Christmas Movies Actually

Based on the encouragement of a GQ article from 2016, Kerry and Collin took a look back at “Bridget Jones's Diary” to see if the writer of said article had been onto something. That led them to go back and rewatch all of the “Bridget Jones” movies including the latest, which just came out on blu-ray. What/who is the Bridget Jones of today? How would we rank the boyfriends/fiancees in the entire series? Did “Bridget Jones's Diary” kickstart the “ugly sweater” craze that started in the early 2000s? All this, plus a jam-packed Blu-ray Gift Exchange.    Blu-rays covered: Focus/Universal: “Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy” “Black Bag” (2025) Ignite: “Re-Animator” 40th Anniversary 4K (1985) Criterion: “The Three Musketeers” / “The Four Musketeers” 4K (1973-74) “The Umbrellas Of Cherbourg”  4K (1964) “Room 666” / “Room 999” (1982 - 2023) Warner Archive: “Clean and Sober” (1988) “Lean On Me” (1989) “Rhapsody In Blue” (1934) “Three The Hard Way” (1974) “Lili” (1953) Warner Bros / HBO: “Mr. Show: The Complete Series”  

Kerry and Collin plowed through this comedy starring Matthew Broderick and Danny DeVito as two feuding neighbors at Christmastime. The experience of watching the film caused one of them to ponder, "why are we doing this podcast?" There are so many other questions, though. What makes the old, white iMacs so special? How long would it actually take to make an elaborate Christmas light trail, cook an even more elaborate dinner and then cover your entire house with Christmas lights? What did DeVito do to prepare in promoting this film back in 2006? All these questions, plus Kerry gives three movies from the "1,001 Movies You Mist See Before You Die" book. Are any of them worth seeing?  Recommended short film: "The Christmas Light Killer"  Book films covered: "Papillon" (1971) "Buffalo 66" (1998) "The Conformist" (1970)  

Kerry and Collin, while trying desperately to recall facts about part 2, finally round out the Tim Allen "Santa Clause" trilogy with should be the best of the bunch, considering the casting of Martin Short. Did it meet the expectation? Maybe. If nothing else, he gives the viewer someone to root for. Is this really "the greatest Santa Claus story ever"? Why couldn't the elves put together a suitable hospital room somewhere in the North Pole where Mrs. Claus can give birth to her child? How does Alan Arkin's character know where all the fire extinguishers are in the North Pole and how to use them on a moment's notice? All these questions, plus a look at the latest and greatest in physical media with the "Blu-ray Gift Exchange," where they talk some Clint Eastwood, Andy Warhol, the "greatest comedy of all time" and Matt Damon.  Blu-rays covered: Warner Bros.: "The Informant!" 4K (2009) "Dirty Harry" 4K (1971) "The Outlaw Josey Wales" 4K (1976) "Pale Rider" 4K (1985) Criterion: "Some Like It Hot" 4K (1959) "Basquiat" 4K (1996)

A listener requested this title quite some time ago and it finally happened! Film critic Nell Minow joins Kerry and Collin to talk about this relatively obscure, but wonderful movie that might just be the first ever in the sub-genre of holiday films where the family returns home for the holiday festivities and slowly start airing their grievances and secrets. Do clergymen really enjoy doing the Christmas sermons? Is there a moment in "Love Actually" that is a tribute to this movie? How does director Mike Leight figure into all of this? All the answers to all of these questions, plus an extended "knitability" segment, as well as three more films from "1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die." Before any of that, though, you get a chance to win a pair of free movie tickets from the Chicago Critics Film Festival, which runs May 2-8, 2025 at the Music Box Theatre.  Book films covered: "The Wages of Fear" (1953) "Viridiana" (1951) "Secrets & Lies" (1996)

Kerry and Collin are joined by Catherine Mary Stewart, star of the 1984 cult classic "Night of the Comet," an apocalyptic sci-fi film where the world ends at Christmastime, which is the best time to go shopping. They are also joined by returning guest Marya E. Gates, author of the new book "Cinema Her Way: Visionary Female Directors in Their Own Words." The four of them talk in-depth about "Night of the Comet" while Stewart tells some great production stories from working on the film, while also talking about some of the other Christmas films in which she has appeared. And yes, there is also talk of "The Apple," "Dudes" and "The Last Starfighter." Then, the discussion switches over the to subject of Gates' new book, which examines (among many other things) the continuing struggles in the industry facing some of the best female filmmakers working today. As if that weren't enough, there's also the Blu-ray Gift Exchange. It's a longer episode than usual, but well worth it.  Buy Marya's book here (Bookshop.org supports independent book stores) Learn more about Catherine Mary Stewart's work here. Blu-rays covered: Sony: "My Girl" 4K (1991) Warner: "Paddington 2" 4K (2017) Criterion: "Godzilla Vs. Biollante" (1989)  Warner Archive: "Hit Man" (1972) "Earth II" (1971) "Magilla Gorlla: The Complete Series"

Wayne Wang's "Smoke" doesn't look like a Christmas movie, sound like a Christmas movie or ever feel like a Christmas movie. It really isn't, but the final fifteen minutes of this terrific ensemble film features a moving and poetic Christmas story that makes it worthy of inclusion on this show (hey, it has more Chrsitmas in it than Disney's "Babes In Toyland"). The film stars Harvey Keitel, William Hurt, Forrest Whitaker, Stockard Channing, Ashley Judd, Giancarlo Esposito, Harold Perrineau and Jared Harris. It also has a distinction of winning an obscure MTV Movie Award for a category that was never repeated ever again. Also, Kerry talks about three movies from "1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die."  Book movies covered: "Smoke" (1995) "Deseret" (1995) "The Phenix City Story" (1955)

Kerry and Collin look at the often maligned 2004 comedy "Surviving Christmas," starring Ben Affleck, James Gandolfini, Christina Applegate and Catherine O'Hara and find it's not quite as terrible as critics (Collin included) made it out to be twenty years ago. Is it the two decades of distance from the Bennifer annoyance of that time period? How much money would it take for you to bring in a character like Affleck's into your home for two weeks? What about those lyrics they sing for "O Christmas Tree"? All thee questions deserve answers. Plus, to make up for the "lost episode" from February, there is a mini Blu-ray segment as well as a Book segment.    Blu-rays covered: Warner; "Amadeus" (1984) - 4K Criterion: "King Lear" (1987) Warner Archive: "Tom & Jerry - The Complete Cinemascope Cartoon Collection" "Gabriel Over the White House" (1933)   Book movies covered: "Weekend" (1967) "Patton" (1970) "Braveheart" (1995)

Kerry and Collin showed up late for their discussion of the 2001 rom-com starring John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale, “Serendipity.” Does the movie take its concepts about fate and destiny to absurd heights? How many movies accurately depict the lives of obituary writers? Should the filmmakers have left in the twin towers when the film came out in the fall of 2001? Also, Kerry and Collin reveal their own Top 5 John Cusack movies. Plus, a 1995 classic, some Kurasawa, Tom & Jerry and Richard Pryor talked about for the Blu-ray Gift Exchange.  Blu-rays covered: Warner Bros: “Se7en” 4K (1995) Focus: "Conclave" (2024) Criterion: “Yojimbo” / “Sanjuro” - The Samurai Films of Akira Kurosawa - 4K “Jo-Jo Dancer: Your Life Is Calling” - 4K Warner Archive: Tom & Jerry - The CinemaScope Collection Sony: “The Lords of Flatbush” (1974) Severin: “Vixen” - 4K (1968) Magnolia: “Omni Loop” (2024)  

The co-host of Friendship Dilemma, Morgan Gire, returns to the show to talk about Martin McDonagh's great, Oscar-nominated black comedy, "In Bruges," starring Colin Farrell, Brendan Gleeson and Ralph Fiennes. While the film does take place during the holiday season, it's the bleak morality play and violence that take center stage. What actually happens to Farrell's character at the very end of the film? Do actors in movies really know how to use guns with blanks? What bird is the symbol for the dreamlike city of Bruges? All this, plus Kerry gives us three more titles from "1,001 Movies You must See Before You Die," one of which is a David Lynch film, which sparks a brief discussion of his work.  Book movies coevred: "The Puppetmaster" (1993) "Wild Strawberries" (1957) "The Elephant Man" (1980) Hear Morgan Gire and Erik Childress on "The Friendship Dilemma"  Follow Christmas Movies Actually on: Facebook BlueSky Email us a movie suggestion, question or comment at christmasmoviesactually@gmail.com

Kerry and Collin continue the tradition of starting the new year off with a look at a Nutcracker movie. Although, this Hulu offering is not a Nutcracker-based movie, the ballet does figure into the plot eventually, as Ben Stiller has to housesit his four recently orphaned nephews, who happen to have some talent in that artform. Can he really put on a production in a matter of weeks? Do people really write checks as payment at an ice cream truck? Is this David Gordon Green's best comedy in over a decade? PLUS, Kerry and Collin recommend a short film that is a dead-on parody of Hallmark movies (see link below to watch the film). Speaking of Hallmark, the Blu-ray Gift Exchange features a Hallmark movie that Collin recommends(!). Short film: A Winter's Charm In Carson City (Hallmark parody) Hallmark: "The Santa Summit" (DVD) Paramount: "Galaxy Quest" 4K Criterion: "Paris, Texas" 4K "Eastern Condors" 4K Warner Archive: "The Searchers" 4K "A Night Full of Rain" "The Walking Dead" "Mr. Lucky" Sony: "Talk of the Town' 4K "The Outrun" (DVD) Severin: "Scala!!!"

The perennial classic starring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen turns 70 years-old this year. Kerry and Collin are celebrating the occasion by having on one of the film's biggest fans, film critic Pat McDonald. Is Michael Curtiz's much-celebrated film more of a post-WWII nostalgia piece than it is a Christmas movie? What other Danny Kaye movies should people check out? Was Bing Crosby actually not wearing any underwear in that train scene? All these questions, plus Pat talks about one of the most ghastly and bizarre TV Christmas specials from the early '70s, featuring a who's-who of bad hair pieces and cheesy impersonators. You'll have to listen to find out. 

Kerry and Collin are joined by first-time guest, longtime friend, film critic Nick Digilio, who claims "The Ref"--starring Dennis Leary, Kevin Spacey and Judy Davis--is his favorite Christmas film of all time. Collin has similar feelings and wanted to wait until the movie had an anniversary, so it could be featured prominently in the December line-up, when the movie would hopefully get more attention than it did back in the day. Why did the studio botch its release? Do people still make fruitcake jokes today? How did screenwriter Richard LaGravenese get his revenge on a Chicago film critic with this film? Also, Nick's choice for a Christmas episode/TV special is none other than the classic "Pee-Wee's Playhouse Christmas Special." It truly is one of the best Christmas specials of all, as evidenced by the joy everyone experienced making it and the joy it continues to bring to audiences several  generations later. (NOTE: Apologies for some of the sound quality on this one. It's mostly in the first 15 minutes). 

Kerry and Collin are joined by Erik Childress to talk about the enduring--and maybe not so enduring--legacy of Robert Zemeckis' "The Polar Express." Based on the beloved picture book by Chris Van Allsburg, this film pushed the boundaries of motion-capture animation at the time. How does that technology hold up today? What does the bell symbolize? Which character should've gotten the bell at the end? Plus, Erik's choice for a Christmas TV special/episode is the holiday episode of the '80s sci-fi favorite "V," featuring Freddy Krueger himself, Robert Englund, singing a Christmas carol about as badly as anyone can. Erik fills Kerry and Collin in on the back-story of the episode, which can be seen on Amazon Prime (if you buy the whole series). 

Kerry and Collin take a quick dive into six newly released Christmas movies, including The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, Christmas Eve In Miller's Point, Dear Santa, Hot Frosty, Meet Me Next Christmas and Nutcrackers. They also take a look at some newly release Christmas movies on blu-ray/4K, as well as a non-Christmas Blu-ray Gift Exchange. Finally, Kerry and Collin share their recent appearance on BBC Radio 2 on the OJ Borg show where they try to stump the host on some trivia questions pertaining to a Christmas movie. Which one? You'll have to listen to find out.  The OJ Borg Show on BBC Radio 2 Blu-rays covered: Paramount: "Irving Berlin's White Christmas" 4K "I Love Lucy - The Complete Series" Hallmark: "My Christmas Guide" Universal: "Genie" "Last Christmas" Vinegar Syndrome: "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians" Sony: "Little Women" (1994) 4K Warner Archive: The Thin Man Series Looney Tunes - Collector's Choice collection "The Return of Dr. X" (1939) "The Beast With Five Fingers" (1946) Warner Bros: "North By Northwest" (1959) - 4K "Blazing Saddles" (1974) - 4K "The Terminator" (1984) - 4K

Aside from "Wicked," Red One" is probably the most advertised film of this season, but does it deserve to be? Film critic Leo Brady joins Kerry and Collin to talk about this much-hyped action fantasy film and why its star, Dwayne Johnson, needs to commit to different types of projects. They also talk about seeing the film in 4DX and why that format might not be suitable for all films. Why does the audience need to feel as pummeled as the characters on screen? Who is this movie for? Does the great J.K. Simmons make for a convincing Santa Claus? All this, plus Kerry gives us three films from the "1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die" book.  Web site with knitted caps used in "Red One": https://leedoesstuff.com/ Book movies covered: Ali: Fear Eats the Soul (1974) Romper Stomper (1992) Young Frankenstein (1974)

Kerry and Collin are joined by Cinema Femme's founder Rebecca Martin Fagerholm to talk about Jodie Foster's ensemble comedy "Home For The Holidays," starring Holly Hunter, Robert Downey, Jr., Anne Bancroft, Charles Durning, Cynthia Stevenson, Dylan McDermott, Geraldine Chaplin and Steve Guttenberg (wow!). Of all the holiday movies in the Family-Gathers-Together-For-The-Holidays sub-genre, this one gets it so, so right above many others. Why does Collin hold it in such high regard? How did Downey's behavior and antics effect the overall outcome of the film? How much food was cooked for the Thanksgiving scene and what happened to all of it. All this, plus Collin talks about the latest and greatest in physical media for the Blu-ray Gift Exchange.  Blu-ray movies covered: Sony: "American Movie" 4K (1999) Warner Bros: "The Hitcher" 4K (1986) Criterion: "Pandora's Box" (1929) "Demon Pond" (1979) Val Lewton Double Feature: "I Walked With A Zombie" and "The Seventh Victim" (1943) Warner Archive: "The Prairie Home Companion" (2006) "Bathing Beauty" (1944) "Journey Into Fear" (1943) Universal: "Touch" (2024)

Starring Mickey Rooney. Yes, that Mickey Rooney. Five years ago, Kerry, Collin and guest Patrick Ripoll made a pact to talk about the "Silent Night, Deadly Night" films every year in October. The pact has been fulfilled with "Silent Night, Deadly Night 5: The Toy Maker," as of now, the final film in the series. It did not disappoint. Rooney stars as the titular Toy Maker named Joe Petto. He has a teenage son who might be an android named Pino. You see where this is going? Why are the toys Petto makes turning deadly? What about Ricky, the Santa-Claus-killer franchise mainstay? How should you watch all five films? Which ones are the best? You'll have to hear Kerry, Collin and Patrick's rankings to find out. What a journey it's been! From a crazed Santa Claus killer, to "Garbage day!" to Oedipal themes of longing, the SNDN films each delivered something truly unique. Also, Kerry talks about three films from "1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die."  Book films covered: "Odd Man Out" (1947) "Le Trou" (1960) "Crumb" (1995)

First, a quick explanation over what went wrong with the "Go" episode. Then, Kerry and Collin are joined by returning guest, Christine Sellin, to talk about Laika Animation Studios' amazing 2012 movie, "ParaNorman," a movie that accomplishes so much in just under 90 minutes and does so with style, wit, astonishment and braaaiiiinnnnssss!! What is tourism like in Salem, Massachusetts? Can a rioter ever find inner peace? Just how many horror movie references are hidden throughout this movie? All this, plus a stacked Blu-ray Gift Exchange, where they talk about Richard Pryor, Martin Scorsese, Kevin Costner's doomed epic and the greatest British gangster movie of all time.  Blu-rays covered:  Sony: "Richard Pryor - Live On The Sunset Strip" 4K (1982) "The China Syndrome" (1979) Paramount: "Bringing Out the Dead" 4K (1999) Warner Bros. "Horizon: An American Saga, Part 1"  Warner Archive: "Black Belt Jones" (1974) "Three Little Words" (1950) "Words and Music" (1948) Shout: "Big Fan" (2009) Criterion: "Happiness" (1998) "The Long Good Friday" (1980)  

Kerry and Collin celebrate the 25th anniversary of "Go" by talking to one of its biggest fans, film programmer Mike Schindler. The film has the late-'90s influences all over it: the "Pulp Fiction"-like structure, a hyper-active techno soundtrack and a cast of young actors who made their marks in TV shows like "Party Of Five" and "Dawson's Creek." Which of the film's three main stories is the best one? What is a rave like at Christmas time? Would the film's director, Doug Liman, been a choice to helm "Good Will Hunting"? All this, plus Kerry talks about three more films from "1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die."  Book films discussed: "North By Northwest" (1959) "The Man In Grey" (1943) "M*A*S*H" (1970)    

Kerry and Collin are joined be frequest guest Patrick Ripoll (co-host of 96 Greers) to talk about one of the essential Judy Garland movies, the technicolor marvel "Meet Me In St. Louis," in which the song "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas" made its debut and would eventually become a standard. Vincente Minnelli's timeless classic would also make for a great Halloween movie. What were the original lyrics to the famous Christmas song before Garland suggested a rewrite? What is the proper way to build a snowman that is not the usual three boulders on top of one another? And what is the proper way to wreck them?  All this, plus a Blu-ray Gift Exchange that covers Albert Brooks, Mad Max, Elvis and a 90s teen comedy.  Blu-ray Gift Exchange movies covered: Warner Bros: "Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga" (2024) Criterion: "Real Life" 4K (1979) "Mother" 4K (1996) Sony: "Can't Hardly Wait" 4K (1998) Warner Archive: "Harum Scarum" (1965) "Marie: A True Story" (1986)

First-time guest Alejandro Riera joins Kerry and Collin to talk about the Chicago-based family comedy "Nothing Like The Holidays," which came out in 2008 and features a predominantly Puerto Rican cast. This follows the "Family Stone" and "This Christmas" formula of having all the grown-up kids coming home for the Christmas season, all of whom are facing major crossroads in heir lives. Most of it works, some of it doesn't, but it does make a for a truly unique Chicago-based film. Why aren't there more films like it? Did the filmmakers miss an opportunity with John Leguizamo and Debra Messing's characters? What is the proper way to take a tree down in your front yard? All this, plus three more films from the "1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die" book, in which two films from Music Box Theater's recent 70mm film festival come into the discussion.  Book films covered: "Great Expectations" (1946) "Playtime" (1967) "The Searchers" (1956)

The tearjerker "Six Weeks" starred Mary Tyler Moore, Dudley Moore and a talented ballerina named Katherine Healy. It came out in 1982 during awards season and managed to score two Golden Globe noms and a Razzie nomination. Frequent guest Peter Sobczynski has been waiting for over a year to talk about it with Kerry and Collin and even went so far as to buy them a copy of the book upon which the film is based. Collin does a dramatic reading of a few pages of this piece of literature. How do the film and book compare? How did such a talented cast get roped into this project? Should Peter really  apologize for bringing us this film? All this, plus a few titles from the month of July for the Blu-ray Gift Exchange. Blu-ray titles covered: Warner Bros: "Twister" (1996) (4K) "Challengers" (2024) Paramount: "Swingers" (1996) "When Worlds Collide" (1951) MGM: "The Mighty Quinn" (1989) Sony: "The Lady From Shanghai" (1948) (4K) Criterion: "Perfect Days" (2023) (4K)

Prior to their recent trip to New Zealand, Collin and Kerry looked up "New Zealand Christmas movies" and this was the result. "Kiwi Christmas" follows a typical formula for an ABC Family Christmas movie in which Santa Claus doesn't want to do his usual rounds on Christmas Eve, so he hides in Auckland, New Zealand and hangs out with a family during their Christmas barbeque. Wackiness ensues. Is the border patrol in NZ really as strict as they appear in this film? Can Santa really be Santa with only six employees? Will there ever be a Christmas movie or special starring Queenstown's beloved Cookie Muncher? All this, plus a robust Blu-ray Gift Exchange. Blu-ray titles covered: Warner Bros: "Purple Rain" (1984) (4K) "Godzilla x Kong: New Empire" (2024) "American Fiction" (2023) Criterion: "Blue Velvet" (1986) 4K "Fear and Loathing In las Vegas" (1998) 4K Paramount:  "South Park: Bigger, Longer and Uncut" (1999) 4K "Team America: World Police" (2004) 4K MGM: "Class" (1983) Warner Archive: "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" (1941) "Act of Violence" (1948) "The Man I Love" (1946) "The Shining Hour" (1938) Sony: "Shotgun Stories" (2008) "Cat Ballou" (1965) Music Box Films: "Ennio" (2024)

Kerry and Collin take a look at the feature-length Rankin/Bass movie (and TV special) "Rudolph and Frosty's Christmas In July" and are bewildered by how plot-heavy and overloaded it is with exposition and countless new characters. What is the proper way to react to Frosty dying (again)? Is Scratchy the Evil Reindeer sufficiently evil? And what does all of this have to do with the legendary radio show "The Cinnamon Bear"? You'll have to listen to find out the answrers. Plus, Kerry dives into three more titles from the "1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die," all of which are geographically linked. Book movies covered: "The Adventures Of Priscilla: Queen of the Desert" (1994) "Muriel's Wedding" (1995) "Mad Max" (1979)

A detour into the 4th of July, Kerry and Collin talk about the biggest hit of 1996, Roland Emmerich's alien invasion epic "Independence Day," which gives America permission to make our holiday a worldwide holiday because of something WE did. Suck it up, world! How does this movie play today now that we all know a little more about computers? Is there a trope called The Sacrificial Quaid? (there is now) Can one punch really knock out an alien? All this, plus a look at the latest and greatest in physical media with the Blu-ray Gift Exchange (Dune 2, Gilbert Gottfried, Francis Ford Coppola and more!).  Blu-ray movies covered: Warner Bros. "Dune: Part 2" 4K (2024) Criterion: "Floating Weeds" / "The Story of Floating Weeds" (1934 - 1959) Gravitas Ventures: "Gilbert" (2017) "Score: A Film Music Documentary" (2017) Paramount: "Into the Wild" (2007) Warner Archive:  "You're A Big Boy Now" (1966) "The Nun's Story" (1959) "Friendly Persuasion" (1956)

Kerry and Collin talk about "Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga" every chance they get in this episode because it's a far more interesting subject, but because it's not holiday-based, they stick to the format as best they can by talking about the 2002 sequel, "The Santa Clause 2." Why aren't the rules consistent in these movies? Why does a real-world woman have to give up her identity to become Mrs. Claus? Why are there so many shrill child actors out there? All this, plus Kerry talks about three more movies from the "1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die" book. PLEASE NOTE: The next episode won't be out until June 20th.  Book movies covered: "Le Samurai" (1967) "Planet of the Apes" (1968) "A Fish Called Wanda" (1988)

In honor of its 30th anniversary, Kerry and Collin look back at a forgotten little gem starring Paul Newman, Melanie Griffith, Jessica Tandy, an uncredited Bruce Willis and an early role for Philip Seymour Hoffman. It's a "hang-out movie" that spans Thanksgiving to New Years. Why did Willis not get credit for playing a major role? Could this be viewed as a "career summation role" for Newman? What was it like filming in the dead of winter in upstate New York? Also, Collin goes through the latest and greatest in physical media for this month's Blu-ray Gift Exchange.   Blu-rays covered: Criterion: "Dogfight" (1991) Warner Bros.: "The Departed" 4K (2006) "The Oceans Trilogy" - 4K (2001 - 2007) MGM: "Eight Men Out" (1988) Warner Archive: "The Rain People" (1969) "The Mask of Fu anchu" (1932) Sony: "You'll Never Get Rich" (1940)

Kerry and Collin are joined by author John A. Zukowski, author of the book "Christmas On the Screen: Reviewing the Evolution of American Spirituality," which provides a springboard into the discussion of the classic "The Bishop's Wife," starring Cary Grant, Loretta Young and David Niven. Why did America need so many movies about celestial beings and angels after WWII? What would the film have been like if Grant and Niven switched roles? What exactly is a "stinger"? (we know it's a drink) All these questions, plus Kerry gives us three more titles (with a classic or two) from the "1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die" book.  Buy John A. Zukowski's book "Christmas On the Screen: Reviewing the Evolution of American Spirituality" here. Book movies covered: "The Quiet Earth" (1985) "The Sawshank Redemption" (1994) "Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker's Apocalypse" (1991)

Kerry and Collin take a listener request and talk about an obscure TV movie called "Little Miss Millions," starring Howard Hesseman and (Jennifer) Love Hewitt. The film is directed by Jim "Chopping Mall" Wynorski, whose entire filmography is covered in this one single episode. How many times does Collin drop "Midnight Run" into the conversation? Do young people not know who Howard Hesseman is? Can anyone at anytime use a mirror to blind someone? Also, Collin reviews the latest and greatest in physical media from the month of March in the Blu-ray Gift Exchange. Blu-ray movies covered: Criterion / Janus Contemporaries: "To Die For" (1995)  "Lynch/Oz" (2023) Warner Bros. "The Color Purple" (2023) Paramount: "Witness" (1985) Sony: "Cocktail Hour" (1933) Warner Archive: "Looney Tunes - Collector's Choice, Vol. 3" "Stand and Deliver" (1988) "They Drive By Night" (1940) "Three Godfathers" (1948) "The Boob / Why Be Good?" Double feature (1926 / 1929) Music Box Films: "The Crime Is Mine" (2023)

The Easter holiday is when many people pull out the Biblical epics and none of them rock harder than Norman Jewison's adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice's immortal "Jesus Christ Superstar." Brad Strauss returns to chat with Collin and Kerry about the film's controversy, production problems and why this Biblical movie endures while others have been forgotten. Of course, they also go over their favorite and least favorite songs. There's also some long-overdue Oscar talk and Kerry talks about three movies from the "1,001 Movies You must See Before You Die" book.  Book movies covered: "A nous la liberté" (1931) "Voyage to Italy" (1954) "Moolaade" (2004)

St. Patrick's Day calls for a celebration of all things Irish. Why not celebrate the "Blacks of Dublin" with the 1991 musical comedy "The Commitments"? Kerry and Collin are joined by their friend Jim Peebles to talk about what might be the greatest fictional band of all time. Who are/were the Commitments? Where are they now? How authentically Irish is this movie? How many women did Joey "The Lips" actually sleep with in this movie? All that, plus a look at the latest and greatest in physical media for the month of February, including more musicals (a couple classics, even). Blu-rays covered: Paramount: "Footloose" 4K Criterion: "The Heroic Trio / The Executioners" Warner Bros: "Wonka"  "Contagion" Warner Archive: "The Prince and the Pauper" "Hanna/Barbera Superstars 10" Sony Pictures Classics: "The Triplets of Belleville" Bleeker Street: "Waitress: The Musical" Uncork'd: "Back To The Drive-In"  

Kerry and Collin are joined by Laura McDougal and Allyson Dykhuizen (founders of an online community geared towards knitting and garment making, among other things) to talk about the 1994 version of "Little Women." How does this version compare to others, most notably Greta Gerwig's version? Who is the "worst" little woman in the film? Do men always have to explain to women what's happening in an opera, or is that only in lots and lots of movies? All this, plus Kerry gives three more movies from the "1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die" book.  You can find out more information about what Allyson and Laura are up to at https://www.lauraallyson.com/ An you can join the party at https://lauraallyson.party Book movies covered: "Passenger" (1963) "My Brilliant Career" (1979) "The Last Seduction" (1994)

The first detour from Christmas takes Kerry and Collin to the beloved and behated Valentine's Day. Conveniently, that also happens to be the name of the movie they talk about. Garry Marshall's last three films were holiday-based rom-com adventures. "Valentine's Day" might be the best of the three, but will likely be the only one covered on this show. How does the "Love Actually' formula work for this multiple-stories-in-one-day device? Can one be a convincing phone sex worker in a PG-13 movie? What are the three best Garry Marshall movies? All this, plus Collin goes through the new releases in pohysical media for the month of January in the Blu-ray Gift Exchange.  Blu-rays covered: Critrerion: "Trainspotting" 4K (1996) Paramount: "Eddie Murphy Raw" (1987) Warner Archive: "Joe's Apartment" (1996) "Rover Dangerfield" (1991) "Faithless" (1932) "Cabin In the Sky" (1943) "A Day At the Races" (1937) MGM: "Red Planet Mars" (1952) "Strange Invaders" (1983) "Kingdom of the Spiders" (1977) (DVD)

The Star Wars Holiday Special remains a curiosity item for many, mainly for its sheer awfulness. In this episode, Kerry and Collin talk with director Jeremy Coon about his wonderful documentary on the notorious television special, "A Disturbance In the Force" (now available on VOD and blu-ray). Should this wretched television special be officially released? How many times did Coon have to watch it while making his documentary? What other Star Wars-related media is still under wraps out there? Why is now the perfect time for this documentary, currently at 100% on Rotten Tomatoes? All this, plus Kerry gives us three more films from "1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die," including a familiar title that surprisingly hasn't been discussed on this show (at least, not respectfully).  Book films covered: "Force of Evil" (1948) "The Devils" (1971) "Star Wars" (1977)

For this year's Nutcracker entry, Kerry and Collin fulfill a listener request with "The Nutcracker Prince," surprisingly not a direct-to-video animated film from this era, but sure feels like one. What is Blue (or Bleu) Cheese Cake? Is it acceptable to have a Nutcracker movie without the slightest hint of ballet? Is it worth the effort to travel to Miller's Pub on Wabash Avenue in Chicago to try the seasonal Tom and Jerry beverage? All these questions answered, plus a Blu-ray Gift Exchange from December that feature a few classics and obscurities. Blu-ray films covered: Universal: "Love Actually" (4K) (2003) Criterion: "The Red Balloon" and Other Tales by Albert Lamorisse (1951-1965) Sony: "School Daze" (4K) (1988) MGM: "Bikini Beach" (1964) Warner Bros.: "The Color Purple" (4K) (1985) Warner Archive: "Tarzan The Ape Man" (1932) "Anna Christie" (1930) "Madame Bovary" (1949) "The Great Ziegfeld" (1936) Giant: "A Disturbance In the Force" (2023) Music Box Films: "Fremont" (2023)

Friend of the show, Jim Peebles, joins Collin and Kerry for a look at one of the most enduring and successful of all Christmas films, Jon Favreau's 2003 comedy "Elf," starring Will Farrell as the eternally childlike Buddy The Elf and James Caan as his long lost father. How does the film hold up after 20 years? Did the film breathe new life into the song "Baby, It's Cold Outside"? How is it that there's never been a sequel? Collin and Kerry also give quick reviews on three new Christmas films now streaming: "Family Switch" (Netflix), "Candy Cane Lane" (Amazon) and "The Sacrifice Game" (Shudder). Kerry then gives us three more titles from the "1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die" book. Before any of that, though, Kerry and Collin share their adventures in Pink Wonderland, a pop-up bar in Chicago that is just too pink to believe. Go to https://solo.to/pinkwonderland to get more information on both their Chicago and New York location,  as well as their upcoming New Year's Eve celebration.  Book movies covered: "Marty" (1955) "Fireworks" (1997) "Downfall" (2004)

Kerry and Collin take the show on the road for their 100th episode (or is it?). They are joined by frequent guests Erik Childress and Peter Sobczynski for a discussion in front of an audience following the screening of the film. Does John Landis' film represent Eddie Murphy at his peak? How does this movie work as a time capsule of '80s greed and specific movie tropes? How does it harken back to comedies of the '30s and '40s? After that, Kerry and Collin look at a study that examined profanity in Christmas movies. They also share a few ideas they will try with the show starting in 2024. Merry New Year!

Ed Daly, author of "The Christmas Book," joins Kerry and Collin for a discussion on the 1988 classic comedy "Scrooged," starring Bill Murray. For Ed, it was a memorable childhood moviegoing experience. For Collin, it was a memorable teenage experience working at a movie theater at the time. For Kerry, it was a memorable cable TV staple. Does it hold up? Are the supporting actors actually funnier than Murray? What do we all remmeber about the films "Moving Violations" and "Pandemonium"? All this, plus a non-holiday related edition of the Blu-ray Gift Exchange.  Ed Daly's book "The Christmas Book: The Ultimate Guide To Your Favorite Holiday" Blu-ray movies covered: Paramount: "Scrooged" 4K "Terms of Endearment" 4K Warner Bros: "A Christmas Story Christmas" DVD "The Fugitive" 4K Criterion: "Jackie Chan: Emergence Of A Superstar" collection Warner Archive: "Rapa Nui" "Looney Tunes: Collector's Choice, Vol. 2" Music Box Films:  "The Unknown Country"

Kerry and Collin talk about the Christmas episodes from Murder She Wrote, Moonlighting, Psych, The Office, Pee-Wee's Playhouse and The Bear. Collin also covers some holiday offerings new on blu-ray/4K and offers his choices for the best blu-ray/4K releases of the year. Finally, they each recommend a movie-related book ("Opposable Thumbs: How Siskel and Ebert Changed Movies Forever," by Matt Singer and "Christmas On the Screen: Reviewing the Evolution of American Spirituality," by John A. Zukowski). Sprinkled in are some TV Christmas Special ads that aired in 1987.  Blu-ray Movies covered: "A Magical Christmas Village" (Hallmark) "Psych: The Complete Series" (Universal) "Stealing Christmas" (Universal) "The Office: The Complete Christmas Collection" (Universal) "The Christmas Martian" (Vinegar Syndrome) Books covered: "Opposable Things: How Siskel and Ebert Changed Movies Forever," by Matt Singer. "Christmas On the Screen: Reviewing the Evolution of American Spirituality," by John A. Zukowski  

Film critic Marya E. Gates joins Collin and Kerry to talk about Netflix's latest holiday offering, "Best. Christmas. Ever!" This "fam-com" stars Heather Graham, Brandy and Jason Biggs and is directed by Mary Lambert of "Pet Sematary" fame. How does this film figure into the rest of her work? Do rich people really have multiple, full-size Christmas trees throughout their homes? Would a solar powered hot air balloon fly successfully on a cold winter night? Plenty of questions, some of which get answered. Plus, Kerry talkes about three more entries from the book "1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die." Also, stay tuned for some exciting news about the show and upcoming episodes.  Book movies covered: "Winchester 73" (1950) "Terms of Endearment" (1983) "Dead Man" (1995)

The first big Christmas film of the season, Alexander Payne's "The Holdovers," is actually pretty great (the first Christmas movie of the season is rarely ever good). Film critic Steve Prokopy joins Kerry and Collin for the discussion of this theatrical release that is worthy of your time at your local theater (SPOILERS WARNING FOR THIS EPISODE!). Paul Giamatti plays a teacher stuck babysitting a prep school kid on campus during winter break. Is this one of Payne's best films? What would a pandemic have been like in the 1970s? What is the proper way to make any flaming dessert? All this, plus a look at the latest and greatest in physical media for the month of October for the Blu-ray Gift Exchange.  Since this is a brand new movie, be on the lookout for SPOILERS, particularly in the 49:00 - 55:00 portion. Films covered on the Blu-ray Gift Exchange: Criterion: “Videodrome” and “Tod Browning's Sideshow Shockers” Janus FIlms: “EO”  Paramount: “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts”  Sony: “Rock Around the Clock”  MGM: "Mr. North" Warner Archive: "Double Trouble" "Christopher Strong" "Dance Fools, Dance" "The Devil Doll" Warner Bros." “Barbie” “Meg 2: The Trench" Universal: “The Black Phone”   

The tradition continues! Patrick Ripoll joins Kerry and Collin once again to look beneath the early-'90s, direct-to-video sheen and plunge into the most disturbing of depths to dissect "Silent Night, Deadly Night 4: Initiation," quite possibly the most disgusting movie ever covered on this show (and yes, we did cover that Kirk Cameron movie). Is it wrong to bring stemware to a picnic? If Clint Howard isn't playing Ricky from the first three films, which Ricky is he playing? Can a male director make a "feminist parable" while his lead actress spends much of the movie gratuitously naked and covered in slime? So many questions, plus Kerry talks about three movies from the book "1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die."  Book movies covered: "Frenzy" (1972) "The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith" (1978) "Nosferatu" (1922)

Who doesn't love a good musical-zombie-Christmas movie? Kerry and Collin are joined by frequent guest Peter Sobczynski to talk about the 2017 horror-musical "Anna and the Apocalypse" and break down how it manages to mix vastly different tones into a tight 93 minutes. How different is the film today when viewed after the height of the real pandemic? How does this film compare to ther horror-based cult movie musicals? Will Collin and Kerry be able to master their Dudley Moore and Mary Tyler Moorse imitations on a future episode? All this, plus a robust Blu-ray Gift Exchange segment. Movies covered on the Blu-ray Gift Exchange: Criterion: Walkabout Paramount: Poker Face - Season 1 Warner Bros.  The Exorcist - 4K Warner Archive: Saratoga Westward The Women Cats Don't Dance Universal: Cocaine Bear - 4K Drafthouse Films: The Youtube Effect Music Box Films: L'immensita

11In between enthusiastic discussions of their recent wedding and the reissue of Jonathan Demme's "Stop Making Sense," Kerry and Collin take a few minutes to discuss the 2004 tearjerker drama "Noel," starring Susan Sarandon, Alan Arkin, Paul Walker, Penelope Cruz and Robin Williams. Are ringbearers absolutely necessary in a wedding ceremony? What went wrong with Spike Lee's recent Q&A with Talking Heads? How does a DVD self-destruct? All these questions get answered and more. Plus, Kerry gives three titles from the "1,001 Movies You Must See Before You Die" in the Book segment, one of which leads into the discussion of the greatest concert film of all time, which everyone should see in IMAX (or fake IMAX if that's the case) while you can. Don't cheat yourself. Bring the kids. Introduce them to one of the greatest bands of all time at the peak of their powers and a director who redefined what a concert film could be. It's on IMAX in September. Check your local listings. Read Chaz Ebert's article on Kerry and Collin's wedding.  Book movies covered: "Philadelphia" (1993) "Fantastic Planet" (1973) "The Double Life of Veronique" (1991) Also on the episode, Kerry and Collin talk about "Noel."

Kerry and Collin take a look at "The Family Stone," staring Sarah Jessica Parker, Diane Keaton, Craig T. Nelson and an impressive assemblage of actors who make up a family (the Stone family! Get it?) that might be the most annoying family to have to marry into. Who is most worthy of the audience's sympathies in this film? Who is least deserving? How should one dress when meeting a partner's parents for the first time and why should you never so such a thing during Christmas? All this, plus a big ol' pile of blu-rays to look at from the month of August for the Blu-ray Gift Exchange.  Films covered in the Blu-ray Gift Exchange: Criterion: "Dim Sum: A Little Bit of Heart" (1985) "Akira Kurosawa's Dreams" 4K (1990) Paramount: "Roman Holiday" 4K Warner Bros.: "Enter The Dragon" 4K (1973) Warner Archive: "Father's Little Dividend" (1951) "Gay Purr-ee" (1962) "The Life of Emile Zola" (1937) "Little Women" (1933) "Spinout" (1966) "Wichita" (1966) Sony Pictures: "American Pop" Universal: "The Doris Day / Rock Hudson Collection" Music Box Films: "Other People's Children" "The Complete Story Of Film"

If you got to the end of the "Die Hard" episode, you heard guests Erik Laws and Erik Childress name-drop this 1984 sci-fi concoction, "Trancers," starring Tim Thomerson (as Jack Deth!) and before-she-was-famous Helen Hunt. Kerry and Collin decided "may as well" and dove right in. Piecing together elements of "Blade Runner," "The Terminator," "Back to the Future" and "The Hidden," this movie actually pre-dates most of those and certainly works as a Christmas movie. Beware of mall Santas! They just might be a trancer! This is some stupid fun. And what does any of it have to do with "The Room"? Is there too much of an age difference between the two leads? How can "Jingle Bells" sound badass? All this, plus three worthy entries in the "We Just Say Book" segment. Book segment films covered: "Clueless" (1995) "Reds" (1981) "Sons of the Desert" (1933)

Kerry and Collin went back and explored three Christmas-themed Barbie movies that came out between 2001 and 2011 (all direct-to-DVD). They both watched "Barbie: A Perfect Christmas," which tells the story of Barbie and her sisters being stranded in a Christmas village while on their way to New York. What better way to deal with that situation than to put on a show? Separately, Kerry and Collin also watched "Barbie in The Nutcracker" (2001) and "Barbie In A Christmas Carol" (2008), respectively. Which is the best of the three? What other worthwhile Barbie movies are out there (besides the obvious)? What does any of this have to do with the U2 song "The Last Night On Earth"? All this, plus a bountiful Blu-ray Gift Exchange segment, featuring Best Picture winners and a couple of Collin's all-time favorites. Paramount: "The Truman Show" (1998) 4K Criterion: "After Hours" 4K (1985) "Breathless" 4K (1960) "One False Move" 4K (1992) Warner Bros: "East Of Eden" (1955) 4K "Rio Bravo" (1959) 4K Warner Archive: "Helen of Troy" (1956) "The Land of the Pharaohs" (1955) "Cimarron" (1931) "The Broadway Melody" (1929) "The Last Time I Saw Paris" (1954) "Du Barry Was A Lady" (1943) "The Fastest Gun Alive" (1956) Drafthouse: "Life On the Farm" (2023) Music Box Films: "Revoir Paris" (2023)

Erik Childress and Erik Laws return to talk with Kerry and Collin about the classic action film that redefined the genre while also changing the conversation about what constitutes a Christmas movie: 1988's "Die Hard." Everything about the film today still feels perfect and their discussion covers a wide range of iconic scenes and characters. Who was the script originally intended for? Was giving officer Powell the final kill the right move? Is it a Christmas movie? (of course it is, but it has to be asked no matter what, apparently). The discussion dovetails nicely into Kerry's "Book" segment.  Book films covered: "Die Hard" (1988) "Stagecoach" (1939) "Natural Born Killers" (1994)

Kerry and Collin are joined by film critic B.L. Panther to talk about the 1996 made-for-TV musical "Mrs. Santa Claus," starring Angela Lansbury, Charles Durning and Michael Jeter. How did this end up being the perfect film to talk about the week of Independence Day? How is Santa magic used (or not used) in 1910 America? Finally, is it so hard for commercial-based streaming services to put their commercial breaks in where they are actually supposed to go in a made-for-TV movie? All this, plus many titles--old and new--covered on he Blu-ray Gift Exchange.  Blu-ray movies covered: NEON: "Enys Men" "Bait" "The Quiet Girl" Music Box Films: "Rodeo" "Please Baby Please" Criterion: "Time Bandits" + "Rules of the Game" & "Red River" Warner Bros. "Evil Dead Rise" "National Lampoon's Vacation" Warner Archive: "The Damned Don't Cry" "Angel Face" "The Old Man and the Sea" "Dangerous When Wet" "Caged!" Kino: "Tales From the Gimli Hospital" "A Zed and Two Naughts / The Fall" "Draughtman's Contract" "Anna May Wong" Collection  

Kerry and Collin take a look at the 1994 crime comedy "Trapped In Paradise," starring Nicolas Cage, Dana Carvey and Jon Lovitz (the previously planned "The Holly and the Ivy" episode had to be postponed). How does this movie compare to other get-out-of-town crime comedies that also take place during Christmas? Is there such a thing as a "nativity sleigh"? What does any of this have to do with 1959's "The Aligator People"? All this, plus three films covered during Kerry's "We Just Say Book' segment. Book films covered: Make Way For Tomorrow (1937) Tokyo Story (1953) Moonstruck (1987)

Film critic and Now Playing Network head honcho Jim Laczkowski joins Collin & Kerry to talk about the underrated Chevy Chase comedy "Funny Farm" (1988), which also stars Madolyn Smith Osborne, as a couple who buy a dream home in a town populated by deranged, drunken lunatics. Why didn't this film catch on back in the day? Is this Chevy Chase's best film? Why do people wear Christmas wreaths around their necks in this film? All this, plus another STACKED Blu-ray Gift Exchange.  Films covered on the Blu-ray Gift Exchange: Releases from Paramount and Criterion.  Warner Bros: A Good Person Creed III Superman 5 Film Collection Warner Archive: Border Incident Clash By Night Courtship of Eddie's Father Hey There, It's Yogi Bear! King Solomon's Mines The Boy With Green Hair Looney Tunes: Collector's Choice Vol. 1