Born To Watch - A Movie Podcast

The heat is back on as the Born to Watch crew heads back to Beverly Hills for some high-octane hijinks, fast-talking cons, and serious shoulder-padded style. In this week's episode, Whitey, G-Man, and Dan on the Land revisit the 1987 sequel that turned up the dial on Eddie Murphy's star power with their Beverly Hills Cop II Review, directed by the ever-slick Tony Scott.From the moment Axel Foley slides behind the wheel of a Ferrari to the final shootout at the oil fields, the team breaks down why this neon-soaked action-comedy remains an ‘80s icon. They revel in Murphy's unmatched charisma, dissect the film's bold visual flair, and relive the glory of Harold Faltermeyer's synth-driven score and Bob Seger's anthemic “Shakedown.”Whitey goes deep on Tony Scott's signature aesthetic, the burnished orange hues, the stylized action, the hyper-stylized masculinity, while G-Man keeps it grounded with sharp takes on the film's functional but fun villainy and the lovable duo of Rosewood and Taggart. Meanwhile, Dan (pizza in hand) dishes on Eddie's behind-the-scenes power moves and the rise of “Eddie Murphy Productions,” proving this was the moment Axel Foley became Eddie Murphy's true alter ego.The boys aren't afraid to poke fun, either. From the inexplicable countdown robberies and oddly muscular strippers to baffling wardrobe coincidences (how did that blazer fit Taggart so well?), this episode's got more questions than an alphabet heist. And don't get them started on the extra at the Playboy Mansion doing an interpretive dance; he's earned a permanent spot in the Bad Running Ripley Hall of Fame.They also tip their hats to the era: the coke-fueled Simpson/Bruckheimer production madness, the bafflingly low Rotten Tomatoes scores despite the film being the second biggest box office hit of 1987, and the sheer power of a good montage scored by Seger. It's a masterclass in style-over-substance, but sometimes style is the substance.And of course, it wouldn't be a Born to Watch episode without diversions into North Shore memories, Magnum P.I. comparisons, and the origin story of Dan's legendary mustard shirt. If you know, you know.So, whether you're an ‘80s kid raised on VHS or just discovering that Beverly Hills had a crime problem solvable only by Detroit's finest, this episode is a full-throttle celebration of a sequel that doesn't just play the hits, it cranks them.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!Join the conversation:Is Beverly Hills Cop II better than the original? Does Tony Scott's style elevate the film or overshadow it? Which song hits harder: “Shakedown” or “The Heat Is On”?Leave us a voicemail at BornToWatch.com.au and be part of the show!#BornToWatch #BeverlyHillsCopII #EddieMurphy #TonyScott #80sMovies #ActionComedy #MoviePodcast #BobSeger #Shakedown #CultClassics #BeverlyHillsCop2

Step back into the Hyborian Age as the Born to Watch team revisits the sword-swinging, snake-worshipping, bass-drum-thumping fantasy epic that turned Arnold Schwarzenegger from a musclebound oddity into a bona fide cinematic icon. In this week's episode, Matt, Damo, and Will the Worky unsheath their mics and tackle John Milius' 1982 cult classic in our Conan the Barbarian (1982) Review, a film where dialogue is sparse, but biceps and barbarism are abundant.From the first clang of steel to the last decapitated villain, the team dissects how Conan carved a path for modern sword-and-sorcery flicks. They marvel at Basil Poledouris' thunderous score, which practically carries the film on its symphonic shoulders, because let's face it, Arnie wasn't hired for his monologues (all 76 words of them). The music, paired with breathtaking cinematography and operatic violence, sets a tone so grand it makes modern blockbusters feel like children's theatre.Matt reminisces about watching Conan far too young, the kind of early exposure to gore and magic that forges lifelong genre fans, or scars. Damo is surprised by how little he remembered and how much more there was to appreciate in the rewatch, especially the high fantasy structure and iconic character archetypes. Meanwhile, while watching it for the first time, Will finds joy in the bizarre mix of stoic barbarism and pseudo-philosophy, and even draws connections to his favourite cult flicks.The team dives deep into the lore, from Nietzsche quotes (anachronistically inserted, of course) to the Riddle of Steel, and unpacks Conan's journey from orphaned child to vengeful demigod. They salute James Earl Jones' haunting performance as Thulsa Doom, complete with snake eyes and an even more chilling voice and appreciate how he lends gravitas to a film otherwise packed with loincloths and camo body paint.There's plenty of laughs, too. From the bizarrely tame “orgy” scene (more twister than temptation) to the ineptitude of Thulsa Doom's guards who fall like dominoes, no absurdity is safe. The guys revel in the moments where the film leans into camp, noting that sometimes a little cheese makes the fantasy feast even better.But it's not all satire and side-eyes. They pay proper homage to the movie's impact on pop culture and its clear influence on everything from Game of Thrones to Willow. There's admiration for the throwback practical effects, the majestic (if questionably choreographed) sword fights, and the sheer cinematic ambition that poured from every dust-covered frame.Of course, no Born to Watch episode would be complete without some detours into the ridiculous. You'll hear about suspiciously hygienic cave-dwellers, the logistics of snake cult recruitment, and even a story involving an orgy, a wall, and a very confident swinger. Yep, it's that kind of episode. So, whether you're a lifelong Conan fan or just now discovering that sword and sorcery can be both epic and unintentionally hilarious, this episode is a glorious deep-dive into a film that helped define 1980s fantasy cinema and the Born to Watch crew wouldn't have it any other way.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!Join the conversation:Is Conan the most iconic role of Arnold's career?Does Basil Poledouris' score make this an all-time great?What's the most badass moment in the film?Please drop us a voicemail at BornToWatch.com.au and be part of the show!#BornToWatch #ConanTheBarbarian #ArnoldSchwarzenegger #SwordAndSorcery #80sMovies #FantasyEpic #MoviePodcast #BasilPoledouris #JamesEarlJones #CultClassics

This week on Born to Watch, we lace up our Asics, slap on a second singlet, and head to the sun-soaked courts of Venice Beach as we rewind to 1992 with our White Men Can't Jump Review, a film that might be the most gloriously nineties thing we've ever reviewed. From hypercolor hats to bike shorts over trackies, this movie is a time capsule of an era when trash talk was an art form and hustling was a full-time job.Whitey and G Man go deep on this cult classic, remembering their own basketball glory days and how this film shaped their approach to trash talk on and off the court. More than just a sports movie, White Men Can't Jump is a gritty, witty, and surprisingly layered look at addiction, betrayal, and self-destruction, with a side of slam dunks and “yo mama” jokes.Woody Harrelson's Billy Hoyle is the kind of guy who can't get out of his own way, while Wesley Snipes' Sidney Deane has charm, ambition, and just enough hustle to burn his own mates. Together, they're magic on the court, but it's off the court where their flaws truly shine. Gloria, played by Rosie Perez, may be one of the most annoying characters in cinematic history, but she's also a vital part of the film's emotional punch, and maybe, just maybe, part of Billy's downfall.The boys ask the big questions: Is this actually a comedy? Or is it a cleverly disguised tragedy about two men who can't get out of their own way? Is Gloria the real villain? And why does Sidney wear a cycling cap to play basketball? There are critical breakdowns of the basketball action (which holds up surprisingly well), deep dives into the fashion, and stories of real-life trash talk glory from the Narrabeen Fitness Camp days.We cover everything from the impeccable chemistry between Harrelson and Snipes to the deeper themes that still resonate today. And yes, we've got the stats: box office, critical reception, director Ron Shelton's sporting film pedigree, and why this movie may be more about green than black or white.So grab your Gatorade, stretch out like Billy on the sideline, and settle in for a Born to Watch deep cut that'll take you back to a simpler time—when all you needed was a ball, a dream, and someone to hustle.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!Join the conversation:Is Billy Hoyle the most frustrating character in sports movie history?Was Gloria's Jeopardy obsession genius or just plain annoying?Who had the better game—Billy or Sydney?Please drop us a voicemail at BornToWatch.com.au and be part of the show!#BornToWatch #WhiteMenCantJump #WesleySnipes #WoodyHarrelson #RosiePerez #90sBasketball #MovieHustle #TrashTalkLegends #RonShelton #MoviePodcast

This week on Born to Watch, we dive headfirst into the bug-infested chaos of Paul Verhoeven's 1997 cult classic, with our Starship Troopers (1997) Review. It's brutal, brilliant, and batshit insane and we wouldn't have it any other way.With the Born to Watch crew all lined up in the co-ed showers, Whitey, Damo, Dan, and special guest Matty Beer Geek go deep (but not too deep) on the movie that was mocked at release but has grown into a beloved sci-fi satire. Is this just a brainless space action flick? Or is it a razor-sharp takedown of fascism and militarism? Or both? Spoiler: it's both.We break down the iconic moments: the ridiculously perfect jawlines of Casper Van Dien and Denise Richards, Michael Ironside chewing scenery like the legend he is, and Jake Busey's teeth doing most of the acting for him. From Zegema Beach to brain bug psychic probes, we cover it all.Expect plenty of laughs as the boys recall their first times watching it, at sweaty cinemas, VHS marathons, and maybe even the odd midnight screening. Plus, some heartfelt debate: Dizzy or Carmen? Would you sign up to be a citizen or sit back and let the bugs win? And yes, we do get very specific about the co-ed shower logistics (spoiler: prep is key).There's also time for a raucous trip down 1997 memory lane. Damo sweats it out in the back row, Dan's off riding dirt bikes through Romania and eating 19 types of salami, and Matty brings his A-game from the West. We revisit the hottest music of the year, the infamous Playboys of McDonald's video rental section, and mourn the box office fate of Starship Troopers. This misunderstood gem lost money but gained a cult following.With a budget that would make even the Federation blush, and CGI bugs that still look better than some 2025 blockbusters, Starship Troopers is pure Verhoeven: provocative, pervy, and politically charged.We also take aim at the critical drubbing this movie received on release, some reviewers clearly didn't get the joke. We shine a light on the film's relevance today: Would the satire hit harder in a post-Hunger Games, post-Fury Road world? Is this what our future looks like if TikTok replaces civics education?In true Born to Watch fashion, we ask the tough questions:Is this Verhoeven's secret masterpiece?Who's worse: Carmen or the bugs?And most importantly, how do you prep for a co-ed shower in boot camp?Whether you're a superfan who's seen it 30 times or a rookie just enlisting in the Mobile Infantry, this episode is for you. So load your Morita rifle, shout “Kill ‘em all!”, and join us as we break down Starship Troopers the only way we know how, boobs, bugs, banter, and all.Because remember: everyone fights. No one quits. And we were Born to Watch.

In this week's episode of Born to Watch, we're diving deep, like three layers deep, into Christopher Nolan's reality-bending sci-fi thriller with our Inception (2010) Review. The team celebrates three years of podcasting with one of the most mind-twisting films of the 21st century.It's only fitting that a film about dreams, time loops, and subconscious sabotage kicks off our birthday episode. With a cast that includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hardy, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Ken Watanabe, this Nolan original has become a modern classic. But is it as smart as it thinks it is? Does the top fall? And how many times do you really need to watch it to understand what the hell is going on?Whitey, G-Man, and Damo don't just scratch the surface, they go full inception mode, breaking down the film's ambitious plot, its dream architecture, and whether Cobb is actually home with his kids or just lost in another layer.From Dreamscapes to DiCaprioWhitey kicks off with his usual gusto, revealing that he saw Inception solo on opening day, classic cinephile move. He hails it as peak Nolan and DiCaprio's most complex role, while G-Man confesses he just watched the movie in full for the first time this week. Damo, meanwhile, delivers the ultimate snob flex: he's seen it three times and still finds new details with each watch.The team breaks down Dom Cobb's fractured psyche, the emotionally rich (and confusing) relationship with Mal, and how Ariadne (played by Elliot (Ellen) Page) is more than just the new recruit; she's the audience surrogate. There's praise for Joseph Gordon-Levitt's gravity-defying hallway fight and Tom Hardy's cheeky charm as dream-forger Eames. Hardy might just be playing his most “normal” character ever.The Nolan EffectFrom the layered timelines to the rules of the dream world, Nolan's script is pure high-concept storytelling. The boys debate the film's exposition-heavy style, with Damo defending it as necessary and Whitey pointing out how cleverly the rules are integrated into dialogue. G-Man admits that the film almost lost him early on, but it eventually clicked.The group agrees that what sets Inception apart isn't just its ambition, it's the balance between visual spectacle and emotional stakes. Cobb's longing to return to his children grounds the entire story. As Whitey puts it, “Love is the engine of the movie.” And that spinning top at the end? The debate rages, with Damo arguing that the wedding ring, not the top, is Cobb's real totem.Zimmer's Sonic BoomHans Zimmer's iconic score is one of the true stars of the episode and the film. The guys take a detour to relive their recent trip to see Zimmer live, where “Time” was the final encore and “Mombasa” opened the show. Damo drops some deep trivia, including Zimmer's creation of the signature “braaam” sound that became a staple in modern trailers.Zimmer's blend of orchestral grandeur and percussive power is credited with elevating Inception to the next level. It's not just background music, it's narrative glue.Big Ideas, Bigger DebatesThe episode also tackles the meta: could inception be real? Is dream-sharing possible? The crew has fun exploring the logic (and illogic) of the film's concept, concluding that it's a hard "maybe". They also dive into Nolan's place in the pantheon of modern directors, putting him above even some of the biggest names for his commitment to originality.Damo offers a run-through of the best Nolan films, debating whether Inception tops The Dark Knight, Interstellar, and Memento. G-Man drops trivia about the film's production and cast (yes, Pete Postlethwaite was only in it for three minutes), and the whole crew salutes Nolan's ability to deliver blockbuster-level art films.IN THIS EPISODE:Dream physics, logic puzzles, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt in zero-GThe tragic brilliance of Mal and why Cobb's guilt is the real villainTom Hardy: suave or too normal?The mystery of Ariadne's tiny pantsIs this peak Nolan? (Spoiler: probably)Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your movie fix.Join the conversation:Does the top fall or spin forever?Is Inception Nolan's best film or just his most ambitious?Who out of the cast would make the best Bond?Drop us a voicemail at BornToWatch.com.au and tell us your dreams—or nightmares—about the movie.#InceptionReview #ChristopherNolan #LeonardoDiCaprio #BornToWatchPodcast #HansZimmer #TomHardy #MoviePodcast #SciFiMovies #MindBendingCinema #DreamWithinADream

Clint Eastwood might be known for playing grizzled, hard-as-nails lawmen, but in our In the Line of Fire (1993) Review, he takes things in a different direction, just slightly. This week, the Born to Watch crew dives into this overlooked 90s political thriller that pits Eastwood's aging Secret Service agent Frank Horrigan against one of cinema's most memorable villains: John Malkovich as the terrifying Mitch Leary.Whitey, G-Man, and Will “The Worky” are in studio to unpack the deadly game of cat and mouse that unfolds in Wolfgang Petersen's taut, tense, and occasionally trope-heavy flick. What follows is a mix of movie breakdowns, personal throwbacks, accidental roastings, and a bold declaration that Malkovich might just rival Hannibal Lecter as one of the great screen psychopaths.Eastwood: Still Got It (But Also, He's 63) Gow calls Eastwood's performance “Dirty Harry with a blue pill next to the bed.” Whitey thinks it's flirty, even charming, a rare side of Clint. Will just seems shocked that he's now the Born to Watch Eastwood expert. The team debates whether Frank Horrigan is one of Clint's best post-Unforgiven roles or just another iteration of his go-to tough guy with a badge and a haunted past.Malkovich: BAFTA Noms, Creepy Vibes, and a Murderous Basement John Malkovich steals the show as Mitch Leary, a former CIA assassin with a grudge, a creepy lair that looks suspiciously like Buffalo Bill's basement, and a habit of tormenting Clint over the phone. His calm delivery, terrifying intensity, and sheer unpredictability earned him an Academy Award nomination and earned our crew's unanimous praise. The guys marvel at his screen presence, his range, and yes, his mysterious career choices.'90s Tropes and Why We Love Them The gang agrees: In the Line of Fire is soaked in ‘90s action movie tropes, and that's not a complaint. From overbearing chiefs of staff and cheesy one-liners to conveniently timed sniper reveals and romantic subplots with massive age gaps, the movie wears its era on its sleeve. Renee Russo's chemistry with Clint is questionable at best, and her role sparks a deep (and hilarious) debate about whether she's “a good sort” or a “right-light good sort.”Clint's Dating Age Gap: A Cinematic Tradition With Eastwood at 63 and Russo at 39, the romantic tension raises eyebrows. “She's two years younger than his daughter,” Whitey points out. “It could've been a father-daughter thing.” The conversation doesn't stop there; it spirals into references to Seinfeld, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, and Monty Burns.Cat, Mouse, and Jazz Piano This movie isn't just about bullets and bravado — it's got emotional weight too. Frank's regret over JFK's assassination adds gravitas to the plot, and the constant tension between him and Leary plays out over landlines and cassette recorders. The team loves the phone calls, the psychological warfare, and yes, Clint's real-life jazz piano skills.IN THIS EPISODE:Eastwood's “grizzled flirt” energy gets ratedMalkovich's villain performance gets compared to movie greatsThe trailer's original JFK-themed edit sparks a nostalgic digression‘90s newsagents, porno mags, and the glory days of inside sport magazinesDamo cops heat in the Snobs Report beef from a random footy guyIt's a movie about obsession, redemption, and running beside the presidential limo at 60+. It's also a conversation packed with pop culture tangents, Eastwood trivia, and plenty of digs at Morgs (who's nowhere to defend himself).LISTEN NOW on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your pods.Join the conversation:Is In the Line of Fire Clint's last great performance?Did Malkovich deserve the Oscar?Is 63 too old to be jogging beside the president's car?Drop us a voicemail at BornToWatch.com.au and let us know.#InTheLineOfFire #ClintEastwood #JohnMalkovich #BornToWatchPodcast #90sThriller #MoviePodcast #ReneeRusso #SecretServiceMovie

This week on Born to Watch, the team takes aim at one of Quentin Tarantino's most audacious creations with their Inglourious Basterds (2009) Review. Set in Nazi-occupied France during World War II, Tarantino weaves together a brutal tale of revenge, propaganda, and pure cinematic spectacle. Brad Pitt leads the charge as Lieutenant Aldo Raine, a grizzled American soldier commanding a team of Jewish fighters with one simple mission, kill Nazis and collect their scalps.It's a deliciously violent premise, executed with Tarantino's signature flair for dialogue, tension, and shock value. Whitey, Damo, G-Man, and special guest Dan break down the movie's unforgettable moments, from the iconic opening sequence in the French countryside to the explosive showdown in Shoshanna's Parisian cinema.The crew dives deep into the brilliance of Christoph Waltz as Colonel Hans Landa, the “Jew Hunter” whose multilingual charm and chilling brutality won him an Academy Award. Whitey recounts his jaw-dropping experience attending the Inglourious Basterds premiere at the State Theatre in Sydney, where he not only watched the film in stunning 70mm but bumped into Tarantino himself, earning a nod and a “Thanks, mate” from the director. It's a full-circle fanboy moment that the crew can't help but roast him for.Damo, true to form, is sceptical of the film's pacing and violence, admitting that it took him three separate tries to get through it. He hilariously recalls turning it off twice during the Bear Jew scene — the sound of the bat making contact just too much to handle. Meanwhile, G-Man shines with trivia gold, revealing Tarantino's decade-long script process and the last-minute discovery of Christoph Waltz, who stole the role from Leonardo DiCaprio. His ability to seamlessly switch between German, French, Italian, and English during his audition left Tarantino and producer Lawrence Bender high-fiving in disbelief.The team also dissects the infamous basement bar scene — a masterclass in tension and dialogue that only Tarantino could deliver. Michael Fassbender's suave but doomed performance as Lieutenant Archie Hicox gets high praise, while Damo can't help but admire his old-timey English gentleman look. Whitey and Dan debate whether this is the best opening scene of all time, putting it up against classics like Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Dark Knight.Of course, it wouldn't be Born to Watch without a deep dive. Damo declares the movie a “masterpiece of tension,” while G-Man drops the trivia bomb that Tarantino nearly abandoned the script after failing to find the right actor for Landa. It wasn't until Waltz walked in and blew them away with his quad-lingual performance that the movie finally came together.IN THIS EPISODE:Quentin Tarantino's mastery of dialogue and pacingBrad Pitt's Southern drawl and why Aldo Raine might be his coolest roleChristoph Waltz's Oscar-winning turn as Hans LandaWhy the basement bar scene is Tarantino at his bestWhitey's surreal run-in with Tarantino after the Sydney premiereInglourious Basterds is the movie where history gets rewritten, Nazis get what's coming to them, and Tarantino crafts his most ambitious narrative yet. It's violent, sharp, and endlessly quotable. The team at Born to Watch spares no detail, no roast, and no punchline in their breakdown of this modern classic.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your movie fix.Join the conversation:Is Inglourious Basterds Tarantino's best work?Can you handle the Bear Jew scene?Where does Hans Landa rank among the all-time great villains?Drop us a voicemail at BornToWatch.com.au and be part of the show!#BornToWatch #InglouriousBasterds #QuentinTarantino #BradPitt #ChristophWaltz #MoviePodcast #CinemaRevenge #NazisGetScalped #WorldWarIIMovies #TarantinoClassic

In a galaxy not so far from nostalgia, the Born to Watch crew rounds out the trilogy that changed cinema forever with our Return of the Jedi (1983) Review. It's May the Fourth, and there's no better time to jump back into the world of Ewoks, green lightsabers, and the worst security system in the galaxy.This week, Whitey, G-Man, and Damo dissect the final chapter of the original Star Wars trilogy, the movie that gave us a fully-formed Jedi Luke, Jabba the Hutt in all his slobbery glory, and Leia in the most iconic gold bikini of all time. But this isn't just a victory lap for George Lucas. It's a breakdown of when blockbuster storytelling meets merchandising mayhem.From Jabba's Palace to the forests of Endor, the boys revisit every major beat and plenty of forgotten moments, too. G-Man brings the pop-up book trivia. Damo relives a childhood trauma involving a pirate VHS and missing the first 40 minutes. And Whitey, as always, holds court with the kind of deep lore and dry banter only a man surrounded by Star Wars paraphernalia can muster.Naturally, there's love for the spectacle. The speeder bike chase still rips. The throne room showdown between Luke and Vader is the emotional core of the entire saga. The death of the Emperor (before he didn't die) is satisfying. And the battle on Endor? Say what you want about teddy bears with sticks, but the editing is tight and the score is pure Williams gold.But it's not all glowing lightsabers and happy rebel endings. The crew also takes aim at Return of the Jedi's weaknesses. The overcrowded special edition visuals. The musical abomination that replaced "Yub Nub." The awkward moments that suggest George Lucas might've spent a little too long designing action figures.We then fully evaluate supporting characters, acting chops, and space-worthy athleticism. Mark Hamill's skiff-running form gets roasted. Leia's suspicious fingernail choices in the bunker get noticed. And the Ewoks? Well, let's just say there was strong support for showing them feasting on stormtroopers in the final scene.IN THIS EPISODE:The "Salacious Crumbs" rating scale debutsThe guys debate whether Jedi is a true ending or a corporate compromiseHan Solo's charisma vs. the wet sponge that is Hayden ChristensenWhy Luke might be the last Jedi to actually train for the jobWhether Ewoks are underestimated warriors or just lucky teddy bearsThis is Star Wars at peak fandom, part critique, part love letter, and part therapy session for three men who've watched this film dozens of times across decades.From behind-the-scenes changes to Rotten Tomatoes rankings, from the 1983 theatrical experience to the 1997 Special Edition backlash, the Born to Watch crew digs into Return of the Jedi with reverence and razor-sharp commentary. It's loud, nerdy, and very, very fun.And yes, Salacious Crumb gets his due.LISTEN NOW on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your movie fix.Join the conversation:Does Return of the Jedi hold up or sell out?Are Ewoks criminally underrated?And who's the real MVP: Luke, Vader… or the green sabre?Drop us a voicemail at BornToWatch.com.au and join the rebellion.#BornToWatchPodcast #ReturnOfTheJedi #StarWarsDay #EwokBattle #MayTheFourthBeWithYou #MoviePodcast #JabbaTheHutt #SalaciousCrumb #FinalTrilogy #NostalgiaCinema

This week on Born to Watch, we dive into the horror landmark that changed the game: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974). Brutal, raw, and grimy in a way that still shocks today, this episode sees Whitey and Damo take on one of the most infamous cult classics ever made, with Morgz and Gow hilariously "noping out" after the first five minutes.Despite its terrifying reputation, the team quickly notes something surprising: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre isn't about gore, it's about dread. Director Tobe Hooper weaponises your imagination with low-budget ingenuity, turning rural Texas into a sweat-drenched nightmare of implied violence, claustrophobia, and screaming madness.Whitey and Damo break down how the film uses its documentary-style visuals to make you feel like you're inside the nightmare. They discuss the iconic opening narration, the genius use of real animal sounds in place of a traditional soundtrack, and the deeply uncomfortable "dinner scene," which remains one of the most disturbing sequences ever filmed.The episode also explores the surprising lack of blood, the history of censorship surrounding the movie (which was banned for decades in the UK!), and why Leatherface, chainsaw-wielding, mask-wearing, and alarmingly agile, became an instant horror icon. There's serious appreciation for how Texas Chainsaw influenced Evil Dead, Seven, Pulp Fiction, and even the style of Star Wars' opening crawl.Of course, this wouldn't be Born to Watch without a few detours:Franklin and his endless whining take a brutal roasting, and deservedly so.Picking up hitchhikers is a bad move. Hitchhikers carrying photos of slaughtered cows—extra bad move."Don't go in the house, mate" becomes the ultimate horror PSA.Damo tells the all-time story of accidentally picking up hitchhikers while having "Northern Beaches Gay Board Riders" accidentally stuck to his car door.The cast of unknowns stayed unknown, most fading into cult obscurity. But the legacy of the film is undeniable, and the team argues that it might be the rawest and most authentic horror movie ever made.IN THIS EPISODE:Why a minimal budget made Texas Chainsaw even scarier.The genius of Tobe Hooper's “no soundtrack” approach.How Sally Hardesty became the prototype for the Final Girl trope.That horrifying Grandpa scene and why it still messes us up.Whether Leatherface could qualify as CrossFit's most terrifying champion.It's loud, it's grimy, it's uncomfortable, and it's a horror masterclass that still hits like a hammer to the skull.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your movie fixes!Join the conversation:Is The Texas Chainsaw Massacre the most disturbing horror film ever made? Could Leatherface outrun Michael Myers?Have you ever picked up a hitchhiker... and regretted it?Drop us a voicemail at BornToWatch.com.au and be part of the show!#BornToWatch #TexasChainsawMassacre #TobeHooper #Leatherface #HorrorMovies #1970sCinema #FinalGirl #HorrorPodcast #CultClassics #MovieReview #BornToWatchPodcast

With Anzac Day just around the corner, Born to Watch honours a defining moment in Australian cinema with our Gallipoli (1981) Movie Review. Directed by Peter Weir and starring a young, raw Mel Gibson alongside Mark Lee, this film is more than a war story, it's a devastating portrait of friendship, sacrifice, and the tragic cost of blind patriotism. In this episode, Whitey and G-Man revisit the classic through a lens shaped by age, memory, and national identity.From the iconic opening scenes of sprinting through the outback to the haunting stillness of the battlefield at the Neck, Gallipoli strips away the glory of war and lays bare its cruel realities. The boys waste no time diving into the emotional core of the film, mateship. Whitey and G-Man see themselves in Frank and Archie, and they hilariously debate who's who. Is Whitey the cynical Frank, or is G-Man secretly more Archie than he'll admit?But it's not just about comparisons and callbacks to high school Anzac ceremonies. This is Born to Watch at its most reflective and reverent. The guys dig into the cultural significance of Gallipoli, how the film shaped their understanding of the Anzac legacy, and why it's essential viewing for every Australian. It's also a rare episode where the crew admits that this one is hard to joke about. Except, of course, when it comes to figuring out which of their mates is most like Snowy.They talk about how Gallipoli taught them what Anzac Day should mean. Not just a day off to play two-up and hit the pub, but a moment to remember real sacrifice. The 1981 film still hits hard, they argue, because it doesn't sugarcoat the futility of war. And when that final freeze frame lands, it guts you, every time.There's admiration for director Peter Weir, whose resume includes Dead Poets Society, The Truman Show, and Master and Commander. But here, he's in peak form. Gallipoli's scale is intimate but never small; its visuals are sweeping, yet grounded in the personal. And the music? That synth track when Archie sprints across the desert? Still gives the boys goosebumps.The episode gets personal, too. Both hosts recall trying (and failing) to get their teenage kids to watch the film. They revisit childhood memories of Anzac Day school assemblies, the eerie power of “Only 19” and “Waltzing Matilda,” and the VHS that left a permanent mark. G-Man shares stories from his own pilgrimage to Gallipoli, visiting Lone Pine and The Nek and seeing firsthand the terrain that made the battle a bloodbath.As always, there's room for laughs, the mystery of Mark Lee's post-Gallipoli career, and whether it's safe to train for battle with live rounds (spoiler: probably not). But the tone stays grounded, respectful, and proud.They wrap things up with “The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly,” highlighting Gallipoli's haunting silence, its unwavering focus on mateship, and its place in Australian cinematic history. It's not just a war film; it's a rite of passage.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!Join the conversation:Does Gallipoli still define the Anzac spirit?Is this Mel Gibson's best early performance?Have you visited the battlefield yourself?Drop us a voicemail at BornToWatch.com.au and be part of the show!#Gallipoli1981 #BornToWatch #GallipoliMovieReview #AnzacDay #PeterWeir #MelGibson #AustralianCinema #WarMovies #MoviePodcast #LestWeForget

Welcome back to Born to Watch, where this week the team tackles the endlessly rewatchable, criminally underappreciated Edge of Tomorrow (2014). Strap in as Whitey, Damo, and Dan on the Land gear up for a sci-fi action loop fest featuring Tom Cruise in one of his most against-type roles, Emily Blunt as a full-metal badass, and a time-travel plot that actually sticks the landing. Enjoy our Edge of Tomorrow (2014) Review!The boys jump right into the paradox-riddled battlefield, first marveling at how this epic blockbuster somehow bombed in the US, despite being everything a great action movie should be. They blame lousy marketing, title confusion (was it Live Die Repeat?), and the fact that in 2014, Cruise was still on Hollywood's naughty step thanks to Oprah's couch.But now? It's cult-classic gold.Whitey kicks off by calling out just how rare it is to see Cruise playing the weasel, Major Cage is an ad man thrown into combat, clueless and terrified. For Dan, this fish-out-of-water arc makes the movie shine, watching Cruise go from smug coward to unstoppable warrior. Damo agrees, even calling Edge of Tomorrow his number one Cruise performance, yep, he goes there.Emily Blunt earns unanimous praise as Rita Vrataski, the “Angel of Verdun” and all-around exosuit-slaying legend. She's fierce, stoic, and fit as hell, basically the action heroine we didn't know we needed in 2014. Her iconic push-up entrance gets a lot of airtime (and a few longing sighs), and the team agrees she holds her own, and then some, against Cruise.And what would a Born to Watch ep be without the usual blend of insight and irreverence? We get tangents on everything from duck anatomy (cloacas, anyone?) to Bill Paxton's legendary status as the only man killed by a Terminator, a Predator, and an Alien. The Paxton love is real.The pod dives into director Doug Liman's sharp visuals and crisp pacing, and shout out screenwriter Christopher McQuarrie, who somehow turns a convoluted time loop premise into a tight, clever, and emotional thrill ride. Liman's resume (Bourne Identity, Mr. & Mrs. Smith) gets the props it deserves, and there's a great sidebar on the upcoming Road House remake, complete with hot takes on Jake Gyllenhaal.As always, the “Hit, Sleeper, Dud” segment delivers, with Gone Girl getting the nod as a masterful hit, Kevin Costner's 3 Days to Kill as a solid sleeper, and Lucy (sorry, ScarJo) landing squarely in dud territory. Bonus points for Damo's vivid breakdown of Ben Affleck's infamous side-dick scene.The episode also features a glorious Cruise countdown. Each host reveals their top five Tom Cruise films, expect Jerry Maguire, Collateral, Top Gun: Maverick, and of course, Edge of Tomorrow, to make appearances. Damo even throws in Tropic Thunder, because who can forget Les Grossman?Then there's the philosophical stuff: How long was Cage actually in the time loop? (Answer: a hell of a long time). Was blackmailing the general really the best plan? (Debatable). And what's the real ending? (Whitey thinks it's Cruise's “now you're gonna bone me” smile).Oh, and voicemails are back! Listeners call in to rant about The Bodyguard, praise the pod's Whitney Houston renditions, and drop the occasional F-bomb. Classic Born to Watch fan energy.Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!Join the conversation:Is Edge of Tomorrow Cruise's most underrated film? Would you waste 300 time loops trying to get with Emily Blunt? Did this movie deserve to flop—or is it a misunderstood masterpiece?Drop us a voicemail at BornToWatch.com.au and be part of the show!#BornToWatch #EdgeOfTomorrow #TomCruise #EmilyBlunt #MoviePodcast #SciFiMovies #DougLiman #TimeLoopMovies #LiveDieRepeat #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedGems #CinephileApproved

Grab your whip and avoid the monkey brains—this week on Born to Watch, the crew takes on the franchise's wildest, weirdest, and arguably most chaotic chapter, with their Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom Review. Whitey, G-Man, and Damo dust off their fedoras and dive deep into the darker, more divisive entry in the iconic adventure trilogy.Released in 1984 as a prequel to Raiders of the Lost Ark, Temple of Doom was Spielberg and Lucas swinging for something different. What we got was a rollercoaster of tonal shifts, gruesome rituals, screeching sidekicks, and a whole lot of “did that really just happen?” moments. And the Born to Watch crew has a lot to say about it.Whitey opens the show by calling it what it is: a movie that's revered by many, but doesn't quite measure up to the gold standard set by Raiders. For kids of the '80s, it was a VHS staple. But for grown-up podcasters with opinions, it's a tale of two movies—one part rollercoaster fun, one part tonal mess. From the moment Harrison Ford steps off a plane in Shanghai to the heart-ripping Thuggie cult shenanigans in India, the guys unpack every whip crack, every scream, and every questionable creative choice.G-Man shares fond memories of collecting Indiana Jones memorabilia, like those glossy movie programs you'd snag at the cinema. But the nostalgia doesn't blind him—he's quick to call out the film's many plot holes, caricature characters, and some of the worst romantic chemistry in cinematic history. Damo agrees, rating the film a humble “three rewatches” compared to the endless love he has for Raiders. Ouch.And then there's Willie Scott, the club singer-turned-sidekick played by Kate Capshaw (and Spielberg's future wife). The team doesn't hold back on their verdict: screechy, underwritten, and possibly cinema's most annoying scream queen. Compared to Raiders' Marion Ravenwood, she's less “badass adventurer” and more “horny showgirl with a death wish.”But not everything is doom and gloom in Temple of Doom. The pod shines a spotlight on Short Round (Ke Huy Quan), the pint-sized sidekick who stole hearts, especially among the younger viewers. Isabelle, Whitey's daughter, gives him two thumbs up. G-Man draws comparisons to The Goonies and even Star Wars, noting that Lucas may have repurposed some beats from Empire and Return of the Jedi. The mine cart chase? Pure Endor energy. Harrison Ford's smug bedroom banter? Total Han Solo.In classic Born to Watch fashion, the boys rip into the absurdities: Why does Indy carry a full suit in his rucksack? Is a flaming skewer to the gut a valid weapon choice? And what kind of club plays “Anything Goes” on repeat, in both English and Mandarin? These are the real questions.The episode also digs into the bizarre dinner scene at Pankot Palace (chilled monkey brains, anyone?), the film's unexpected legacy in helping create the PG-13 rating, and whether George Lucas' fingerprints are a little too all over this one.And of course, they wrap up with The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly, featuring killer one-liners, Harrison Ford's bad punches, and enough sound effects to make you think you're in a Looney Tunes war zone. There's even a surprise cameo by Dan Aykroyd (yep, that actually happened) and a nostalgic tribute to Val Kilmer and Top Secret.By the end, one thing is clear: Temple of Doom is the middle child of the original Indiana Jones trilogy. Darker than Raiders, sillier than Last Crusade, and a cult classic in its own right. Whether it's a hit, a dud, or a chaotic blend of both, this episode is a wild ride from start to finish.

This week, the team takes on one of the biggest cinematic phenomena of the early '90s: The Bodyguard (1992). A film that smashed box office records, made slow dancing cool again, and somehow convinced us that a love story between a moody security expert and a petulant pop diva was cinema gold. On paper, this had it all: the biggest male movie star in the world, Kevin Costner and the most powerful voice on the planet, Whitney Houston, in her film debut. But does that combo equal instant classic, or is it just a glittery dumpster fire covered in hit singles?Whitey dives headfirst into the spectacle with a hard truth: this movie takes itself way too seriously. We're talking Oscar-level intensity… for what is essentially a Lifetime movie with a better budget. Of course, there's reverence for Costner—because who doesn't love a bit of 1990s mullet-lite Kev, fresh off Robin Hood, JFK, and Dances with Wolves? But even the biggest Costner fans on the panel can't deny that Frank Farmer spends the entire film doing his best impression of an emotionally constipated mannequin.Meanwhile, G-Man marvels at the soundtrack that saved the film from mediocrity. From “I Have Nothing” to the megaton that is “I Will Always Love You,” Houston's vocals are nothing short of breathtaking—and in the end, her voice gives the film its emotional punch. Damo finds himself emotionally moved by the final scene, where the music hits and we remember just how incredible Whitney was. Unfortunately, her performance as Rachel Marron doesn't land quite as well with the crew. Plot holes? Yep, we got ‘em. From inexplicable security failures (three guards for the world's biggest star?) to the mind-boggling moment where a would-be assassin uses a sniper rifle in a room full of Hollywood elites, the film is more Swiss cheese than suspense thriller. Not to mention the infamous scarf-on-the-sword scene, which leads the team to ponder whether a katana counts as foreplay and why no one, ever, draws a curtain in this movie.But The Bodyguard (1992) isn't without its joys. There's the epic needle drops, a lakeside cabin that Damo would happily disappear to forever, and a cast of cartoonishly awful background characters that you're almost rooting for the stalker. The guys also take a detour through Costner's post-Bodyguard career trajectory, which includes Waterworld, The Postman, and the underrated Draft Day.G-Man delivers his signature deep-dive into cast trivia, highlighting everything from Whitney's early gospel roots to her connection with Dionne Warwick, and even a surprise one-degree link to Kurt Russell via the late great Bill Cobbs. There's a healthy debate about whether The Bodyguard was a real movie or just a high-gloss showcase for a chart-topping soundtrack, and somehow, they still manage to rope in Saved by the Bell: Hawaiian Style, Inspector Gadget, and the concept of "vabbing" (yep, it's a thing now).Of course, no episode is complete without the Born to Watch signature segments. The boys dish up their Good, the Bad, and the Ugly—from the iconic knife throw scene and amazing set design, to the complete lack of chemistry between the leads and questionable career choices made by everyone involved. Gage Roads supplies the brews, and Johnny Bull returns with a zinger straight outta Aliens. Oh, and Work Experience Kid cops some heat for trying to bring up brassieres in the Snob's Report. Rookie move.So, was The Bodyguard (1992) a misunderstood masterpiece, or a pop-cultural relic best left in the '90s CD rack? There's only one way to find out. Plug in, turn up the volume, and get ready for the most musically dramatic episode Born to Watch has ever done.

In this emotionally charged episode of Born to Watch, the team marches into the searing heat and moral quagmire of Oliver Stone's Platoon (1986), a film that's arguably the definitive Vietnam War movie of its era. Whitey, G-Man, and the V8 Interrupter Dan revisit the battlefield with a mix of reverence, nostalgia, and hard truths, dissecting the film's impact, legacy, and the deep emotional chord it struck back in the day—and still does today.Kicking off with stories of their first encounters with Platoon, the guys quickly descend into one of their most layered and personal discussions to date. Whitey recalls being told by his dad he wasn't allowed to watch the film—despite already seeing Apocalypse Now and Mad Max at age six. That rebellious spark only deepened his bond with the movie once he finally got his hands on it as a teen. Dan admits to cheating on the crew, watching Platoon with his war-obsessed neighbours back in the ‘80s, completely unaware at the time of the deeper commentary Stone was laying down. For G-Man, Platoon was a rite of passage during his VHS-rented youth, watched on loop like a war-soaked mixtape.But the nostalgia is tempered with fresh eyes. This time around, Platoon hits different. What once felt like badass war action now reveals itself as a gut-punching meditation on morality, survival, and the breakdown of innocence. The guys explore the duality of the film's core—the Elias vs. Barnes dichotomy—representing each soldier's internal war. It's not just America vs. the Viet Cong; it's soul vs. savagery, duty vs. darkness.The cast? Stacked. And not just with stars—but future legends. Tom Berenger and Willem Dafoe snagged Oscar nods for roles that flipped their usual screen personas. Charlie Sheen's Chris Taylor acts as the audience's moral compass, thrust into a world of chaos with no road map. And in the wings, you catch early glimpses of Johnny Depp, Forest Whitaker, Kevin Dillon, and even a scene-stealing John C. McGinley. The Born to Watch crew marvel at the rawness and authenticity that pulses through every frame—helped in no small part by the film's unique decision to shoot in sequence, letting the emotional weight build naturally.And then there's the man behind the camera: Oliver Stone. A real-life Vietnam vet, Stone channelled his firsthand experience into a script that didn't just depict war—it unpacked it, exposed it, and dared to say that sometimes, the worst of humanity wears your own uniform. The pod digs into how Stone's commitment to realism (aided by military advisor Dale Dye, another vet) shaped everything from the dialogue to the weight of each bullet fired.There's the usual Born to Watch flavor too—G-Man's got the box office and awards rundown (hello, Best Picture and Best Director at the ‘87 Oscars), while Dan goes on a bandana-fueled tangent and questions whether Lieutenant Wolfe might be cinema's most inept officer. Whitey can't resist diving into the musical legacy, from that haunting Samuel Barber theme to how the soundtrack now echoes the trauma and tragedy of a generation.Of course, it wouldn't be Born to Watch without Listen to This, Voicemail Roulette (shoutout to “Will the Worky”), and the always-fun “Hit, Sleeper, Dud” segment, where Heartbreak Ridge, Extreme Prejudice, and King Kong Lives get their moment in the spotlight—or the firing line.By the end, the question looms large: Platoon or Apocalypse Now? Each host makes their case in what might be the pod's most respectful debate yet. As G-Man puts it, Platoon is about the war within, while Apocalypse Now is a descent into madness. Either way, both films leave an indelible mark—and so does this episode.So strap in, pop smoke, and join the squad as Born to Watch heads into the heart of darkness with Platoon. This one's for the grunts, the film buffs, and anyone who ever got lost in the jungle of morality and memory.

The crime rate has skyrocketed, New York City has been turned into a maximum-security prison, and only one man can save the President, Snake Plissken. In this week's episode of Born to Watch, the crew dives deep into Escape from New York (1981), John Carpenter's dystopian sci-fi action classic. With Kurt Russell cementing his status as an ‘80s action legend, this film delivers an unforgettable mix of grunge, synth, and one of cinema's most iconic antiheroes.Join Whitey, Damo, and Gow as they break down what makes Escape from New York such a cult favorite. From its gritty, neon-lit depiction of a crumbling NYC to Carpenter's signature synth-heavy score, this movie packs a punch in just 99 minutes. The guys debate whether this is Carpenter's best film (or if The Thing still reigns supreme), dissect the film's incredible cast—including Lee Van Cleef, Ernest Borgnine, and Isaac Hayes—and, of course, question the physics of Snake's impossible glider landing.Expect plenty of laughs, wild tangents (including a deep dive into the weirdest VHS collections), and heated debates over the most ridiculous moments of the film. Plus, find out why Escape from New York still holds up in today's era of dystopian storytelling and why Snake Plissken might just be Kurt Russell's most iconic role.So, strap on your eye patch, fire up the synth soundtrack, and get ready for another action-packed Born to Watch episode!Listen now!https://www.borntowatch.com.au/Rate & Review on your favourite podcast platform!Follow us on social media for more movie madness!https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcast#EscapeFromNewYork #KurtRussell #JohnCarpenter #80sMovies #MovieReview #BornToWatch #CultClassics #SnakePlissken #RetroCinema

Welcome back to Born to Watch, the movie podcast where we dive deep into the films that define genres, push boundaries, and leave audiences speechless. This week, we're tackling one of the greatest action films of the modern era with our Mad Max Fury Road (2015) Movie Review.When George Miller resurrected the Mad Max franchise in 2015, nobody expected just how monumental Fury Road would become. A two-hour adrenaline rush packed with death-defying stunts, high-speed chases, and jaw-dropping practical effects, this film redefined what action movies could be. From the stunning cinematography to the minimal but powerful storytelling, Fury Road remains a cinematic triumph. But where does it rank in the Mad Max series? And is it truly a Mad Max movie, or does Furiosa steal the show? The BTW team breaks it all down.Mad Max Returns—But Is He the Star?Tom Hardy takes over the iconic role of Max Rockatansky, a road-weary survivor haunted by his past. But does Max get lost in the dust in a film filled with larger-than-life warlords, kamikaze war boys, and a heavy-metal guitarist strapped to a flame-throwing rig?Charlize Theron's Imperator Furiosa might be the real heart of Fury Road. Her mission to rescue the wives of the tyrannical Immortan Joe drives the story forward, and her character's emotional depth makes her one of the most compelling action heroines of all time. We discuss whether Fury Road is more of a Furiosa film than a Max one—and how this dynamic affects the franchise as a whole.Behind-the-Scenes Mayhem: A Production NightmareThe journey to bring Mad Max Fury Road to life was almost as chaotic as the movie. Originally planned to film in the Australian Outback, unexpected rainstorms turned the barren wasteland into a flower-filled paradise, forcing the production to move to Namibia. Months of gruelling desert shoots, on-set conflicts, and the sheer ambition of the stunts made this one of the most difficult productions in recent memory.George Miller, the mastermind behind the franchise, pushed for practical effects wherever possible. Almost everything you see on screen—the insane car chases, the gravity-defying stunts, and the war rigs tearing across the desert—was done for real. The result? It is a visceral, pulse-pounding experience unlike anything else.The Legacy of Fury RoadWhen Fury Road hit theatres, it was more than just a blockbuster—it was a game-changer. The film scored 10 Oscar nominations, winning six, including Best Editing for George Miller's wife, Margaret Sixel. But beyond the awards, Fury Road proved that practical effects, real stunts, and original storytelling could still dominate in an era of CGI-heavy action films.But how does it hold up nearly a decade later? Does Fury Road deserve a spot among the greatest action movies ever? And where does it sit in the Mad Max franchise compared to The Road Warrior and Beyond Thunderdome?The BTW Verdict: An Action MasterpieceWith non-stop action, unforgettable characters, and some of the most visually stunning cinematography in movie history, Mad Max Fury Road is a must-watch for any action fan. Whether you're revisiting it for the tenth time or experiencing it for the first, there's no denying that this film is a relentless, high-octane thrill ride from start to finish.Tune in to this week's episode as we break down every explosive moment, debate the film's legacy, and determine if Fury Road is the best Mad Max film yet. Don't forget to leave a review, share the episode with fellow movie lovers, and share your thoughts on the film!

In this episode of Born to Watch, we take a wild ride back to 1985 for a Weird Science (1985) Review, where two geeky teens somehow manage to create the perfect woman with a little help from a computer, some questionable science, and a whole lot of 80s magic. But does this John Hughes cult classic still hold up today, or is it a relic best left in the past? Whitey, G Man, and Damo break it all down—the absurd plot, the unforgettable performances, and the film's impact on pop culture.From Oingo Boingo's legendary theme song to the iconic Kelly LeBrock taking nerd wish-fulfillment to a whole new level, Weird Science is packed with classic 80s energy. But how does it fare when viewed through a modern lens? We debate the film's over-the-top humor, its place in the John Hughes cinematic universe, and whether it's truly a teenage fantasy or just plain ridiculous. And speaking of ridiculous—how about that scene-stealing performance from Bill Paxton as Chet? He might just be one of cinema's most unforgettable older brothers.And here's a question for the real movie buffs: Did Mad Max 2 inspire Weird Science? With Vernon Wells reprising a very familiar role, it's hard to ignore the similarities. We dig into the connections between the two films and how a Mad Max villain somehow ended up in this teenage comedy.Of course, it wouldn't be Born to Watch without some heated debates. Are Ian and Max the worst dweeb bullies in movie history? Did this film get overlooked in a stacked year of 80s cinema? And what was up with Gary's infamous bar scene—comedic genius or a joke that went on way too long?We also bring back the fan-favorite Hit Sleeper Dud segment, uncovering forgotten 1985 gems and taking a closer look at No Retreat, No Surrender, Fortress, and the bizarre misfire that was Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome. Plus, we read some hilarious listener comments and break down why one fan thinks our Fight Club episode might just be the Dune: Part Two of our podcast.And don't miss the return of Whitey's Kick Arse Credit Theme Song, only a quality jingle could make Gow's song this week better.

1999 is often hailed as one of the greatest years in cinema history, and in this episode of Born to Watch, we're diving deep into one of its most iconic and controversial films with our Fight Club (1999) Movie Review. David Fincher's mind-bending psychological thriller took audiences on a chaotic ride through identity, masculinity, and anti-consumerist rebellion. With unforgettable performances from Edward Norton, Brad Pitt, and Helena Bonham Carter, Fight Club became a cult phenomenon—despite its initial box office struggles. But does it still hold up 25 years later? Whitey, G-Man, and Morgz break all the rules to find out.David Fincher's Fight Club was a film unlike anything audiences had seen before, with its nihilistic themes, psychological twists, and underground chaos. Starring Edward Norton as the insomniac narrator and Brad Pitt in one of his most iconic roles as the enigmatic Tyler Durden, this film took audiences on a mind-bending journey through identity, masculinity, and rebellion against consumer culture. But did it resonate with all three of our hosts? Or did one of them somehow make it to 2024 without having seen this cinematic juggernaut in its entirety? (Looking at you, G-Man.)From analysing the film's mind-blowing twist to questioning whether Fight Club is really about toxic masculinity or a critique of modern-day disillusionment, the boys dive deep into the film's layered themes. They also explore the intense performances—Norton's transformation from passive observer to chaotic instigator, Pitt's peak charisma as Durden, and Helena Bonham Carter's brilliantly unhinged Marla Singer. And, of course, there's a tribute to Meat Loaf and his legendary portrayal of Bob with the biggest set of, well… you know.Other highlights include:✔️ The iconic red leather jacket—did Morgz really wear one in San Francisco, and did it get him more attention than Brad Pitt himself?✔️ Fincher's visual style—how Fight Club still looks like it could be released today and stand out among modern films.✔️ The cult following—how Fight Club bombed at the box office but became one of the most beloved films of its generation.✔️ Does the ending actually make sense, or is the bullet to the head a little too conveniently survivable?✔️ The hilarious yet disturbing impact of splicing single frames into family-friendly films—something Tyler Durden (and Fincher himself) seemed to enjoy doing.✔️ Would you answer Chloe's call for help? (Yes, it's exactly what you think.)With plenty of laughs, off-the-rails banter, and a whole lot of admiration for Fincher's filmmaking, this Fight Club review is one for the books. Whether you're a first-time viewer like G-Man or a long-time fan like Whitey and Morgz, this episode breaks down everything that makes Fight Club one of the most talked-about films in modern cinema.Tune in now—just don't talk about it. (Or, actually, please do. Tell your mates. Share it. Fight Club's rules don't apply here.)

Is The Howling the best werewolf movie ever made? That's the big question on this week's Born to Watch, where the team dives deep into this 1981 horror classic. In The Howling (1981) Movie Review, Whitey and Damo take a nostalgic trip back to one of the most iconic (and unsettling) werewolf films of all time.The crew kicks things off by reminiscing about their first encounters with The Howling. For Damo, it was a forbidden treat at the movie theater as a kid, lured in by schoolyard hype over one particular scene. Whitey recalls the unforgettable VHS cover—the infamous clawed-through poster that haunted every video rental store. But does this film still hold up more than 40 years later?The discussion quickly turns to the werewolf genre as a whole. Why are werewolf movies so rare? What makes The Howling stand out from other lycanthropic horror films like An American Werewolf in London or Dog Soldiers? The gang breaks down the film's eerie atmosphere, its chilling transformation sequences, and the stunning practical effects that made Rob Bottin (the man behind The Thing) a legend in Hollywood.Of course, it wouldn't be Born to Watch without some hilarious tangents. The guys analyze everything from the film's oddball characters (like the ultra-horny werewolf Marsha) to its bizarre plot twists, including one of the worst sting operations in movie history. And let's not forget the infamous werewolf sex scene—equal parts steamy and unsettling. Was it necessary? Was it too much? Or was it just the kind of batshit-crazy moment that makes ‘80s horror so much fun?Speaking of fun, The Howling is filled with hidden gems and cool trivia, including surprise cameos from legendary director Roger Corman and future Adam Sandler film director Dennis Dugan. The team also unpacks the film's lasting legacy, from its disastrous sequels (Howling VI: The Freaks, anyone?) to its influence on modern werewolf flicks.And in true Born to Watch fashion, there's plenty of debate:

In this week's Born to Watch episode, Matt and Damo dive into a quirky 80s classic that inspired guilty pleasure rewatches and dreams of window display romance: Mannequin (1987). Join the guys as they reminisce about how Kim Cattrall's Emmy and Andrew McCarthy's Jonathan brought a spark of movie magic into their lives. From Matt's pre-teen obsession with Kim Cattrall to Damo's confusion over the movie's inexplicable ancient Egyptian backstory, no stone is left unturned in this Mannequin (1987) Movie Review.Released on February 13, 1987 (nearly 38 years to the day!), Mannequin tells the story of Jonathan Switcher, a struggling artist whose life takes an unexpected turn when his mannequin creation comes to life. Played by Cattrall, Emmy is the dream girl in window dressing form—literally. The duo's escapades in a struggling department store are filled with over-the-top characters, 80s montages, and laugh-out-loud moments, making this film a surreal yet iconic time capsule.As the hosts explore the nostalgia factor, they note the undeniable charm of Andrew McCarthy, a quintessential Brat Pack star. Damo points out that McCarthy's relatable, down-on-his-luck artist is impossible to hate—even when dragging a mannequin around town in plain sight. Kim Cattrall, meanwhile, exudes charisma, foreshadowing her future role as the fearless Samantha in Sex and the City.Of course, the conversation wouldn't be complete without a nod to Mannequin's over-the-top supporting cast. James Spader shines as a sniveling antagonist, while G.W. Bailey (aka Captain Harris from Police Academy) essentially reprises his role as a bumbling authority figure. And then there's Hollywood Montrose, played by Meshach Taylor, whose flamboyant energy adds humour and heart to the film.The soundtrack gets its due praise, with the guys singing the praises (literally) of Starship's Oscar-nominated hit, "Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now." Fun fact: the song became one of the biggest singles of 1987, topping charts in both the U.S. and U.K. Yet despite its commercial success, Mannequin was panned by critics. Matt shares a particularly brutal review from Roger Ebert, who described the film as “dead.” Still, Damo counters with evidence of Mannequin's enduring appeal: a 46-week theatrical run and a cult following that persists today.The team breaks down the movie's highlights and low points in the Good, Bad, and Ugly segment. The guys rave about the film's outrageous opening scene set in ancient Egypt, complete with comedic subtitles. However, they can't help but cringe at questionable plot points—like the inexplicable romance centered on store displays and a climactic Benny Hill-style chase through the department store. And let's not forget the scene that drove Damo to rage: Andrew McCarthy casually tossing away a perfectly good choc wedge!Throughout the episode, Matt and Damo strike a balance between affectionate nostalgia and merciless critique. They reflect on how Mannequin epitomises the era's campy charm while acknowledging that its caricatured characters and absurd premise could never fly in today's world of high-concept blockbusters.So, if you're ready for a stroll down 80s memory lane filled with synth scores, big hair, and mannequins that spring to life, this episode is for you. Tune in for laughs, trivia, and some wild tangents about department store nostalgia, robot brothels, and Wilford Brimley's ageless face.Don't miss this blast from the past! Listen now on your favourite podcast platform.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/#MannequinMovieReview #BornToWatchPodcast #KimCattrall #80sMovies #NothingIsGonnaStopUsNow #GuiltyPleasureMovies #MovieNostalgia #AndrewMcCarthy #BratPack #HollywoodMontrose #PodcastEpisode

We're strapping in for a wild ride to Mars this week on Born to Watch with our 1990 sci-fi blockbuster Total Recall (1990) Review. Whitey, Gow, Damo, and Dan are back in full force for the first time in 2025 to dive into Arnold Schwarzenegger's mind-bending journey through memory wipes, mutant revolutions, and three-breasted surprises. This is peak Arnie, folks—at the top of both the box office and his biceps game.We break down the epic mind games cooked up by Paul Verhoeven, whose signature blend of over-the-top violence and dark humour made this a sci-fi classic. From Rob Bottin's unforgettable practical effects (seriously, those animatronics still hold up) to Jerry Goldsmith's iconic score, the Born to Watch crew spares no detail. Did we mention the bar full of rebellious mutants and the iconic line: “Consider that a divorce”? Because that line still slaps.But is Total Recall just a kick-ass action flick, or is there something deeper? We debate whether Doug Quaid's adventure was all a dream and how Philip K. Dick's story inspired decades of mind-twisting movies. Plus, we marvel at Sharon Stone's layered performance (and next-level fight scenes), give props to Michael Ironside's rage-filled villainy, and shout out the criminally underrated Rachel Ticotin for holding her own in this testosterone fest.It's not all good news for Mars, though—Damo points out the planet's serious lack of workplace safety, from deadly airlock fans to bullet-prone glass domes. And Dan isn't too impressed with Arnie's hand-to-hand combat scenes, but hey, when you've got that physique, who needs finesse?Of course, no Born to Watch episode is complete without some signature chaos. The guys veer off into debates about Mars real estate values, the dangers of Venusville fans, and even Arnold's fitness regimen—yes, that includes "cock day." And the trailer? Let's just say it gave away way too much.To wrap it all up, we hit the good, the bad, and the ugly, with shoutouts to Quato's teeth (seriously, Gow's obsessed), killer squib work, and those ridiculous hologram fights where henchmen just blast each other to bits.So, get your ass to Mars and join us for one hell of an episode. You'll be laughing, quoting, and questioning reality right along with us. Just remember: “Get ready for a surprise!”If you enjoyed this trip to Mars with us, help spread the word by sharing Born to Watch with your friends, family, and fellow movie buffs! Every share, subscription, and download helps us grow and keep bringing you epic deep dives into the films you love. And don't forget—leave us a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ It's a simple way to support the show and make sure more listeners discover the Born to Watch crew. Thanks for listening, and we'll see you next time!Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcast https://www.borntowatch.com.au/

Dirty Harry (1971) is a film that not only redefined the crime thriller genre but also cemented Clint Eastwood's place as one of cinema's most iconic leading men. In this week's episode of Born to Watch, Whitey and Gow are joined by special guest Will the Worky to discuss this gritty masterpiece that follows the relentless pursuit of justice by Inspector Harry Callahan. With its unforgettable storytelling, striking cinematography, and the moral dilemmas it raises, Dirty Harry is more than just a film—it's a cultural landmark. In this Dirty Harry Movie Review, we'll break down why this movie remains a genre-defining classic.A Plot as Sharp as Harry's MagnumThe plot of Dirty Harry grips you from the very first frame. San Francisco is under siege by the Scorpio Killer, a psychopathic sniper terrorising the city with seemingly random acts of violence. From the chilling opening, where a woman is gunned down while swimming in a rooftop pool, to Scorpio's taunting letters to the police, the film wastes no time establishing the stakes. Harry Callahan is assigned to the case, and the audience is quickly introduced to his no-nonsense approach to law enforcement.The tension escalates as Scorpio's crimes become more horrifying, including a demand for ransom and threats to kill schoolchildren. As Harry tracks the killer, the film raises moral questions about justice. Harry's unorthodox and often brutal tactics contrast sharply with the red tape and legal technicalities that allow Scorpio to evade justice. This moral grey area forms the backbone of the film, making every decision Harry makes feel weighty and consequential.Clint Eastwood as Harry CallahanClint Eastwood's magnetic performance as Inspector Harry Callahan is at the heart of the film. Already a star thanks to his roles in Sergio Leone's Westerns, Eastwood brings a rugged charisma to Harry, a man hardened by years of dealing with San Francisco's worst criminals. Harry's disdain for bureaucracy and willingness to cross ethical boundaries make him a fascinating antihero.Eastwood's portrayal balances toughness with a quiet vulnerability. Harry isn't a superhero; he's a man doing what he believes is necessary to protect the innocent, even if it means operating outside the boundaries of the law. His stoic demeanour and undeniable screen presence make Harry Callahan one of cinema's most enduring characters.A Villain Who Gets Under Your SkinA great hero needs a formidable villain, and Dirty Harry delivers one of the most unsettling antagonists in film history with the Scorpio Killer, played by Andrew Robinson. Inspired by the real-life Zodiac Killer, Scorpio is a sadistic predator who revels in chaos and fear. Robinson's performance is chilling, blending moments of eerie calm with outbursts of unhinged violence.Scorpio's unpredictability keeps the audience on edge, and his ability to manipulate the legal system adds another layer of tension. This isn't a villain Harry can overpower; he must outwit him while navigating the constraints of the justice system. The dynamic between Harry and Scorpio elevates the film, making their battle a thrilling game of cat-and-mouse.Cinematography and the Gritty Streets of San FranciscoOne of Dirty Harry's standout features is its use of San Francisco as a backdrop. The city becomes a character in its own right, with its steep hills, foggy streets, and iconic landmarks providing a rich, atmospheric setting for the story. The cinematography by Bruce Surtees captures the grittiness of urban life in the 1970s, grounding the film in a harsh reality that feels both timeless and authentic.Surtees uses natural light and shadow to great effect, particularly in the nighttime sequences, which heighten the tension and give the film a noir-like quality. The action scenes, from the tense stakeouts to the thrilling final showdown, are shot with a rawness that makes them feel immediate and visceral. The result is a film that immerses viewers in its world, making the stakes feel all the more real.Action and Suspense Done RightDirty Harry masterfully balances moments of quiet suspense with bursts of intense action. The pacing is deliberate, building tension as Harry gets closer to catching Scorpio. When the action erupts, it's brutal and unrelenting, reflecting the story's high stakes. The film's most memorable sequences, including Harry's iconic “Do I feel lucky?” confrontation and the climactic chase through a quarry, are perfectly executed, blending taut direction with Eastwood's commanding screen presence.Dirty Harry's grounding in the story sets the action apart. Every gunshot, every punch, every chase serves a narrative purpose, heightening the stakes and revealing more about Harry's character. The action is never gratuitous; it's a natural extension of the film's themes and conflicts.A Soundtrack That Sets the ToneThe film's score, composed by Lalo Schifrin, is another standout element. The music combines jazz and orchestral elements with avant-garde sounds, creating a sense of unease that mirrors the tension onscreen. Schifrin's unconventional rhythms and eerie melodies enhance the film's atmosphere, making the viewer feel the menace of Scorpio's presence and the relentless drive of Harry's pursuit.Themes of Justice and MoralityOne of the reasons Dirty Harry remains so compelling is its exploration of justice and morality. The film asks difficult questions about the balance between individual freedoms and the need for public safety. Harry's methods are controversial, often skirting the line between heroism and vigilantism. He's a character who doesn't fit neatly into the role of a traditional hero, which makes him all the more fascinating.The film also critiques the bureaucracy of law enforcement, highlighting how red tape and legal loopholes can prevent justice from being served. This theme resonated deeply in the 1970s, a time of social unrest and disillusionment with authority, and it remains relevant today.A Legacy That EnduresMore than 50 years after its release, Dirty Harry continues influencing the crime thriller genre. Its impact can be seen in countless films and TV shows, from Lethal Weapon to Breaking Bad. Harry Callahan's uncompromising attitude and moral complexity have become archetypes for antiheroes, and the film's gritty realism set a new standard for action cinema.Dirty Harry also launched a successful franchise, with Eastwood reprising the role in four sequels. While the later films vary in quality, the original remains a benchmark for the genre—a film that challenges, thrills and entertains in equal measure.Dirty Harry is more than just a movie; it's a cultural phenomenon that redefined what a crime thriller could be. With its sharp storytelling, unforgettable characters, and moral complexity, the film has earned its place as a timeless classic. Whether you're a first-time viewer or a longtime fan, Dirty Harry remains a must-watch for anyone who loves cinema.This week on Born to Watch, Whitey, Gow, and special guest Will the Worky explore why this 1971 masterpiece still resonates with audiences today. Tune in to the latest episode to dive deeper into the legacy of Harry Callahan and the world of Dirty Harry.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at 

When it comes to the greatest films of all time, few are as universally beloved as E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. In this E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial Review, Whitey and Gow take a deep dive into Spielberg's sci-fi classic, joined by a special guest to tackle “The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly” in true Born to Watch style. Whether it's your first time experiencing this heartwarming tale or a nostalgic revisit, this episode breaks down why this film has cemented itself as one of the greatest family movies ever made.A Story That Strikes a Universal ChordIt's impossible to talk about E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial without diving into its emotional core. Whitey and Gow agree that the story's success lies in its simplicity. At its heart, it's about a boy and an alien—two lost souls searching for connection. Spielberg's ability to layer this story with humour, wonder, and gut-punch emotion is unmatched.The film opens with E.T., a stranded extraterrestrial, evading shadowy government agents and hiding out in the suburbs. Enter Elliott, a lonely boy played with astonishing emotional range by Henry Thomas. As Whitey points out in the episode, Elliott's arc mirrors the journey many children face growing up—grappling with loneliness, searching for purpose, and discovering the power of friendship.Gow brings his trademark sharp eye to the family dynamics, pointing out how Spielberg subtly grounds the story in a post-divorce home. The absent father looms in the background, adding an emotional layer that makes Elliott's bond with E.T. feel even more profound.Henry Thomas: A Performance for the AgesSpeaking of Elliott, let's say it outright: Henry Thomas delivers one of the greatest child performances in cinematic history. Whitey and Gow are in complete agreement on this one—Thomas deserved an Oscar. From the raw vulnerability of the “They're going to cut him open” scene to the uncontainable joy of the flying bike sequence, his range is simply extraordinary.Whitey highlights how Thomas' performance isn't just about hitting emotional beats—it's about making the audience believe. Elliott's connection with E.T. feels real because Thomas makes it real. As Gow puts it, “You forget this is a kid acting. He becomes the film's emotional heart, and you feel every beat with him.”Drew Barrymore as Gertie also gets her due in the Born to Watch breakdown. Her comedic timing and natural charm bring levity to some of the film's heavier moments, proving that Spielberg had a knack for getting the best out of his young cast.Spielberg's Direction: Pure MagicIt wouldn't be a Born to Watch review without a deep dive into the director's craft, and Spielberg's touch is nothing short of magical in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Whitey breaks down how Spielberg uses the suburban setting to ground the film in reality, making the extraordinary feel believable. The lighting, camera angles, and pacing all work together to create a sense of intimacy that draws you into Elliott's world.Gow can't help but gush about the iconic flying bike scene, which he calls “one of the greatest cinematic moments of all time.” With John Williams' soaring score and Spielberg's seamless blend of practical effects and storytelling, it transcends generations.Whitey points out how Spielberg also masterfully builds tension and wonder, from E.T.'s glowing finger to the government agents lurking just out of sight. There's a reason why Spielberg is a household name—he knows how to tell a story that sticks with you long after the credits roll.A Legacy That Shines BrightIt's hard to overstate the cultural impact of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Whitey and Gow break down how the film became a phenomenon, from its record-breaking box office success to its lasting influence on pop culture. Reese's Pieces became a household name, and the phrase “E.T. phone home” is still instantly recognisable.But beyond its commercial success, the film's themes of empathy, love, and belonging have made it timeless. Gow reflects on how these themes resonate as strongly today, proving that Spielberg created more than just a movie—he created an experience.Final ThoughtsIn this E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial Review, Whitey and Gow don't just revisit a beloved classic—they celebrate it. From Henry Thomas' groundbreaking performance to Spielberg's masterful direction, the film is a shining example of cinema at its best.E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial remains a must-watch whether you're a lifelong fan or a newcomer. Its message of connection and its ability to make you laugh, cry, and believe in magic all over again make it a true masterpiece. As Whitey says in the episode, “This isn't just a movie—it's a part of our childhoods, and it still feels just as magical today.”So, grab some Reese's Pieces and join the Born to Watch team as they relive the magic of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. It's a journey you won't want to miss.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

In this week's episode of Born to Watch, Whitey and Damo tackle one of the most polarising blockbusters in cinematic history—Star Wars: The Last Jedi. You've heard it before: The Last Jedi either reignited the saga with bold creativity or sent it careening off a cliff into a galaxy far, far away from anything recognisable. For Whitey and Damo, it's the latter, and they aren't afraid to say it. If you're tuning in for a spirited debate, prepare for a critical breakdown of what went wrong in the eighth chapter of this iconic franchise in they're The Last Jedi Review.A Bold Direction, But At What Cost?There's no denying that director Rian Johnson set out to craft something new. From the opening moments, it's clear that The Last Jedi wants to subvert expectations. But sometimes, as Whitey and Damo point out, subversion isn't enough. It's one thing to challenge the audience and twist the familiar beats of a beloved saga, but The Last Jedi feels like it's actively rebelling against its own DNA.Despite its criticisms, The Force Awakens almost worked because it carefully balanced nostalgia with new storylines. It honoured the past while paving the way for new heroes; if honouring is completely copying the original movie, then it did an exceptional job. Johnson, however, appears to toss all of that aside in The Last Jedi. Characters you thought would be key players are sidelined. Moments that seem set up for major payoffs are ignored or reinterpreted in ways that feel detached from the series' core.Whitey and Damo's frustration comes down to one fundamental gripe: legacy. The Last Jedi isn't just telling a new story—it feels like it's actively undoing everything that came before it. The legacy characters—Luke, Leia, and even Han, by extension—are treated in ways that left fans scratching their heads. “Why bother bringing them back at all if you're just going to dismantle their arcs?” asks Whitey, echoing a sentiment that has been brewing since the film's release.The Luke Skywalker DilemmaOne of the biggest sore spots for fans (and for Whitey and Damo) is the treatment of Luke Skywalker. Mark Hamill famously voiced his concerns over Johnson's interpretation of Luke, and many fans, including our podcast duo, couldn't agree more. Gone is the hopeful, idealistic Jedi we last saw in Return of the Jedi, replaced by a brooding hermit who has cut himself off from the Force.Character evolution is important, and no one expects Luke to remain static. But The Last Jedi doesn't show us how Luke got to this point—it simply drops us into a version of him that feels unfamiliar and alien. Whitey and Damo argue that there's a difference between developing a character and fundamentally altering them. The Luke in The Last Jedi is so far removed from the original trilogy's hero that it's hard to connect with him on an emotional level.Wasted PotentialAnother major issue that Whitey and Damo have with The Last Jedi is its handling of certain story arcs set up in The Force Awakens. Love or hate J.J. Abrams' mystery box approach established several intriguing threads: Who are Rey's parents? What's the deal with Supreme Leader Snoke? Will Finn's stormtrooper past play a bigger role? Instead of building on these mysteries, Johnson seems to sweep them aside entirely.Without diving too deeply into spoiler territory, let's say that the answers (or lack thereof) are underwhelming at best. Rey's parentage? A twist that feels less like a revelation and more like a dismissal of everything The Force Awakens set up. Snoke? Well, let's just say his story ends abruptly, leaving many wondering why he was even introduced in the first place. Finn? Regrettably reduced to a side plot that feels more like filler than a meaningful continuation of his arc.Whitey and Damo can't help but feel that The Last Jedi wastes its potential. It introduces interesting ideas—new Force powers, morally grey dilemmas—but fails to develop them satisfactorily. Instead, we're left with a film that feels disjointed, unsure of whether it wants to be a part of the larger Star Wars saga or stand apart as something entirely different.The Bright Spots - The VisualsIt's not all doom and gloom, though. Even Whitey and Damo admit that The Last Jedi excels in some areas. Visually, the film is stunning. Johnson and his cinematographer, Steve Yedlin, deliver breathtaking set pieces from the salt plains of Crait to the lush greenery of Ahch-To. The film's colour palette is rich and vibrant, and the space battles are as thrilling as ever.A Divided FanbasePerhaps the most lasting impact of The Last Jedi is the rift it created within the Star Wars community. Fans are still arguing about it to this day, and while some appreciate Johnson's bold approach, others—like Whitey and Damo—see it as a betrayal of what made Star Wars special in the first place.The guys make an interesting point: The Last Jedi isn't a bad movie in a vacuum. It's well-directed, well-acted, and technically impressive. But as a chapter in the Star Wars saga, it falls short. It disconnects from the past in ways that feel disrespectful rather than innovative. And that's where the disappointment lies.Final ThoughtsIn the end, Star Wars: The Last Jedi is a film that tries to do something different. For some, that boldness was refreshing. For Whitey and Damo, it was a misstep—a film that lost sight of what makes Star Wars timeless. As always, they bring their trademark humour and honesty to the discussion, making for an entertaining listen whether you agree with them or not.So, if you're a fan of heated debates and unapologetic opinions, don't miss this week's episode of Born to Watch. Whether you loved or loathed The Last Jedi, one thing's for sure: Whitey and Damo aren't afraid to tell it like it is.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/#BornToWatch #TheLastJedi #StarWarsDebate #WhiteyAndDamoUnfiltered #LegacyMatters #SubversionGoneWrong #LetThePastDie #BornToCritique #PodcastLife #SciFiFrustration

Hey there, fellow watchers! It's your host Whitey, flying solo once again for this special edition of Born to Watch. After last week's popular solo mailbox episode, he's back on the mic, diving deep into the year that was 2024—a year that, in Whitey's words, wasn't exactly Hollywood's finest. With a trusty mix of humour, honesty, and more than a few nostalgic callbacks to the glory days of video shops, Whitey gives us his take on the Good, the Bad, and the downright Ugly movies of 2024. This episode covers everything, whether you're looking for hidden gems, blockbuster letdowns, or absolute cinematic disasters, so strap in for the best and worst movies of 2024.The Good – Movies Worth Your TimeKicking things off with the Good list, Whitey revisits some of the standout films of the year. First up is Alien: Romulus, a tense sci-fi thriller that Whitey still stands by after a couple of rewatches at home. Despite a few nitpicks—like the unnecessary hybrid twist and a clunky android character—he praises its gripping tension, stellar action, and atmospheric set design reminiscent of the original Alien film. Whitey even boldly declares it might just be the third-best movie in the franchise!Next, it's time for some weather chaos with Twisters, the legacy sequel that brought just enough nostalgia without going overboard. Whitey recounts his less-than-ideal cinema experience (complete with overly chatty patrons) but admits the film was still a blast, thanks to Glen Powell's charisma and a twin-tornado showdown that kept him glued to his seat. And, of course, Whitey couldn't leave out Deadpool and Wolverine, a crowd-pleaser packed with slapstick humour, MCU references, and the electric chemistry between Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman.From the toe-tapping spectacle of Wicked to Denis Villeneuve's stunning epic Dune: Part 2, Whitey breaks down what made these films worth watching—and why you should check them out if you haven't already. He even gives a shoutout to Juror #2, Clint Eastwood's final film, calling it a fitting farewell for the legendary director.The Bad – Not Terrible, Just DisappointingIn the Bad section, Whitey tackles films that had potential but ultimately fell short. First on the chopping block is Furiosa, George Miller's Mad Max prequel that struggled without Max himself. While Whitey appreciates Miller's world-building and some solid action scenes, the bloated runtime and over-reliance on CGI left him underwhelmed. He also critiques Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, which failed to capture the charm of its predecessor despite the return of the original trio.Whitey wraps up this section by discussing The Fall Guy, a disappointing adaptation of a beloved 80s TV show. Despite its promising cast—Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt—the film's ludicrous plot and lack of heart earned it a spot on the Bad list.The Ugly – The Year's Biggest LetdownsFinally, we arrive at the Ugly, where Whitey unleashes his full frustration on Joker: Folie à Deux. He doesn't mince words, calling it a “trainwreck of boredom and arrogance” that destroyed the original's brilliance. While Whitey has a soft spot for musicals, this wasn't the kind of musical he could get behind.Bonus Mentions & What's Coming NextFor those who stick around till the end, Whitey throws in a couple of honourable mentions, including Gladiator 2—a film that, while unnecessary, still delivered some fun moments—and Inside Out 2, a sequel that entertained without reaching the emotional depth of its predecessor.Looking ahead, Whitey teases next week's episode, where he and Damo will tackle The Last Jedi, one of the most divisive Star Wars films of all time. Expect fiery opinions, passionate debate, and plenty of laughs as the duo dissects what could be the worst Star Wars movie ever made.If you're a fan of brutally honest reviews, nostalgic movie talk, and Whitey's signature blend of wit and sarcasm, this episode is a must-listen. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and enjoy this rollercoaster ride through 2024's cinematic highs and lows. Until next time—BYE FOR NOW!Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

As 2024 comes to a close, Born to Watch wraps up the year with a special solo episode featuring Whitey at the helm! In this relaxed and festive instalment, Whitey's Mailbag tackles three of the most intriguing questions sent in by fans. It's the perfect mix of holiday cheer, movie talk, and podcast nostalgia—a must-listen for longtime followers and new listeners alike.

Few movies blend chaos, comedy, and holiday cheer as seamlessly as Gremlins (1984). This darkly delightful gem from director Joe Dante and producer Steven Spielberg has become a holiday classic for its irreverent tone and unforgettable creatures. Whether you're drawn in by the fuzzy charm of Gizmo or the anarchic antics of his mischievous offspring, Gremlins offers something unique: a satirical horror-comedy that's heartwarming and horrifying. We hope you enjoy this Gremlins (1984) movie review as our last episode of 2024Setting the StageSet in the idyllic small town of Kingston Falls, Gremlins begins with an innocent Christmas gift that goes spectacularly awry. Billy Peltzer (Zach Galligan) receives a Mogwai—a mysterious, cuddly creature named Gizmo—from his father, an eccentric inventor. Along with the gift come three rules: don't expose him to bright light, don't get him wet, and never, ever feed him after midnight. Naturally, all three rules are broken, unleashing a chaotic chain of events as Gizmo spawns a horde of Gremlins, who terrorize the town in increasingly outlandish ways.The Characters: Lovable and LoathsomeGalligan's Billy is the quintessential everyman, navigating the chaos with wide-eyed determination, but the supporting cast truly shines. Phoebe Cates brings depth to her role as Kate, Billy's resourceful love interest, delivering one of the film's most haunting—and unexpectedly poignant—moments with her infamous “Santa Claus” monologue.However, the real stars are the creatures themselves. Gizmo, voiced by Howie Mandel, embodies adorableness, while Stripe, the leader of the Gremlins, is a maniacal scene-stealer. The practical effects and puppetry give these characters a tactile realism that CGI often struggles to replicate.A Genre-Bending TriumphWhat sets Gremlins apart is its masterful tone. The film walks a fine line between horror and comedy, never fully committing to one genre but excelling at both. The Gremlins' antics range from slapstick humour to genuinely unsettling terror, such as the sequence in which they stalk Billy's mother through their eerily decorated home. At the same time, the film pokes fun at American consumerism and small-town clichés, adding a layer of satire that rewards repeat viewings.A Holiday Movie Like No OtherWhile it's often considered a Christmas movie, Gremlins gleefully subverts holiday tropes. Yes, there are twinkling lights, carolers, and a snow-covered backdrop, but the Gremlins themselves turn these festive symbols into instruments of mayhem. A quiet tree becomes a hiding spot for an ambush, and a holiday dinner is interrupted by chaos and destruction. This juxtaposition of cheerful aesthetics with dark comedy makes Gremlins an enduringly fresh experience.Cinematic CraftsmanshipJoe Dante's direction is pitch-perfect, balancing the film's disparate tones with finesse. Jerry Goldsmith's score is equally memorable, alternating between whimsical themes for Gizmo and eerie cues for the Gremlins. Cinematographer John Hora captures the coziness of Kingston Falls before plunging it into chaos, creating a visual dichotomy that enhances the story.The film's practical effects are a standout feature, showcasing the artistry of the pre-digital era. From Gizmo's expressive face to the Gremlins' grotesque transformations, every creature feels alive. It's a testament to the ingenuity of the filmmakers that these effects remain impressive nearly four decades later.Cultural Impact and LegacyReleased in the summer of 1984 alongside Ghostbusters and Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, Gremlins was part of a pivotal moment in blockbuster history. Its mix of humour and horror challenged traditional genre boundaries, paving the way for films like Beetlejuice and Shaun of the Dead.The movie's success also led to the creation of the PG-13 rating, as its content was deemed too intense for a PG audience but not graphic enough for an R. This marked a turning point in how films were rated, influencing decades of cinema.Gremlins spawned a sequel, Gremlins 2: The New Batch, which leaned even further into self-referential humour. While the sequel is beloved in its own right, the original remains the definitive entry, capturing the perfect balance of whimsy and wickedness.Why Gremlins EnduresPart of what makes Gremlins so enduring is its ability to surprise. Just when you think you've figured out its tone or message, it throws you a curveball, whether it's a heartfelt moment with Gizmo or an unexpectedly dark turn. It's a film that delights in defying expectations, making it a joy to revisit year after year.Moreover, its themes remain relevant. The dangers of irresponsible consumerism, the chaos of unchecked innovation, and the fine line between cute and creepy all resonate just as strongly today as they did in 1984.Final ThoughtsGremlins is more than just a movie—it's a cultural touchstone that continues to inspire filmmakers and entertain audiences. Its blend of humor, horror, and holiday spirit is unmatched, making it a must-watch for fans of 80s cinema and genre mashups.So grab some popcorn (but maybe skip the midnight snack), and let yourself be swept away by the mischievous magic of Gremlins. Just remember the rules.This episode of Born to Watch dives deep into the legacy of Gremlins, exploring its unique blend of comedy, horror, and holiday cheer. Whether you're a first-time viewer or a lifelong fan, this movie review will rekindle your love for a film that remains as delightfully chaotic as ever.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

Few films define holiday nostalgia as perfectly as Home Alone. In this Home Alone (1990) Movie Review, we revisit the timeless story of Kevin McCallister, the mischievous yet resourceful eight-year-old who accidentally gets left behind during the Christmas holidays. Directed by Chris Columbus and written by the legendary John Hughes, Home Alone continues to hold a unique place in cinematic history as a family comedy that delivers heart, laughs, and the unmistakable magic of the holiday season. Over 30 years later, it still has audiences of all ages doubling over with laughter and feeling the warmth of home and family.The Story That Sparked a Global PhenomenonAt its heart, Home Alone is simple yet ingenious. When Kevin (played brilliantly by Macaulay Culkin) wishes for his family to disappear after a rough night with his siblings, he wakes up the next morning to find his wish has seemingly come true. In a mad rush to catch a flight for their Christmas vacation in Paris, the McCallister clan accidentally leaves Kevin behind. What follows is a series of hilarious and heart-pounding escapades as Kevin fends for himself while also outsmarting two bumbling burglars, Harry (Joe Pesci) and Marv (Daniel Stern), who are targeting his home.The setup is classic John Hughes: relatable yet heightened situations, endearing characters, and comedic chaos that is both innocent and wildly entertaining. Kevin's solo adventures—shopping for groceries, watching “grown-up” movies, and constructing elaborate booby traps—are delivered with such charm and humour that it's impossible not to root for him. The film transforms an eight-year-old kid's loneliness into empowerment, making it both touching and triumphant.Macaulay Culkin: A Star Is BornIf there's one performance that defines Home Alone, it's Macaulay Culkin's. At just ten years old, Culkin became a global phenomenon, and for good reason. He's mischievous, charismatic, and endlessly watchable. Culkin brings Kevin McCallister to life with a mix of childlike innocence and self-assured resourcefulness that feels natural and effortless. His comedic timing—delivering classic lines like “Keep the change, ya filthy animal” or his perfectly executed scream in front of the bathroom mirror—is nothing short of iconic.Kevin's journey from a frustrated youngest sibling to a confident, self-reliant hero gives Home Alone its emotional core. While the comedy is front and centre, Culkin can balance humour with a vulnerability that elevates the film beyond a standard slapstick romp.Pesci and Stern: The Perfect Comedy VillainsA comedy is only as strong as its antagonists, and Home Alone delivers two of the most memorable villains in movie history. Joe Pesci's Harry and Daniel Stern's Marv—collectively known as the “Wet Bandits”—are equal parts menacing and hysterical. While Harry brings a tough, scheming edge to their duo, Marv provides endless slapstick moments that make him a loveable doofus.Their dynamic is so effective because the movie allows their misfortunes to escalate with cartoonish delight. Kevin's traps—ranging from icy stairs to swinging paint cans—provide some of the most gleefully painful moments in comedy history. Watching the Wet Bandits fall victim to Kevin's booby traps remains endlessly entertaining, no matter how many times you've seen it.Chris Columbus' Direction and John Hughes' WritingHome Alone brought together two powerhouses: Chris Columbus, who would later helm Mrs. Doubtfire and the first two Harry Potter films, and John Hughes, the mastermind behind classics like The Breakfast Club and Ferris Bueller's Day Off. Hughes' writing gives the film its wit, heart, and timeless humour, while Columbus' direction brings that vision to life with vibrant pacing and a keen understanding of comedic timing.The film moves seamlessly between laugh-out-loud moments and quieter, more heartfelt scenes. One of the most touching subplots involves Kevin's neighbour, Old Man Marley, who is rumoured to be a terrifying figure but turns out to be a lonely, kind-hearted man seeking reconciliation with his estranged family. This storyline adds depth to the film's themes of forgiveness, family, and the importance of connection.Cinematography and Score: Capturing the MagicJulio Macat's cinematography captures the cozy, wintry charm of suburban Chicago during the holidays. The McCallister house—now iconic in its own right—becomes a playground of chaos, warmth, and creativity. Each room provides the perfect backdrop for Kevin's traps and antics, while the snowy exteriors add a picture-perfect Christmas vibe.John Williams' score, meanwhile, is the cherry on top. The legendary composer (known for Star Wars and Jurassic Park) delivers a whimsical yet grand soundtrack that perfectly complements the film's tone. Tracks like “Somewhere in My Memory” evoke nostalgia and warmth, ensuring that Home Alone doesn't just make us laugh but also pulls at our heartstrings.Why Home Alone Stands the Test of TimeWhat makes Home Alone so enduring is its universal appeal. It's a perfect holiday film for families, kids, and adults alike. At its core, it's about the importance of family, even when they drive us crazy. Kevin's realisation that he misses his family—and his mother's desperate journey home—resonates with anyone who understands the true meaning of Christmas.But beyond its themes, Home Alone remains endlessly rewatchable because it's just plain fun. The slapstick comedy, clever dialogue, and standout performances make it a film that never feels dated. Whether you're watching it for the first time or the 30th, it still feels like a gift waiting to be unwrapped.Final ThoughtsIn our Home Alone (1990) Movie Review, we can confidently say this film remains a holiday classic for a reason. With its brilliant performances, timeless humour, and heartfelt message, Home Alone captures the magic of childhood and the warmth of family like few movies can. Macaulay Culkin's Kevin McCallister is a hero for the ages, while Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern give us villains we love to laugh at.More than three decades later, Home Alone continues to bring joy to new generations, reminding us all that sometimes being “left alone” can lead to the greatest adventures. So this holiday season, grab some popcorn, put on your coziest socks, and revisit the film that made booby traps cool and Christmas unforgettable.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

In this Blood Diamond (2006) Movie Review, we explore Edward Zwick's gripping drama that shines a stark light on the human cost of the diamond trade. Set against the backdrop of Sierra Leone's brutal civil war, the film weaves an intense story of survival, greed, and redemption through the intertwined lives of a smuggler, a fisherman, and a journalist. With unforgettable performances by Leonardo DiCaprio, Djimon Hounsou, and Jennifer Connelly, Blood Diamond is a heart-pounding thriller that forces audiences to confront the dark truths behind luxury and the price of humanity.The Story: A Conflict Fueled by GreedSet in the 1999 civil war in Sierra Leone, the film follows three characters whose lives intersect around a rare pink diamond. Solomon Vandy (Djimon Hounsou) is a fisherman torn from his family and enslaved by rebel forces to mine diamonds. When he discovers the priceless gem, it becomes his hope for reuniting with his family and escaping the horrors of war.Danny Archer (Leonardo DiCaprio) is a jaded mercenary and diamond smuggler looking to use the gem as a ticket out of Africa. His motivations are driven by greed, but his journey alongside Solomon forces him to confront his moral compass. Meanwhile, journalist Maddy Bowen (Jennifer Connelly) seeks to expose the corruption and human suffering perpetuated by the diamond trade, risking her own safety to uncover the truth.The trio's quest takes them across the perilous terrain of Sierra Leone, navigating rebel ambushes, government corruption, and personal demons. Their intertwining stories paint a vivid picture of survival, humanity, and the pursuit of justice in the face of unimaginable violence.Leonardo DiCaprio: A Career-Defining PerformanceDiCaprio delivers one of the most compelling performances of his career as Danny Archer, a man grappling with his fractured sense of morality. Sporting a convincing Rhodesian accent, DiCaprio brings depth to the character, transforming Archer from a cold-hearted opportunist to a man seeking redemption. His chemistry with both Hounsou and Connelly is electric, driving the film's emotional core.Djimon Hounsou: The Heart of the FilmAs Solomon Vandy, Djimon Hounsou delivers a powerhouse performance, embodying a father's desperate fight to save his family. His portrayal of anguish, resilience, and determination is deeply moving, earning him a well-deserved Oscar nomination. Solomon's journey serves as the film's emotional anchor, reminding viewers of the human cost of conflict diamonds.Jennifer Connelly: The Voice of ConscienceJennifer Connelly's Maddy Bowen is a fierce and fearless journalist, providing a counterbalance to Archer's cynicism and Solomon's despair. Her character not only brings a journalistic perspective to the story but also challenges Archer to examine his role in perpetuating the cycle of exploitation. Connelly's nuanced performance highlights the sacrifices and risks involved in pursuing truth.Unflinching Realism: The Brutality of Conflict DiamondsOne of the film's greatest strengths is its unapologetic portrayal of the diamond trade's devastating impact on human lives. Through scenes of child soldiers, forced labour, and rebel atrocities, Blood Diamond immerses viewers in the horrors of Sierra Leone's civil war. The film doesn't shy away from the uncomfortable truths, shedding light on the greed and corruption that fuel the conflict.Director Edward Zwick's meticulous attention to detail ensures that every frame feels authentic, from the bustling markets to the desolate landscapes scarred by violence. Eduardo Serra's cinematography captures Africa's stark beauty while juxtaposing it against the brutal realities of war.Themes of Redemption and HopeAt its heart, Blood Diamond is a story of redemption and the enduring power of hope. Each character transforms: Archer finds his humanity, Solomon clings to hope despite unimaginable suffering, and Maddy's idealism pushes her to fight for justice. The pink diamond, initially a symbol of greed, becomes a beacon of hope for Solomon's family and a catalyst for change in Archer's life.A Thought-Provoking Call to ActionBeyond its thrilling action and emotional storytelling, Blood Diamond serves as a powerful critique of consumer culture and the ethical dilemmas surrounding luxury goods. The film challenges audiences to consider the true cost of the items they covet, making it both an entertaining and thought-provoking experience.The tagline “It will cost you everything” resonates not only with the characters' sacrifices but also with the message that our choices have far-reaching consequences. By the film's end, viewers are left questioning the morality of industries built on exploitation and whether change is truly possible.Critical Acclaim and LegacyUpon its release, Blood Diamond was praised for its intense performances, gripping narrative, and unflinching exploration of a sensitive subject. It received five Academy Award nominations, including nods for DiCaprio and Hounsou's performances, and earned widespread acclaim for its ability to balance action with social commentary.The film also sparked conversations about ethical diamond sourcing, increasing awareness of initiatives like the Kimberley Process. While it's not a perfect system, the movie's impact on public consciousness helped push the issue into the global spotlight.Flaws Worth MentioningWhile Blood Diamond is undeniably powerful, it's not without its flaws. Some critics have pointed out the occasional reliance on action-movie tropes, which can detract from the story's realism. Additionally, while well-acted, Maddy Bowen's character sometimes feels underutilised compared to the arcs of Archer and Solomon.Despite these minor shortcomings, the film's emotional weight and powerful performances more than compensate, making it a must-watch for anyone seeking both entertainment and a deeper understanding of the world's complexities.Final VerdictBlood Diamond (2006) is a riveting thriller that transcends the action-drama genre to deliver a poignant critique of greed, exploitation, and redemption. Powered by stellar performances from Leonardo DiCaprio, Djimon Hounsou, and Jennifer Connelly, the film balances edge-of-your-seat tension with deeply emotional storytelling. Its unflinching portrayal of the human cost of conflict diamonds is both haunting and unforgettable.Join us in this week's Born to Watch episode as we delve into the enduring legacy of Blood Diamond. We'll explore its impact on audiences, the ethical dilemmas it raises, and why this 2006 masterpiece remains as relevant today as it was nearly two decades ago. If you haven't seen it, prepare for a cinematic journey that will leave you questioning, moved, and inspired.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

In the late 1980s, few movies encapsulated the aspirational vibe of the era quite like Cocktail. Released in 1988, this romantic drama, directed by Roger Donaldson and starring a magnetic Tom Cruise, is a cocktail of ambition, love, and the search for identity. For this week's episode of Born to Watch, we're deep-diving into this cult classic. In this Cocktail (1988) Movie Review, we'll explore the film's signature style, performances, and its lasting impact on pop culture.The Story of Brian FlanaganCocktail follows Brian Flanagan (Tom Cruise), a charming and ambitious young man fresh out of the military who dreams of making it big in the corporate world. After facing rejection from high-powered job opportunities in New York City, Brian turns to bartending as a temporary gig, only to discover a talent for mixing drinks and working a crowd. Under the tutelage of seasoned bartender Doug Coughlin (played by Bryan Brown), Brian learns the art of flair bartending—transforming cocktail-making into a theatrical performance.But as Brian rises through the ranks of nightlife stardom, his ambitions clash with reality, leading to heartbreak, betrayal, and, ultimately, self-discovery. From the high-energy Manhattan bar scene to the tranquil beaches of Jamaica, the movie's settings are as diverse as its themes.Tom Cruise: A Star Shining BrightBy 1988, Tom Cruise was already a household name, thanks to hits like Top Gun and Risky Business. In Cocktail, Cruise once again exudes the charm and energy that made him a box-office darling. His portrayal of Brian Flanagan is a perfect mix of confidence, vulnerability, and ambition, capturing the complexities of a man torn between his lofty dreams and the harsh realities of life.Cruise's ability to sell even the most over-the-top scenes—like flipping bottles mid-air to a raucous crowd—speaks to his charisma and star power. It's no surprise that the role cemented him as one of Hollywood's most bankable leading men.The Mentor and the LessonsBryan Brown delivers a standout performance as Doug Coughlin, Brian's cynical mentor. Doug's “Coughlin's Laws”—a mix of humorous and hard-earned wisdom—serve as Brian's guiding (and sometimes misleading) principles. The dynamic between Cruise and Brown is electric, capturing the highs and lows of their mentor-protégé relationship. Doug's character adds depth to the story, offering a sobering contrast to Brian's youthful exuberance.Romance in ParadiseThe film takes a romantic turn when Brian leaves the city for Jamaica, where he meets Jordan Mooney (played by Elisabeth Shue). Their chemistry is palpable, and Jordan's grounded nature counterbalances Brian's high-flying ambitions. Shue's performance brings warmth and sincerity to the film, anchoring the story in moments of genuine emotion amidst the glitz and drama.The romance between Brian and Jordan is central to the film's emotional arc. It's a tale of love tested by ambition, betrayal, and the quest for redemption—classic ingredients for a memorable romantic drama.The Flair and Theatrics of BartendingOne of Cocktail's most iconic elements is its portrayal of flair bartending. The film transformed the act of making cocktails into a spectacle, with Brian and Doug dazzling crowds by flipping bottles, juggling shakers, and turning bartending into an art form. These high-energy sequences, set to a soundtrack of 80s hits, are among the most memorable in the movie.Songs like “Kokomo” by The Beach Boys and “Addicted to Love” by Robert Palmer add to the film's vibrant atmosphere, making the nightlife scenes come alive with infectious energy. The combination of music, choreography, and Cruise's showmanship turned bartending into an aspirational profession for a generation.Themes of Ambition and IdentityAt its core, Cocktail is a story about ambition—both its allure and its pitfalls. Brian's journey reflects the challenges of chasing big dreams while staying true to oneself. The film explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and the search for meaning in a world driven by material success.Doug's cynicism and Brian's youthful optimism create a compelling tension, forcing Brian to confront his own values and priorities. As the story unfolds, the film raises questions about the cost of ambition and the importance of staying grounded.Cultural Impact and ReceptionCocktail was a box-office success upon its release, earning over $170 million worldwide. However, its reception among critics was mixed, with some dismissing it as shallow and formulaic. Despite this, the film has since gained a cult following thanks to its energetic style, charismatic performances, and memorable soundtrack.Cocktail captured the spirit of the late 80s—a time of excess, ambition, and dreams of making it big. Its influence extended beyond the screen, inspiring a wave of interest in flair bartending and nightlife culture.Flaws and LegacyWhile Cocktail shines in many areas, it's not without its flaws. The screenplay occasionally leans on clichés, and some of the character arcs feel underdeveloped. Critics at the time noted the film's uneven tone, which shifts between lighthearted romance and heavier themes of betrayal and loss.That said, the film's imperfections don't overshadow its strengths. Cocktail remains a time capsule of 80s culture, blending style, romance, and drama into an entertaining package. Its enduring popularity speaks to its ability to resonate with audiences despite its shortcomings.Why It Still MattersDecades after its release, Cocktail continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of charm and drama. It's a film that invites viewers to reflect on their own ambitions and relationships while enjoying the spectacle of Cruise at his most charismatic.For fans of Tom Cruise or romantic dramas with a twist, Cocktail offers a nostalgic trip back to an era of big dreams, bigger hair, and unforgettable flair. Its themes of ambition, love, and self-discovery are as relevant today as they were in 1988, making it a timeless addition to any movie lover's collection.Final PourCocktail is a cinematic concoction that mixes high-energy performances, memorable music, and a heartfelt story into a crowd-pleasing package. Whether you're drawn to Tom Cruise's star power, the dazzling bartending sequences, or the emotional journey of its characters, this film has something for everyone.For our Born to Watch listeners, we'll be diving deeper into the legacy and behind-the-scenes stories of this 80s gem in this week's episode. So grab your favourite drink, hit play, and join us as we toast to Cocktail—a movie that's equal parts style and substance. Cheers!Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

Buckle up for this comprehensive Braveheart (1995) Movie Review—a journey into the heart of one of Hollywood's most iconic films.Few films, like Braveheart, have managed to carve a lasting legacy in cinematic and cultural history. Released in 1995, this historical epic directed by and starring Mel Gibson became an instant classic, captivating audiences with its sweeping storytelling, larger-than-life battles, and deeply emotional core. For this week's episode of Born to Watch, we're diving headfirst into this towering masterpiece, analysing how its themes of freedom, love, and sacrifice resonate decades later. A Hero Rises: The Story of William WallaceAt its core, Braveheart tells the story of William Wallace, a Scottish warrior who leads a rebellion against the oppressive English rule of King Edward I. The film opens with a hauntingly serene Scottish countryside juxtaposed with the brutal reality of English occupation. After a devastating personal loss, Wallace transforms from a reluctant farmer into a passionate freedom fighter. Mel Gibson's portrayal of Wallace is both gritty and charismatic, embodying the very spirit of defiance that fuels the film's narrative.The screenplay, penned by Randall Wallace (no relation to the historical figure), balances historical inspiration with a touch of artistic liberty. While purists may critique its deviations from recorded history, the film's emotional truth—its depiction of sacrifice, unity, and resistance—rings powerfully true.Mel Gibson's Vision: Direction and PerformanceMel Gibson's dual role as director and lead actor is one of the film's defining achievements. His direction imbues Braveheart with a sense of grandeur rarely seen in modern cinema. The sweeping shots of the Scottish Highlands serve as a breathtaking backdrop, while the intimate close-ups capture the raw human emotion behind every battle cry. Gibson's commitment to authenticity extends to the brutal, unflinching depiction of medieval warfare, which remains shocking and visually stunning.As William Wallace, Gibson delivers one of the most memorable performances of his career. His impassioned speeches, particularly the iconic "They may take our lives, but they'll never take our freedom!" moment, are the stuff of cinematic legend. Gibson's portrayal of Wallace is deeply layered, presenting him not just as a warrior but as a man burdened by grief, love, and the weight of his people's hopes.Epic Battles, Epic StakesNo Braveheart review would be complete without acknowledging its jaw-dropping battle sequences. From the clash at Stirling Bridge to the final, gut-wrenching moments of Wallace's sacrifice, the film's action is both visceral and meticulously crafted. Cinematographer John Toll's use of handheld cameras during battles immerses viewers in the chaos, while James Horner's soaring score underscores every charge, every cry, and every victory with haunting beauty.The brutality of the battles isn't just spectacle—it's storytelling. Every sword swing, every desperate shout is a reminder of what's at stake: a nation's freedom and identity. Gibson doesn't shy away from the costs of war, making Braveheart as much about the price of liberty as its pursuit.Themes That ResonateAt its heart, Braveheart is more than just a historical epic; it's a meditation on universal themes that continue to resonate today. The film explores the tension between individual desires and collective responsibility, the sacrifices demanded by leadership, and the unyielding pursuit of justice in the face of tyranny.Wallace's unwavering dedication to freedom, even at the cost of his life, is an enduring symbol of resistance against oppression. It's no surprise that Braveheart has become a touchstone for movements and individuals seeking to inspire courage and change.Cultural and Historical ImpactBraveheart was met with widespread acclaim upon its release, winning five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. Its success sparked a renewed interest in medieval and historical dramas, paving the way for films like Gladiator and The Last Samurai.Critically, Braveheart has faced scrutiny over its historical inaccuracies. However, its ability to capture the emotional essence of the Scottish struggle for independence has made it a beloved cultural artifact, particularly in Scotland, where it helped reignite national pride.Flaws Worth MentioningWhile Braveheart soars in many aspects, it's not without its flaws. Historical purists may bristle at its liberties with the timeline and events of Wallace's life. Characters like Princess Isabella of France are romanticised to the point of fantasy, which can detract from the film's otherwise grounded emotional core.The film's depiction of the English as uniformly villainous has also been criticised for lacking nuance. However, these critiques pale compared to the sheer impact and resonance of the story.Why It Still MattersNearly three decades after its release, Braveheart continues to inspire and entertain. Its combination of grand storytelling, unforgettable performances, and universal themes has ensured its place in the pantheon of cinematic greats. For modern viewers, the film serves as both a thrilling spectacle and a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom.In today's world, where the fight for justice and autonomy remains a constant, Braveheart feels as relevant as ever. Its message—that courage and conviction can change the course of history—rings true, reminding us all of the power of a single voice.Final VerdictBraveheart is more than just a movie; it's an experience. From its sweeping cinematography to its heart-pounding battles, from its unforgettable performances to its stirring themes, this film is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. Whether revisiting it for the hundredth time or experiencing it for the first, Braveheart remains a must-watch for lovers of epic cinema.So, grab your kilts, swords, and courage—this Braveheart (1995) Movie Review is just the beginning of our journey into one of the most powerful films ever made. Tune in to this week's episode of Born to Watch for more insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and passionate discussion about why this film remains an all-time classic.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

Ridley Scott's Gladiator (2000) wasn't just a movie—it was an event, a cultural phenomenon that revived the sword-and-sandal epic for a modern audience. In this week's Born to Watch podcast episode, we take a deep dive with our Gladiator (2000) Movie Review, a timeless classic that set the bar for historical dramas, earning critical acclaim and five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. With stunning visuals, a poignant score, and unforgettable performances, Gladiator remains one of cinema's greatest achievements.The Story That Defined a GenerationAt its core, Gladiator is a revenge tale wrapped in the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Russell Crowe stars as Maximus Decimus Meridius, a loyal Roman general betrayed by the scheming Commodus, played with unsettling intensity by Joaquin Phoenix. Stripped of his rank, family, and freedom, Maximus is forced into the brutal world of gladiatorial combat. As he rises through the ranks of the arena, he becomes a beacon of hope and rebellion, culminating in a battle not just for his life but for the soul of Rome itself.What makes Gladiator resonate so deeply is its ability to blend intimate human drama with epic stakes. Maximus's vendetta against Commodus intertwines with his larger quest for justice, making every clash in the Colosseum emotionally charged. The screenplay, penned by David Franzoni, John Logan, and William Nicholson, is poetic and visceral, delivering lines like “Are you not entertained?” that have become iconic in pop culture.A Visual and Sonic MasterpieceRidley Scott is a director known for his meticulous attention to detail, and Gladiator is no exception. The film's portrayal of ancient Rome is nothing short of breathtaking. Using a mix of practical sets, CGI, and miniatures, Scott and cinematographer John Mathieson recreated the grandeur of the Colosseum and the chaotic energy of Rome's streets with staggering realism.Equally stunning is Hans Zimmer and Lisa Gerrard's haunting score. The music perfectly captures the film's shifting tones, from the mournful longing of Maximus's loss to the triumphant swell of his victories. Tracks like “Now We Are Free” remain synonymous with the film's legacy, blending orchestral power with ethereal vocals to evoke an almost mythic quality.A Performance for the AgesRussell Crowe's portrayal of Maximus is the beating heart of Gladiator. His transformation from a respected general to a vengeful gladiator is physically demanding and emotionally rich. Crowe embodies Maximus with a quiet intensity, delivering a performance that won him the Academy Award for Best Actor. His ability to convey a deep well of grief, determination, and defiance elevates the character into the realm of timeless cinematic heroes.Joaquin Phoenix's Commodus, on the other hand, is a masterclass in villainy. He's not just evil for the sake of it—he's deeply insecure, desperate for approval, and chillingly manipulative. Phoenix walks a delicate line, making Commodus repulsive yet compelling, a character you can't look away from, no matter how despicable his actions.The supporting cast, including Connie Nielsen as the morally torn Lucilla and Richard Harris as the wise Emperor Marcus Aurelius, rounds out the ensemble with gravitas and depth. Even in smaller roles, the film excels in giving its characters memorable moments that add richness to the world.Themes That Echo Through HistoryGladiator isn't just a feast for the senses—it's a film that grapples with timeless themes. Justice, loyalty, and the corrupting nature of power all play pivotal roles in the story. Maximus's journey is as much about reclaiming his honour as it is toppling a corrupt regime. His mantra, “What we do in life echoes in eternity,” underscores the film's meditation on legacy and the impact of our actions.The movie also speaks to the enduring appeal of underdog stories. Maximus's rise from slave to hero taps into a universal desire for justice and redemption, making his triumphs all the more cathartic. At the same time, the film doesn't shy away from the brutality of its world, reminding us that victory often comes at a high cost.A Lasting LegacyWhen Gladiator hit theatres in 2000, it reignited interest in historical epics, paving the way for films like Troy, 300, and Kingdom of Heaven. But few have matched its impact. Its influence extends beyond the genre, inspiring video games, TV series, and countless parodies in pop culture.The film's success also cemented Ridley Scott's reputation as a visionary director and launched Russell Crowe into superstardom. It remains a benchmark for storytelling and craftsmanship, a movie that feels as fresh and powerful today as it did over two decades ago.Why We Still Love GladiatorSo why does Gladiator still hold such a special place in our hearts? Part of it is the sheer spectacle—few films manage to combine action, drama, and historical detail so seamlessly. But more than that, it's the emotional core of the story. Maximus's journey is one of loss, perseverance, and ultimate redemption, themes that resonate universally.Watching Gladiator is an experience that lingers long after the credits roll. Whether it's the breathtaking battles, the nuanced performances, or the hauntingly beautiful score, every element works in harmony to create something truly unforgettable.Final ThoughtsOur latest Born to Watch podcast episode celebrates everything that makes Gladiator a masterpiece. From its technical achievements to its emotional depth, the film is a triumph in every sense of the word. It's a reminder of why we go to the movies—to be moved, thrilled, and inspired.If you haven't revisited Gladiator lately, now is the perfect time. As Maximus would say, “Strength and Honour”—this movie delivers both in spades.

Few films define absurdist comedy, as well as Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004). Directed by Adam McKay and starring Will Ferrell as the legendary, moustachioed newscaster Ron Burgundy, Anchorman carved a bold path through comedy with an all-star cast, offbeat humour, and unforgettable quotes that have lingered in pop culture. In this Anchorman (2004) Movie Review, we're diving deep into what makes this cult classic not just a film but an icon of comedy—and one of the most quotable movies of all time.Plot and Characters: When News Was KingSet in the 1970s, a time when "men were men" and women "stayed at home," the story centres around the fictional KVWN Channel 4 News Team, led by the famously self-assured and sometimes painfully oblivious Ron Burgundy. Alongside Ron, we meet his team of misfits: the weather-savvy, clueless Brick Tamland (Steve Carell); overconfident field reporter Brian Fantana (Paul Rudd); and sports anchor Champ Kind (David Koechner), who lives for high fives and pep talks. These characters create a backdrop of harmless but hilarious masculinity that clashes sharply when Veronica Corningstone (Christina Applegate) joins the team as the station's first female anchor.Anchorman's setup brilliantly juxtaposes the absurdly sexist mindset of its male leads against Veronica's ambition, highlighting the shifting social norms of the time. The plot might be thin—it's mostly about Ron and Veronica battling it out for the anchor position—but it's rich in comedic material. It's a satire of news culture, masculinity, and the competitive, ego-fueled world of media that remains relevant today.A Perfect Cast: Comedy's All-Stars UniteWhat makes Anchorman shine is its cast, an ensemble of comedy heavyweights who bring McKay and Ferrell's vision to life. Will Ferrell is flawless as Ron Burgundy, balancing his bumbling arrogance with just enough charm to make you root for him even as he gets himself into deeper trouble. Ferrell's embodiment of Ron's obliviousness and blustering bravado became instantly iconic; it's hard to imagine anyone else playing the role.Meanwhile, Steve Carell's Brick Tamland is a masterpiece of deadpan comedy. With lines like “I love lamp,” Carell captures a character so endearing yet clueless that it's impossible not to laugh. Paul Rudd's Brian Fantana is the epitome of 70s coolness gone hilariously wrong, especially during his “Sex Panther” cologne debacle—a bit so absurdly funny it's now a classic in itself. David Koechner, as Champ Kind, rounds out the team with his absurdly aggressive, often over-the-top take on sports reporting. Each character is individually funny, but together, they create an ensemble that works on a level of comedic chemistry that's rarely matched.Christina Applegate's Veronica is the perfect foil to the bumbling news team. Applegate's character is strong-willed, determined, and smart—qualities that make her the film's moral compass but never dull the humour. Veronica's arc gives Anchorman a unique edge, creating a comedy with an unexpectedly solid message about the power of women in the workplace, wrapped in layers of absurdity.Improvised Brilliance: McKay and Ferrell's Signature ComedyMuch of Anchorman's magic comes from its improvisational style. Adam McKay and Will Ferrell wrote a loose script, allowing the cast the freedom to riff and play off each other's quirks. This is a huge part of the film's charm; the lines feel spontaneous, and the cast's reactions are genuine. Some of the most memorable scenes, such as the Channel 4 news team's infamous back alley brawl with rival news stations, are the result of this improvisational approach. The “news fight” scene, which features cameos from Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn, and even Tim Robbins, is so outlandish it has become legendary. It encapsulates what makes Anchorman special—a wild mix of unpredictability and commitment to the bit.McKay's direction leans heavily on satire, poking fun at the masculinity and trivial self-importance of the news business, especially in an era where anchors were often worshipped as local celebrities. McKay and Ferrell's collaboration laid the groundwork for a style of humour that would define future hits like Step Brothers and Talladega Nights, blending absurdity with a hint of social commentary.Cultural Impact: Ron Burgundy's Lasting LegacyAnchorman isn't just a comedy; it's a cultural phenomenon that has transcended the screen. Lines like “Stay classy, San Diego,” “I'm kind of a big deal,” and “Great Odin's raven!” have made their way into everyday conversation, solidifying Ron Burgundy's place in pop culture. The film even spawned a sequel, 2013's Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues, although many fans argue the original remains untouchable. This lasting impact speaks to the film's perfect combination of hilarious writing, iconic characters, and the kind of humour that feels fresh every time you watch it.The film's legacy also includes its influence on subsequent comedies. After Anchorman, comedies began more openly embracing improvisational styles, and the genre saw an increase in surreal, character-driven humour. The success of Anchorman gave McKay and Ferrell the leverage to create other offbeat comedies that pushed boundaries and expanded the genre's potential.Why Anchorman Still WorksRe-watching Anchorman almost 20 years later, it still holds up remarkably well. While some of the humour is undeniably ridiculous, the film has an underlying cleverness that gives it staying power. Its satire of the media is still relevant in the age of social media and 24-hour news, and its take on gender dynamics in the workplace remains poignant. For a film filled with absurdist humour, Anchorman has surprising depth and remains one of the most quotable films in the comedy genre.Final Verdict: A Comedy Classic Worth RevisitingIn the Anchorman (2004) Movie Review episode of Born to Watch, we celebrate this comedy classic for its perfect blend of absurdity and satire, brought to life by a dream team cast. From Ron Burgundy's unflinching vanity to Brick Tamland's lovable cluelessness, each character leaves a lasting impression. Anchorman continues to entertain audiences with its unique humour, endlessly quotable lines, and moments of genuine satire that speak to an era obsessed with image and celebrity.So, if you haven't watched Anchorman recently, it's worth revisiting. With every rewatch, you'll find yourself laughing at the same ridiculous lines—and discovering new ones that maybe you didn't catch the first time. This is comedy at its best: brash, bold, and utterly unforgettable. Stay classy, listeners, and join us on Born to Watch as we break down why Anchorman remains one of the greatest comedies of all time.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

In the world of British crime cinema, few films capture the frenetic energy and dark humour of the underworld quite like Snatch (2000). Directed by Guy Ritchie, Snatch is a heist film on steroids, merging British grit with slapstick absurdity and a labyrinthine plot filled with double-crosses stolen diamonds, and unlikely heroes. For our latest Born to Watch podcast episode, we dive into what makes Snatch such a stand-out in the crime genre and why its impact remains strong 20 years after its release. This Snatch (2000) Movie Review covers everything from the stellar cast to Ritchie's stylistic choices and how the film has influenced the genre and pop culture.Plot and Style: A High-Speed Crime CaperSnatch tells two intertwined stories. The first follows Turkish (Jason Statham), an ambitious underground boxing promoter, who gets roped into an unlicensed fight by gangster Brick Top (Alan Ford). Meanwhile, the second story revolves around a stolen 84-carat diamond that makes its way across a host of unscrupulous characters, including small-time thieves, corrupt jewellers, and an indestructible bare-knuckle boxer named Mickey O'Neil (Brad Pitt). The film's gritty and energetic style pulls the viewer through London's seedy streets with whip-fast edits, slow-motion shots, and a darkly comic lens.Guy Ritchie's directing style is on full display here. Quick cuts, freeze frames, and a playful, punchy soundtrack make the film a sensory assault, capturing the chaos of its characters' lives. From the first minute, Snatch establishes a hyper-kinetic pace that doesn't let up, demanding the audience's full attention. It's a tricky balance, but Ritchie pulls it off, giving us a film that's as smart and clever as it is chaotic and loud.An Ensemble Cast With Star Power and ChemistryOne of Snatch's most notable aspects is its eclectic, all-star cast. The ensemble cast brings to life a colourful array of characters, each with its quirks and memorable traits. Jason Statham, then a relatively unknown actor, is captivating as Turkish, the film's down-on-his-luck protagonist whose deadpan delivery and cool demeanour ground the story's wild twists. Turkish's partner, Tommy (Stephen Graham), provides a comedic counterbalance, stumbling through one mishap after another.Brad Pitt's performance as a thickly accented Irish Traveler and bare-knuckle boxing champion, Mickey O'Neil, is unforgettable. Pitt's choice to adopt a nearly indecipherable accent adds an extra layer of humour and mystique to the character. Known as the “Pikey,” Mickey steals scenes with his charm, unpredictability, and sheer fighting prowess. Rumour has it that Pitt's accent was intentionally difficult to understand as a creative solution after he struggled with a convincing English accent. Whatever the reason, it works perfectly, adding a layer of intrigue and hilarity that no one could have anticipated.Benicio Del Toro, Dennis Farina, Rade Sherbedgia, and Alan Ford round out the cast with standout performances. Ford's Brick Top is especially menacing as he delivers brutal monologues about pigs, body disposal, and the world of underground fighting. Each actor brings their A-game, giving the film an international flavour and highlighting Ritchie's knack for directing ensembles.The Dark Humor: Punchlines in the Punch-UpsRitchie's use of dark humour is central to Snatch's identity. The film revels in its comedic violence and absurd situations, balancing tension with perfectly timed humour. From the unintentionally humorous attempts of small-time crooks like Sol (Lennie James) and Vinny (Robbie Gee) to pull off a diamond heist to the over-the-top cruelty of Brick Top, the film walks the fine line between horror and hilarity. Ritchie doesn't just throw humour in as a way to lighten the mood—it's a critical part of the story and its characters, making Snatch feel as if you're watching a crime film through a cracked mirror.The humour also shows up in the dialogue, with quotable lines that stick long after the credits roll. Whether it's Turkish's dry observations, Mickey's barely intelligible but somehow hilarious quips, or Brick Top's chilling speeches, Snatch knows how to keep the audience entertained. Ritchie's dialogue is sharp and fast-paced, mixing British slang with witty banter, making it endlessly rewatchable and quotable.Cultural Impact and Lasting AppealWhen Snatch hit theatres in 2000, it was an instant hit among fans of British gangster films, establishing Ritchie as a definitive voice in the genre. With its stylised violence, witty script, and memorable characters, Snatch quickly became a cult classic. It inspired a new wave of British crime cinema, with directors and writers noting Ritchie's energetic approach to storytelling. Films and shows that followed, like Layer Cake and even Peaky Blinders, borrow elements of Ritchie's unique style.Snatch is more than just a genre film; it also influences pop culture. Brad Pitt's Mickey became iconic, referenced in countless media for his humour and physicality. The film's eclectic soundtrack—featuring tracks from The Stranglers, Oasis, and Mirwais—also found its way into fans' playlists, blending punk, rock, and electronic music into a genre-defying mix that helped set the tone for the film.Cinematic Techniques and Visual StorytellingRitchie's visual style in Snatch is as influential as his narrative structure. The editing choices, particularly sped-up sequences, slow-motion shots, and freeze frames, became trademarks of Ritchie's style. These techniques aren't just flashy—they enhance the tension and humour, making even small actions, like loading a gun or opening a door, feel cinematic. The colour palette and gritty visuals make London's underground feel both surreal and grounded, capturing a seedy yet vibrant world that exists just out of the public eye.The film's split-screen shots, flashbacks, and quick cuts give it a comic-book feel, adding to its dynamic and energetic tone. Ritchie crafted Snatch with a precision that feels both messy and deliberate—a hard trick to pull off but one that pays off in spades, immersing viewers in a world of diamonds, double-crosses, and underground boxing.Why Snatch Is Still a Must-WatchTwo decades later, Snatch is as fresh and entertaining as ever. It's a film that rewards multiple viewings, with each rewatch revealing new details, from the clever foreshadowing to the way Ritchie uses sound and visuals to build tension. It's a cult classic that defined a genre, yet it doesn't feel dated—a testament to its careful craftsmanship and the universal appeal of its humor and grit.For anyone who loves crime thrillers, dark humor, or just a film that's endlessly quotable and watchable, Snatch is a must-watch. It's an adrenaline-fueled journey into the chaotic world of diamond heists and bare-knuckle boxing, packed with unforgettable characters, twisty plots, and Guy Ritchie's signature style. As we dissect in this Snatch (2000) Movie Review, it's a film that never quite lets you catch your breath—and that's precisely why we love it.

Joker: Folie à Deux is a follow-up that takes the foundations of 2019's Joker and, quite frankly, leaves them in the dust. Directed once again by Todd Phillips, this sequel trades in the raw, grounded intensity of the first film for a flashy, surreal spectacle that feels jarringly out of place. Where Joker delivered a chilling psychological portrait of Arthur Fleck's descent into madness, Folie à Deux seems content with superficial theatrics and stylistic excess, abandoning the careful character work that made Arthur's story so compelling.The most controversial creative choice here? It has to be the musical element, which feels entirely at odds with the film's established tone. Instead of maintaining the gritty, unnerving realism that defined Arthur's journey, Phillips dives headfirst into a musical fantasy. This choice doesn't just feel unexpected—it feels unearned. The inclusion of song and dance numbers, mainly to explore Arthur's connection to Harley Quinn (played by Lady Gaga), strips away much of the intensity that defined the original, leaving us with a tonal clash that undermines the story's impact.Speaking of Harley, Lady Gaga is a powerhouse performer, and her casting could have been an exciting way to explore a fascinating and complex character. However, the film doesn't do her justice. Rather than giving us a nuanced, intricate look at Harley and Arthur's relationship, Folie à Deux opts for surface-level theatrics that barely scratch the depth these characters deserve. While intriguing, the chemistry between Phoenix and Gaga is undercut by a script that treats their dynamic as little more than a visually striking spectacle rather than a fully developed relationship. Instead of a true exploration of love and chaos, what we get feels like a stylised portrayal of toxic romance without the emotional weight needed to make it resonate.It's disappointing to see Phillips drift so far from the gritty realism that defined Joker. The first film was a brutal examination of a broken man shaped by a broken world, blending tragedy and horror with an uncomfortably close-to-home critique of society. In Folie à Deux, however, Arthur's journey seems almost incidental, overshadowed by Phillips' desire to create something visually bold and tonally eclectic. We're left with a spectacle, but not the kind that delivers any true insight or depth.Overall, Joker: Folie à Deux feels more concerned with aesthetics than substance. The unsettling descent into madness that Joker perfected is sacrificed here, replaced by a style-over-story approach that feels, at best, a creative gamble that didn't pay off. Fans hoping for a continuation of Arthur Fleck's dark, unflinching narrative may find themselves disappointed as this sequel veers wildly off course, trading a complex character study for flashy, hollow musical numbers and a superficial take on love and chaos.If you loved the gritty, psychologically charged experience of the first Joker, this follow-up might leave you wondering why Phillips chose to take Arthur's story in such a drastically different and ultimately less impactful direction.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

If ever there was a film that brings true terror out of something as every day as fan meeting their idol, Stephen King's Misery (1990) is that film. Directed by Rob Reiner and based on the bestselling novel by Stephen King, Misery tells a haunting story that swaps out supernatural threats for the all-too-real horror of human obsession. Released at the dawn of the '90s and now over 30 years old, Misery remains one of the most potent psychological horror films of our time. It is a perfect Halloween watch for those who seek more tension than jump scares.Misery centres on novelist Paul Sheldon (James Caan), a successful author famous for his romance series about a character named Misery. After a car accident in a snowstorm, Paul is “rescued” by Annie Wilkes (Kathy Bates), a devoted fan who happens to be a nurse—and who also happens to be completely unhinged. When Annie discovers that Paul has killed off her beloved Misery in his latest manuscript, she takes the word “fanatic” to a horrifying new level. A tightly contained, claustrophobic thriller ensues that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats, not with gore or traditional horror imagery, but with an unrelenting, stomach-turning tension.One of the most striking elements of Misery is its setting. From the moment Paul wakes up in Annie's isolated, snow-locked farmhouse, the world shrinks, trapping both Paul and the audience in an increasingly claustrophobic space where the only two characters are locked in a power struggle. Annie's house becomes a cage, meticulously designed to feel familiar and suffocating, with its well-worn furnishings masking a deadly intensity underneath. The snow-covered landscape outside reflects this feeling—cold, remote, and unforgiving. It's a classic King setting that director Rob Reiner uses to maximum effect, making the walls of that farmhouse press ever closer as Annie's mental state deteriorates.Kathy Bates' performance as Annie Wilkes is legendary, and rightly so. In what became her career-defining role, Bates brings vulnerability and sheer terror to the character, infusing Annie with a disarming sweetness that makes her psychosis even more chilling. She is charming one moment, terrifying the next—a character who could exist in real life and who taps into our deepest fears about trusting the wrong people. With almost no warning, the scenes where she switches from gentle caretaker to vengeful captor reveal Bates' extraordinary range and leave viewers with a sense of helpless dread. Her portrayal of Annie won her the Academy Award for Best Actress, a rare honour for a horror performance and one that cemented her place in film history.Opposite Bates, James Caan delivers a nuanced performance as Paul Sheldon. Though Paul starts as a somewhat self-absorbed writer who wants to escape his romantic series, Caan's portrayal evolves as he faces Annie's wrath. Caan captures Paul's vulnerability and determination, making his transformation from a helpless captive to a man desperate for survival both believable and gripping. His character is put through unimaginable psychological and physical torture, but his resilience offers a glimmer of hope amidst the nightmare. Caan and Bates create a twisted, unforgettable dynamic that keeps the film's tension at a fever pitch.One of the film's most famous—and undeniably hardest-to-watch—scenes is the “hobbling” sequence, in which Annie punishes Paul in a shocking act of violence to prevent his escape. The scene is iconic not just for its brutality but also for how it embodies the film's emotional and psychological stakes. By physically maiming him, Annie shows just how deeply she is willing to go to keep her fantasy alive. Her twisted affection is at its apex here, making viewers squirm from the sight and the implications of her actions. The scene became infamous in horror cinema and is arguably more memorable for the psychological horror it encapsulates than for its actual violence. For many, it is the film's defining moment, encapsulating its unflinching approach to the terror of captivity.Reiner, known primarily for his work in comedies and dramas (When Harry Met Sally, Stand by Me), was an unexpected but brilliant choice to direct this adaptation. He understood that Misery would benefit from a restrained approach, choosing tension over blood and psychological horror over spectacle. This restraint is a large part of what makes the movie so unsettling. The viewer is always left dreading what Annie might do next, imagining the horrors rather than seeing them explicitly laid out. Reiner's style here elevates Misery from a straightforward thriller to a layered character study, forcing audiences to confront the darkness in everyday people and situations.Beyond its immediate impact, Misery has left a lasting influence on pop culture, particularly how it portrays fan obsession. Annie's character has become a cultural symbol for the idea of the “toxic fan,” a trope that has only become more relevant with the rise of social media. Her obsession with controlling Paul's creative output and shaping his work to her liking echoes the demands fans sometimes place on creators today and the entitlement and anger that can arise when fans feel a creator has betrayed their vision. The film's exploration of this dynamic remains unnervingly relevant, making it more than just a Halloween thrill but a commentary on the power dynamics between fans and artists.Watching Misery today, it's remarkable how well it holds up and how fresh and frightening it feels. Stephen King adaptations have always been hit or miss, but Misery succeeds because it strikes at something deeply primal—the fear of being controlled, trapped, and hurt by someone who professes to love you. It's a horror story not of monsters or demons but of a real human capacity for cruelty. As a Halloween viewing, Misery offers horror in a way that is less about jump scares and more about slowly building dread, a psychological unspooling that lingers long after the credits roll.In the realm of horror movies, Misery stands out as a true classic, one that doesn't need blood-soaked scenes or supernatural elements to scare its audience. Instead, it relies on masterful performances, tight storytelling, and universal fear of entrapment to create an atmosphere of relentless terror. This Halloween, for those who crave a horror experience that's as intelligent as it is frightening, Stephen King's Misery (1990) is essential viewing. Grab a blanket, dim the lights, and prepare for an unforgettable ride into the dark depths of fandom gone wrong.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

When we look back at late-90s cinema, few films hit the nerve of an era quite like Enemy of the State (1998). Directed by Tony Scott and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, the film was released when the internet was still in its infancy, and the public's understanding of digital surveillance was minimal at best. Fast-forward to today and Enemy of the State feels less like a cautionary tale and more like a prediction of the modern world.Starring Will Smith in one of his first dramatic leading roles and featuring a powerhouse cast that includes Gene Hackman, Jon Voight, and Lisa Bonet, Enemy of the State blends action, espionage, and paranoia in a way that makes it both thrilling and eerily relevant. The movie's central theme—how the government can use technology to monitor citizens—is more pertinent now than in 1998. But beyond the social commentary, Enemy of the State is a tightly wound conspiracy thriller that still manages to entertain on its most basic level: sheer adrenaline.A Case of Wrong Place, Wrong TimeThe film kicks off with the murder of a U.S. Congressman by a high-ranking NSA official, played with chilling authority by Jon Voight. This event sets the stage for the film's exploration of the dark side of government surveillance. The plot follows Robert Clayton Dean (Will Smith), a successful labour lawyer, who unwittingly becomes entangled in this conspiracy when an old acquaintance slips him a videotape containing evidence of the congressman's murder.Dean, who has no idea that he has this tape, quickly finds himself the target of the NSA's surveillance and an orchestrated takedown. His life is turned upside down as his bank accounts are frozen, his credit cards are cancelled, and an omniscient digital eye monitors his every move. The tension only builds as Dean is forced to team up with a former NSA operative, Brill (Gene Hackman), who helps him understand the depth of the conspiracy he's caught up in.Surveillance and Paranoia in the Digital AgeEnemy of the State stands out because it effectively tackles the theme of surveillance in the digital age. Released during a time when most of us still viewed the internet as little more than a novelty, the film was ahead of its time in predicting just how pervasive technology would become in our everyday lives. From satellite tracking to phone tapping, Scott's direction makes it clear that there's nowhere to hide in this tech-driven world.At the heart of the film is a fear that resonates with many today: the loss of privacy. The movie asks a question that feels more urgent in the 2020s than in the 1990s—how much power should governments have to monitor their citizens in the name of security? While Enemy of the State doesn't provide any clear answers, it succeeds in making us feel uneasy, particularly as the line between safety and invasion of privacy blurs.In hindsight, the film's plot is almost prophetic. In an era post-Snowden, with revelations of mass government surveillance by agencies like the NSA, Enemy of the State seems less far-fetched and more like a stark reality. This prescience is one of the reasons the film holds up so well over two decades later.Will Smith: A Star in the MakingAt the time of its release, Enemy of the State was a significant departure for Will Smith, who was best known for his comedic roles in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and blockbuster action flicks like Independence Day. As Robert Clayton Dean, Smith delivers a more nuanced and serious performance, proving that he can handle roles that require more than just one-liners and charm. His portrayal of an everyman caught in a nightmare scenario is both believable and sympathetic, grounding the film's high-concept premise in a relatable human experience.Smith's chemistry with Gene Hackman is another highlight. Hackman, who plays the paranoid, world-weary former NSA agent, brings gravitas to every scene he's in, making Brill a character that feels like he could have walked right out of another conspiracy thriller—The Conversation (1974), for instance, which Hackman also starred in. Their dynamic, a blend of mentor and reluctant ally, adds a layer of emotional depth to the film, giving it more weight than your average action thriller.Tony Scott's Signature Style: Tension on OverdriveTony Scott, known for his kinetic and visually dynamic style, brings his A-game to Enemy of the State. The film is packed with fast-paced action sequences and explosive set pieces that we've come to expect from Scott, but what sets it apart from other late-90s thrillers is how well it builds and sustains tension.The chase sequences, for example, are relentless, and Scott uses surveillance tools—cameras, monitors, satellites—to create a sense of claustrophobia. The viewer is constantly reminded that Dean is being watched, tracked, and hunted. Even in scenes where nothing overtly dangerous is happening, the ever-present hum of technology keeps the tension alive. It's a film that rarely lets the audience catch its breath, and that's exactly what makes it so engaging.A Time Capsule That Still MattersAlthough Enemy of the State is a product of the late 90s, its themes and messages have become more relevant with time. The film tapped into a growing anxiety about the role of technology in our lives, and in the years since its release, that anxiety has only intensified. The explosion of the internet, the rise of social media, and the ongoing debate about privacy vs. security make Enemy of the State feel more like a cultural artifact that predicted our current reality.The film also helped shape how Hollywood would approach tech-based thrillers in the future. Movies like The Bourne Identity, Eagle Eye, and even The Dark Knight owe a debt to the groundwork laid by Enemy of the State, particularly in how they depict technology as both a tool and a weapon.Why It Still MattersAt its core, Enemy of the State (1998) is a pulse-pounding thriller that expertly combines action with a timely and prescient commentary on technology and government power. It's a movie that's fun to watch and forces you to think about the world we live in today. With strong performances from Will Smith and Gene Hackman, and Tony Scott's tense, no-holds-barred direction, Enemy of the State remains a must-watch for anyone who enjoys a good thriller with something important to say.For fans of the Born to Watch podcast, revisiting this film will be both a nostalgic trip back to the late 90s and a stark reminder of how far and little things have changed since then.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

When it comes to 90s action movies, The Rock (1996) is an absolute powerhouse, packing in all the adrenaline, explosions, and star power you'd expect from a Michael Bay film. This high-octane blockbuster fuses a prison break with a military conspiracy, creating a wild ride that still holds up almost 30 years later.At its core, The Rock combines the thrilling escapism of an action movie with a surprisingly engaging plot. The story kicks off when a group of rogue U.S. Marines, led by the stoic General Hummel (played by the legendary Ed Harris), seizes Alcatraz Island and threatens to launch chemical weapons on San Francisco. The government assembles a rather unusual duo to thwart the attack: Dr. Stanley Goodspeed (a quirky and nerdy Nicolas Cage) and John Mason (Sean Connery, effortlessly cool as a former British SAS operative). Mason is the only man ever to have successfully escaped Alcatraz, making him the key to breaking back into the "rock" and stopping the impending disaster.What sets The Rock apart from other 90s action films is its all-star cast and their ability to bring depth to what could have been one-note characters. Connery, in particular, steals every scene he's in, bringing both gravitas and sly humour. Cage's Goodspeed is a fish out of water, providing a balance to Connery's seasoned warrior. Their dynamic delivers much of the film's heart and unexpected comedic moments. Meanwhile, Harris' Hummel is a villain with depth—a man who believes he's fighting for a noble cause, adding emotional layers to the otherwise explosive spectacle.Visually, Michael Bay's signature style is all over the screen. Expect dizzying action sequences, perfectly timed slow-motion shots, and some truly unforgettable set pieces, including car chases through the streets of San Francisco and tense scenes inside the ominous Alcatraz prison. Bay knows how to amp up the intensity, and Hans Zimmer's pulse-pounding score keeps your heart racing right alongside the action.What makes The Rock such a standout is its ability to blend the best of 90s action excess with memorable performances and an engaging narrative. It's a film that doesn't just rely on explosions but instead crafts a fun, fast-paced story around them. For fans of action movies, this is one of the decade's must-see films, offering pure entertainment from start to finish.Why It Still Matters:The Rock endures as one of the best action movies of its era. It captures the quintessential 90s action formula while pushing its limits with a more intricate story and standout performances. Connery's role as the aging but unbreakable Mason remains a defining one, while Cage's Goodspeed is a great mix of quirky and capable, perfectly capturing the “unlikely hero” archetype. Add in the film's gripping premise, explosive action, and a truly memorable villain, you've got a recipe for a classic.For fans of Born to Watch, The Rock is an ideal discussion piece—it's pure popcorn entertainment with just enough emotional complexity to elevate it above other action flicks of its time. Whether it's your first time seeing it or your 50th, it's a movie that never fails to entertain.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

When it comes to biting satire and outrageous humour, Tropic Thunder remains a standout in the annals of Hollywood comedies. Released in 2008, this film, directed by Ben Stiller, is a unique blend of action, absurdity, and razor-sharp commentary on the entertainment industry itself. In this Tropic Thunder Movie Review, we dive deep into the film's multilayered humour, its over-the-top performances, and the controversies that have kept it relevant long after its initial release.Plot Breakdown and SetupTropic Thunder follows the chaotic production of a Vietnam War film that spirals out of control when its pampered, clueless actors are dropped into the jungle for some “method” filmmaking. What starts as a fictional movie quickly devolves into real-life danger, though the cast has no idea they are no longer pretending. The plot is as meta as it gets—a movie about making a movie, where the line between fiction and reality is hilariously blurred.Ben Stiller plays Tugg Speedman, a fading action star desperately seeking credibility by taking on a “serious” role in a war drama. His co-stars include Kirk Lazarus (played by Robert Downey Jr.), a multiple Oscar-winning actor who undergoes a controversial pigment alteration surgery to play a Black soldier, and Jeff Portnoy (Jack Black), a drug-addicted comedian known for his gross-out humour. Alongside them are Kevin Sandusky (Jay Baruchel), the earnest newbie, and Alpa Chino (Brandon T. Jackson), a rapper-turned-actor trying to maintain his street cred. As the film's director loses control, the actors must survive real threats in the jungle, thinking it's all part of the shoot.A Satirical Punch to Hollywood's EgoAt its core, Tropic Thunder is an unflinching satire of Hollywood excess, egotism, and the absurd lengths actors go to in search of acclaim. The film skewers method acting, self-important stars, and the exploitative nature of the movie business. Ben Stiller, who not only stars but directs, doesn't shy away from poking fun at the very industry that made him famous.Stiller's Tugg Speedman embodies the desperation of actors clinging to their fading stardom. His previous attempts to earn respect as a serious actor—most notably in the disastrous Simple Jack, where he plays a mentally disabled man—are a clear jab at how Hollywood sometimes exploits sensitive topics for awards. The film pulls no punches in exposing the cynical calculation behind some “prestige” performances.Robert Downey Jr.'s portrayal of Kirk Lazarus, a method actor who famously “doesn't break character until the DVD commentary,” takes method acting to absurd extremes. The decision for Lazarus to undergo a skin pigmentation procedure to play a Black character is undeniably provocative, pushing the boundaries of satire in ways that sparked debate even upon the film's release. The character is a vehicle for Tropic Thunder to critique the pretentiousness of actors who go to unhealthy or inappropriate lengths to inhabit their roles—without excusing the controversial nature of Lazarus's arc.Meanwhile, Jack Black's Jeff Portnoy represents a different Hollywood trope: the comedic actor known for lowbrow, bodily-function-driven humour who secretly longs for artistic respect. Black leans into this portrayal with reckless abandon, turning Portnoy into a parody of a certain kind of comedian trapped by his own public persona.The Performances: A Career High for Downey Jr.Though the entire cast delivers hilarious performances, Robert Downey Jr. steals the show with his portrayal of Kirk Lazarus. His commitment to the role is complete, both playing up the absurdity of Lazarus's method acting and delivering an authentic, sharp commentary on Hollywood's more troubling habits. Downey Jr.'s performance walks a very fine line—one that could have easily veered into offensive territory. However, by using the character to critique the very behaviour he is embodying, the role becomes an effective, albeit a controversial, form of satire. His role earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, cementing it as one of the most memorable comedic performances of the 2000s.Ben Stiller's turn as the washed-up action star is also noteworthy, mainly because his character serves as the audience's guide through the absurdity of the film's events. Stiller's deadpan delivery and earnest attempts at drama make Tugg Speedman's cluelessness all the more entertaining.Jack Black, as Jeff Portnoy, veers into more chaotic, physical comedy, adding a layer of absurd humour to the group's dynamic. His struggles with drug addiction while lost in the jungle add a layer of vulnerability to the otherwise outlandish character.Controversy and Cultural ImpactTropic Thunder courted its fair share of controversy upon release, particularly for its portrayal of Kirk Lazarus and its use of blackface as a satirical device. Robert Downey Jr. defended the role as an exploration of actors' ethical boundaries, and the film itself uses Lazarus's storyline to highlight the ridiculous lengths some performers will go for their craft. Still, the role continues to prompt discussions on what constitutes effective satire versus offensive content.Additionally, the film's subplot involving Tugg Speedman's role in Simple Jack—a blatant parody of Hollywood's handling of disability—also generated pushback from advocacy groups. These controversies, however, are key to understanding the film's legacy. Tropic Thunder was always intended to provoke, challenge, and make audiences uncomfortable as they laugh.Despite (or perhaps because of) these controversies, Tropic Thunder remains a touchstone in discussions about satire, comedy, and filmmakers' responsibilities when dealing with sensitive topics. Its willingness to push boundaries and make audiences question the ethics of the film industry itself is part of what keeps it relevant more than 15 years later.Cinematic Elements: More than Just ComedyOn the technical side, Tropic Thunder is surprisingly well-made for what is primarily a comedy. John Toll's cinematography brings an epic, blockbuster feel to the film, particularly in the action sequences that are staged with the same level of intensity as a serious war movie. Theodore Shapiro's score also works in tandem with the action, providing a dramatic undertone that heightens the film's satirical edge.The jungle setting, explosive battles, and grandiose direction all emphasise how over-the-top Hollywood productions can become, underscoring the film's satire. While Tropic Thunder could have quickly been shot with a straightforward, low-budget comedy aesthetic, the decision to treat it like an actual war film makes the story's absurdity all the more pronounced.Legacy: A Satirical Time CapsuleIn many ways, Tropic Thunder serves as a time capsule of mid-2000s Hollywood. It captured a specific moment in the film industry when method acting, prestige pictures, and action blockbusters dominated the cultural conversation. The film remains controversial, but it's also widely regarded as one of the best satirical comedies of its time. Whether it skewers egotistical actors, lampoons Hollywood's excesses, or simply delivers absurd, laugh-out-loud moments, Tropic Thunder stands as a film that invites laughter and introspection in equal measure.As we explore Tropic Thunder's genius and provocations in this podcast episode, we ask: Does it still hold up? Is it a biting satire of Hollywood or an offens...

When we talk about The Naked Gun (1988), we're diving headfirst into a comedy treasure chest—one filled with absurdity, brilliant wordplay, and visual gags that just don't stop. This Zucker, Abrahams, and Zucker (ZAZ) film, starring the ever-stoic Leslie Nielsen as the bumbling detective Lt. Frank Drebin, stands as one of the defining examples of slapstick parody. It's a film that has aged remarkably well, continuing to resonate with new audiences and reminding those who saw it back in 1988 just how funny an entirely ridiculous movie can be.Plot and Storytelling: Simplicity at its FunniestAt its core, The Naked Gun is a detective story—a genre that's been spoofed many times but never quite with the same flair as this film. The plot revolves around Lt. Drebin, a man dedicated to solving crimes but utterly incapable of doing so with any amount of skill or professionalism. In The Naked Gun, Drebin is tasked with thwarting a plot to assassinate Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to Los Angeles. The story quickly evolves into a chaotic blend of police procedural satire, ridiculous missteps, and wildly inappropriate antics, all the while managing to maintain an air of sincerity, thanks to Nielsen's deadpan performance.The film plays it smart by not worrying too much about the intricacies of the plot. Instead, it focuses on building its jokes around the absurdity of the situation and the cluelessness of its characters. It's almost as if the ZAZ team were saying, “We know the plot's thin, but you're here for the laughs, right?” And laugh we do—from the first moment to the iconic final act at the baseball stadium. Whether it's a visual gag or a clever line of dialogue, every scene is packed with humour.The Genius of Leslie Nielsen: Deadpan PerfectionBefore The Naked Gun, Leslie Nielsen had a long career in more serious roles but found his true calling as a comedic actor in Airplane! (1980)—also directed by ZAZ. That film launched Nielsen's second wind as a parody star, and his portrayal of Frank Drebin cemented his legacy as the king of deadpan humour. The genius of Nielsen lies in his ability to deliver the most ridiculous lines with the gravitas of a Shakespearean actor. There's no winking at the camera or over-the-top physical comedy; Nielsen plays it as straight as possible, making the absurdity around him even funnier.Take, for example, one of the film's most famous lines: “Nice beaver.” Drebin says this with no awareness of the double entendre, but when Jane Spencer (Priscilla Presley) responds by handing him a literal stuffed beaver, the joke lands perfectly. This sort of naive, deadpan delivery that Nielsen mastered makes Frank Drebin one of the most lovable oafs in cinematic history.Supporting Cast: A Perfect EnsembleOf course, Nielsen is supported by a stellar cast, each contributing to the film's comic rhythm. Priscilla Presley plays Jane Spencer, Drebin's love interest, and her straight-laced performance brilliantly complements Nielsen's obliviousness. The chemistry between Presley and Nielsen feels oddly genuine, grounding the film just enough to allow the wild antics around them to feel even more surreal.George Kennedy, as Drebin's partner, Captain Ed Hocken, provides another layer of deadpan delivery, playing the more serious cop who happens to be swept along by Drebin's incompetence. Meanwhile, Ricardo Montalbán, as the villain Vincent Ludwig, brings an elegant, almost Bond-villain-style menace to the role, perfectly contrasting Drebin's clumsy crime-fighting attempts. Montalbán's role is particularly memorable for how seriously he seems to take his part—his dignity adding to the hilarity of the situations he finds himself in.Slapstick and Sight Gags: Nonstop and RelentlessZucker, Abrahams, and Zucker excel in their unique brand of humour, and The Naked Gun is no exception. The film is filled with sight gags that reward multiple viewings. For instance, in the opening scene, Drebin foils an international conspiracy while hilariously bumbling his way through a fight with some of the world's most notorious villains. The film doesn't waste a moment to make you laugh—whether it's Drebin inadvertently causing chaos during a press conference or his notorious attempt to sing the national anthem at a baseball game.One standout moment is the baseball stadium scene, where Drebin, disguised as an umpire, ends up calling the game. This sequence showcases Nielsen's impeccable timing and the film's mastery of physical comedy. Drebin's complete misunderstanding of how baseball works leads to a series of increasingly ridiculous events, all while keeping the assassination plot in the background. It's a perfect example of how The Naked Gun balances slapstick with satire, layering gags on top of each other for maximum effect.Pop Culture and Cultural Impact: The Birth of a ClassicThe Naked Gun was an instant hit when it was released, not just because it was funny, but because it tapped into something fresh at the time: the spoof genre had been gaining steam in the 1980s, but few films did it as relentlessly or as successfully as The Naked Gun. Its success spawned two sequels—The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear (1991) and The Naked Gun 33⅓: The Final Insult (1994)—both continued Drebin's absurd adventures.But the film's influence extended beyond its sequels. It paved the way for other parody films, helping solidify the ZAZ brand of comedy, which had already been popularised by Airplane! and Top Secret! (1984). It also led to an entire generation of comedies that relied on rapid-fire jokes and visual gags, like Hot Shots! (1991) and Scary Movie (2000). Even modern-day comedy shows, like Brooklyn Nine-Nine, owe a debt to The Naked Gun for its ability to blend procedural elements with comedy.The Enduring Legacy of Frank DrebinThe Naked Gun remains a beloved comedy classic over three decades after its release. Part of that is due to its unique combination of clever wordplay, slapstick humour, and pure silliness, but it's also because of the character of Frank Drebin. In a sea of competent, smooth-talking detectives, Drebin is a breath of fresh air—a man who's as clueless as he is sincere. There's something timeless about how Leslie Nielsen approaches the role, never once letting Drebin become a caricature but always playing him with heart, no matter how foolish he seems.For fans of parody, The Naked Gun is essential viewing. It's the kind of film you can watch repeatedly and still find something new to laugh at. Whether you're a die-hard fan revisiting the movie or a newcomer discovering Drebin's antics for the first time, The Naked Gun never fails to deliver pure comedic gold.So, if you haven't yet revisited this classic, now's the time. Just be prepared to laugh—over and over again.

Few buddy cop films from the '80s pack the wild, testosterone-fueled fun that Tango & Cash (1989) does. This action-comedy, starring Sylvester Stallone and Kurt Russell, has cemented its place as a cult classic. While it may not be the most refined piece of cinema, it's a wild ride from start to finish, showcasing all the hallmarks of the late '80s action genre – explosions, witty one-liners, and big hair.Plot BreakdownThe story is as over-the-top as you'd expect. Ray Tango (Stallone) and Gabriel Cash (Russell) are rival L.A. detectives from opposite sides of the cop spectrum. Tango is the slick, Armani-suited professional, while Cash is the wild, loose cannon with a mullet and a penchant for chaos. When they're framed for murder by a powerful crime lord (played by Jack Palance), they have to set aside their differences to clear their names and take down the real villains.The plot might be thin, but it is a perfect backdrop for Stallone and Russell to riff off each other. Their chemistry is undeniable, one of the film's biggest strengths. Watching these two action icons banter, bicker, and begrudgingly team up makes Tango & Cash so rewatchable.Characters & PerformancesStallone and Russell are both in their element here. Stallone plays it cool and collected, contrasting his usual rough-and-tumble action hero roles (Rambo, anyone?). It's fun to see him lean into a more polished character, still delivering killer action scenes but with a wink and a smirk.Kurt Russell, though, is the true scene-stealer. His portrayal of Cash, a wisecracking, reckless cop, perfectly balances charm and grit. Russell's timing is impeccable, and he injects a level of humour that keeps the film from taking itself too seriously. Add in the hilariously over-the-top villains, including a memorable turn from Palance, and you have a film that's never lacking in character dynamics.Action & CinematographyFor fans of Born to Watch who live for classic ‘80s action, this movie delivers. The action sequences are pure chaos—ranging from high-speed car chases to daring prison escapes and warehouse shootouts. It's a no-holds-barred spectacle of explosions, stunts, and gunfire, all shot with that frenetic, fast-paced style that made the era's action films iconic.The film's climax, featuring an armoured monster truck smashing through everything in sight, epitomises absurd action excess. And it's precisely what you want from a movie like this. Nothing is subtle or understated, and that's the point—Tango & Cash is about having as much fun as possible on screen.Cultural ImpactWhile Tango & Cash didn't exactly set the box office on fire or win over critics when it was first released, it's become a cult favourite. Fans of Stallone and Russell often cite this film as a guilty pleasure, and it's easy to see why. It's pure escapism, a film that doesn't pretend to be anything other than an entertaining popcorn flick. It's also a time capsule of late '80s action cinema, blending buddy cop antics with outrageous stunts, macho bravado, and that irreverent sense of humour that feels like a precursor to films like Bad Boys and Rush Hour.In the larger action landscape, Tango & Cash doesn't get mentioned as much as classics like Die Hard or Lethal Weapon, but it's worth watching for its sheer entertainment value. Plus, it's always a treat to see two major stars like Stallone and Russell flexing their comedic muscles while still delivering all the action their fans crave.Final ThoughtsFor Born to Watch listeners, if you're in the mood for a movie that embodies everything wild and wonderful about late '80s action, Tango & Cash is an absolute must-see. It's cheesy, loud, and over-the-top, but it knows precisely what it's doing. The dynamic between Stallone and Russell is worth the price of admission alone, and the film's explosive action scenes will leave you grinning. It's not high art, but it sure is high on entertainment.Whether you're revisiting it for nostalgia or checking it out for the first time, Tango & Cash is a perfect example of why we love ‘80s action cinema—it's all about the fun.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

The Fugitive (1993) is one of those films that perfectly encapsulates the tension and pulse-pounding excitement of a great action-thriller. Directed by Andrew Davis and starring Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones, this movie has earned its spot as a quintessential ‘90s action film, but it does more than just deliver spectacular stunts and edge-of-your-seat chases. At its core, The Fugitive is a cat-and-mouse game wrapped in a deeper story of justice, survival, and determination. The film explores themes of innocence and perseverance, driven by dynamic performances and sharp direction.Harrison Ford stars as Dr. Richard Kimble, a Chicago vascular surgeon falsely accused of murdering his wife. The movie opens with a gripping flashback to the fateful night of her death, immediately setting a tense and moody tone. This tension carries through the entire film as Kimble's stoic, determined search for the truth parallels Deputy U.S. Marshal Samuel Gerard's relentless pursuit.The Performances: A Duel Between Ford and JonesHarrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones's powerhouse performances are The Fugitive's heart. Ford's portrayal of Dr. Kimble gives the character a sympathetic resilience. His understated but deeply emotional approach perfectly embodies a man thrown into extraordinary circumstances. Throughout the movie, you can feel Kimble's grief and frustration bubbling beneath the surface, but Ford keeps him controlled, focused, and believable. He's not an action hero in the typical sense—he's a regular man, resourceful and clever, but constantly on the run, thinking a step ahead while navigating an impossible situation.Tommy Lee Jones, on the other hand, is a force of nature as U.S. Marshal Gerard. His Oscar-winning performance is pure intensity, but with just the right touch of humour and wit to make him endlessly watchable. Jones takes what could have been a by-the-numbers antagonist role and breathes life into it. His portrayal of Gerard is marked by unrelenting professionalism—he's laser-focused on catching Kimble. Yet, you sense that he also respects him, even though they're on opposite sides of the law. Gerard's famous line, “I don't care,” when Kimble claims his innocence, perfectly encapsulates the no-nonsense persona Jones brings to the character. Gerard's dedication is to his job, not the morality of Kimble's situation.Cinematography and Direction: Crafting the ChaseAndrew Davis' masterful direction makes The Fugitive 1993 stand out even more. The movie's pacing is relentless, rarely giving the audience a moment to breathe. From the spectacular train crash sequence early in the film to the tense scenes in the Chicago streets, Davis keeps the momentum driving forward, heightening the stakes at every turn.The cinematography by Michael Chapman plays a crucial role in this, adding layers of visual tension. The film moves from one vividly captured location to the next, whether it's the urban sprawl of Chicago or the more rural, rugged terrain where Kimble initially escapes. Chapman often uses tight, claustrophobic shots of Kimble on the run to amplify the sense of desperation, juxtaposed with wide, sweeping shots that emphasize just how much ground the protagonist needs to cover to clear his name. The urban chase scenes through Chicago are particularly well-staged, providing the sense that Kimble could be found at any moment, hiding in plain sight in a city that's both his home and a trap.A Puzzle That Unfolds Layer by LayerThe Fugitive is not just a film about a chase—it's also a puzzle. The mystery surrounding Kimble's wife's murder slowly unravels as Kimble follows leads, figures out motives, and pieces together the conspiracy that led to his false imprisonment. The screenplay, adapted from the 1960s television series of the same name, does an excellent job of weaving this investigative element into the broader action. This adds an intellectual dimension to the film, as Kimble uses his medical expertise and calm under pressure to unearth the truth while dodging his pursuers.In this sense, The Fugitive becomes more than just a typical thriller. There's a deeper story here about corruption and greed, as Kimble discovers that his wife's murder was connected to a pharmaceutical conspiracy involving his colleagues. The narrative has enough twists and turns to keep viewers engaged without becoming too convoluted. By the time we reach the climax, all the pieces fall into place, but it's the journey getting there that makes the movie so compelling.A Movie That Stands the Test of TimeOne of the reasons The Fugitive 1993 remains a classic is how well it holds up today. Many action films from that era can feel dated due to over-the-top effects or exaggerated performances, but The Fugitive strikes a timeless balance. The action is realistic, the story grounded, and the performances nuanced enough that the film never feels out of place, even three decades later.Part of the movie's lasting appeal is its restraint—there are no unnecessary explosions, no overly dramatic set-pieces for the sake of spectacle. Instead, every action sequence feels earned, serving the narrative rather than distracting from it. The film's iconic train crash, for example, was created with practical effects, making it feel raw and visceral compared to today's CGI-heavy action movies. That dedication to realism is something that still resonates with audiences.Additionally, the themes of justice and redemption are universal. Dr. Kimble's fight to clear his name is one that people can relate to, even if the stakes aren't as high in their own lives. His resourcefulness, grit, and unwavering moral compass are qualities that continue to make him a hero worth rooting for. At the same time, Gerard's determination and professionalism make him more than just an antagonist—he's a protagonist in his own right, leading to a rare instance where both the hunter and the hunted are equally captivating.Impact on Pop CultureThe Fugitive 1993 has had a significant impact on pop culture, not just for its thrilling story but also for its memorable lines and characters. Tommy Lee Jones' Gerard has become a benchmark for the relentless lawman archetype, and the movie's famous line, “I don't care,” continues to resonate in countless tributes and homages. The movie was a box-office success and earned multiple Academy Award nominations, including a Best Picture nod—rare for an action-thriller of its kind.Its influence is still felt in the genre today, as many films and TV shows borrow from its style of combining action with mystery. Even modern cat-and-mouse stories owe a debt to The Fugitive, proving its lasting relevance in the world of cinema.ConclusionThe Fugitive 1993 is a masterclass in tension, storytelling, and performance. Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones are perfectly matched as two men on opposite sides of the law, and the film's relentless pacing and engaging mystery make it a gripping watch from start to finish. Even after all these years, it remains one of the best examples of how to craft a smart, exhilarating action-thriller that keeps the audience guessing while delivering plenty of heart-pounding moments. For fans of intelligent, character-driven suspense, The Fugitive is a must-watch.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

When it comes to films that have left a lasting mark on the horror genre, few can rival the terrifying power of The Exorcist (1973). Directed by William Friedkin and adapted from William Peter Blatty's 1971 novel, The Exorcist shattered boundaries with its unflinching portrayal of demonic possession and the battle between good and evil. Released in December 1973, the film captivated audiences and sparked controversy for its graphic content and shocking themes. This review will explore why The Exorcist (1973) remains a pinnacle of horror cinema, from its groundbreaking storytelling to its cultural and cinematic significance.A Simple Story Elevated by Complex ThemesAt its core, The Exorcist (1973) tells a simple yet profoundly disturbing story. It revolves around the possession of a young girl, Regan MacNeil (played by Linda Blair), and the desperate efforts of her mother, Chris (Ellen Burstyn), to save her. The family's only hope rests with two priests, Father Karras (Jason Miller) and the seasoned exorcist, Father Merrin (Max von Sydow). While the premise seems straightforward—a child in peril, religious figures battling a supernatural force—the film digs deeper into themes of faith, guilt, and the fragility of human existence.One of the key elements that makes The Exorcist so unsettling is its exploration of faith, or rather, the loss of it. Father Karras is a man wracked by doubt. He's a priest who has lost his mother, a psychiatrist struggling to reconcile his beliefs with the suffering he sees in the world. His personal crisis mirrors the larger question the film asks: what do we do when confronted with something truly evil? This is the tension at the heart of The Exorcist, elevating the film from mere shock value to something far more existential and terrifying.Unforgettable PerformancesThe performances in The Exorcist (1973) are nothing short of iconic, particularly that of Linda Blair as the possessed Regan. Blair's transformation from a sweet, innocent child to a terrifying vessel for a demon is astonishing. It's a performance that pushes the limits of what was previously expected from child actors, and it's still regarded as one of the most chilling portrayals in horror history. Her physical and emotional range—enhanced by the groundbreaking makeup effects of Dick Smith—leaves a lasting impact. Every contorted expression every guttural sound that emerges from her during the possession sequences is haunting.Ellen Burstyn's portrayal of a desperate mother is equally powerful. Chris MacNeil's descent from a successful actress to a mother on the verge of breakdown is heart-wrenching. The film builds up her growing terror and helplessness as Regan worsens, creating a harrowing portrait of maternal despair.Jason Miller's conflicted Father Karras is a revelation. His nuanced performance of a man wrestling with his faith adds emotional depth to the film's supernatural elements. Meanwhile, Max von Sydow's Father Merrin is the stoic, wise counterpoint to Karras' inner turmoil. Although Merrin's character is more of a traditional hero, von Sydow brings gravitas and world-weariness to the role, making the final confrontation all the more gripping.Pushing the Boundaries of Special EffectsIn 1973, audiences had never seen anything quite like The Exorcist. The special effects, many of which were practical, broke new ground in horror filmmaking. From Regan's spider-walk down the stairs to the levitation scenes, the film's visual shocks have become legendary. The makeup that transforms Blair's face into something grotesque, the vomit spewing, the rotating head—these effects still hold up today and remain unsettling even in a world where digital effects dominate.But it's not just the visual effects that make The Exorcist so memorable. The sound design plays a crucial role in heightening the terror. The eerie soundscape, from the unnatural voices Regan speaks to, to the house's creaking, creates a sensory overload that gets under your skin. And who could forget Mike Oldfield's Tubular Bells? While not initially composed for the film, the track has become synonymous with The Exorcist, its hypnotic rhythm forever tied to the creeping sense of dread the movie invokes.Cultural Impact and ControversyThe release of The Exorcist (1973) sparked widespread debate and controversy. Audiences were reportedly fainting, vomiting, and fleeing theatres in panic due to the intensity of the film. In fact, the film was banned in several countries and faced resistance from religious groups who considered it blasphemous. The stark depiction of exorcism and the visceral horrors it presented hit a nerve with the public. It challenged not just what could be shown on screen but how far filmmakers could push the boundaries of audience tolerance.Despite—or perhaps because of—its controversy, The Exorcist was a massive commercial success. It became the first horror film nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards, ultimately taking home two Oscars for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Sound. More importantly, it shifted the landscape of horror cinema. The film proved that horror could be more than just campy monster flicks or psychological thrillers; it could be raw, visceral, and deeply disturbing. It opened the door for a more sophisticated brand of horror, one that wasn't afraid to tackle profound themes alongside graphic imagery.Enduring LegacyWhat makes The Exorcist (1973) endure over fifty years later is not just its capacity to shock but its ability to ask timeless questions. The film doesn't merely present a battle between good and evil; it challenges viewers to confront their own beliefs about the nature of evil, faith, and redemption. This is why The Exorcist still resonates with audiences today—it forces us to consider the fragility of the human condition and the possibility that something incomprehensible, something truly terrifying, may lurk in the shadows.Moreover, The Exorcist set the bar for future horror films, influencing a generation of filmmakers. Its blend of psychological depth, religious horror, and disturbing imagery can be seen in countless horror classics that followed, from The Omen to Hereditary. The film also left its mark on pop culture, referencing Regan's possession and the infamous exorcism scenes becoming staples in parody, tribute, and analysis.Final ThoughtsThe Exorcist (1973) remains one of the most important and influential films in horror history. Its stellar performances, groundbreaking special effects, and thought-provoking themes make it more than just a scary movie—it's a cinematic experience that forces audiences to confront their deepest fears. Whether you've seen it once or a dozen times, The Exorcist never loses its power to horrify, disturb, and provoke. As a film that redefined the genre and pushed cinematic and cultural boundaries, it stands as a testament to what horror can achieve when it's done right.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

In this week's episode of Born to Watch, we're diving into a film that strikes the perfect balance between humor, heartbreak, and the hope that pulls us through life's darkest moments. Directed by David O. Russell and featuring a powerhouse cast, "Silver Linings Playbook" has left a lasting impression on audiences since its release in 2012. This film isn't just another romantic comedy—it's a deeply moving exploration of mental health, relationships, and the redemptive power of love."Silver Linings Playbook" tells the story of Pat Solitano (Bradley Cooper), struggling to rebuild his life after a stint in a mental institution. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder, Pat's world is in shambles: he's lost his job, his house, and his marriage. Despite these setbacks, Pat is determined to regain control of his life and win back his estranged wife, Nikki (Brea Bee). He moves back in with his parents, Pat Sr. (Robert De Niro) and Dolores (Jacki Weaver), whose quirks and struggles add complexity to the family dynamic.From the very beginning, it's clear that "Silver Linings Playbook" is not your typical romantic comedy. The film deals with heavy themes such as mental illness and the challenges of recovery, but it does so with a light touch that never feels exploitative or disrespectful. David O. Russell's direction is sharp and empathetic, capturing the chaos and confusion of Pat's life without losing sight of the humour and humanity that make his story so compelling.One of the film's greatest strengths is its ability to portray mental illness in a realistic yet hopeful way. Pat's journey is filled with setbacks and moments of despair, but the film never loses sight of the possibility of recovery. Bradley Cooper's portrayal of Pat is nothing short of remarkable—he brings a raw intensity to the role that is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Cooper's ability to convey Pat's vulnerability and determination makes him a character that is both relatable and deeply sympathetic. It's a performance that resonates long after the credits roll.Jennifer Lawrence, who won an Academy Award for her role as Tiffany Maxwell, is equally captivating. Tiffany is a young widow who is dealing with her mental health struggles, and her unlikely friendship with Pat becomes the heart of the film. Lawrence brings a fiery energy to the role, making Tiffany both fierce and fragile, a perfect match for Pat's more subdued but equally tumultuous personality. Their chemistry is electric, and their interactions blend sharp wit and genuine emotion, making their relationship one of the most memorable in recent cinema.The supporting cast is just as impressive. Robert De Niro delivers a standout performance as Pat Sr., a father who is as complicated as his son. De Niro brings a mix of humour, frustration, and deep-seated love to the role, creating an endearing and exasperating character. Jacki Weaver, as Dolores, provides a softer, more nurturing presence, balancing the family's dynamics with her quiet strength. Together, they create a believable and touching portrayal of a family trying to navigate the challenges of mental illness and the impact it has on their lives."Silver Linings Playbook" is also notable for its depiction of sports fanaticism, particularly how it ties into the characters' lives and emotional states. Pat Sr.'s obsession with the Philadelphia Eagles is both a source of tension and a means of bonding within the family. This subplot adds another layer of authenticity to the film, grounding it in a specific cultural context while also highlighting how people use rituals and routines to cope with life's uncertainties.The film's pacing is brisk, and its narrative keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. Russell's script, adapted from Matthew Quick's novel of the same name, is tight and witty, filled with dialogue that is as sharp as it is heartfelt. The story unfolds in a way that feels organic, with each scene building on the last to create a sense of momentum that mirrors Pat's journey towards healing and self-acceptance.Cinematographically, "Silver Linings Playbook" uses a mix of close-ups and wide shots to create a sense of intimacy and immediacy. The handheld camera work gives the film a raw, almost documentary-like feel, drawing the audience into Pat's world and allowing them to experience his highs and lows firsthand. This visual style, combined with the film's vibrant colour palette, adds to the optimism that underpins the story, even in its darkest moments.The soundtrack perfectly complements the film's tone, featuring a mix of classic rock and contemporary hits. Songs like "My Cherie Amour" by Stevie Wonder and "Girl from the North Country" by Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash provide a nostalgic backdrop that enhances the emotional resonance of key scenes. Danny Elfman's subtle score also adds to the film's mood, underscoring the characters' emotional journeys without overwhelming the narrative.One of the most remarkable aspects of "Silver Linings Playbook" is its ability to blend humour and drama so seamlessly. The film tackles serious issues—mental illness, loss, and the struggle to move forward—yet it does so with a lightness that never feels forced. The humour arises naturally from the characters and their interactions, providing moments of levity that make the film's more poignant moments all the more impactful.As the film progresses, Pat and Tiffany's relationship evolves unexpectedly. What begins as a tentative friendship rooted in shared pain gradually blossoms into something deeper. Their connection is not a fairy tale romance but a realistic portrayal of two people who find solace and strength in each other's company. The dance competition they enter together becomes a metaphor for their journey—awkward, messy, but ultimately beautiful in its imperfection."Silver Linings Playbook" is a film that resonates on multiple levels. It's a love story, but it's also about family, healing, and the pursuit of happiness in the face of adversity. The film doesn't offer easy answers or neat resolutions, but it does provide a sense of hope—a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is the possibility of finding a silver lining.In conclusion, "Silver Linings Playbook" is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates entertaining and thought-provoking films. With its exceptional performances, sharp writing, and sensitive portrayal of complex issues, it stays with you long after the credits roll.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

Hey there, Fellow Watchers! This week on Born to Watch, we dive deep into one of the most whimsical, enchanting, and downright bizarre films of the 1970s, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. This technicolour dreamscape of a movie, adapted from Roald Dahl's beloved 1964 children's novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, is a kaleidoscopic journey that weaves together childlike wonder, satirical wit, and a dash of dark humour. But for those who've seen it, it's much more than just a kids' movie—it's a cinematic experience that has left a lasting impact on pop culture, filmmaking, and how we imagine the wildest corners of our childhood fantasies.Directed by Mel Stuart and released in 1971, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory gave the world an enduring yet enigmatic character brought to life by the genius of Gene Wilder. Wilder's portrayal of Willy Wonka, with his trademark purple velvet coat, manic energy, and mysterious charm, is iconic. But the film isn't just about a quirky candy maker—it's about dreams, consequences, and the weird journey from innocence to maturity. Today, we're cracking open that golden ticket and exploring the layers of storytelling, visual splendour, and character depth that make this film a must-watch for every generation.The Dreamlike Cinematography: A Visual FeastFrom the first frame, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory draws us into a world between the fantastical and the surreal. The film's cinematography, spearheaded by Arthur Ibbetson, feels deliberately disjointed from reality. The factory is where anything is possible—giant gummy bears, rivers of chocolate, and wallpaper you can lick. Using vibrant colours, practical effects, and innovative set design turns the film into a visual explosion still captivating more than 50 years later.One of the most stunning sequences comes early when the lucky ticket winners first step into Wonka's factory and are greeted by the Chocolate Room. The juxtaposition of the drab, muted tones of the outside world with the bursting, hyper-saturated colours inside the factory immediately transports us to a place where the ordinary laws of reality no longer apply. Every detail in this scene—from the candy trees to the chocolate river—feels like it was ripped straight from the wildest corners of a child's imagination. Yet, it's executed with a precision that keeps it from feeling cartoonish.And who could forget the unsettling tunnel scene? What starts as a gentle boat ride turns into a psychedelic nightmare. The flashing colours, dizzying camera angles, and unsettling imagery—coupled with Wilder's chilling recitation—make even the bravest viewers squirm. It's a perfect example of how the film balances whimsy with moments of genuine unease. This technique makes Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory much more layered than your children's film.Gene Wilder's Wonka: A Performance for the AgesWhen it comes to Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, it's impossible to talk about the movie without spending time on Gene Wilder's portrayal of Willy Wonka. Wilder brings an incredible depth to the character, making him charming yet aloof, kind yet mischievous, and ultimately unpredictable. His entrance alone, stumbling through his factory gates with a cane only to somersault forward and rise with a grin, tells you everything you need to know: this man thrives on deception, mystery, and the thrill of keeping everyone guessing.Wilder's Wonka is not the traditionally heroic figure you might expect from a film aimed at children. There's something slightly off about him. He watches as the children fall victim to their vices—gluttony, greed, or pride—and while he expresses concern, there's always a twinkle in his eye. He's a trickster, just as likely to reward you as he is to teach you a hard lesson. And Wilder walks this tightrope perfectly, making Wonka endlessly watchable and infinitely complex.The film never shies away from showing us the darker side of Wonka's character. There's a controlled chaos to him, an edge that suggests he's more dangerous than he seems. Whether it's how he dismisses Augustus Gloop's drowning in the chocolate river or his cryptic “Good day, sir!” outburst toward Charlie, Wonka keeps the audience on edge. This unpredictability is what makes him such a memorable figure in cinema history.The Story: A Morality Play in Candy-Coated WrappingAt its core, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory is a morality tale. Each of the children who wins a golden ticket represents a different vice—gluttony, greed, pride, and sloth. As they progress through the factory, they're confronted with temptations that ultimately lead to their downfall. Augustus Gloop's gluttony gets him sucked into the chocolate river, Veruca Salt's greed leads her down the garbage chute, and so on. Each "punishment" is delivered in a way that's both comical and, at times, chilling.What makes the film unique is how it balances this moralism with its fantastical elements. The consequences are clear, yet they're wrapped in a layer of surreal, candy-coated absurdity. The film isn't heavy-handed with its messaging, but it's impossible to miss the fact that each child's fate is a direct result of their own behaviour.Charlie Bucket, our humble hero, is the film's moral compass. Raised in poverty but rich in spirit, Charlie's simple goodness and humility starkly contrast to the other children's greed and entitlement. In the end, it's his genuine heart and good nature that earn him the ultimate prize—the entire factory. But even here, the film doesn't indulge in a sentimental ending. The lesson isn't that good behaviour always leads to material rewards but that integrity, humility, and kindness matter most, even in a world that can often seem unfair.Cultural Impact and LegacyThough Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory wasn't an immediate box-office hit, it found a second life through television reruns and home video, becoming a beloved classic for generations. Its impact on pop culture is undeniable—whether it's the Oompa Loompa songs, the countless memes, or Gene Wilder's iconic portrayal of Wonka. The film is often referenced in everything from cartoons to music videos, and its place in cinema history as one of the great fantasy films is well-earned.It's also fascinating to note how the film's themes of greed, entitlement, and the dangers of unchecked consumption still resonate today. The factory, with its promise of endless indulgence, reflects our own desires, reminding us that too much of a good thing can often lead to our downfall.In the end, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory is a film that transcends its whimsical surface to explore deeper themes, all while offering a visual feast and a performance by Gene Wilder that remains timeless. Whether you're watching it for the first time or the hundredth, there's always something new to discover.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

Hey there, Watchers! In this special quick-review episode, Whitey dives into the much-anticipated Alien: Romulus with his Alien Romulus Quick Review. This is Whitey's first solo movie breakdown, so let's see how he handles the acid-blooded pressure of reviewing one of the year's most anticipated sci-fi horror films!Alien: Romulus delivers the pulse-pounding tension and gritty horror that fans have been waiting for. Director Fede Álvarez knocks it out of the park by dialling the franchise back to its roots. The story is simple and effective: a group of space colonists finds themselves trapped on a derelict station, fighting for survival as the Xenomorphs hunt them. It's a setup we know well, but here it works because Álvarez knows how to make the familiar feel fresh.The setting itself, the Romulus space station, feels alive with danger. It's dark, decaying, and claustrophobic—a perfect playground for the terrifying, acid-blooded creatures we've come to fear. The practical effects are superb, with the Xenomorphs looking slimy, grotesque, and scarier than in years. Álvarez balances this with moments of eerie silence, making you dread what's lurking in the shadows. It's the kind of movie that keeps you gripping your seat.Cailee Spaeny leads the charge as Rain Carradine, and she's fantastic. She's got the same no-nonsense survival instinct that made Ripley iconic, but with her spin. Spaeny is intense without overdoing it, and her character feels real—vulnerable but tough. David Jonsson also adds a solid performance as her synthetic brother Andy, offering a unique emotional layer amidst the chaos.Overall, Alien: Romulus is a thrilling ride that pays homage to the original while carving its path. It's tense, atmospheric, and packed with scares. Fans of the franchise are going to love this one."When it comes to the Alien franchise, few film series have left such a lasting impact on both science fiction and horror. Ridley Scott's 1979 Alien introduced a new kind of space terror, blending atmospheric tension with groundbreaking creature design, courtesy of H.R. Giger. The film set the template for a claustrophobic, survival-based narrative. At the same time, James Cameron's 1986 sequel Aliens ramped up the action, turning the franchise into a blend of horror and military sci-fi.Subsequent entries like Alien 3 and Alien: Resurrection had their own take on the mythology, though with mixed receptions, often criticised for straying too far from what made the originals great. The prequels, Prometheus and Alien: Covenant, attempted to expand the universe's lore, diving into the origins of the Xenomorphs and broader existential themes, but often polarised the fanbase with their more cerebral approach.Alien: Romulus sits somewhere between the original films and the newer prequels. It strips away the complex world-building seen in Prometheus and Covenant, opting for a more straightforward survival horror, much like Alien and Aliens. It feels like a love letter to the franchise's gritty roots while still exploring fresh ideas. It's a return to form, focusing on what the series does best—intense, claustrophobic horror, with a few new twists that keep it relevant for today's audience.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

When it comes to classic films that have left an indelible mark on pop culture, few stand out as vividly as The Princess Bride (1987). Directed by Rob Reiner and adapted from William Goldman's novel of the same name, this film is a rare gem that effortlessly blends adventure, romance, and comedy into a story that continues to captivate audiences across generations. In the latest episode of Born to Watch, Whitey and Damo are joined by our great American mates from the Middle Aged Movie Podcast to explore what makes this film such a cherished piece of cinematic history. It's clear that The Princess Bride is much more than just a fairy tale; it's a cinematic masterpiece that remains as relevant and enchanting today as it was over three decades ago.A Genre-Defying StoryThe Princess Bride defies easy categorisation. At its core, it's a love story between the beautiful Buttercup (Robin Wright) and her devoted farmhand, Westley (Cary Elwes). But describing it merely as a love story would be a disservice to its richness of narrative. The film is a tapestry woven with fantasy, adventure, comedy, and satire elements. It masterfully parodies the tropes of traditional fairy tales while embracing them, creating a unique, sincere and self-aware tone. The film's brilliant use of a framing device—a grandfather (Peter Falk) reading a book to his sick grandson (Fred Savage)—immediately sets the stage for a tale that is both nostalgic and timeless. This storytelling method allows the film to break the fourth wall and engage the audience directly, making it feel like we, too, are being told a story by a beloved family member. This technique highlights the film's storytelling theme as a powerful and enduring form of connection, resonating deeply with viewers of all ages.Iconic Characters and PerformancesOne of the most memorable aspects of The Princess Bride is its cast of unforgettable characters, brought to life by an ensemble of actors who deliver some of the most iconic performances in cinematic history. Cary Elwes as Westley perfectly embodies the quintessential hero—charming, witty, and endlessly resourceful. His journey from farm boy to the legendary Dread Pirate Roberts is one of the film's most satisfying arcs, and Elwes' performance balances swashbuckling action with deadpan humour, making Westley both a classic and a modern hero. In her film debut, Robin Wright plays Buttercup with a delicate balance of strength and vulnerability. While her character is often the damsel in distress, Wright's portrayal adds depth to Buttercup, making her more than a passive love interest. She gracefully embodies the film's central love story, making the audience root for her and Westley's reunion.Mandy Patinkin's Inigo Montoya, the vengeful Spaniard seeking to avenge his father's death, delivers one of the most famous lines in film history: “Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.” Patinkin's portrayal infuses the character with a passion and sincerity that make Inigo's quest one of the film's most emotionally resonant subplots.Wallace Shawn as Vizzini, the cunning Sicilian whose overconfidence leads to one of the most entertaining battles of wits ever captured on film, is hilarious and memorable. His repeated exclamations of “Inconceivable!” have become a catchphrase that has outlived the movie.And, of course, André the Giant as Fezzik, the gentle giant with a heart of gold, is another standout. André's natural charisma and physical presence make Fezzik one of the film's most endearing characters, providing comic relief and emotional warmth.A Perfect Blend of Humour and HeartIts seamless blend of humour and heart sets The Princess Bride apart. William Goldman's screenplay is filled with sharp, witty dialogue that keeps the audience laughing, but it never sacrifices the story's emotional core. The humour is often self-referential and playful, poking fun at the conventions of the genre while also delivering genuine moments of tenderness and affection.The film's pacing is another key factor in its enduring appeal. At a brisk 98 minutes, The Princess Bride never overstays its welcome. Each scene serves a purpose, whether advancing the plot, deepening the characters, or delivering a memorable line that will be quoted for years to come. The balance of action, romance, and comedy ensures something for everyone, making it a perfect family film that appeals to both children and adults.Cinematography and Score: Enhancing the FantasyThe visual and auditory elements of The Princess Bride play a significant role in creating its fairy-tale atmosphere. The cinematography by Adrian Biddle captures the beauty and whimsy of the film's various settings, from the rolling hills of Florin to the foreboding Cliffs of Insanity. The use of practical effects and on-location shooting gives the film a timeless quality that CGI-heavy movies often lack.Mark Knopfler's score further enhances the film's enchanting mood. The music is both romantic and adventurous, perfectly complementing the tone of the story. Knopfler's theme for The Princess Bride is instantly recognisable, its gentle melodies evoking the nostalgia and magic that defines the film.A Cultural PhenomenonSince its release, The Princess Bride has grown from a modest box-office success to a full-fledged cultural phenomenon. Its influence can be seen in countless other films, TV shows, and even video games that have drawn inspiration from its blend of romance, adventure, and humour. The film's dialogue has become so ingrained in popular culture that even those who haven't seen it can often recognise its most famous lines.Moreover, The Princess Bride has inspired a fiercely loyal fan base that spans multiple generations. Its appeal lies in its universal themes of love, bravery, and the triumph of good over evil. These themes resonate with audiences of all ages, making it a film that parents are eager to share with their children, ensuring its legacy for years.Conclusion: A Tale for the AgesThe Princess Bride (1987) is more than just a movie; it's an experience that transports viewers into a world where true love conquers all, where heroes are brave and resourceful, and where even the most diabolical villains have a touch of humour. Its perfect blend of romance, adventure, and comedy, combined with unforgettable characters and iconic dialogue, makes it a timeless classic that continues to enchant audiences nearly four decades after its release.At Born to Watch, we believe that in a cinematic landscape often dominated by franchises and reboots, The Princess Bride stands out as a reminder of the power of original storytelling. It's a film that doesn't rely on spectacle or special effects but on the strength of its characters, the wit of its script, and the sincerity of its heart. For these reasons and many more, The Princess Bride remains a beloved favourite, a movie that future generations will cherish.For those who have yet to experience the magic of The Princess Bride, there's no better time than now. And for those who have already fallen under its spell, it's always worth revisiting, if only to remind yourself that true love, as Westley famously declares, “is the greatest thing in the world.”Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com....

In our latest episode of Born to Watch, we're time-travelling back to 1984 to revisit one of the most iconic sci-fi films ever made, The Terminator. Directed by James Cameron and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger in a career-defining role, this movie didn't just redefine the sci-fi genre; it became a cultural touchstone that continues to influence films, TV shows, and video games to this day. If you're a fan of action-packed storytelling, cutting-edge special effects (for its time), and an unstoppable villain, then The Terminator (1984) is a must-watch. And if you've seen it before, it's worth revisiting with us as we break down what makes this film a timeless classic.The Plot That Changed Sci-Fi ForeverAt its core, The Terminator (1984) is a story about survival and destiny. The film opens with a bleak vision of the future—Los Angeles in 2029, a post-apocalyptic wasteland where machines rule over the remnants of humanity. The machines, controlled by the artificial intelligence Skynet, have nearly wiped out the human race. But humanity has a saviour in John Connor, the leader of the human resistance.To prevent their defeat, Skynet sends a cyborg assassin, the Terminator (Schwarzenegger), back in time to 1984. Its mission is simple: kill Sarah Connor (Linda Hamilton), John's mother, before he is even born. The resistance counters by sending one of their own, Kyle Reese (Michael Biehn), to protect her. What follows is a relentless cat-and-mouse chase that blends sci-fi elements with horror and action, creating a cinematic experience unlike anything audiences have seen before.Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Unstoppable ForceArnold Schwarzenegger's portrayal of the Terminator is one of the film's most memorable aspects. The role of the cold, emotionless cyborg was tailor-made for Schwarzenegger, whose imposing physicality and minimal dialogue were used to maximum effect. The Terminator is a machine on a mission, and Schwarzenegger's portrayal captures the relentless nature of this killer robot perfectly. His performance is chillingly efficient, and his limited lines, including the now-legendary "I'll be back," add to the character's menacing presence.It's hard to imagine anyone else in the role, but Schwarzenegger was not initially considered for the part of the Terminator. He was initially approached to play Kyle Reese. However, after reading the script, Schwarzenegger was more interested in the role of the Terminator, and the rest is history. His performance not only made him a star but also turned the Terminator into one of the most iconic villains in film history.Linda Hamilton as the Reluctant HeroWhile Schwarzenegger's Terminator is the film's most recognisable figure, Linda Hamilton's Sarah Connor is its heart and soul. When we first meet Sarah, she's just an ordinary woman living in Los Angeles, working as a waitress, and struggling with the challenges of everyday life. However, as the story unfolds, she evolves from a vulnerable target into a determined survivor who will stop at nothing to protect her unborn son. Hamilton's performance is a masterclass in character development. She portrays Sarah's transformation with such authenticity that it's impossible not to root for her. Sarah's journey from a damsel in distress to a warrior is not only crucial to the plot but also lays the groundwork for her role in the sequel, Terminator 2: Judgment Day, where she fully embraces her destiny as the mother of the future saviour of humanity.James Cameron's Visionary DirectionJames Cameron, who co-wrote the screenplay with Gale Anne Hurd, brought a unique vision to The Terminator (1984). Cameron's background in special effects is evident throughout the film, especially in how he blends practical effects with early CGI to create a believable future where machines dominate the world. The film's budget was relatively modest, but Cameron's innovative techniques made every dollar count. From the practical effects used to depict the Terminator's robotic skeleton to the eerie, futuristic landscapes of the post-apocalyptic world, the film's visuals are both gritty and captivating. Cameron also excels at pacing. The film moves at a breakneck speed, never giving the audience much time to breathe. This relentless pace mirrors the Terminator's unyielding pursuit of Sarah Connor, creating a tension that doesn't let up until the film's final moments. The narrative structure, which blends elements of a chase movie with those of a horror film, keeps the audience on edge, unsure of what will happen next.Cultural and Historical ImpactThe Terminator (1984) is more than just a sci-fi action film; it's a cultural phenomenon that has left an indelible mark on popular culture. The movie's success spawned a franchise with multiple sequels, a TV series, comic books, and video games. The character of the Terminator has become a symbol of an unstoppable force, and the film's themes of technology gone awry and the potential dangers of artificial intelligence resonate even more today than they did in the 1980s. The film also launched the careers of its key players. James Cameron would go on to direct some of the biggest blockbusters in history, including Aliens, Titanic, and Avatar. Linda Hamilton's portrayal of Sarah Connor made her a feminist icon, particularly with her return in Terminator 2: Judgment Day, where she embodies the hardened, battle-ready warrior that Sarah becomes. And, of course, Arnold Schwarzenegger's career skyrocketed, leading to him becoming one of the biggest action stars of the 80s and 90s.Special Effects and SoundtrackDespite being released in 1984, The Terminator still holds up remarkably well, particularly in its special effects. The practical effects used to depict the Terminator's mechanical endoskeleton, especially in the climactic scenes, are impressive even by today's standards. The film's use of stop-motion animation, while somewhat dated, adds to the movie's unique charm and serves as a reminder of the creativity and ingenuity that filmmakers had to employ before the advent of modern CGI. The film's soundtrack, composed by Brad Fiedel, is another standout element. The iconic synthesiser score perfectly complements the film's tone, blending a sense of urgency with a feeling of dread. The central theme, with its pounding beats and mechanical rhythms, has become synonymous with the franchise and remains one of the most recognisable pieces of movie music.Legacy and InfluenceThe Terminator (1984) has influenced countless films and TV shows. Its depiction of time travel, artificial intelligence, and the concept of a predestined future has been explored in various ways in pop culture. Films like The Matrix, Looper, and even the X-Men series owe a debt to The Terminator for paving the way with its innovative storytelling and groundbreaking special effects.Moreover, the film's impact on the sci-fi genre cannot be overstated. It helped shift sci-fi away from the often-optimistic portrayals of the future seen in earlier decades and towards a darker, more dystopian vision. This shift opened the door for a new wave of sci-fi films that explored the potential dangers of technology, a theme that remains relevant in today's tech-driven world.ConclusionIn our Born to Watch podcast, we celebrate The Terminator (1984) not just as a thrilling action movie but as a landmark film that changed the course of cinema. Its ...

Welcome to another episode of the Born to Watch Movie Podcast! This week, we dive into the raunchy, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt world of "American Pie" (1999). Directed by Paul Weitz in his directorial debut, this film quickly became a cultural phenomenon, resonating with audiences for its candid portrayal of teenage life and its unapologetically comedic take on the trials and tribulations of high school seniors. Join us as we explore the elements that made "American Pie" a landmark in the teen comedy genre."American Pie" revolves around four high school friends—Jim (Jason Biggs), Kevin (Thomas Ian Nicholas), Oz (Chris Klein), and Finch (Eddie Kaye Thomas)—who make a pact to lose their virginity before graduation. This seemingly simple premise sets the stage for a series of humorous and often cringe-worthy escapades, all underpinned by a surprisingly genuine exploration of friendship, love, and growing up.The film's storytelling balances outrageous comedy and moments of sincere emotion. Each character's journey is both unique and relatable, allowing the audience to see bits of themselves in the protagonists' struggles and triumphs. Jim's awkward and earnest attempts to navigate his burgeoning sexuality, in particular, provide some of the film's most memorable and endearing moments. Whether it's his infamous encounter with an apple pie or his embarrassing mishaps with Nadia (Shannon Elizabeth), Jim's storyline blends humour and heart.The cinematography in "American Pie" plays a crucial role in amplifying its comedic and emotional beats. The film's use of close-ups and reaction shots enhances the comedic timing, making every awkward moment feel even more personal and immediate. The suburban setting, captured with a mix of warm tones and vibrant lighting, creates a nostalgic backdrop that grounds the film in a recognizable reality despite its more exaggerated comedic elements.Character development is another standout aspect of "American Pie." While the film's primary focus is on the four friends' quest to lose their virginity, it also delves into their individual growth and the evolution of their friendships. Kevin's realization about the importance of emotional connection, Oz's journey from jock to a more sensitive and self-aware young man, Finch's quest for sophistication, and Jim's continual awkward yet earnest efforts to find intimacy—all these arcs contribute to a richer narrative tapestry.Supporting characters, like Stifler (Seann William Scott), Stifler's mom (Jennifer Coolidge), and Michelle (Alyson Hannigan), bring additional layers of comedy and intrigue. With his outrageous antics and brash personality, Stifler provides a counterpoint to the more earnest endeavours of the main quartet. Meanwhile, Michelle's now-iconic "This one time, at band camp..." line not only delivers a comedic punch but also reveals hidden depths to her seemingly quirky character, culminating in a surprise twist in her relationship with Jim.The film's soundtrack is a time capsule of late '90s music, featuring tracks from Blink-182, Third Eye Blind, and others that perfectly encapsulate the era's zeitgeist. The music complements the film's tone and enhances its emotional beats, creating a soundscape that is both nostalgic and integral to the storytelling."American Pie" holds a significant place in pop culture, not just for its comedic value but for its candid portrayal of teenage life. It opened the door for a new wave of teen comedies that dared to address adolescence's often awkward and messy reality. The film's frank discussions about sex, its willingness to push boundaries, and its blend of crude humour with genuine emotion set a new standard for the genre.Culturally, "American Pie" was a product of its time, reflecting the late '90s attitudes towards sex and relationships. Its influence can be seen in the numerous sequels and spin-offs it spawned and in other films that sought to capture the same blend of humour and heart. However, it's also important to recognize how some aspects of the film, particularly its treatment of female characters and consent, might be viewed through a more critical lens today. This retrospective consideration adds another layer to our understanding of the film's impact and legacy.Despite occasional missteps, "American Pie" remains a beloved classic, thanks to its memorable characters, iconic scenes, and genuine humour. Its success lies in its ability to capture the universal awkwardness of growing up and the enduring importance of friendship. The film's blend of raunchy comedy with heartfelt moments continues to resonate with audiences, even as societal attitudes have evolved.In our discussion on the Born to Watch Movie Podcast, We reflect on our experiences and memories of watching the film, offering a mix of nostalgia and critical analysis. Whether you're a long-time fan of the film or a newcomer curious about its enduring appeal, this episode offers a comprehensive and entertaining exploration of why "American Pie" remains a seminal work in the teen comedy genre.So, grab a slice of pie (preferably not Jim's favourite kind), sit back, and join us as we celebrate the hilarity and heart of "American Pie." The film reminds us of the awkward, unforgettable journey from adolescence to adulthood, capturing the essence of a time when every moment felt like a big deal—and every misstep was a story worth telling.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/

Hey there, fellow Watchers! Welcome back to another episode of the Born to Watch Podcast. This week, we took a trip down memory lane with the 1988 action flick "Above the Law," which many of us remember fondly from our teenage years. However, revisiting it now, we found that it didn't quite hold up as well as we expected. Let's dive into why this Steven Seagal debut might be better left in the past."Above the Law" was directed by Andrew Davis, who later found success with films like "The Fugitive." This movie marks the debut of Steven Seagal as Nico Toscani, a martial artist turned cop. In our youth, the film's explosive action and gritty storyline seemed groundbreaking. But watching it with fresh eyes, the cracks in its veneer are hard to ignore.The movie opens with a flashback to Nico's Vietnam history, where the CIA recruits him. This backstory is meant to give depth to his character but ends up feeling clichéd and overblown. Fast-forward to present-day Chicago, where Nico, now a police officer, stumbles upon a conspiracy involving corrupt officials and drug trafficking. The plot seemed so gripping years ago but now comes across as convoluted and lacking in real substance.One of the biggest letdowns is the film's action sequences. While Seagal's real-life martial arts skills may be considered at the time to be undeniable, the fight scenes feel repetitive and lack the excitement we remember. The choreography, once thrilling, now seems sluggish and poorly executed. The realism Seagal brought to the action genre in the late '80s has been eclipsed by more dynamic and inventive fight scenes in modern cinema.Seagal's performance as Nico Toscani also falls flat on rewatch. His stoic delivery and limited range of expressions make it hard to connect with his character. What once seemed like a cool, zen-like demeanour now feels more like wooden acting. Seagal's physical presence is still impressive, but it's not enough to carry the movie.The supporting cast, which includes Pam Grier as Nico's partner, Delores ‘ Jacks Jackson and Henry Silva as the villainous Kurt Zagon, does their best with what they're given. Grier's charisma is undeniable, but her character lacks depth and is often relegated to the sidelines. Silva's portrayal of Zagon is menacing, but his role as the rogue CIA operative is a caricature of villainy, lacking nuance.The cinematography in "Above the Law" also doesn't hold up as well as we'd hoped. Chicago's gritty, urban landscape is still a highlight, but the film's overall visual style feels dated. The practical effects and real locations, which once added a sense of realism, now seem low-budget compared to today's standards. Andrew Davis's direction, while competent, lacks the flair that would make the movie visually engaging.The soundtrack, composed by David Michael Frank, does little to elevate the film. The music, which once seemed tense and driving, now feels generic and forgettable. It neither enhances the action nor adds to the emotional weight of the scenes.One of the most disappointing aspects of revisiting "Above the Law" is its socio-political themes. The movie attempts to tackle issues of governmental corruption and abuse of power, but these themes are handled with a heavy hand and lack subtlety. What seemed like a bold commentary in our teenage years now comes across as preachy and superficial.Moreover, "Above the Law" relays a bygone era in action cinema. Steven Seagal's debut may have established him as a new kind of action star, but his style feels outdated. The film set a template that Seagal would follow in many of his future movies, but that template has not aged well. Modern audiences demand more complexity and innovation, which "Above the Law" fails to deliver.In terms of cultural impact, while the film did pave the way for a more realistic portrayal of martial arts in Western cinema, its influence has waned. The once groundbreaking portrayal of Aikido is overshadowed by more dynamic and varied martial arts depictions in contemporary films.Revisiting "Above the Law," it's clear that nostalgia can be a double-edged sword. The film, which once held a special place in our hearts, now feels like a product of its time, struggling to stay relevant in today's action landscape. It's a reminder that not all movies age gracefully, and sometimes, our memories of them are better than the reality.In conclusion, "Above the Law" might have been a thrilling ride back in the late '80s, but it doesn't hold up under the scrutiny of a modern rewatch. Its dated action, flat performances, and heavy-handed themes make it a tough sell for today's audiences. If you're a die-hard Steven Seagal fan or have a soft spot for '80s action flicks, you might still enjoy it. But for the rest of us, it's a reminder that not all cinematic memories are worth revisiting.So, fellow Watchers, if you're thinking about rewatching this one, you might want to think twice. Sometimes, it's better to let our teenage memories stay in the past. Until next time, keep watching and remember that some things are best left above the law.

Welcome back to Born to Watch, where we dive deep into the movies that have shaped our lives and the world of cinema. This week, we continue our Demi Moore Double Shot with a look at the 1990 supernatural romantic thriller, "Ghost." Directed by Jerry Zucker, "Ghost" has left an indelible mark on pop culture and remains a beloved classic. So, let's delve into the elements that make this film so unforgettable.Cinematography and Visuals"Ghost" is a visually stunning film that masterfully blends the ethereal with the everyday. The cinematography by Adam Greenberg captures the stark contrast between the vibrant life of New York City and the eerie, spectral world that Sam Wheat (Patrick Swayze) finds himself in after his untimely death. The film's lighting is particularly noteworthy; the scenes involving the ghosts are often bathed in a soft, otherworldly glow that enhances the supernatural elements without overwhelming the viewer.One of the most iconic visual sequences is the pottery wheel scene. The intimate, tactile nature of pottery-making, coupled with Sam's ghostly presence, creates a hauntingly beautiful moment that has been parodied and referenced countless times in popular culture. The use of practical effects, especially the translucent, glowing appearances of the ghosts, still holds up remarkably well and adds to the film's charm.Storytelling and Themes"Ghost" is a love story at its core, but it transcends the boundaries of life and death. The screenplay by Bruce Joel Rubin perfectly blends romance, suspense, and supernatural elements. The narrative follows Sam Wheat, a banker who is murdered and becomes a ghost, unable to move on because of his deep love for his girlfriend, Molly Jensen (Demi Moore), and his need to protect her from danger.The film expertly weaves together themes of love, loss, and justice. Sam's journey from shock and confusion to acceptance and action is compelling, and his undying love for Molly is the emotional anchor of the story. The subplot involving Carl Bruner (Tony Goldwyn), Sam's treacherous friend, adds a layer of suspense and betrayal that keeps the audience on edge.One of the film's most profound themes is the idea of unfinished business and the quest for closure. Sam's interactions with other spirits, particularly the subway ghost (Vincent Schiavelli), highlight how people handle their unresolved issues. The film's resolution, with Sam finding peace and saying a final goodbye to Molly, is both heart-wrenching and uplifting.Character Development and PerformancesThe performances in "Ghost" are nothing short of stellar. Patrick Swayze delivers one of his best performances as Sam Wheat, capturing the character's desperation, determination, and undying love. Swayze's chemistry with Demi Moore is palpable, making their on-screen relationship believable and deeply moving.Demi Moore shines as Molly Jensen, bringing a perfect blend of vulnerability and strength to the role. Her portrayal of grief is raw and realistic, and her gradual acceptance of Sam's presence is beautifully handled. Moore's performance ensures that Molly is not just a damsel in distress but a fully realised character who finds her strength through her love for Sam.However, Whoopi Goldberg's performance as Oda Mae Brown steals the show. As a fraudulent psychic who suddenly finds herself genuinely communicating with the dead, Goldberg brings much-needed comic relief and heart to the film. Her scenes with Swayze are some of the film's highlights, and her transformation from a con artist to a true medium is humorous and touching. Goldberg's performance earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, a testament to her outstanding work in the film.Historical and Cultural SignificanceUpon its release, "Ghost" was a box office phenomenon, grossing over $505 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing film of 1990. Its success was a testament not only to its compelling story and strong performances but also to its universal themes of love and loss, which resonated with audiences around the world.The film's impact on popular culture is undeniable. The pottery scene set to The Righteous Brothers' "Unchained Melody" has become one of the most iconic moments in cinematic history. The film also brought the supernatural romance genre into the mainstream, paving the way for future films that explore similar themes."Ghost" also significantly influenced the portrayal of psychics and the afterlife in media. Whoopi Goldberg's Oda Mae Brown became a cultural icon, and the film's depiction of the afterlife as a place where spirits linger until they find peace has been echoed in subsequent films and TV shows.Relevance to Pop CultureEven decades after its release, "Ghost" holds a special place in pop culture. The film is often referenced and parodied, from sitcoms like "Friends" to movies like "Scary Movie 2." Its themes of undying love and the afterlife remain relevant, and its influence can be seen in a wide range of romantic and supernatural films that followed.The film's legacy is also evident in its adaptations. "Ghost: The Musical," premiered in 2011, brought the story to the stage with new songs and a fresh take on the beloved classic. The musical has enjoyed success in both the West End and Broadway, further cementing "Ghost's" enduring appeal."Ghost" is a timeless classic that masterfully combines romance, suspense, and supernatural elements into a compelling and emotionally resonant story. The film's strong performances, particularly by Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, and Whoopi Goldberg, its stunning visuals, and its universal themes of love and loss have ensured its place in the pantheon of great films.As we continue our Demi Moore Double Shot on Born to Watch, "Ghost" is a perfect example of why Moore remains an enduring and beloved figure in Hollywood. Her performance and the film's lasting impact make "Ghost" a must-watch for any cinema fan. So, grab some tissues, sit back, and let yourself be swept away by this hauntingly beautiful tale of love that transcends time.Please follow the Podcast and join our community at https://linktr.ee/borntowatchpodcasthttps://www.borntowatch.com.au/