-heavy and visually-driven storytelling. The conversation explores the themes of cinema, musical theater, sitcoms, and the influence of media on our lives. It touches on the idea that the camera should speak more than the dialogue in films, and how musical theater can convey plot points through songs. The hosts discuss the similarities between sitcoms and real life, and how people often see their own lives reflected in these shows. They also delve into the concept of leading men in Hollywood and the changing landscape of stardom. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the vice presidential picks and the role of money in politics. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Show Announcement 02:36 Impressions of Veep: Shaky Camera and Unlikeable Characters 08:02 Hating the Characters and Sticking with the Show 12:46 Selena, Mike, and Gary: The Heroes of Veep 17:45 Veep: More Than Just Politics 21:18 The Incompetence and Chaos of the Office 23:33 Finding Catharsis in Watching Veep 26:17 The Power of the Camera in Cinema 26:41 The Effectiveness of Musical Theater 27:31 Sitcoms: Reflections of Real Life 28:00 The Evolution of Leading Men in Hollywood 40:41 The Influence of Money in Politics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr