Cinema: A to B

A largely spoiler free discussion of the first season of the Los Angeles Lakers historical drama, Winning Time, now streaming on Max. The guys discuss the performances of the show's actors including: John C. Reilly (Jerry Buss), Quincy Isaiah (Magic Johnson), Jason Clarke (Jerry West), Gaby Hoffman (Claire Rothman), Hadley Robinson (Jeanie Buss) and Solomon Hughes (Kareem Abdul-Jabbar). Ben explains why the variety of cameras and film stocks used throughout the series is effective at conveying the show's era. Alec lauds the show's pacing and direction. The guys discuss why one doesn't have to be a basketball or NBA fan to appreciate the character conflict within the series.

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A look back at the 1995 comedy smash hit Tommy Boy. Alec and Ben discuss the film's late star Chris Farley as well as supporting cast members David Spade, Rob Lowe, and Julie Warner. Cinema: A to B unpacks why this film works as more than just a comedy including its script, structure, and film editing. The conversation shifts to a larger discussion of comedic film's evolution over the last 30 years.

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In anticipation of the release of Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, Cinema: A to B takes a look back at the first four films in the Indiana Jones Saga from creators Steven Spielberg and George Lucas. Join Alec and Ben as they discuss Raiders of the Lost Ark, Temple of Doom, The Last Crusade and the much maligned Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. The guys detail why the fourth entry fell flat. Alec and Ben each explain the what and why of their respective favorite entries in the franchise. Listeners are encouraged to try a different method of viewing Raiders of the Lost Ark. The guys converse on what did and didn't work in Temple of Doom. Ben discusses what makes Last Crusade such a unique entry in the series. Come along as the guys have a fun laughter filled conversation on this beloved saga starring the legendary Harrison Ford.

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Alec and Ben have a spoiler free discussion on the final entry in James Gunn's Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy. Alec explains what he felt worked and didn't with this installment. Ben appreciates the emotional moments and continued commitment to high end visual effects. Alec implores folks to watch the Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special before seeing Volume 3. The guys specifically discuss cast members Bradley Cooper (Rocket), Karen Gillan (Nebula), and Dave Bautista (Drax). The conversation shifts to a discussion of James Gunn's co-leadership of the DC expanded universe as well as a comparison of the current state of Marvel & DC.

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Cinema: A to B takes a look back at Denis Villeneuve's 2021 adaptation of Dune (part one). Alec discusses how the film successfully navigates the political intrigue of the book while still delivering stunning action sequences. Ben speaks to the film's aesthetic and use of practical visual effects. The guys single out and discuss the acting performances of Oscar Isaac, Jason Momoa, Rebecca Ferguson, Timothée Chalamet, and Stellan Skarsgård. Ben gives a special nod to Babs Olusanmokun and explains why his scenes as Jamis are among his favorite in the entire movie. Ben names his most anticipated films of 2023 including Dune: Part 2 and makes an early Academy Awards prediction. Alec explains the inspiration for the different fighting styles shown in the film. The discussion rounds out with an appreciation for Villeneuve's incredible directorial vision.

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A spoiler light conversation on the feature film based on the incredible true story of Nike's pursuit of Michael Jordan, Air (2023). The guys discuss and give high praise to the cast, notably Matt Damon (Sonny Vaccaro), Viola Davis (Deloris Jordan) and Jason Bateman (Rob Strasser). The discussion shifts to the shooting style employed by director Ben Affleck and Alec appreciates a key creative choice made in the film. Ben singles out where the production spent most of their money and how well the key emotional moment in the movie resonates with viewers.

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Cover Art -- Footwear Vectors by Vecteezy

A return to Ridley Scott's masterpiece, Gladiator (2000). Alec explains why this era of cinema is so beloved. The guys converse on the performances of leads Russell Crowe (Maximus) and Joaquin Phoenix (Commodus). Ben gives an insane anecdote on the writing process while making the film and Alec discusses the challenges surrounding the late actor Oliver Reed (Proximo). The conversation shifts to the overall look of the film including production and costume design as well as a fun conversation surrounding the film's composer, Hans Zimmer. Join us as we revisit this 12 time nominated and 5 time Oscar winning epic.

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A spoiler free conversation on the first season of the WW2 show Rogue Heroes on MGM+. Cinema: A to B discusses the performances of the lead actors: Connor Swindells (David Stirling), Jack O'Connell (Paddy Mayne) and Alfie Allen (Jock Lewes). Ben explains why the unique soundtrack choice for the show works. The guys bemoan the lack of prior North African WW2 campaign shows and movies. The conversation rounds out on a discussion of British Television's ability to conclude shows well before they decline.

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A spoiler free conversation on the Nintendo & Illumination Entertainment animated feature film phenomenon, The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Ben discusses how the movie successfully operates on two levels for both kids and adults. Alec shares how Jack Black (Bowser) connects with audiences. The guys discuss the controversy surrounding Chris Pratt as Mario. Ben explains why the visuals are Illumination's best in animation to date. The conversation shifts to a discussion on voiceover work in animated films and why stuffing in as many celebrities into roles might not be the best approach. Cinema: A to B rounds out the discussion hopeful that this opens the door to more Nintendo properties getting the feature film treatment.

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These are fun, off the cuff discussions on movies (new and old) & streaming series. Our goal? Bridge the gap that exists between Hollywood industry insiders and the casual viewer. We're Alec & Ben and this is Cinema: A to B.

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Spoilers ahead on a lengthy conversation on the third season of The Mandalorian on Disney+. Ben gives his honest assessment of the current state of the show. Alec has a well-reasoned suggestion for fixing a major plot issue. Ben reveals his theory surrounding Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy & showrunner/head writer Jon Favreau. The guys further discuss the current state and future of Star Wars streaming series and feature films.

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A spoiler-light conversation on Steven Spielberg's semi-autobiographical film, The Fabelmans. The guys question some of the awards hype surrounding the 2022 movie. Alec discusses how he views Steven Spielberg. Ben singles out notable acting performances and explains Spielberg's defining technique. The Cinema: A to B duo round out the discussion with an appreciation for what Spielberg offers the world of cinema and an encouragement for those who haven't seen the film.

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A spoiler-light discussion of the first season of the 2022 HBO Game of Thrones follow-up, House of the Dragon. Ben explains his initial frustrations with some casting decisions on the show. Alec gives his top 3 acting performances of Season 1. The guys address the Rings of Power comparisons regarding visuals, pacing, and performances. The conversation shifts to author George R.R. Martin and the future of the Game of Thrones world on HBO.

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Cinema: A to B Season 1 Finale: a spoiler light conversation on the 2022 Matt Reeves film The Batman. Alec discusses the movie's new take on the caped crusader. Ben appreciates the shift in tone and new portrayal of Gotham City. The guys give brief performance breakdowns on all the major cast members including Robert Pattinson (Bruce Wayne, Batman), Zoe Kravitz (Selina Kyle), Jeffrey Wright (James Gordon), Colin Farrell (Penguin), and Paul Dano (Riddler). The discussion shifts to the current struggles of Warner Bros. and hopes for The Batman 2.

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Cinema: A to B takes a look back at the Tom Clancy spy thriller from 1990, The Hunt for Red October. Is this the best in the submarine film genre? Alec and Ben make their case. Alec explains why the visual effects largely hold up even after over 30 years. Ben discusses the directing prowess of John McTiernan. Cinema: A to B dives deep into the performances of the cast including the late Sean Connery, Alec Baldwin, Scott Glenn, and Sam Neill. The guys also explain why this movie's writing and dialogue is a lot funnier than you might remember.

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Travel back to 1986 as Cinema: A to B revisits the John Hughes comedy, Ferris Bueller's Day Off. Alec drops a fun Ben Stein anecdote and discusses the challenges of comedic acting. Ben explains why the film's title is a bit misleading. The guys converse on the careers of stars Matthew Broderick (Ferris) and Alan Ruck (Cameron). Alec and Ben reminisce on the snapshot in time portrayed by this 1980s classic.

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A spoiler filled episode on the 2022 Brad Pitt action-comedy Bullet Train. Or is it a comedy-action film? Alec draws comparisons to Guy Ritchie films. Ben has mostly high praise for the cast but a lone casting gripe. Alec discusses some side-story missteps. Cinema: A to B rounds out the episode on a brief discussion on the future of actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Tangerine).

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Alec and Ben revisit Frank Darabont's 1994 masterpiece The Shawshank Redemption. But was it always so heralded? Alec explains its unconventional route from largely unnoticed Stephen King adaptation to becoming a cinematic classic. Ben reveals the special place the film has for him as well as its cinematographer Roger Deakins. The guys discuss the career of Tim Robbins and the casting decision of Morgan Freeman to play Red. Cinema: A to B reflects on the film's powerful message.

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On a spoiler heavy episode Alec and Ben delve into what worked and what didn't in the 2022 sequel to Black Panther. Alec comes away impressed with many of the acting performances, namely Angela Bassett & Winston Duke. Ben discusses challenges the creators had in filming without the late Chadwick Boseman. The Cinema: A to B duo have issues with the narrative and discuss what a third film might offer the MCU.

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2023 Oscars Bonus Episode. A spoiler heavy discussion of the 2022 WWI film All Quiet on the Western Front. Alec and Ben have a conversation on this 9 time Oscar nominated Netflix war film based on the 1929 novel by Erich Maria Remarque. Alec discusses the film's length and emotional impact. Ben talks about the overall look of the film. The conversation shifts to a larger discussion of the war film genre including war films over the last 25 years (1917, Saving Private Ryan, The Thin Red Line). This bonus podcast episode closes with more conversation surrounding the Academy Awards both past and present.

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On this spoiler heavy episode, Alec & Ben take a look back at the 2022 box office smash hit Top Gun: Maverick. The guys discuss their different impressions of the Tom Cruise sequel based on how they watched it. Alec compares Maverick with the original film. Ben feels sorry for the Air Force and proposes a title for Top Gun 3.

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An extended episode dedicated to the film Alec and Ben have had more conversations over than any other, Heat (1995). Cinema: A to B dives into all the elements that make Michael Mann's crime drama so extraordinary while also discussing key plot points and memorable scenes. Alec wonders if Heat could even be made today. Ben discusses how the movie depicts Los Angeles. Several bad Al Pacino impressions are in store and much more.

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Alec and Ben have a spoiler light discussion of the first season of the Disney+ phenomenon Andor. Alec gives examples of how the show does fan service the right way. Ben explains how the story transcends Star Wars. The guys discuss why the series should be a template for other big budget streaming shows.

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Is the awards hype real? A thoughtful conversation on the 11-time Academy Award nominated film: Everything Everywhere All at Once. Alec discusses casting actors against type. Ben implores fledgling filmmakers to take note of some key decisions made by directors Dan Kwan & Daniel Scheinert. The Cinema: A to B duo explain why the viewing environment you see this movie in matters.

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Is the much maligned The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power as bad as everyone thinks? Join Alec & Ben as they discuss the first season of Amazon Prime's most expensive show to date and unpack where the show fell short, where it succeeded, and their hopes for a second season. The comparisons with Game of Thrones are.. well.. inevitable.

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