A monthly podcast about film and film culture from the writers behind 3 Brothers Film. Each episode features a roundtable discussion on a chosen film as well as commentary on current topics in film culture. Hosted by Anders, Anton, and Aren Bergstrom of 3 Brothers Film. Produced by Aren Bergstrom.
MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - THE FINAL RECKONING sets itself up as the final film in the long running Tom Cruise spy series. Anton and Anders offer their thoughts on the film and how it fits into the legacy of the series. They get into the themes and how the film fits our current moment, with the A.I. villain, “The Entity.” During the conversation they note the film's many references, not only to other films in the series, but also the James Bond films, RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK, and THE TERMINATOR. They end the conversation by discussing their ranking of the eight films in the series and where THE FINAL RECKONING fits in.0:47 Keynote3:01 Table Talk48:56 Ranking the SeriesClips:“Terminator 2: Judgement Day” (1991)“Mission: Impossible III” (2006)“Duck Amuck” (1953)“Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning” (2025)“Mission: Impossible” (1996)“Mission: Impossible II” (2000)Read more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
What is your favourite Val Kilmer performance? There are a lot of ways to answer this question and the Brothers consider them all during a tribute to the late movie star, who passed away recently at the age of 65. The Brothers dig into the appeal of Kilmer as an actor and explore his most memorable and unique performances, his contributions to 1990s cinema, his approach to method acting, and his theatricality as an actor. During the conversation, they touch on various Kilmer films, including BATMAN FOREVER, TOMBSTONE, HEAT, TOP GUN, WILLOW, SPARTAN, and PRINCE OF EGYPT.0:49 - Keynote1:37 - The Current: Remembering Val KilmerClips:- “Batman Forever” (1995)- “Spartan” (2004)- “Top Gun” (1986)- “Top Gun: Maverick” (2022)Read more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
What's the best baseball movie of all time? It might be new, but Carson Lund's EEPHUS belongs in the conversation. Anders and Aren dig into the independent baseball drama and explore the film's approach to time, use of character actors, and uniquely cinematic exploration of baseball and the end of things. Afterwards, the Brothers discuss some of the best baseball movies of all time, including BULL DURHAM, FIELD OF DREAMS, and A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN.0:43 - Keynote2:10 - Table Talk: “Eephus”38:29 - The Current: Best Baseball Movies39:44 - Table Talk: “Bull Durham”45:06 - Table Talk: “Field of Dreams”47:52 - Table Talk: “Everybody Wants Some!!”49:46 - Table Talk: “Homer at the Bat”54:00 - Table Talk: “61*”56:45 - Table Talk: “Major League”58:17 - Table Talk: “A League of Their Own”Clips:- “Bull Durham” (1988)- “Eephus” (2024)- “Field of Dreams” (1989)- “A League of Their Own” (1992)- “The Simpsons” (1992)Read more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Do the Oscars matter anymore? The Brothers dig into this question as they discuss the 2025 Oscar nominations. First, they offer their general thoughts about this year's nominees and where the Oscars stand as an institution in 2025. Next, they dig into the Best Picture nominees they didn't discuss on previous episodes, including THE BRUTALIST, A COMPLETE UNKNOWN, CONCLAVE, EMILIA PÉREZ, NICKEL BOYS, THE SUBSTANCE, and WICKED. Finally, they offer their predictions for what movie will take home Best Picture in this unpredictable awards season.0:45 - Keynote2:27 - The Current: 2025 Oscar Nominations15:26 - Roundtable: “Conclave”25:43 - Roundtable: “The Brutalist”28:15 - Roundtable: “A Complete Unknown”34:16 - Roundtable: “Emilia Pérez”41:15 - Roundtable: “Nickel Boys”45:27 - Roundtable: “The Substance”54:09 - Roundtable: “Wicked”57:52 - The Current: Other 2025 Nominations1:01:17 - The Current: Best Picture PredictionsClips:- “Anora” (2024)- “Conclave” (2024)- “Nickel Boys” (2024)- “Sunset Boulevard” (1950)Read more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
If we had to get a remake of NOSFERATU in 2024, are we lucky that Robert Eggers made it? The Brothers examine this question as they discuss Eggers' NOSFERATU remake starring Bill Skarsgård and Lily Rose-Depp. They dig into the film's approach to the vampire story, its formal interests, its themes, and its performances. They also compare the film to Murnau's and Herzog's past NOSFERATU films. Afterwards, they turn their attention to 2024 as a whole as they share a few of the best movies, new and old, that they watched over the past calendar year.1:34 - Roundtable: “Nosferatu”46:38 - The Current: Best of 2025Clips:- “Nosferatu” (2024)- “Overlord” (1975)Further Reading:- Anton's review of “Nosferatu”- Anton's essay on “Nosferatu, A Symphony of Horror”Read more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Is DIE HARD a Christmas movie? THE SOUND OF MUSIC? CHILDREN OF MEN? The Brothers examine whether these movies make for unconventional Christmas films in a roundtable discussion on what makes a movie a Christmas movie. They lay out their theories for how to define a Christmas movie and encourage some expansion of the traditional criteria, even as they push back on the subjectivity of the definition.0:54 - Roundtable: What Makes a Movie a Christmas Movie?Further Reading/Viewing:- 12 Unconventional Christmas Movies- 3 Brothers Film Christmas coverage- 9 Unconventional & Under-Appreciated Movies for EasterRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Are you not entertained? The Brothers answer this question as they dig into Ridley Scott's GLADIATOR II, his long-awaited sequel to the original film from 2000. They examine the film's impact as a work of popular entertainment, dig into how it operates as a legacy sequel, debate its performances and action scenes, and ultimately examine how the film reflects our current political moment. Later, they discuss Scott's original GLADIATOR and particularly how Russell Crowe's Maximus remains arguably the most memorable movie character of the 21st century.1:50 - Roundtable: “Gladiator II”54:18 - Roundtable: “Gladiator”Clips:- “Gladiator” (2000) Universal Pictures- “Gladiator II” (2024) Paramount Pictures- “Training Day” (2001) Warner Bros. PicturesFurther reading:- Anton's review of “Gladiator II”- Anton's essay, “Maximus Is the Man: How Gladiator (2000) Gave Us One of the Great Movie Heroes”Read more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Is ANORA a progressive indie all about representation and destigmatization, or a hilarious, madcap romantic thriller? Perhaps it's a bit of both. The Brothers explore these questions and more as they review Sean Baker's Palme d'Or winner. In particular, they focus on the film's anthropological lens, its lead performance, its pacing, its humour, its setting, and, of course, the critical discourse surrounding the film. Afterwards, they go on a tour of their recent fall viewing, touching on revisits and new releases, including M. Night Shyamalan's TRAP, Sean Baker's TAKE OUT, David Fincher's FIGHT CLUB, which turned 25 this year, Clint Eastwood's JUROR #2, Edward Berger's CONCLAVE, and the HBO series ROME, for good measure.0:33 - Roundtable: “Anora”52:47 - The Current: “Trap”56:19 - The Current: “Take Out”57:51 - The Current: “Fight Club”1:05:15 - The Current: “Juror #2”1:11:04 - The Current: “Conclave”1:17:17 - The Current: “Rome”Clips:- “Anora” (2024) Neon- “Metropolitan” (1990) New Line Cinema- “Return of the Jedi” (1983) Lucasfilm- “Revenge of the Sith” (2005) LucasfilmRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Who is this made for? It's the question at the heart of the critical and commercial failure of two of the fall's biggest movies: Francis Ford Coppola's MEGALOPOLIS and Todd Phillips' JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX. The Brothers examine both these films with roundtable discussions. In particular, they discuss the themes, visual approach, performances, and tonal oddness of MEGALOPOLIS and the provocative framing, social commentary, and audience contempt of JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX. They cap off the conversation by discussing a few of the movies and TV shows they're watching this year for Halloween Horror. 0:48 - Roundtable: “Megalopolis”30:25 - Roundtable: “Joker: Folie à Deux”58:06 - The Current: Halloween HorrorClips:- “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad” (1948) Walt Disney Productions- “The Dark Knight” (2008) Warner Bros. Pictures- “Joker: Folie à Deux” (2024) Warner Bros. Pictures- “Megalopolis” (2024) Lionsgate Films- “Over the Garden Wall” (2014) Cartoon NetworkFurther reading:- The Brothers' Halloween Horror coverage- Anton's review of “Megalopolis”- Anders' review of “The Village”Read more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Does Tim Burton still have the juice? The Brothers dig into this possibility during a roundtable discussion of BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE, his legacy sequel to his 1988 classic. After sharing their takes on the original BEETLEJUICE, the Brothers dig into the new film and examine its casting, storytelling, and gags. They broaden the discussion to examine Tim Burton's overall career and discuss the film in light of all the other legacy sequels that exist in contemporary Hollywood.0:26 - Keynote2:32 - Roundtable: Beetlejuice Beetlejuice26:02 - Roundtable: Tim Burton Movies51:41 - The Current: Legacy SequelsClips:- “Batman” (1989) Warner Bros.- “Batman Returns” (1992) Warner Bros.- “Beetlejuice” (1988) Warner Bros.- “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” (2024) Warner Bros.- “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” (2024) Warner Bros.Further reading:- Aren's review of “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”Read more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Can a movie embody the cynical impulses of modern Hollywood franchise filmmaking while still satisfying as a good movie? The Brothers examine this question during a roundtable discussion of Fede Álvarez's ALIEN: ROMULUS. They discuss whether the movie worked for them, its connections to previous ALIEN movies, its approach as a slasher film, its inventive set pieces, and its cast. They also try to get at what the movie's core themes might be before they extend the conversation to discuss the other movies in the ALIEN series and provide individual rankings.0:25 - Keynote3:26 - Roundtable: “Alien: Romulus”53:20 - Roundtable: “Alien” SeriesClips:- “Alien” (1979)- “Alien: Romulus” (2024)- “Blade Runner” (1982)- “Blue Collar” (1978)Apologies for the quality of Aren's audio track this episode.Read more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Is TWISTERS empty nostalgia or an effective summer blockbuster? The Brothers examine the success of Lee Isaac Chung's TWISTERS in a roundtable discussion. First, they give their overall takes on the movie's function as a summer blockbuster. Then, they dig into Lee Isaac Chung's authorial approach to the material, the movie's examination of climate change, the charismatic lead performances from Glen Powell and Daisy Edgar-Jones, the romantic storytelling, the eccentric supporting cast, and the film's thematic approach to the disaster movie genre as a whole. Later, they broaden the discussion to look back at the original TWISTER, share some of their favourite disaster movies of the 1990s, and focus on the social implications of the disaster movie genre over the decades.0:29 - Keynote2:39 - Roundtable: “Twisters”49:03 - Roundtable: “Twister” & 90s Disaster MoviesClips:- It's a Wonderful Life (1946) RKO Radio Pictures- Twisters (2024) Universal PicturesRead Anton's review of TWISTERS: https://3brothersfilm.com/blog/2024/7/23/review-twisters-2024Read more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Do you have it in you to make it epic? The Brothers ponder this question during a roundtable discussion of George Miller's FURIOSA: A MAD MAX SAGA. They start the conversation with some fast takes on every film in the MAD MAX series. Afterwards, they dig into FURIOSA specifically, exploring its action filmmaking, approach to myth, character building, and comparisons to FURY ROAD. They continue the discussion by broadening the focus to explore each other film in the series: MAD MAX, MAD MAX 2 (a.k.a. THE ROAD WARRIOR), MAD MAX: BEYOND THUNDERDOME, and MAX MAD: FURY ROAD. They offer each of their series rankings and assorted thoughts about how the series spawned the post-apocalyptic subgenre as a whole.0:37 - Keynote2:35 - Fast Takes: “Mad Max” Series6:12 - Roundtable: “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga”22: 53 - Roundtable: “Mad Max” SeriesClips:- Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024) Warner Bros. Pictures- Mad Max (1979) Roadshow Film Distributors- Mad Max 2 (1981) Roadshow Film Distributors- Waterworld (1995) Universal PicturesRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Is PULP FICTION as good as it was in 1994? Worse? Better? The Brothers ponder the film's impact on themselves and cinema as a whole in a roundtable discussion of Quentin Tarantino's iconic crime film. They discuss the film's cast, narrative, and style as well as compare its chapters and share their favourite characters and segments. Later, they broaden the conversation to discuss Tarantino's entire filmography and share their top three Tarantino films.0:32 - Keynote7:05 - Roundtable: “Pulp Fiction”53:33 - Roundtable: Top 3 Tarantino FilmsClips:- “Duck Amuck” (1953) Warner Bros. Pictures- “The Killers” (1946) Universal Pictures- “Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood” (2019) Sony Pictures Releasing- “Pulp Fiction” (1994) Miramax Films- “Star Wars” (1977) Twentieth Century FoxRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Is ROAD HOUSE truly ROAD HOUSE without Patrick Swayze? This question looms over the Brothers roundtable discussion of Doug Liman's ROAD HOUSE, starring Jake Gyllenhaal. They discuss the film's action filmmaking, storytelling, setting, and approach as a remake before comparing it to Rowdy Herrington's original film starring Patrick Swayze. In particular, they outline some of the many reasons why the original film is not a guilty pleasure, but rather one of the best action films of the 1980s.0:29 - Keynote3:49 - Roundtable: “Road House” (24) vs “Road House” (89)Clips:- “Road House” (1989) United Artists- “Road House” (2024) Amazon MGM StudiosRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Is DUNE: PART TWO this generation's THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK? None other than Christopher Nolan suggested as much. The Brothers examine the success of Denis Villeneuve's epic sequel in this roundtable discussion. In particular, they focus on the film's thematic approach, its Shakespearean ending, the performances of the all-star cast, the design and worldbuilding, its qualities as an adaptation, and its potential legacy within science-fiction cinema.0:28 - Keynote4:12 - Roundtable: “Dune: Part Two”Clips:- “Dune” (2021) Warner Bros.- “Dune: Part Two” (2024) Warner Bros.- “The Empire Strikes Back” (1980) Twentieth Century FoxRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Indebted to Otto Preminger's ANATOMY OF A MURDER as well as many prestige dramas from the 1980s and 1990s, Justine Triet's ANATOMY OF A FALL is one of the best reviewed movies of 2023 and a nominee for Best Picture and Best Director at this year's Oscars. The Brothers dig into the film and its deliberately ambiguous storytelling in a roundtable discussion. In particular, they focus on the film's withholding of information, stylistic approach, interrogation of the French legal system, and showy performances. They also debate the film's central question: did she do it?0:29 - Keynote5:14 - Roundtable: “Anatomy of a Fall”Clips:- “Anatomy of a Fall” (2023) Le Pacte- “The Shining (1980) Warner Bros.Read more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Has streaming permanently changed how we gauge success? Are BARBIE and OPPENHEIMER the future of Hollywood? The Brothers discuss these questions and more as they examine three possible trends in filmmaking and cinema during a bonus roundtable discussion.0:22 - Roundtable: 3 Big Trends Going into 2024Clips:- “Dune” (1984) Universal PicturesRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
What does a good modern blockbuster look like? Is it more like Takashi Yamazaki's GODZILLA MINUS ONE or Zack Snyder's REBEL MOON: PART ONE - A CHILD OF FIRE? The Brothers examine the state of modern, large-scale genre filmmaking in a roundtable discussion of GODZILLA MINUS ONE, the surprisingly successful new entry in the long-running kaiju series from Toho Studios. They discuss the film's dramatic approach, action sequences, and homages to the work of Steven Spielberg and Studio Ghibli before they turn their attention to Snyder's REBEL MOON: PART ONE, the divisive director's attempt to create a space opera franchise on Netflix.0:33 - Keynote3:29 - Roundtable: “Godzilla Minus One”47:53 - Roundtable: “Rebel Moon: Part One - A Child of Fire”Clips:- “Godzilla Minus One” (2023) Toho Studios- “Henry V” (1989) Curzon Film Distributors- “Rebel Moon: Part One – A Child of Fire” (2023) Netflix- “Star Trek III: The Search for Spock” (1984) Paramount PicturesRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
When it came out in 1970, Donald Shebib's GOIN' DOWN THE ROAD was considered the greatest English-language Canadian film ever made. Today, it remains one of the seminal films of Canadian cinema and a profound working class drama about shattered dreams in Toronto. In light of Donald Shebib's passing late last year, Anton and Aren discuss GOIN' DOWN THE ROAD and why it remains such a powerful work to this day.2:12 - Roundtable: “Goin' Down the Road”Clips:- “Goin' Down the Road” (1970) Chevron PicturesRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Is NAPOLEON a heroic epic or a tragic comedy? Does Ridley Scott split the difference between the two in his historical epic starring Joaquin Phoenix as the French military commander-turned-emperor. The Brothers examine these questions during a roundtable discussion of Scott's new film. In particular, they focus on the film's battle scenes, its performances, its portrayal of Napoleon as a great man of history, its comic elements, its point of view, and its comparisons to past Scott films as well as key influences, including Stanley Kubrick's BARRY LYNDON and Miloš Forman's AMADEUS.0:23 - Keynote6:23 - Roundtable: “The Napoleon”Clips:- “Amadeus” (1984) Orion Pictures- “Napoleon” (2023) Columbia PicturesRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Is THE KILLER David Fincher's return to form or Fincher's self-reflexive critique of his own filmmaking habits? Could it be both? The Brothers dig into these questions during a roundtable discussion of Fincher's latest film, which is currently streaming on Netflix. During the discussion, they also ask whether we should only expect great movies from great auteurs, examine the film's performances, discuss its critiques of modern society, compare it to film noirs of the past, and celebrate its standout action scene.0:23 - Keynote4:27 - Roundtable: “The Killer”Clips:- “Fight Club” (1999) 20th Century Fox- “The Killer” (2023) NetflixRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8twAdditional Reading:Adam Nayman's review of “The Killer” for The Ringer: https://www.theringer.com/movies/2023/11/7/23949516/the-killer-movie-review-netflix-david-fincher
What's scarier? Emotional trauma or a literal demon? David Gordon Green's THE EXORCIST: BELIEVER seems to think both are plenty spooky as it recreates the structure of William Friedkin's original film to explore evil, both psychological and spiritual. The Brothers dig into whether this gambit works in a roundtable discussion, which also touches on the film's role as a legacy sequel, its syncretic religiosity, its performances, and its success (or failure) as a horror film. Afterwards, they broaden the discussion to examine THE EXORCIST series as a whole, remarking on which films in the series work best and how the original film remains so iconic 50 years later.0:29 - Keynote4:55 - Roundtable: “The Exorcist: Believer”55:18 - Roundtable: “The Exorcist” Series1:19:21 - OutroClips:- “Dominion: Prequel to the Exorcist” (2005) Warner Bros. Pictures- “The Exorcist” (1973) Warner Bros.- “The Exorcist III” (1990) 20th Century Fox- “The Exorcist: Believer” (2023) Universal Pictures- “From Dusk till Dawn” (1996) Miramax Films- “Halloween Ends” (2022) Universal Pictures- “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” (2023) Walt Disney Pictures- “Star Wars” (1977) 20th Century FoxRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Is A HAUNTING IN VENICE a horror movie? The marketing makes it seem like Kenneth Branagh has reinvented his Hercule Poirot series as a haunted house horror thriller, with grisly deaths, supernatural happenings, and an overwhelming atmosphere of dread. But does the movie match the marketing? Yes, and no. The Brothers dig into the film's genre positioning in a roundtable discussion. They also example the film's theatricality, Branagh's roots as a Shakespeare actor and director, and the film's examination of spiritualism vs materialism. Later, they look back on the PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN trilogy to mark the 20th anniversary of THE CURSE OF THE BLACK PEARL.0:26 - Keynote4:45 - Roundtable: “A Haunting in Venice”48:15 - Roundtable: “Pirates of the Caribbean” 20th Anniversary1:04:47 - OutroClips:- All Is True (2018) Sony Pictures Classics- A Haunting in Venice (2023) 20th Century Studios- Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (2006) Buena Vista PicturesPirates of the Caribbean reviews:- Anton on “The Curse of the Black Pearl”: https://3brothersfilm.com/blog/2023/9/5/review-pirates-of-the-caribbean-the-curse-of-the-black-pearl- Aren on “Dead Man's Chest”: https://3brothersfilm.com/blog/2023/9/7/review-pirates-of-the-caribbean-dead-mans-chest-2006- Anders on “At World's End”: https://3brothersfilm.com/blog/2023/9/8/review-pirates-of-the-caribbean-at-worlds-end-2007Read more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8twApologies for the quality of Aren's audio track, which was the result of an unforeseen technical issue.
What's your favourite movie of the 2023 summer movie season? The Brothers share their answers as they discuss BARBIE, OPPENHEIMER, SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE, SOUND OF FREEDOM, and other 2023 summer movie releases. They also examine the political discourse surrounding the smash successes of BARBIE and SOUND OF FREEDOM, shout out some of the summer's notable indie releases, and share what memorable old films they caught up with this summer.0:00 - Intro0:14 - Roundtable: 2023 Summer Movie Roundup23:17 - OutroRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
What are the most influential movies of the 1970s? The standard answer is to say STAR WARS and JAWS, as these two blockbusters reinvented Hollywood and became the lode stars of mainstream filmmaking for the following decades. But the Brothers argue that George Lucas's AMERICAN GRAFFITI deserves to be in the conversation as one of the most influential Hollywood movies of the decade. In a roundtable discussion to mark its 50th Anniversary, the Brothers examine AMERICAN GRAFFITI and its various thematic and formal approaches, including its nostalgic lens, its performances, its characterizations, its experimental sound recording, and the film's indebtedness to the French New Wave.0:00 - Intro0:26 - Keynote3:59 - Roundtable: “American Graffiti”1:00:00 - OutroClips:- American Graffiti (1973) Universal Pictures- Mad Men (2007) AMC- Phantom of the Paradise (1974) 20th Century Fox- Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999) 20th Century FoxSuggested Reading:- Anton's review of American Graffiti: https://3brothersfilm.com/blog/2023/8/25/review-american-graffiti-1973Read more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Is ASTEROID CITY a great Wes Anderson film? The Brothers discuss Anderson's latest in a roundtable discussion. Specifically, they share general thoughts, discuss whether Anderson is suffering from diminished returns, interrogate the performances and frame narrative, and offer possible avenues for accessing the meaning of the work.0:00 - Intro0:31 - Roundtable: “Asteroid City”19:59 - OutroClips:- “Asteroid City” (2023) Focus FeaturesRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Does the world still need Indiana Jones? The Brothers examine this question during a roundtable discussion of James Mangold's INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY. They offer their general reactions to the film, compare it to past films in the series, debate the performances of newcomers Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Mads Mikkelsen, and examine how the film is stuck between recreating adventure serials of the past and embodying the flattened worldview of blockbusters of the present.0:00 - Intro0:59 - Keynote4:22 - Roundtable: “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny”55:36 - OutroClips from:- Goldfinger (1964) United Artists- Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023) Walt Disney Studios- Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989) Paramount Pictures- Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984) Paramount Pictures- No Time to Die (2021) Universal Pictures- Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981) Paramount PicturesRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Does THE FLASH epitomize the failure of the DCEU? The Brothers examine this question during a roundtable discussion of Andy Muschietti's new film starring Ezra Miller. After some general takes on the film's success (or lack thereof), they focus on the film's performances, chronology, strange tone, CGI cameos, and examine the confusing history of the DCEU writ large. They also dig deep into the film's use of false nostalgia and comparisons to the MCU, specifically SPIDER-MAN: NO WAY HOME, before offering a brief review of SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE and pondering what's next for superhero cinema.0:00 - Intro1:04 - Keynote4:54 - Roundtable: “The Flash”49:04 - Review: “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”57:23 - OutroClips from:- “Ally McBeal” (1997) 20th Century Fox- “Batman” (1989) Warner Bros.- “Batman Forever” (1995) Warner Bros.- “Batman & Robin” (1997) Warner Bros.- “The Flash” (2023) Warner Bros.- “Peacemaker” (2022) Warner Bros.- “Spider-Man: No Way Home” (2021) Sony PicturesRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
What are you excited to see in the 2023 summer movie season? Is Christopher Nolan just a dumb guy posing as a smart guy or will his OPPENHEIMER be the movie of the summer? Will INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY fall into the same trap as the Disney STAR WARS and MCU movies? Can Greta Gerwig's BARBIE possibly be good? The Brothers ponder these questions and more as they preview the 2023 summer movie season.0:00 - Intro0:29 - The Current: 2023 Summer Movie Preview27:05 - OutroClips:- “The Master” (2012) The Weinstein CompanyRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Is RETURN OF THE JEDI the first prequel? The Brothers ponder this question during a roundtable discussion to mark the film's 40th anniversary. They examine the themes of this final film in the STAR WARS Original Trilogy, explore how the film makes the saga about a family instead of an individual, celebrate the film's technical achievements and performances, and dig into its remarkable editing. They also examine how it connects to the rest of the STAR WARS franchise and relitigate some of the film's most notorious elements, including George Lucas's Special Edition edits and the presence of Ewoks and other family-friend creatures.0:00 - Intro0:44 - Keynote2:47 - Roundtable: “Return of the Jedi”53:32 - OutroClips from:- “Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest” (1995) Nintendo- “The Empire Strikes Back” (1980) 20th Century Fox- “It's a Wonderful Life” (1946) RKO Radio Pictures- “Return of the Jedi” (1983) 20th Century Fox- “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace” (1999) 20th Century Fox- “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith” (2005) 20th Century Fox- “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” (2019) Walt Disney StudiosAren's review of RETURN OF THE JEDI for their 2019 STAR WARS Retrospective: https://3brothersfilm.com/blog/2019/9/30/star-wars-episode-vi-return-of-the-jedi-1983Read more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
The Brothers put on their best kevlar-reinforced three-piece suits for a roundtable discussion of Chad Stahelski's JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 4. They offer their impressions of this latest installment in the series, examine the action filmmaking, dig into some of its key themes, investigate the series' worldbuilding, and celebrate the performances of Keanu Reeves and Donnie Yen. They also examine the film's video game qualities before they move onto a roundtable discussion of THE SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE, the video game blockbuster from Nintendo and Illumination.0:00 - Intro1:30 - Keynote3:57 - Roundtable: “John Wick: Chapter 4”47:53 - Roundtable: “The Super Mario Bros. Movie”1:04 - OutroClips from:- “Alice in Wonderland” (1951) Walt Disney Productions- “John Wick” (2014) Summit Entertainment- “John Wick: Chapter 2” (2017) Lionsgate- “John Wick: Chapter 4” (2023) Lionsgate- “The Sopranos” (1999) HBO- “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” (2023) Universal Pictures- “Super Mario 64” (1996) Nintendo- “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” (1988) Buena Vista PicturesRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Anton dons a hood and descends into the catacombs of Rome for a review of Andrew Hyatt's PAUL, APOSTLE OF CHRIST, a biblical drama about the Early Church starring James Faulkner as St. Paul and Jim Caviezel as St. Luke. Anton examines how the film is framed as a kind of dystopian thriller, almost like an ancient world BLADE RUNNER, and how Hyatt creates an atmosphere of tension and paranoia through his worldbuilding. He goes on to examine the film's budgetary restrictions and unpack the film's depiction of persecution and its potential relevance for contemporary viewers.You can read the original written review at 3 Brothers Film.
The Brothers don the Ghostface mask for a roundtable discussion of Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett's SCREAM VI. They give overall impressions, discuss the set-pieces, investigate the film's use of satire and humour, and evaluate the performances. Then, they compare the film to the other SCREAM movies and offer a ranking of the series, before finally calling into the Corey hotline for a comparison with another requel horror series.0:00 - Intro1:18 - Keynote5:09 - Roundtable: “Scream VI”43:32 - Roundtable: “Scream” Series Rankings59:47 - OutroClips from:- “A Nightmare on Elm Street” (1984) New Line Cinema- “The Simpsons” (1993) 20th Century Television- “Scream” (1996) Dimension Films- “Scream 2” (1997) Dimension Films- “Scream” (2022) Paramount Pictures- “Scream VI” (2023) Paramount PicturesRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Aren comes out of retirement and returns to the ring for a review of Michael B. Jordan's CREED III, the third film in the ROCKY spinoff series starring Jordan as Adonis Creed. Aren examines the film's performances, particularly the work of Jonathan Majors as Adonis's friend-turned-rival, Dame Anderson. He also unpacks the film's visual approach to the fight sequences and contends that the film is one of the few Hollywood movies to explore a positive version of masculinity.You can read the original written review at 3 Brothers Film.
Anton turns down the gas and sneaks around the attic for a review of George Cukor's GASLIGHT, the iconic thriller starring Ingrid Bergman as a woman being psychologically tormented by her husband. Anton examines how the film generates tension and approaches the lack of mystery about the villain, discusses Ingrid Bergman's excellent performance, and explores the film's enduring impact within the wider culture.You can read the original written review at 3 Brothers Film.
Aren buckles his seatbelt and braces for impact to review Jean-Francois Richet's PLANE, the throwback action movie starring Gerard Butler as a commercial airline captain rescuing his passengers from Filipino militants. Aren examines how the film takes good advantage of the conventional Hollywood three-act structure and then goes on to show how it leverages Gerard Butler's sweaty charm.You can read the original written review at 3 Brothers Film.
The Brothers look into the crystal ball and read the tea leaves as they offer commentary and predictions on the 2023 Oscar nominations. After general thoughts, they dig into the top six categories and offer their predictions for the winners, as well as their major snubs for the categories and who'd they'd remove to make way for their favourites.0:00 - Intro0:36 - The Current: 2023 Oscars45:40 - OutroRead our written work at https://3brothersfilm.comClips:- “Ambulance” (2022) Universal Pictures- “Crimes of the Future” (2022) Sphere Films- “The Fabelmans” (2022) Universal Pictures- “Pearl” (2022) A24- “The Simpsons” (1993) 20th Century Television
The Brothers look in the mirror and see the light for a roundtable discussion of M. Night Shyamalan's KNOCK AT THE CABIN. They discuss whether the film's narrative worked for them, address differences from the novel, examine its religious storytelling and in the process compare it to SIGNS, and unpack the film's formal elements and performances. Then, they place the film within Shyamalan's larger career.0:00 - Intro1:44 - Keynote5:03 - Roundtable: “Knock at the Cabin”46:55 - Roundtable: Films of M. Night Shyamalan54:54 - OutroClips from:- “The Big Lebowski” (1998) Gramercy Pictures- “Boogie Shoes” by KC and the Sunshine Band (1978) - “Knock at the Cabin” (2023) Universal Pictures- “Signs” (2002) Buena Vista Pictures- “The Twilight Zone” (1959) CBSRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.comSubscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Aren grabs his Lego and parks himself in front of the TV set to review Kyle Edward Ball's SKINAMARINK, the low-budget experimental horror movie that's made waves this winter. In particular, Aren examines the film's radical formal approach, which uses avant-garde techniques to lull the viewer into a dissociative nightmare.You can read the original written review at 3 Brothers Film.
Anton dons his diving bell and heads to the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean to examine James Cameron's TITANIC in an in-depth audio review in time for its 25th Anniversary theatrical re-release. Anton examines how the film fits into James Cameron's career and draws on new insights into Cameron's work gleaned from 3 Brothers Film's James Cameron Retrospective. He also specifically explores TITANIC as a movie about time travel.You can read the original written review at 3 Brothers Film.
The Brothers don their fanciest ascots and crispest chef's aprons for a roundtable discussion of Rian Johnson's GLASS ONION: A KNIVES OUT MYSTERY and Mark Mylod's THE MENU. The discuss the successes and failures of each individual film, focusing on the subversive storytelling of GLASS ONION, the generic modesty of THE MENU, and both film's comedic approaches. Then, they compare the films as indictments of the rich and powerful and end with an appreciation of Ralph Fiennes' comedic abilities.0:00 - Intro1:43 - Keynote6:44 - Roundtable: “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery”32:03 - Roundtable: “The Menu”1:00:54 - OutroClips from:- “Falling Down” (1993) Warner Bros.- “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” (2022) Netflix- “Hail, Caesar!” (2016) Universal Pictures- “Looney Tunes” (1948) Warner Bros.- “The Menu” (2022) Searchlight PicturesRead more of the 3 Brothers' reviews, features, and roundtables at https://3brothersfilm.com.Subscribe to the 3 Brothers Film YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO1zge4GZWu3-mdH-VPv8tw
Anders and Aren warm up the projector and spool their 8mm film for a table talk discussion of Steven Spielberg's THE FABELMANS. They discuss the film's autobiographical elements and interest in the act of filmmaking, the performances of Paul Dano and Michelle Williams, the film's reflections on Spielberg's career as a whole, and the noteworthy cameo in the final scene.0:00 - Intro1:50 - Keynote5:28 - Table Talk: “The Fabelmans”44:52 - OutroClips from:- “The Fabelmans” (2022) Universal Pictures
The Brothers sync with their avatars and dive to the bottom of the ocean to discuss the films of James Cameron to mark the release of AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER. During the discussion, they reflect on what they've learned from doing the James Cameron Retrospective at 3brothersfilm.com, evaluate common themes and obsessions in his work, compare him to Christopher Nolan and Alfred Hitchcock, highlight key aspects of his documentaries, and, finally, offer key takeaways about him as a director.Read our James Cameron Retrospective reviews.Watch our video essay “King of the World: A Very Short Introduction to the Films of James Cameron”0:00 - Intro00:36 - Roundtable: James Cameron Retrospective41:42 - OutroClips:- The Abyss (1989) 20th Century Fox- Ghosts of the Abyss (2003) Buena Vista Pictures- Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991) Tri-Star Pictures- Titanic (1997) Paramount Pictures
The Brothers follow the clues during a roundtable discussion of Park Chan-wook's DECISION TO LEAVE. They explore the film's structural and thematic similarities to Alfred Hitchcock's VERTIGO, unpack its weighty themes about Korea and relationships, and highlight some of its complex visual storytelling. Afterwards, they broaden the conversation to include Park's other films such as OLDBOY and discuss how DECISION TO LEAVE ranks in his filmography. Finally, they offer some Korean movie recommendations to anyone wanting to explore the national cinema beyond the films of Park and Bong Joon-ho and the TV series SQUID GAME.0:00 - Intro1:36 - Keynote6:15 - Roundtable: “Decision to Leave”40:19 - Roundtable: Films of Park Chan-wook48:50 - The Current: Korean Movie Recommendations56:40 - OutroClips from:- “The Dark Knight” (2008) Warner Bros. Pictures- “Decision to Leave” (2022) CJ Entertainment- “Oldboy” (2003) CJ Entertainment- “Squid Game” (2021) Netflix- “Vertigo” (1958) Paramount Pictures
The Brothers put on their William Shatner masks and grab some butcher knives for a roundtable discussion of David Gordon Green's HALLOWEEN ENDS, focusing on the film's unconventional narrative focused on Corey Cunningham, exploration of evil, indictment of the audience, and function as a series climax. They also broaden the discussion to touch on the HALLOWEEN series as a whole. Then, they discuss which horror movies they've watched recently and offer some recommendations for scary horror movie viewing for Halloween.0:00 - Intro1:21 - Keynote3:33 - Roundtable: “Halloween Ends”31:46 - Roundtable: “Halloween” Series Breakdown51:13 - The Current: Horror Movie Recommendations1:06:39 - OutroClips from:- “The Exorcist III” (1990) 20th Century Fox- “Halloween” (1978) Compass International Pictures- “Halloween” (2018) Universal Pictures- “Halloween III: Season of the Witch” (1982) Universal Pictures- “Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers” (1995) Dimension Films- “Halloween Ends” (2022) Universal Pictures- “Halloween Kills” (2021) Universal Pictures- “Hocus Pocus 2” (2022) Walt Disney Pictures- “Pearl” (2022) A24- “The Simpsons” (1993) 20th Century TelevisionFurther Reading:- 3 Brothers Film Halloween Horror Archive
The Brothers descend into the belly of Monstro during a roundtable discussion of Robert Zemeckis' PINOCCHIO remake. During their united takedown of the film, they discuss the shoddy CGI, poor performances, feeble attempts at cultural relevance, and woeful misunderstanding of the lessons of the original fairy tale. Then, they broaden their focus to discuss Disney's live-action remake trend in general and ask whether any of these films offer more than empty cosplay.0:00 - Intro1:43 - Keynote6:12 - Roundtable: “Pinocchio”38:09 - The Current: Disney Live-Action Remakes52:54 - OutroSupport 3 Brothers Film on Patreon.Clips from:- “Nope” (2022) Universal Pictures- “Pinocchio” (1940) Walt Disney Pictures- “Pinocchio” (2022) Walt Disney Pictures- “The Simpsons” (1995) 20th Century Television- “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” (1988) Buena Vista Pictures
The Brothers light a cigarette and open a bottle of Coca-Cola in remembrance of Jean-Luc Godard, the iconoclastic filmmaker who died recently at the age of 91. The Brothers discuss some of their favourite Godard films before wrestling with his confrontational relationship with his audience and debating the merits of his critical cinematic approach.0:00 - Intro0:11 - Keynote: Remembering Jean-Luc Godard2:17 - The Current: The Films of Jean-Luc Godard23:34 - OutroEditor's Note:- The Brothers incorrectly stated that Anna Karina starred in “Masculin Féminin.” The film actually starred Chantal Goya.Clips:- “Alphaville” (1965) Athos Films- “The Dick Cavett Show” (1980) PBS- “Two or Three Things I Know About Her” (1967) UGC
The Brothers are beamed up to the mothership for a roundtable discussion of Jordan Peele's NOPE, focusing on the film's use of misdirection, themes about spectacle and exploitation, performances, and originality. Then, they offer a roundtable discussion of M. Night Shyamalan's SIGNS to mark its 20th Anniversary earlier this summer. Finally, they compare Peele and Shyamalan as filmmakers and contrast their films.0:00 - Intro1:35 - Keynote5:19 - Roundtable: “Nope”42:14 - Roundtable: “Signs”1:09:39 - OutroSupport 3 Brothers Film on Patreon.Clips from:- “Nope” (2022) Universal Pictures- “Signs” (2002) Buena Vista Pictures- “The Simpsons” (1995) 20th Century Television
The Brothers get nostalgic as they look back on the 2022 summer movie season. They discuss whether this was the first normal summer movie season since the pandemic began, offer their brief thoughts on the summer's new releases, and reflect on the old movies they revisited or watched for the first time.0:00 - Intro0:11 - The Current: 2022 Summer Movie Season17:07 - OutroSupport 3 Brothers Film at https://www.patreon.com/3brothersfilm.Clips:- The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001) New Line Cinema- Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl (2003) Walt Disney Pictures- Something Wild (1986) Orion Pictures
The Brothers put on their leather jumpsuits and hit the Vegas stage for a roundtable discussion of Baz Luhrmann's ELVIS, focusing on the performances of Austin Butler and Tom Hanks, the film's kaleidoscopic editing patterns, investigation of cultural appropriation, and complex narration and use of iconography. Then, they turn their attention to other musical biopics in general and discuss how ELVIS compares to other films in the genre.0:00 - Intro1:37 - Keynote5:34 - Roundtable: “Elvis”43:01 - The Current: Musical Biopics57:34 - OutroSupport 3 Brothers Film on Patreon.Clips from:- “Elvis” (2022)- “Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story” (2007)