Podcast Like It's 1999

Emily and Phil continue their exploration of The Todd's—Haynes, Phillips, Solondz, and Field—with a deep, emotional dive into Todd Field's devastating directorial debut, In The Bedroom (2001). Joining them is critic and editor Katey Rich, bringing insight into what made this restrained, quietly explosive drama a standout of early 2000s cinema.Together, they unpack Sissy Spacek and Tom Wilkinson's powerhouse performances, the film's chilling portrait of grief and middle-class rage, and how Field's naturalistic style both subverts and elevates melodrama. They also reflect on the film's surprising Oscar run and how it signaled the arrival of a serious new voice in American filmmaking.

Phil & Emily kicks off our brand-new mini-series The Films of The Todds—a deep dive into the cinematic worlds of Todd Haynes, Todd Phillips, Todd Solondz, and Todd Field. First up? Todd Solondz's provocatively layered and deeply uncomfortable 2001 film Storytelling.Joining Phil & Emily is writer and pop culture commentator Rich Monahan to unpack the film's divisive two-part structure ("Fiction" and "Non-Fiction"), its dark satirical tone, and how Solondz pushes buttons in ways that still challenge audiences today. They explore how Storytelling deals with race, exploitation, authorship, and the blurred lines between truth and narrative, all with Solondz's signature deadpan bite.It's a bold and biting start to a series about four very different Todds—tune in for uncomfortable laughs, critical analysis, and one of the weirdest uses of a red box in movie history.

Phil and Emily are kicking off their new mini-series The Films of “The Todds”—a deep dive into the wildly different worlds of Todd Haynes, Todd Phillips, Todd Solondz, and Todd Field. And what better way to start than with one of the most chaotic, irreverent, and painfully 2000s comedies: Road Trip (2000).Joining them for this raunchy, college-era nostalgia fest is film critic David Ehrlich (IndieWire), who helps break down the film's R-rated antics, surprisingly tight script, and why Tom Green is the ultimate agent of chaos. Plus, they're joined by special guest Amy Smart for a bonus interview, where she reflects on her experience making the movie and the 2000s comedy boom.Get ready for gross-out gags, dorm room disasters, and a trip down memory lane with the ultimate party movie that defined a generation.BONUS: Phil sits down with actress Amy Smart to reflect on her early career, from the chaos of Road Trip to the over-the-top antics of Starsky & Hutch. They dive into the wild world of 2000s comedy, the pressure of filming iconic scenes, and the unique challenges of being the “straight person” in movies full of larger-than-life characters like Tom Green and Ben Stiller.Amy shares behind-the-scenes stories about navigating fratty set environments, balancing TV and film work, and the surreal experience of going from indie darling to mainstream star. Plus, she reveals the surprising connection between Todd Phillips and Quentin Tarantino that even die-hard fans might not know.

Phil and Emily are wrapping up their dive into Beyoncé's films of the 2000s mini series with the wild, over-the-top thriller Obsessed (2009). Joining them for this high-stakes finale are Sidney Butler and Austin Harris, ready to break down the campy chaos of this Beyoncé vs. Ali Larter showdown.From glass-shattering catfights to wildly intense stares, they unpack why Obsessed became a cult classic for messy movie lovers and why it holds a special place in Beyoncé's filmography. They also explore the film's place in the Fatal Attraction–inspired thriller boom, Idris Elba's “perfect husband” energy, and the pure, unhinged joy of watching Queen Bey throw someone down a flight of stairs.Is it a misunderstood thriller or a perfectly executed piece of camp? Tune in for this hilarious and fiery discussion to find out!

Phil and Emily continue their Beyoncé in the Movies Mini-Series with a deep dive into the 2008 musical biopic Cadillac Records, and they're joined by writer and film critic Mike Natale to help unpack this rich (and underrated) chapter in Queen Bey's acting career.Beyoncé stars as the legendary Etta James in this chronicle of Chess Records and the rise of American blues and rock 'n' roll. The trio explores her powerful performance, the film's incredible music, and its blend of historical drama and star-studded musical storytelling.They also discuss the film's place in the biopic boom of the 2000s, Beyoncé's evolution as both a dramatic actress and executive producer, and why Cadillac Records deserves more attention as a key turning point in her screen career.

Phil and Emily continue their Beyoncé in the Movies Mini-Series with the crown jewel of her early film career: Dreamgirls (2006). Joining them is the immensely talented actress and singer Barrett Doss (Station 19, Iron Fist), bringing her Broadway perspective to a dazzling conversation about one of the most ambitious movie musicals of the 2000s.They dive into Beyoncé's transformation into Deena Jones, Jennifer Hudson's powerhouse performance, and how the film navigates fame, friendship, and the cost of ambition. From Bill Condon's glossy direction to the unforgettable music, this episode unpacks the legacy of Dreamgirls and what it meant for Beyoncé's evolution as both a performer and a movie star.Get ready for high notes, behind-the-scenes tea, and a deep appreciation of the film that brought “And I Am Telling You” back into cultural consciousness.Follow Barrett Doss:Instagram: @dontgo_jasonwaterfalls#Dreamgirls #Beyonce #JenniferHudson #PodcastLikeIts2000s #BarrettDoss #MovieMusicals #2000sCinema #BeyonceInMovies #PopCulturePodcast #FilmDiscussion Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Phil and Emily continue their Beyoncé in the Movies Mini-Series with a dive into 2006's slapstick reboot The Pink Panther! Joining them are returning guests Brooke Solomon and Jordan Gustafson from Queer Quadrant, ready to unpack the chaotic energy of Steve Martin's Inspector Clouseau—and Beyoncé's role as the glamorous pop star turned murder suspect, Xania.They discuss the film's cartoonish tone, Martin's commitment to physical comedy, and how Beyoncé brings surprising poise and presence to a film that's very much doing the most. Is this the moment her movie-star persona fully crystallized? Or just a glittery detour on the way to Dreamgirls?From cringe-y accents to unforgettable pink gowns, this episode is a fun, fast-paced look at a film that's as messy as it is memorable.

Phil and Emily continue their Beyoncé in the Movies Mini-Series with 2003's The Fighting Temptations! Joining them is pop culture writer and critic Louis Peitzman, who helps break down this feel-good gospel comedy starring Cuba Gooding Jr. and Beyoncé in one of her first major film roles.They dive into the movie's blend of music, faith, and small-town charm, Beyoncé's effortless charisma on screen, and how The Fighting Temptations fits into her early career as she transitioned from Destiny's Child superstar to a full-fledged cultural icon. Plus, they unpack the film's stacked supporting cast (Faith Evans! Angie Stone! The O'Jays!) and ask the important question: is this secretly one of Beyoncé's most underrated movies?Join us for a joyful, music-filled conversation about choir competitions, early-2000s fashion, and the making of a legend.

We're kicking off our brand-new Beyoncé in the Movies Mini-Series with a groovy start: Austin Powers in Goldmember! Phil and Emily are joined by writer, comedian, and Beyoncé superfan Akilah Hughes to break down Queen Bey's feature film debut as the iconic Foxxy Cleopatra.From Mike Myers' chaotic brand of early-2000s comedy to Beyoncé's effortless star power, we dive into how Goldmember captured a cultural moment—and how Beyoncé completely stole the show. We also unpack the movie's outrageous gags, surprisingly stacked cast, and whether the Austin Powers franchise still holds up today (spoiler: it's complicated).Is Goldmember the ultimate time capsule of early-2000s pop culture? And how did it hint at Beyoncé's massive future in film and music? Tune in for a hilarious and nostalgic conversation to find out!Follow Akilah Hughes:Instagram: @akilahhBluesky: @akilahh.bsky.social#Goldmember #AustinPowers #Beyonce #PodcastLikeIts2000s #AkilahHughes #FoxxyCleopatra #2000sComedy #PopCulturePodcast #FilmDiscussion #BeyonceInMovies Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Surprise, Swifties and sleuths! For our April Fools' bonus episode, Phil and Emily hit pause on the movie talk to investigate one of the most unexpected pop culture crossovers of the 2000s: Taylor Swift's guest appearance on CSI: Crime Scene Investigation—yes, really.In this chaotic and deeply unserious deep dive, we break down the 2009 episode “Turn, Turn, Turn,” where Taylor plays a rebellious teen who journals, wears eyeliner, and may or may not be involved in a murder. We discuss her acting chops (or lack thereof), how this episode somehow turns into a montage of three separate crimes, and why this CSI arc feels like a Black Mirror episode we hallucinated.Along the way, we spiral into discussions about Cats, Les Misérables, My Chemical Romance, and the long-lost dream of Gaylor. If you've ever wanted to hear two film nerds try to unpack goth Taylor Swift getting murdered with scissors on CBS primetime… this is the episode for you.#CSI #TaylorSwift #TurnTurnTurn #PodcastLikeIts2000s #AprilFools #SwiftTok #CSITaylorSwift #Gaylor #CatsMovie #PopCulturePodcast #EmilyAndPhilLoseIt #CrimeProceduralChaos Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're wrapping up our Tom Cruise Mini-Series with a high-octane bonus episode, and we've brought in the big guns to help us finish strong! Phil and Emily are joined by returning guests Drew Taylor (The Wrap) and Charles Hood (Night Owls, A Better You) to rank their Top 5 Tom Cruise Movies of All Time.From iconic action roles to underrated dramatic turns, we break down the performances, the stunts, the charisma, and the sheer Cruise-ness that made him one of the biggest movie stars on the planet. Expect passionate debates, deep-cut favorites, and plenty of love for the man who runs in every movie.

Phil and Emily continue their Tom Cruise Mini-Series with the 2008 historical thriller Valkyrie, and they're joined by writer David Iserson (Mr. Robot, Mad Men, New Girl) to dig into one of the most unexpected and serious turns in Cruise's 2000s filmography.Directed by Bryan Singer, Valkyrie dramatizes the real-life plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler, with Cruise portraying German officer Claus von Stauffenberg. Together, they unpack the film's tonal tightrope, its ambitious historical scope, and the curious creative choices—like Cruise playing a German colonel with an American accent.Is Valkyrie a misunderstood thriller or just a strange blip in Cruise's action-packed decade? Tune in for a thoughtful—and fun—conversation that revisits this fascinating film.Follow David Iserson:Instagram: @davidisersonTwitter: @davidiserson#Valkyrie #TomCruise #PodcastLikeIts2000s #DavidIserson #BryanSinger #HistoricalThrillers #ClausVonStauffenberg #2000sCinema #FilmDiscussion #TomCruiseMiniSeries #PopCulturePodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Phil and Emily continue their Tom Cruise Mini-Series with one of the wildest entries in his filmography—Ben Stiller's 2008 Hollywood satire Tropic Thunder! Joining them for the ride are writer/producer Chuck Hayward (WandaVision, Ted Lasso) and screenwriter Kenny Neibart, who help break down the film's razor-sharp commentary, outrageous performances, and Cruise's unforgettable (and totally unhinged) turn as studio executive Les Grossman.From method acting mayhem to behind-the-scenes chaos, the crew explores why Tropic Thunder remains one of the most daring (and controversial) comedies of the 2000s. How did Cruise steal the movie with just a few scenes? What still works—and what doesn't—in 2024? And how did this film even get made in the first place?Get ready for a no-holds-barred discussion on one of the most talked-about comedies of its time.

Phil and Emily continue their Tom Cruise Mini-Series with a deep dive into the 2007 political drama Lions for Lambs.

Phil and Emily continue their Tom Cruise Mini-Series with the adrenaline-fueled Mission: Impossible III!

Phil and Emily continue their Tom Cruise Mini-Series with one of the most intense blockbusters of the 2000s—Steven Spielberg's War of the Worlds!

This week, Phil and Emily continue their journey through 2000s cinema with Nights in Rodanthe, the 2008 Nicholas Sparks adaptation that brought Richard Gere and Diane Lane back together for another romantic whirlwind. Joining them is filmmaker and writer Jessica Ellis, who helps unpack why this film leans into peak Sparks melodrama—complete with stormy nights, second chances, and plenty of emotional turmoil.From its sweeping coastal setting to its tearjerker ending, we break down how Nights in Rodanthe fits into the Nicholas Sparks cinematic universe, what makes it stand out from (or get lost among) his other adaptations, and why the 2000s were such a golden era for sentimental romance.Grab your tissues and join us for a deep dive into one of the decade's most Nicholas Sparks-y movies.

In this riveting episode, hosts Phil and Emily sit down with Emmy Potter and Carrie Wittmer to explore the enigmatic cult classic Nothebook. Hailing from the 2000s, this film broke the mold with its innovative narrative, striking visuals, and offbeat humor that still resonates today.Join us as our guests share fresh insights on how Nothebook challenged traditional storytelling and influenced a generation of filmmakers and audiences alike. From behind-the-scenes anecdotes to deep dives into its thematic layers, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves a good cinematic mystery from the 2000s.Tune in now to relive the magic of the decade and rediscover one of its most intriguing films!#Nothebook #PodcastLikeIts2000s #2000sMovies #CultClassic #FilmDiscussion #PopCulturePodcast #Nostalgia Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this heartfelt episode, Phil and Emily dive into the tender world of A Walk to Remember, the 2002 teen romance that left a lasting imprint on early-2000s cinema. Joined by film critic Alissa Wilkinson from Vox, the trio explores the movie's emotional journey—from its understated charm and iconic performances by Mandy Moore and Shane West to its poignant themes of love, loss, and transformation.Together, they unpack how this beloved classic not only captured the spirit of a generation but also redefined what a teen romance could be. Whether you're reminiscing about your first love or discovering the film for the first time, join us for an intimate conversation that proves A Walk to Remember is truly timeless.Follow Alissa Wilkinson on Twitter: @alissawilkinsonTune in now and relive the magic of early-2000s romance! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Phil and Emily continue their Tom Cruise Mini-Series with Michael Mann's sleek and stylish Collateral!

Phil and Emily continue their Tom Cruise Mini-Series with a deep dive into Edward Zwick's sweeping 2003 historical epic, The Last Samurai. Joined by esteemed film critic Bilge Ebiri (New York Magazine), they explore Tom Cruise's transformation into a disillusioned American soldier who finds redemption and purpose within the samurai culture of 19th-century Japan.From its breathtaking cinematography and stirring performances to its complex cultural themes and historical context, the trio unpacks why The Last Samurai remains a fascinating—and sometimes polarizing—entry in Cruise's filmography. Is it a flawed epic, a cinematic triumph, or somewhere in between? Tune in to this thoughtful discussion to find out!Follow Bilge Ebiri:Twitter: @BilgeEbiri#TheLastSamurai #PodcastLikeIts2000s #TomCruise #BilgeEbiri #EdwardZwick #HistoricalEpics #2000sCinema #PopCulturePodcast #FilmDiscussion #TomCruiseMiniSeries Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Phil and Emily continue their Tom Cruise Mini-Series with Steven Spielberg's gripping 2002 sci-fi thriller Minority Report! Starring Cruise at the height of his action-star powers, this adaptation of Philip K. Dick's story explores a dystopian future where crimes can be predicted—and prevented—before they happen.Joined by the brilliant Libby Hill (IndieWire), the trio dives into the film's groundbreaking visuals, innovative tech concepts, and thought-provoking themes about free will, morality, and the price of preemptive justice. Why does Minority Report still feel so relevant two decades later? Tune in for this lively and thought-provoking discussion!Follow Libby Hill:Twitter: @midwestspitfire#MinorityReport #PodcastLikeIts2000s #TomCruise #StevenSpielberg #LibbyHill #PhilipKDick #SciFiMovies #TomCruiseMiniSeries #2000sCinema #PopCulturePodcast #MovieTalk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Tom Cruise mini-series continues as Phil and Emily dive into the dreamlike, mind-bending world of Vanilla Sky!

Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to join Phil and Emily as they launch their brand-new Tom Cruise mini-series with a deep dive into Mission: Impossible II!

Hold onto your striped hats!

It's time to get festive with Nicolas Cage!

It's the season for cozy rom-coms and holiday cheer!

ll aboard!

⚔️ This week on Podcast Like It's the 2000s, we're stepping into the Colosseum to discuss Ridley Scott's epic masterpiece Gladiator! Hosts Phil and Emily are joined by the brilliant Joanna Robinson (The Ringer, House of R) to unpack the 2000 Best Picture winner that redefined the historical epic and made Russell Crowe a household name.From its breathtaking battle scenes to its iconic score and unforgettable performances, we explore how Gladiator set the gold standard for 2000s cinema. Joanna brings her sharp insights to the table as we discuss the film's legacy, its enduring cultural impact, and why we're all still shouting, 'Are you not entertained?!'

In this thought-provoking episode of Podcast Like It's The 2000s, hosts take a deep dive into Mel Gibson's controversial epic, Passion of the Christ (2004), alongside special guests Eve Ettinger and Kieryn Darkwater. Known for their insightful commentary on religious trauma and societal impact, Eve and Kieryn bring a unique perspective to this polarizing film, exploring its cultural influence, its portrayal of faith, and the ethical conversations it sparked in the 2000s and beyond.Join us as we dissect the intense storytelling, powerful yet contentious visuals, and the complex historical and religious implications behind this blockbuster. Whether you're revisiting the film or hearing about it for the first time, this episode provides a critical and nuanced look at one of the most talked-about movies of the decade.Patreon: Get more from Podcast Like It's... on Patreon Twitter: Podcast Like It's... (@PodcastLikeIts) on X Instagram: Instagram (@podcastlikeits) Reddit: http://reddit.com/r/podcastlikeits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we swing into action with Spider-Man 2, Sam Raimi's superhero masterpiece that redefined the genre. Noel Murray (@noelmu) joins us as we dive into the film's incredible character development, from Peter Parker's internal struggles to Doc Ock's tragic villain arc. Along the way, we discuss the stunning visual effects, and thrilling action scenes. Get ready for an episode packed with web-slinging fun and heartfelt moments!Patreon: http://patreon.com/PodcastlikeitsTwitter: http://twitter.com/podcastlikeitsInstagram: http://instagram.com/podcastlikeitsReddit: http://reddit.com/r/podcastlikeits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, producer/screenwriter Bryan Cogman journeys back to Middle-earth with us to discuss The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King, the epic conclusion to one of cinema's greatest trilogies. We dive into its sweeping battle sequences, the emotional weight of its many endings, and how the film captured the magic of Tolkien's world. Along the way, we chat about the incredible performances, the visual effects that still hold up, and why this film deserves every one of its Oscars. It's an episode fit for a king!Patreon: http://patreon.com/PodcastlikeitsTwitter: http://twitter.com/podcastlikeitsInstagram: http://instagram.com/podcastlikeitsReddit: http://reddit.com/r/podcastlikeits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today Patrick Cotnoir (@cotnoir) joins us to discuss Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, to see if the CGI has weathered the years or, like Anakin's feelings about sand, it's gotten coarse and rough. We break down John Williams' epic score and how it adds depth to the film's key moments. We also discuss the toxic side of fandom and its impact on the Star Wars universe. Plus, stick around for a surprising story about Jimmy Smits you won't want to miss!Patreon: http://patreon.com/PodcastlikeitsTwitter: http://twitter.com/podcastlikeitsInstagram: http://instagram.com/podcastlikeitsReddit: http://reddit.com/r/podcastlikeits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Mike Natale (@nkoas) and Tom Lorenzo (@RagingBull1990) join us as we dive into Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, the explosive sequel that took the franchise to new heights (and depths). We break down the over-the-top action, the chaotic plot, and why Michael Bay likes to shoot Transformers films as though they were a car ad. Tune in as we ask: is it a misunderstood blockbuster or simply too much of everything?Patreon: http://patreon.com/PodcastlikeitsTwitter: http://twitter.com/podcastlikeitsInstagram: http://instagram.com/podcastlikeitsReddit: http://reddit.com/r/podcastlikeits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With great movies, comes great commentary. Join us along with author and journalist Esther Zuckerman(@ezwrites) as we discuss preproduction hell, exceptional casting choices, actors almost drowning, and more while we swing into action and take a look at Sam Raimi's Spider-man!Patreon: http://patreon.com/PodcastlikeitsTwitter: http://twitter.com/podcastlikeitsInstagram: http://instagram.com/podcastlikeitsReddit: http://reddit.com/r/podcastlikeits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Set sail on a swashbuckling adventure with Brooke Solomon (@brookebsolomon) and Jordan Gustafson (@jordan_gustafson) joining us as we dive into Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, where cursed treasure, ghostly foes, and epic sea battles collide!Patreon: http://patreon.com/PodcastlikeitsTwitter: http://twitter.com/podcastlikeitsInstagram: http://instagram.com/podcastlikeitsReddit: http://reddit.com/r/podcastlikeits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Where this podcast is going, we don't need roads! Hop in our digital delorean, and join us on our trip back to 1989 with Vox Writer Emily VanDerWerff as we discuss Back to the Future Part II!Being the only BTTF movie we'll likely ever cover, we take this unique opportunity to view this movie in a vacuum, apart from the first and last entries in the series. We discuss our overpowering nostalgia for this sequel, the relatively small scale of its setpieces, and how despite its imperfections, it still FEELS like a perfect movie. Stick around for our Zemeckis top fives at the end of the episode!Patreon: http://patreon.com/PodcastlikeitsTwitter: http://twitter.com/podcastlikeitsInstagram: http://instagram.com/podcastlikeitsReddit: http://reddit.com/r/podcastlikeits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, we dive into the whimsical world of Shrek 2 with Sidney Butler and Austin Harris. Meta jokes, Counting Crows, Shrek 4 rumors, and surprising parallels between Shrek 2 and Get Out; this episode has got layers!Patreon: http://patreon.com/PodcastlikeitsTwitter: http://twitter.com/podcastlikeitsInstagram: http://instagram.com/podcastlikeitsReddit: http://reddit.com/r/podcastlikeits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lexi Barry joins us for trip into the wilderness with TROOP BEVERLY HILLS.Patreon: http://patreon.com/PodcastlikeitsTwitter: http://twitter.com/podcastlikeitsInstagram: http://instagram.com/podcastlikeitsReddit: http://reddit.com/r/podcastlikeits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's episode, we take a look at Christopher Nolan's The Dark Knight with guests Liz Hannah and Brian Millikin. How serious should comic book movies be? Would Rachel McAdams have been a better Rachel Dawes? Can art be represented as a number? Find out in this thrilling episode of Podcast Like It's The 2000's!Patreon: http://patreon.com/PodcastlikeitsTwitter: http://twitter.com/podcastlikeitsInstagram: http://instagram.com/podcastlikeits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Patrick Willems joins us on the first episode of Podcast Like It's the 2000's to discuss James Cameron's Avatar.Patreon: http://patreon.com/PodcastlikeitsTwitter: http://twitter.com/podcastlikeitsInstagram: http://instagram.com/podcastlikeits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Get ready for the next installment in our podcast series! Introducing Podcast Like It's the 2000's!Patreon: http://patreon.com/PodcastlikeitsTwitter: http://twitter.com/podcastlikeitsInstagram: http://instagram.com/podcastlikeits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the final episode of Podcast like It's 1992, Emily St. James is on to talk about Beethoven. Special guest Queenie the St. Bernard joins us to give her perspective on the movie as well!Patreon: http://patreon.com/PodcastlikeitsTwitter: http://twitter.com/podcastlikeitsInstagram: http://instagram.com/podcastlikeitsReddit: http://reddit.com/r/podcastlikeits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.