Cinema: A to B

Monday Dec 25, 2023

Die Hard (1988) revisited

Monday Dec 25, 2023

A look back at the John McTiernan directed action film Die Hard. Alec and Ben debate whether or not Die Hard really is a Christmas movie. Alec praises Alan Rickman's performance as Hans Gruber and gives some background on the scene involving Ellis. Ben shares his funniest moments from the film as well as why the movie has aged so well. The guys reminisce on their time in Los Angeles in and around Fox Plaza and its location as Nakatomi Plaza in the movie. Ben shares his own film theory surrounding actor Reginald VelJohnson (Sgt. Powell). Alec discusses the career and downfall of John McTiernan. The guys wrap up the discussion on the film as a launching point for Bruce Willis and a film that redefined both the action film and action star.

Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com

YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob

Online Store - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/

Monday Dec 18, 2023

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023)

Monday Dec 18, 2023

A spoiler free conversation on the second entry in the Miles Morales animated Spider-Man saga. Alec mentions his one regret watching the movie. Ben compares the film to some other recent entries and discussing toxic conditions for VFX professionals. Alec discusses the stereotypes facing animated movies. Ben contrasts the movie with the golden age of Disney. The guys discuss the voicework and how the characters stand out amidst incredible visuals. The guys wrap up the discussion with some Spider-Man tangents, a celebration of J.K. Simmons, and where the third Spider-Verse film might go.

Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com

Monday Dec 11, 2023

Skyfall (2012) revisited

Monday Dec 11, 2023

Cinema: A to B takes a look back at the third entry in the Daniel Craig James Bond franchise, Skyfall. Alec discusses where he ranks the film and the guys discuss the cinematography of Roger Deakins and his partnership with director Sam Mendes. Ben explains how the narrative breaks with convention. Alec shares a rumored casting decision that was not to be. The guys discuss the physical nature of Craig's Bond as well as speculation on what a Bond reboot might look like. The conversation shifts to how Javier Bardem elevates the film. Ben also explains how the filmmakers manipulated viewers with Judi Dench's character M. The discussion quickly shifts into an unofficial Daniel Craig 5 Film retrospective... shaken, not stirred.

Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com

Monday Dec 04, 2023

The Killer (2023)

Monday Dec 04, 2023

A Spoiler Light discussion on David Fincher's The Killer (2023) now streaming on Netflix. Alec compares the film with another assassin franchise. Ben explains Fincher's visual style. The guys explain what makes Michael Fassbender great in the role. Alec discusses some of the film's flaws while Ben explains where the movie offers something unique. The guys round out the discussion on managing expectations as fans of Fincher and why The Killer is definitely worth a watch.

Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com

Monday Nov 27, 2023

The Bourne Identity (2002) revisited

Monday Nov 27, 2023

A return to 2002's The Bourne Identity starring Matt Damon and directed by Doug Liman. Alec discusses why he's still drawn to the first Bourne film. Ben explains how the movie set the bar for another spy franchise. Alec discusses why Doug Liman never directed another Bourne movie and why the US Embassy sequence is so good. Ben discusses the stark departure in cinematography and editing styles for the sequels. The guys discuss the performances of Clive Owen, Franka Potente and Chris Cooper. Ben explains why the movie succeeds without exposition. The guys close discussing the importance of Paris, the film's score, and how the movie continues to be thought provoking and more than just an action film.

Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com

Monday Nov 20, 2023

Dr. Strangelove (1964) revisited

Monday Nov 20, 2023

"Gentlemen, you can't fight in here! This is the War Room!" Join Cinema: A to B for a laughter filled conversation on Stanley Kubrick's dark comedy Dr. Strangelove (1964) starring Peter Sellers, George C. Scott, Sterling Hayden, Slim Pickens and James Earl Jones. The guys discuss where the film ranks for them among Kubrick's works. Alec shares a story of Kubrick and Sellers conflicting methods. Ben explains how many characters Sellers was supposed to play and how the film's tone breaks with convention. Alec discusses the timeless nature of the movie. Ben discusses concerns the Air Force had after the movie's release. The guys close with a discussion of the film's cinematography, favorite moments, and why Dr. Strangelove is as relevant as ever.

Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com

Monday Nov 13, 2023

Ronin (1998) revisited

Monday Nov 13, 2023

A look back at John Frankenheimer's spy-action film Ronin (1998). Alec discusses discovering the film later on and how it holds up under repeat viewings. Ben talks about how the movie is structured and styled after films made decades earlier. Alec explains a Bourne Identity connection to the film. The guys re-evaluate the stacked cast including Robert De Niro, Jean Reno, Sean Bean, Natascha McElhone, and Stellan Skarsgard. Alec explains how good De Niro's dialogue in the film is. Ben mentions the film's alternate ending and how the film handles collateral damage. Join Cinema: A to B for a discussion on an often overlooked and underappreciated piece of 90s cinema.

Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com

Monday Nov 06, 2023

The Offer (2022) limited series

Monday Nov 06, 2023

Some spoilers ahead as Cinema: A to B discusses the Paramount+ limited series The Offer (based on producer Albert S. Ruddy's account of making The Godfather). The guys discuss standout performances by Miles Teller (Albert S. Ruddy), Matthew Goode (Robert Evans), and Burn Gorman (Charles Bluhdorn). Alec explains how writing quality dictates a good or bad series. Ben shares his professional connection to actor Burn Gorman. Alec explains the George Lucas connection to The Godfather. Ben discusses old school choices the series cinematographers made. The guys wrap up on the meta nature of the series.

Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com

Monday Oct 30, 2023

Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003) revisited

Monday Oct 30, 2023

A look back at the 2003 Captain Jack Aubrey adaptation, Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. Alec explains how his opinion on the film has changed over the past twenty years. Ben discusses where writer-director Peter Weir ranks among directing greats. The guys discuss how and why the film went largely unnoticed both at the box office and at the 2004 Academy Awards. The guys discuss the performances of leads Russell Crowe and Paul Bettany. Ben explains the film's connection with James Cameron's Titanic. Join Cinema: A to B as Alec and Ben chat on why this is one of the best unseen and underrated films of the 2000s.

Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com

Monday Oct 23, 2023

The Matrix (1999) revisited

Monday Oct 23, 2023

The Matrix has you... Journey back to 1999 as Cinema: A to B revisits the landmark sci-fi film from the Wachowskis starring Keanu Reeves. Ben discusses how public perception of the film is affected by the sequels. Alec recounts his first theatrical viewing experience. The guys discuss Keanu Reeves (Neo) along with co-star Carrie-Anne Moss's (Trinity) career. Alec explains why the film's cinematography is so great. The guys revisit the film's stunning visual effects work. Ben discusses how the film's aesthetic was lost in the follow-up entries. The guys further discuss key moments from the film along with the characters and performances of Laurence Fishburne (Morpheus), Hugo Weaving (Agent Smith) and Joe Pantoliano (Cypher).

Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com

Monday Oct 16, 2023

The Creator (2023)

Monday Oct 16, 2023

A SPOILER FREE discussion around the Gareth Edwards sci-fi epic The Creator (2023). Alec discusses why this was one of his most anticipated films of the year. The guys evaluate the film's script. Ben explains why the movie should change audience impressions of John David Washington. Alec has some character and story critiques. Ben explains the pros and cons of shooting the movie on a $4000 USD prosumer Sony cinema camera. The guys draw comparisons with contemporary sci-fi films and round out the discussion on the challenges of balancing visual spectacle with impactful character and story moments.

The article Ben references - https://ymcinema.com/2023/10/06/shooting-a-blockbuster-with-the-sony-fx3-a-rare-inside-look-by-the-creators-dits

Monday Oct 09, 2023

Saving Private Ryan (1998) revisited

Monday Oct 09, 2023

A look back at the landmark Steven Spielberg WW2 film, Saving Private Ryan, starring Tom Hanks. The guys discuss the camera and framing techniques that further add to the realism of the combat. Ben explains how the film paved the way for an entire line of war films and mini-series in the early 2000s. Alec relays a funny story surrounding the casting of Matt Damon. Ben discusses what the film has in common with Oppenheimer. The guys discuss the film's cast and how it launched the careers of an entire generation of actors including Vin Diesel. Join Cinema: A to B as they revisit one of the best war films of all time and one that honors the Greatest Generation.

Watch an Enhanced Version of this Episode - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob

Monday Oct 02, 2023

Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (2023)

Monday Oct 02, 2023

Some spoilers ahead as the guys unpack the fantasy-comedy Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves. Alec explains his initial reservations on the casting of Christ Pine. Ben discusses why this movie works and why it unfortunately didn't perform well at the box office. Alec talks over how the film honors D&D lore while still being accessible to a broader audience. Ben discusses what the film has in common with Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings trilogy. The guys discuss more of the cast and their characters including Michelle Rodriguez, Hugh Grant, Justice Smith and Rege-Jean Page. Join in as Cinema: A to B talks shop on one of the surprising films from 2023.

Monday Sep 25, 2023

Big Trouble in Little China (1986) revisited

Monday Sep 25, 2023

"It's all in the reflexes." Cinema: A to B revisits the beloved John Carpenter action-comedy, Big Trouble in Little China. Alec reveals how he felt about the film after his first and then second viewing. Ben discusses where the main character of Jack Burton (Kurt Russell) ranks among his favorite movie characters. The guys discuss the cast including stars Kim Cattrall and James Hong. Alec reveals a famous filming location the movie shares with an even bigger 80s film. The guys discuss the lost aesthetic of mid 80s visual effects and why this movie in particular failed at the box office. Quotes galore while reminiscing on this cult classic from 1986.

Monday Sep 18, 2023

John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023)

Monday Sep 18, 2023

A look at the fourth and possibly final installment in the Keanu Reeves action-film franchise: John Wick. Spoilers are ahead as Alec and Ben unpack the movie and compare and contrast it with elements of the previous three Wick films. Alec expresses concerns with character development. Ben discusses the film's run-time and cinematography. The conversation shifts to a larger discussion about the current era of actor led action franchises.

Monday Sep 11, 2023

The Usual Suspects (1995) revisited

Monday Sep 11, 2023

In a first for Cinema: A to B Alec selects a surprise film for Ben to discuss: 1995's The Usual Suspects. The guys dive into a conversation on one of the great neo-noir films of the 90s written by Christopher McQuarrie (Mission Impossible franchise, Top Gun: Maverick) and directed by Bryan Singer. Alec discusses how the film kicked off the career of Kevin Spacey. Ben explains why most movies don't look like this anymore. Alec details behind the scenes of the infamous police lineup and why Benicio Del Toro frustrated Singer. Cinema: A to B explains why this just might be the king of the twist ending.

Monday Sep 04, 2023

Goodfellas (1990) revisited

Monday Sep 04, 2023

A look back at acclaimed director Martin Scorsese's 1990 mafia classic, Goodfellas. Alec discusses the late Ray Liotta's sudden rise to prominence with the role of Henry Hill. Ben explains why this is his favorite mafia film. The guys contrast Goodfellas with The Godfather movies and discuss the performances of Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Lorraine Bracco. Ben explains why the film's editing sets it apart and why Joe Pesci's Tommy DeVito still terrifies him. Alec mentions another famous actor who passed on the role of James Conway. Cinema: A to B discuss the technique of voiceover narration in film and round out the conversation with the challenges of shooting the famous single shot Copacabana nightclub entrance.

Monday Aug 28, 2023

The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent (2022)

Monday Aug 28, 2023

A conversation on the 2022 surprise comedy hit The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent. Alec and Ben discuss the performances and acting careers of stars Nicolas Cage and Pedro Pascal. Alec mentions a favorite scene related to auditioning as an actor. Ben gives credit to writer/director Tom Gormican for pursuing Cage with the role. The guys further discuss the rising star of Pedro Pascal.

Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com

YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob

Online Store - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/

Monday Aug 21, 2023

Ocean’s Eleven (2001) revisited

Monday Aug 21, 2023

A look back at director Steven Soderbergh's Ocean's Eleven (2001). Alec explains why this remains one of his all time favorite films. The guys discuss the career trajectories of actors George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Matt Damon. Ben references the film Soderbergh homages during the Bellagio fountain sequence. Cinema: A to B converse on the film's shooting and editing style and how it has impacted cinema since. Ben relays a funny film school story told by a professor regarding Brad Pitt. Alec recalls a chance encounter with Andy Garcia in a grocery store. Film quotes abound.

Monday Aug 14, 2023

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023)

Monday Aug 14, 2023

A Spoiler Free discussion of the final installment in the Indiana Jones franchise, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. Ben discusses where the young Indiana Jones deepfake VFX worked and where it fell short. Alec gives his thoughts on the state of the franchise with this last installment. The guys give performance breakdowns including Harrison Ford, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Mads Mikkelsen, and Boyd Holbrook. Cinema: A to B explains why the film has underperformed the box office and how that may not be a fair way to judge the movie. The guys discuss James Mangold's direction of the film and the ways in which the film adheres to the Indiana Jones story formula. The episode concludes with a discussion of whether this should be the last we've all seen of the Indiana Jones character.

Monday Aug 07, 2023

Generation Kill (2008) revisited

Monday Aug 07, 2023

A look back at the 2008 HBO TV Mini Series, Generation Kill. Alec shares his thoughts following another recent viewing. Does the series based on Evan Wright's account of the 1st Recon Marines march to Baghdad in 2003 still hold up today? The guys discuss notable performances including Alexander Skarsgard, James Ransone, Lee Tergesen, and Jon Huertas. Alec explains why Rudy Reyes was the only Marine to play himself in the show. Ben discusses a film camera connection between the show and his days in film-school. The guys implore listeners to give this funny, unfiltered, and sometimes poignant look at the modern military a watch... again or for the first time.

Monday Jul 31, 2023

Oppenheimer (2023)

Monday Jul 31, 2023

Cinema: A to B's most anticipated movie of 2023 has finally arrived. Join Alec and Ben for a SPOILER FREE discussion of Christopher Nolan's latest film, Oppenheimer. The guys discuss which theater set-ups they saw the film in, including IMAX. Alec and Ben have high praise for the film's cast: Cillian Murphy, Robert Downey Jr., Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, Josh Hartnett and many others. Ben explains which past Nolan films come closest to the tone and subject of Oppenheimer. Alec discusses the importance of the sound editing and mixing to create an overwhelming experience. Ben makes his Academy Award predictions for the film and explains how the film breaks from conventional Hollywood biopics. Alec implores listeners to see the film in theaters any way they can this summer.

Monday Jul 24, 2023

Blade Runner (1982) revisited

Monday Jul 24, 2023

A look back at the 1982 sci-fi cult classic, Blade Runner. Alec explains why it took him more than one viewing to truly appreciate the film. Ben discusses how the film has influenced pop culture following its release. The guys discuss the many versions of the film culminating in Blade Runner: The Final Cut. Performances are discussed including Harrison Ford (Deckard) and the late Rutger Hauer (Roy Batty). The conversation shifts to a discussion of the film's director, the legendary Ridley Scott.

Monday Jul 17, 2023

Writer-Director Christopher Nolan

Monday Jul 17, 2023

In anticipation of the release of Oppenheimer (2023), Cinema: A to B ventures away from the traditional film discussion to take a look back at the career of Writer-Director Christopher Nolan. The guys work through Nolan's impressive filmography as they discuss his unique approach to filmmaking. Alec discusses his initial introduction to Nolan via Memento (2000). Ben explains why The Prestige (2005) might be Nolan's most important film. Alec explains Nolan's obsession with time and organic approach to directing actors in Interstellar (2014). Ben gives insight into why Nolan movie sets are so calm and orderly. The conversation rounds out discussing Nolan's commitment to filming in IMAX and whether he can win that elusive Academy Award.