Raiders of the Podcast

     This week- a pair of films about young men who love beer.     Van Wilder is in his seventh year at Coolidge College. After his father cuts off his tuition payment. Van comes up with a scheme to pay by organizing and running parties for the college's diverse social groups. Meanwhile, he is drawn into a triangle with journalism student Gwen and mean-spirited future status focused boyfriend. Will Van make it through his seventh year? Will he finally decide to put on a cap and gown and move on? Will he earn the love of Gwen an the respect of his father? The directorial debut of Walt Becker and the first feature by the writing team of Brent Goldberg and David T. Wagner, National Lampoon's Van Wilder (aka Van Wilder: Party Liaison).     Bob and Doug McKenzie, the dim-witted hosts of cult Canadian panel show "The Great White North", debut their feature film to disastrous results. Broke, unemployed, and desperately needing beer for their father, the brothers go to Elsinore Brewery hoping to scam a case or two for free. Unfortunately, instead they stumble on a Shakespearian family drama and the plot of a power mad brewmeister. Can the brothers save the unsuspecting Canadian populace? Will they finally be able to earn their father and dog's approval? Based on a popular segment from the sketch comedy series SCTV, written and directed by lead actors Rick Moranis and Dave Thomas, Strange Brew.     All that and Tyler puts out the welcome mat for boys of summer, Dave suffers, and Kevin chortles nearly manically. Join us, won't you?   Episode 417- It Was A Different Time, eh?

     This week- two films featuring men abusing their positions of power and the fallout from it.     Miss Giddens is hired as a governess at Bly Manor. She is immediately taken with her young charge, Flora, and strikes an instant friendship with Mrs. Grose, the housekeeper. Despite the encouraging start, small moments of discomfort begin to poke at Miss Giddens new normal. When Miles is expelled from his boarding school, Miss Giddens finds herself caught up in the effects from the not too distant past. Based on one of the most influential horror tales ever written with a screenplay co-written by Truman Capote, taking a three week break from his magnum opus to work on it, and casting its own shadow nearly as long for itself- The Innocents.     Lillian founds a ballet company in the name of her late husband. Her ambulance-chasing attorney, Roland T. Flakfizer- assisted by associated   Rocco and Jacques, face off against the late husband's equally conniving lawyer, Edmundo Lazlo. The legal eagles compete to sign the world's greatest ballet dancer, "The Great" Volare, and to deliver an awe-inspiring Broadway debut for the new company. Inspired by the Marx Brothers, even being filmed at the same locations as several of their most beloved films, produced by David and Jerry Zucker, and fully embracing the "they don't make them like they used to" lifestyle- Brain Donors.     All that and Kevin enthuses, Dave forgot, and Tyler weeps in his Happy Place. Join us, won't you?   Episode 416- Synaptic Rotation

     This week- a pair of movies about men chasing their dreams and competitive glory.     Babe is a doctoral history student training to run a marathon. His brother, Doc, claims to work for an oil company. Doc really works for the government as a diamond courier for Christian Szell, a Nazi war criminal living in Uruguay. Soon all their paths will cross with devastating and violent consequences. Will Babe finish his thesis? Will Doc survive for the sequel? Do either know anyone who doesn't secretly work for Nazis hiding in South America? Marathon Man.     Eric dreams of becoming a professional skateboarder. Dustin has resigned himself to a summer of working a fryer before college. Sweet Lou embraces his low key ladies man life style. Matt is desperate to not become a clown, like his parents. All four join together in a desperate final bid to realize their dreams by getting the attention of a pro skater legend on a demo tour. Will the boys steezy to glory or will they sketch themselves to a hospital? A cult comedy by Casey La Scala, Grind.     All that and Kevin runs both to and from his problems, Dave goes to the happiest house on Earth, and Tyler relives his childhood. Join us, won't you?   Episode 415- Marathon Grind

     This week- a trio of films with a brilliant Aussie actor.     Edie Sedgwick is a young heiress who studied art and makes the move to New York City. Before long she finds herself a rising model in youthquake fashion and the muse of one of pop art's most enduring figures before addiction and socially ostracized lead to tragic results. The penultimate feature by George Hickenlooper with a stunning lead performance, Factory Girl.     After his mother's death, J has to go live with his estranged grandmother. A woman his mother kept him far away from because she is the matriarch of a violent criminal family. When the gang's leader, Baz, is killed by police a chain of events is set off that will have long lasting and devastating consequences to J's new world. The first feature from writer-director David Michôd, Animal Kingdom.      At the end of World War II a lost work by Vermeer is discovered in a Hermann Goering's hidden treasure trove. Captain Joseph Piller, who works for the Canadian military administration of the Netherlands and former resistance fighter, is tasked with tracking down whoever sold the painting. Soon he discovers Han van Meegrene and arrests him for collaboration and using the sale proceeds to fund a Nazi espionage network. van Meegrene's defense will be not just unexpected but shake up the art world for generations. The only feature directed by producer/conservationist/potential owner of a Houston Texas NHL team Dan Friedkin, The Last Vermeer.     All that and Dave knows where his towel is, Craig plays puppy nurse, Tyler sees death coming, and Kevin is in the wind on the run from charity. Oh, I mean, FOR charity. Join us, won't you?   Episode 414- A Guy for All Seasons

     This week- two films about dreamers being betrayed by trusted individuals working for the government.     In 1968, William O'Neal is arrested for attempting to steal a car while posing as a federal agent. While in custody he is approached by the FBI who make an offer he can't refuse- the charges will disappear if he infiltrates the Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party and relays information on its leader, Fred Hampton. Based on a true story, the second feature from Shaka King, Judas and the Black Messiah.    The CIA has secretly hires Professor Hathaway to make a laser weapon precise enough to carry out illegal political assassinations from outer space. Hathaway recruits a team of brilliant students to do the work for him as he redirects project funds to build a massive new house. As the deadline looms he recruits a budding genius in physics, Mitch, and places him under one of his heroes, Chris Knight, now a disillusioned slacker just trying to survive his final year. A 1980s comedy classic and one of the best college films of that century- Real Genius.     All that and Dave pregames with the game, Tyler rides the movies like a pro, and Kevin plans a march of the squirrel army. Join us, won't you?   Episode 413- Knight Betrayal

     This week- a pair of films about men on the edges of society taking youths under their wings.     When washed up former football player, Curtis Plummer, is talked into spending his afternoons with his socially isolated niece, Jasmine. When he discovers her natural football throwing talent, he shapes her into the best quarterback to come out of their depressed former factory town. Inspired by but not even a little faithful to real events of the first girl to participate in the Pop Warner Football tournament, The Longshots.     On the first anniversary of her daughter's abduction a woman sits on a park bench. Elsewhere, the missing girl and her friends are fighting off demons. And soon The Milkman cometh to both. The second film by Case Esparros, featuring influential performance artist Gary Wilson, and a soundtrack by experimental musician Aaron Dilloway- The Absence of Milk in the Mouths of the Lost.     All that and Craig has a personal moment, Tyler relives his gridiron glorydays, Dave laments his lack of rennet, and Kevin makes a blood offering to the gods of nü-metal but wears the wrong kind of pants. Join us, won't you?   Episode 412- Talented Lactose

     This week- a pair of films about people dragged into tangled webs of conspiracy.     Rollie Taylor is the best practical effects artist that has ever been. When he's approached by an agent from the Department of Justice, he takes up the challenge of staging the assassination of an organized crime informant in public. Soon Rollie finds himself on the run from his employers with a trail of collateral damage and the NYPD detective at his heels. Will Rollie clear his name? What actually was the point of this elaborate scheme? Will Detective McCarthy realize he's too old for this shit? A surprise hit that generated a sequel film and continued with a TV series- F/X (aka Murder by Illusion).     Summer 1948. Ezekiel "Easy" Rawlins, an African-American veteran and homeowner in Watts, has been laid off from his job at Champion Aircraft and needs money quickly to make his mortgage. His friend, Joppy, introduces him to DeWitt Albright, a white private investigator. Albright explains he needs Easy's help finding the missing fiancé of a Los Angeles mayoral candidate. Before long, bodies start piling up and Easy has the police eyeing him hard. His only hope is to call in his old friend, Mouse, a man with tendencies toward deadly violence. Will Easy find the missing woman? Why did she take off and who exactly is so desperate to find her? Based on the first book in Walter Mosley's phenomenal series of hardboiled mysteries, Devil in a Blue Dress.   Join us, won't you?   Episode 411- The Mouse and the Snitch

     This week... Insurmountable obstacles, unfortunate events, and darker obsessions collide in four films about love that wounds and scars and ends unavoidably tragic.     When a young woman is found murdered after leaving his house, down on his luck and violently tempered screenwriter Dix finds himself squarely in the police's frame. Only the testimony of his beautiful neighbor keeps him from immediate arrest. As his prosecution drags out, a relationship between them blooms. Can the blossoming relationship withstand the suspicions and outside glances? Did Dix succumb to his rage fueled impulses and will he do it again? An existential noir masterpiece with a towering lead performance, In a Lonely Place.     In the summer of 1972, young Vada Sultenfuss lives with her widowed father. Vada has a tendency toward hypochondria and a fascination with death, likely from losing her mother at birth and growing up in the town funeral parlor. This summer, Vada begins growing into her own and suffers many of life's first times. Widely considered a classic of the 1990s with a pair of fantastic child lead performances and a final act that scared a generation, My Girl.     Young Douzi is abandoned by his mother at a Peking Opera troupe. His youth is spent training to play dan, female lead, roles while his best friend, Shitou, learns jing, heroic male roles. From the brutal violence of their training, the oppressive occupation of the Second Sino-Japanese War, and the crushing repression of the Cultural Revolution, Douzi and Shitou's relationship carries them through 50 years. Beautifully shot, delicately edited, and widely considered one of the best films produced in Mainland China, Farewell My Concubine.     Two households, both alike in dignity, in fair Verona Beach, where we lay our scene, from ancient grudge break new mutiny... the star-crossed lovers draw the conclusion of Baz Luhrmann's Red Curtain Trilogy of theatrical motif. Hyper stylized with an energy that has few equals and a cast that matches it beat for beat, The Bard's most well known work's third major film adaption that still brings tears of joy to long suffering High School English teachers everywhere... William Shakespeare's Romeo + Juliet.     All that and Dave loses a letter, Tyler feels new emotions in a fetal positions, and Kevin likes to watch... everything. Join us, won't you?   Episode 410- Love That Scars

     This week- two movies about puppets that want to become real boys.     Malcolm Shanks is unable to hear or speak. He communicates through mime and puppetry. When a local mad scientist finds use of his talents, Shanks is set on a course of tragedy. The last film directed by genre icon and master of promotion William Castle- Shanks.     The heavily sanitized for streaming audiences story of 1980s hair metal band Mötley Crüe. Inspired by the band's own autobiography and the first traditional narrative feature by reality entertainment trailblazer Jeff Tremaine, The Dirt.     All that and Dave considers fun new ghost removals methods, Kevin laments modern society's lack of hair spray centric culture, Craig has an apoplectic epiphany, and Tyler has a nostalgic one. Join us, won't you?   Episode 409- The Dross

     This week- a pair of films about bad dads creating generational trauma.     Kōhei and his friends are making a video game. One day he and his girlfriend, Nami, go for a drive and come upon a huge seemingly abandoned mansion. Soon they discover that Nami's connection to it might be much deeper than they could have imagined. The film adaption of a 1999 PSX remake that never left Japan of a groundbreaking 1991 SNES visual novel that never left Japan- St. John's Wort (aka Otogirisō).     Dong Zi is working as a debt collector, under the mentorship of Jun, to pay for his father Qi's hospital treatments. He spends his evenings with Jiu'er, a tattoo artist and ex-wife of local crime boss Four. A grim and gritty neo-noir in 2004 Sichuan, China- Streetwise (aka Gaey Wa'r).     Join us, won't we?  Episode 408- Worts & All

     This week- two films about getting, in several common definition senses, a head, also using multiple definitions.     When a teen in Biarritz, France decide to take advantage of his mother having to live in another country for work and begins hosting sex parties for the whole school to attend. Soon relationships are broken and videos from the parties begin making their way online threaten the make the activity known to all. The first feature from Eva Husson, Bang Gang (A Modern Love Story).     When the teen daughter of a powerful Mexican crime lord becomes pregnant, a bounty is put on the unborn child's father. Two months later, a Mexico City bar and bar managing pianist  Bennie finds himself on the road with his girlfriend, Elita, on a small errand that will give them both the chance to completely change their futures. Sam Peckinpah's uncompromising and violent black comedy, Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia.      All that and Tyler asks a simple question. Join us, won't you?  Episode 407- Getting a Head

 This week- a tour through Craig's Vinegar Syndrome collection brings ruin.When Madeline, who lost her ability to speak due to trauma, is picked up, on her way to therapy, by Tony, a human trafficker who enjoys writing taunting letters to his victim's families, she is soon forced into a life of addiction and sexual assault. Fortunately, she is given every Monday off to attend classes in revenge. A seminal, in both uses of the word, film in the rape-revenge genre: Thriller- A Cruel Picture.16-year old Candy is abducted on her way home from school. The kidnapper's demand is simple, her stepfather just leaves a bag of diamonds from the store he manages in a trash can and the girl will be released. Unfortunately, stepdad has too much to gain from Candy dying in the very near future and is more than willing to make sure it happens. A grimy 70s thriller that has only more recently received its cult status: The Candy Snatchers.Don't say the name Madman Marz in these woods or he will respond. On the last night of camp, a playful night around the campfire turns into a bloody struggle for survival. Will the campers live to be picked up by their parents? Will the councilors be able to have their final hot tub canoodle without having to hose out the blood? Will that song ever leave my head? Madman.A group from an all-girls Catholic college go to catalog the collection of their late benefactor, Tyler Welles. After finding the diary of a young woman who died in the house decades earlier, they decide to hold a seance. Soon supernatural and much more Earthly horrors begin to befall the girls one by one. Will any of them live to see the auction they are working diligently towards? Will their nun chaperone recover from her headache or are their devilish shenanigans keeping her down? Just how hard am I supposed to squint to see the resemblance to that painting? Possibly the tamest release to ever land in Tromaville- Girls School Screamers.All that and Dave needs a nap, Craig considers dentistry, Tyler revels, and Kevin goes to his happy place far far away. Join us, won't you?   Episode 406- Salty about Craig's Vinegar

     This week- two movies about magic and women at the end of their ropes.     An up-and-coming Senator, Nick Rast, is on the fast track pushed by a kingmaker with a beautiful wife in a loveless marriage of convince and a terminally ill son. When a mysterious faith healer, Gregory Wolfe, seems to cure the boy, the powerful interests driving Rast won't allow this good turn to go unpunished. Are Wolfe's powers real? Is it all an elaborate scam? Just how easily manipulated is this senator?? Harlequin.     Francine Fishpaw watches as her middle-class suburban Baltimore life crumbles. Her husband runs a pornographic theater, her daughter is promiscuous, her son is a glue-sniffing serial foot stomper, and her mother is a cocaine-snorting snob. When Francine demands a divorce, after catching her husband cheating, she falls into a alcoholism and depression. Can Francine recover? Will she find new love, save her children and claw back??? Polyester.     All that and jealousy over olfactory inputs. Join us, won't you?   Episode 405- Polyes-tsar

     This week- a pair of films about the most basic human need for connection.     Naturalist, Hank, lives in Africa with a huge number of big cats. Everyone around him are terrified of Hank's massive cat hoard, which continuously harms everyone that comes into contact with it while Hank laughs uproariously. Hank brings his family over for a visit, neglecting to mention how he is living and leaves them to fend for themselves unaware and unsuspecting. A massive undertaking that took over a decade to make, bankrupted the writer-director-producer-star, and 73 members of the cast and crew to be mauled- Roar.     Manon leaves her crappy job at a grocery store behind to earn more as an exotic dancer at a club which specialized in high concept performance art routines. There she finds new ways to explore her sexuality and new opportunities to pad her income. Manon immediately begins a friendship with coworker Mia, an aspiring actress, which soon blossoms into something more. Manon must make decisions that could have long lasting and far reaching consequences for her new erotic lifestyle and My Sole Desire (original French title: À mon seul désir).     All that plus Dave is getting senile, Tyler loves to love on loving lovers who love, and Kevin and the 6th badger battalion return from a glorious victory. Join us, won't you?   Episode 404- We're Gonna Need a Bigger Laser Pointer

     This week- two films starring the brilliant Gene Hackman.      Harry Moseby, a former football player turned private investigator, is hired to find a runaway sixteen-year-old. A search that will drag him into a conspiracy and coverup. The fourth genre redefining feature in a row from director Arthur Penn, Night Moves.     A seasoned nuclear submarine commander and his new executive office clash over how to interpret their orders and at what point does on make a decision that could have grave consequences on massive scales. A pair of masterful performances from the best of their respective generation, Crimson Tide.     All that and Kevin commissions a new battalion, Tyler celebrates in the way he is most accustomed, Dave has shallow thoughts, and Craig is already reaping what he has sown. Join us. won't you?   Episode 403- A Pair of Genes

     This week- a pair of films about women defying social expectations.     Leaving her upper-middle class adoptive parents and normative school life behind, Raquel runs away to become a sex worker in São Paulo. Soon she works her way up the ranks, begins writing a blog (with client ratings), and becomes so popular that she begins making guest appearances on mainstream talk shows. Inspired by The Scorpion's Sweet Venom, the first autobiographical book by Bruna Surfistinha, Confessions of a Brazilian Call Girl.     Shy young Christina lives with her father, who has always been openly disappointed in her for not being as charming and social as her late mother, and her aunt. At a ball, Christina meets a charming, handsome, and very poor young man named Morris. Morris pursues Christina, encouraged by her aunt and highly suspected by her father. When her father draws a hardline against her socializing with Morris, Christina must make a choice- to be disinherited over a who might be only after due to that inheritance or remove all connection to the only person to show her any kindness and care at the demands of her cold and controlling parent. Added to the Library of Congress National Film Registry in 1996, William Wyler's The Heiress.     All that and we try a new recording platform. Join us, and let us know how it sounds, won't you   Episode 402- Brazilian or Heirless

     This week- Craig and Dave chose violence.     Identical twin brothers, Cale and Cade, are abducted and turned into something more than human by an entity. They are sent out to fight what the entity claims is "evil" and for some reason that means working very closely with a US black ops organization. Unfortunately, Cale is seen as defective and eventually released from his captivity... only to find his own ways of combating "evil". Has Cale gone too far? Will Cade ever question any of what he has been told his whole life? A brotherly epic by auteur Neil Breen- Twisted Pair.     Years have passed since the, uh... events?... sure, events of Twisted Pair and the twins have not been in contact. Cade donated a large sum of money to fix a psychiatric hospital. Unknown to him, the should be condemned hospital is just a front for insane human experiments in the back room and government sanctioned human trafficking in the basement. Will Cade save these poor, unfortunate souls? Why is Cale creeping around the staff staircase?  Could they really not find an actual room to film in? The latest film from cult filmmaker, in the very loosest sense, Neil Breen- Cade: The Tortured Crossing.     All that and Kevin has a nap, Tyler goes to his happy place, Dave finds himself full of regret, and Craig laughs manically clutching a globe. Join us, won't you?   Episode 401- Threat Level: Breen

     This week- we celebrate our 400th episode with a four pack of films, each tailored to our individual tastes. Apparently, we all like crime. A lot.     When Drew returns home after a long time away, this adoptive sister lover concocts a plan to escape with the addict of his eye. Even if it means murdering their adoptive father. Unfortunately, Papa isn't as slow as everyone else and makes plans of his own. An early film from John Swab, a favorite filmmaker of Tyler's, about existential criminal crisis in the Bible Belt- Let Me Make You a Martyr.     Cerebral and coolheaded Detective Somerset is looking forward to retiring at the end of the week. His replacement, young and brash Detective Mills, arrives just in time for a little touch passing and training. Unfortunately for them both, this all happens just as a serial killer with a religiously inspire masterplan announces his arrival in sadistic fashion. Both a number close to Kevin's heart and widely considered on of director David Fincher's best films- Seven.     In 1964, Johnny Bartlett was executed for killing 12 people at the local hospital. In 1990 Frank Bannister's wife died under mysterious circumstances with the number "13" craved into her forehead. The trauma leaves Frank with the ability to communicate with ghosts. Now Frank leads a pack of spirited haunters and is about to learn that Bartlett's rampage might not be as far in the past as everyone assumes it it. An uneven goofy romp with deeply disturbing meta undertones, just like Dave, and the first major effects project helmed by Peter Jackson- The Frighteners.     Gal and his wife have long since left their seedy London criminal origins for a nice quiet life in Spain. When they get the news that an old psychotic associate, Don, will soon be arriving with a job offer. Unwilling to take no for an answer and with a violent temper that knows little restraint, Gal just might find himself back with the gang for one more heist. The first feature from Craig's favorite director and costarring a fistful of his favorite actors- Sexy Beast.     All that and a twist ending that leaves three of the Raiders devastated. Join us, won't you?  Episode 400- 400 (Unsimulated) Blows

     This week- two films about women just trying to survive in harsh conditions.     An observational documentary that intercuts conversations with Las Vegas based exotic dancers. They discuss their lives, their approach to the job, and how they were able to make a living after COVID closed stopped the action and dimmed the City of Neon Lights. The second in an ongoing documentary series, Stripped: Las Vegas.      When D'Artagnan goes to Paris to join the Musketeers of King Louis XIII, he is immediately caught up in a nefarious plot by Protestant rebels. He is quickly joined by three seasoned veterans of the group. Period hijinks ensue. The first in an epic modern retelling of the beloved novel series by Alexandre Dumas, The Three Musketeers: D'Artagnan.     All that and Tyler dreams of franchise, Dave needs a really good egg roll, and Kevin considers leaving the tartan for a mariniere. Join us, won't you?   Episode 399: All for Pole and Pole for All

     This week- a pair of comedic classics about absurdist dystopian patriarchies.      When he goes to prison for killing the gang responsible for the death of his love, Saiga Riki-Oh (here called Ricky Ho Lik Wong), finds himself at odds with the corrupt system and its enforcers. A cult classic of ultra brutal slapstick martial art splatter violence that. Fun fact- after filming the finale, it took lead actor Fan Sui-wong three days to wash off the blood. Riki-Oh: The Story of Ricky.     When the paranoid commander of the Strategic Air Command decides to take matters into his own hands and gives the go-ahead to drop nuclear bombs on Russia, the US Government springs into action to avert devastation. Only to learn the Soviet Union might have a real doomsday machine and any aggression will automatically annihilate us all. Fun fact- in the 1990s, director Stanly Kubrick and co-screenwriter Terry Southern had worked on a screenplay for a sequel. Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb.     All that and plans are set in motion... Join us, won't you?   Episode 398: Intestinal Fortitude

     This week- we change our earlier plans and try to catch some big fish in honor of David Lynch.     In a nameless city, caught in an endless rain storm, a trio live with a mystery and possessive forces- Rabbits.     A surgeon finds a man covered in deformities in a sideshow. Together they study human dignity and our social denial of it- The Elephant Man.     A body dumped, a family given horrific news, a deeper horror lurking. Lumiere camera and Twin Peaks vibes- Premonitions Following an Evil Deed.     An elderly man makes up his mind to make amends before it is too late. Even if it means hundreds of miles on a lawn mower.- The Straight Story.      A man is left to care for his deformed child in an industrial wasteland- Eraserhead.     Join us, won't you?   Episode 397- Visions of a Meditative Man

     This week two movies about young women and the lengths they will go to for love and connections.     Tammy is a cheerleader with a crush on football player Michael. When Michael is abducted by Tammy's violent and jealous ex-boyfriend he is left in a coma hovering between life and death. Meanwhile, Dr. Wachinstein is preparing his new creation to show for his investors. All the potentially mad doctor needs is a fresh brain. What twist of fate will bring these three together? Can love blossom between a girl and a 1000 lbs. robot dinosaur? One of the titans of good bad film discussion viewed in all its restored and bloody glory, Tammy and the T-Rex: Gore Cut.     Star is living with her sexually abusive father and taking care of two half-siblings. When she meets Jake, the top seller in a travelling sales crew, he offers her the chance to get away. Joining the crew, Star navigates her feelings toward Jake, his approach to selling, and the tangled web of relationships between the rest of the crew. The fourth feature from Andrea Arnold and featuring a powerhouse debut performance from Sasha Lane, American Honey.     All that and a small change of plans as next week we will be placing the brilliance of Nakadai on the shelf for a bit and instead diving into some Lynchian nightmares.  Episode 396- Dino Dixie String Bikini

     This week- two films about Japanese youth discovering themselves and the world around them told through vibes.     Three boys decide to keep an eye on the local recluse who lives in a crumbling house with an overgrown garden, figuring he isn't long for this mortal coil. After a little stalking, the boys and old man begin to bond, through repairing the garden, and learn what drove him to be a self-imposed outcast from the world. A snapshot of the moment when childhood ends and repercussions of an act can reverberate through generations. Directed by one the most esteemed post-New Wave Japan filmmakers, Shinji Sômai, Natsu no niwa: The Friends (1994, lit. The Summer Garden: The Friends)     After celebrating their friend's marriage, an unnamed man (referred to only as senpai) plans to confess his feelings to kurokami no otome (black-haired maiden also referred to as kōhai). Unfortunately, Sempai being too slow to act kicks off both of them wondering through a long night of drinking, underwear theft, introspection, perversion, surrealism, consumption contests, and spontaneous theater. The first full feature by animation studio Science SARU and spiritual successor to cult favorite Tatami Galaxy- Night is Short, Walk On Girl (2017).     All that and Craig feels vindicated, Kevin might still be wearing the wrong trousers, Dave discovers love isn't always 3D, and Tyler only has eyes for Southern bikinis. Join us, won't you?   Episode 395- Childhood Hangover  

     This week... a heaping helping of dramas about how the working class really should finally rise up.     When Ani, a savvy young Brighton Beach stripper, meets Vanya, the son of disturbingly wealthy Russian oligarchs, they form a nontraditional* relationship. Before long, Vanya is faced with having to go back home to Russia and confesses his love to Ani and desire to marry her for a green card. When Vanya's parents learn of his nuptials, the honeymoon phase comes to a crashing end. The latest feature from Sean Baker, a moving and deeply political work, Anora.     Set in an alternative reality, New Rome is a dystopian nightmare of corruption and neglect. Fortunately, a visionary architect, who also happens to be part of the wealthiest and most powerful family in the city, has a plan for a utopian future development. Unfortunately, his brilliance is countered at every step by the governmental powers that be and those jealous of his natural brilliance. Heavily referencing Roman history and written like something out of the Ayn Rand school of inane bullshit comes what is likely the final feature** from a legendary director of the 1970s, a brain dead rim job about how artists are fucking magic and above your morality or some bullshit, Megalopolis.      All that and Dave completely dissociates to the point of never being whole again, Craig rages into an embolism, Kevin takes a long hard look at his life choices, and Tyler is very sticky for some reason.*Nontraditional in the way that we are, socially, just not ready to discussion the greater transitional history and reality of most relationships.** We very much hope is the last, at any rate.    Join us, won't you?  Episode 394- Tossed Caesar Salad

     This week- we bring 2024 to a cheerful holiday end through torturing each other.     When a serial killer has a cheap camcorder, nothing will stop him from recording his night drives around California or his crimes. A gift that will long give the joy of needing extra mental health care to one of us, Amateur Porn Star Killer 3: The Final Chapter.     After barely surviving her encounter with Samuel, a young witch is now having her powers and body controlled by someone else. A gift that likely awakened something in its recipient, Witchcraft XV: Blood Rose.     An aging deep sea documentarian has a midlife crisis and a potential son but never his inner misogyny. The gift that caused the second largest amount of collateral damage, The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou.     When a financial advisor and revenge focused lawyer are pulled over in Valkenvania, New Jersey, they might have to pay stiffer fines than expected. The gift best described as a white elephant, impractical but also indispensable, or Nothing but Trouble.     All that and Kevin gets his classy close out on, Tyler desperately looks for blank arm space, and Dave realizes that every party does indeed need a pooper. Join us, won't you?   Episode 393- Secret Satan II: Satan Harder

     This week two movies about repercussions and the remorse of those who have to deal with them.     Frances Glessner Lee was born into a wealthy family and had a lifelong interest in medicine and the burgeoning science of forensics. Dedicating her life and fortune to progressing the field. Her masterwork being the Nutshell Studies of Unexplained Death, a series of intricate dioramas with a wide variety of victims from all social classes and manners of death, which inspired many institutions and even fictional depictions over the last century. Just how long a shadow can be cast... Of Dolls and Murder?     Leonor Reyes was once a major player in the Filipino film industry, creating a string of action hits. Now Leonor is retired and she, with her son Rudie, are struggling to pay the bills. After reading an ad calling for scripts, Leonor brushes off her unfinished final project. Tragically a serious blow to the head finds her waking up in her script, revising it in real time. Meanwhile, Rudie is desperately trying to find a way to connect to his comatose mother through the pages she left behind. The feature debut of writer-director Martika Ramirez Escobar... Leonor Will Never Die.    All that and panic over next week's Secret Satan begins to take hold. Join us, won't you?  Episode 392- Figurines of Regret

     This week- two movies about living your life authentically to yourself in the face of societal pressure.     When a performance art trio take up residency at an enigmatic and remote artistic institute, a journalist with gastric issues, Stones, is hired to document their day-today creative process. The trio, led by narcissist Elle di Elle, perform "sonic catering", making ASMR with culinary sounds. Stones finds his issues worsen as he is drawn ever deeper into their petty disagreements, power struggles, and complexly sordid history. A delicacy from Peter Strickland, a filmmaker for acquired tastes, Flux Gourmet.     After a pair of cross country Bible selling Catholic schoolgirls knock on the wrong door, they are pulled into nightmare of torment, fear, and death. Lobo is a dealer and pimp who loves a little bit of excessive violence. Maria is his favorite employee with a habit of killing anyone she is alone with for more than 5 minutes. Catherine and Rebecca are just in the wrong place at the wrong time. When their paths intersect, blood flies and revenge will be doled out without hesitation. The feature debut of writer-director Joseph Guzman, Run! Bitch Run!     All that and Craig, tired of Americans being unable to pronounce his name, makes a not so stunning accusation. Join us, won't you?   Episode 391- Flanger Abuse

     This week- a pair of  working vacations do not go as planned with massive consequences.     17 year-old skinhead Trevor is charged with throwing a brick the the window of a Pakistani man. Instead of  being sentenced immediately, the judge sends him to a residential assessment center. There he is met with a staff who have patience that would make a saint furious. Can this last chance finally get through to Trevor and make him change his life's path or is he trapped unable to fit in the system's one size fits all approach? The writer and director team from SCUM bring something that could only be Made in Britain.     The West's superspy Loid Forger, also know as Twilight, finds his mission endangered by pressure from the higher ups unless significant progress is delivers soon. As this news is delivered, his cover marriage wife and secret top assassin of the East, Yor, witnesses what she interprets as Loid cheating. Meanwhile, their adopted and secretly telepathic daughter, Anya, is give a school assignment that could salvage Loid's operation. Together, with their precognitive pet Bond,  all three Forgers hop a train to sample a regional dessert. That's the moment when things get really complicated. The first feature based on a massively popular manga and anime, Spy X Family Code:White.     All that and Dave misses the point, Tyler has dreams of a certain 90s nu metal artist, and Kevin barely survives a holiday event. Join us, won't you?   Episode 390- Recipe for Disaster

     This week we ring in the last month of 2024 with a pair of films about people spiraling through very different existential crises.     Lucia lives with depressed writer Lorenzo. When she returns home to an empty apartment, Lucia becomes frantic, finding a suicide note as she answers a call from the police that mentions an accident. Unable to hear more, Lucia hangs up and leaves to a small island Lorenzo always talked about. Elena lost her daughter to a tragedy and also seeks solace on the same island, where her child was conceived after a night of passion with an unknown man. Meanwhile, we witness Lorenzo's live over the last six years leading up to whatever tragic event befell him. A complex and visually striking work from divisive Spanish auteur Julio Medem, Sex and Lucia (Spanish title: Lucia y el sexo).     When a New Jersey mob deal is broken up by a team of corrupt cops looking to rob them, low level member Joey is tasked with disposing of the guns. Especially a very distinctive nickel plated and ivory handled Smith & Wesson Model 36 belonging to Tommy Perello, son of the organization's leader. Joey instead takes the gun home and stashes it his basement where his son and their abused neighbor kid, Oleg, are playing. Oleg takes the gun and sets off a chain of events that will have Joey and the boy... Running Scared.     All that and Dave's race has been run, Tyler makes Machiavellian moves, and Kevin has sexy snow dreams. Join us, won't you?   Episode 389- NO PUCKS GIVEN

     This week a four pack of films that were originally made by other people in other countries and then swallowed by the Hollywood machine for you viewing pleasure.     Seth is an angel. One of thousands just hanging out in the Los Angeles Public Library and occasionally going for walks around to witness people at their most stressed. Dr. Maggie Rice is a surgeon. She just lost a patient through no fault of her own. This causes Maggie to collapse because she is played by Meg Ryan. Will Seth be able to comfort Maggie in the way he increasingly wants? A remake of the German film Wings of Desire whose whole existence might be just to sell copies of the soundtrack, City of Angels.     Count Thilbault Malefete is about to wed the beautiful Princess Rosalind. Tragically, a sly plan is enacted by the Earl of Warwick which results in Thibault being arrested and awaiting execution for Rosalind's murder. Fear not as his loyal serf brings a wizard to help. The plan is to slide our daring French Count back in time to save the day. Unfortunately, the spell goes wrong and Thibault finds himself, with his serf, in 2001 Chicago. Assisted by his descendant, who looks shockingly like Rosalind, Thibault must navigate turn of the century America to get back home. A remake of an all time highest grossing French film and retaining the original stars and writer-director, The Visitors.     Mattie is worried about her ex-boyfriend and hacker, Josh. When she goes to finally check on him, he hangs himself with an ethernet cable. Soon ghostly visitors and impossible webcam feeds begin appearing all over the city. If one of the ghosts, who travel through wi-fi and cellular signals, touches you, you lose your will to live. Now Mattie and a new hunk she just met are on a race against time to stop a virus Josh accidentally unleashed. Can Mattie stop this techno terror before it consumes the world? A remake a wonderful warning about isolation in the digital age by the brilliant Kiyoshi Kurosawa and done in the way only Hollywood can, Pulse.     When a wealthy businessman's beautiful but terrifyingly accident prone daughter disappears in Mexico, he spares no expense in the search. When a month passes without and progress, despite the endless supply of cash and top tier professionals sent in, he finally agrees to the most ridiculous of ideas. Why not send in someone equally accident prone based who just might stumble their way on to her trail? To accomplish this accountant Eugene Proctor is partnered with hardnosed investigator Raymond Campanella and let loose on an unsuspecting country. One of nine US remakes based on films by Francis Veber, Pure Luck.    All that and Dave screams on the inside, Tyler tries to pull off a trifecta, and Kevin ignores this pain for Noir. Join us, won't you?   Episode 388- Remakes American Style

     This week an unusual adaption of a classic novel and a TV special through the mind.     Sissy St. Claire is hosting her first ever TV special! It promises to be an evening of entertainment for all to enjoy! Sissy is ready to deliver whatever it is you want right to you directly through the screen. Assuming what you want is a nightmarish tour through her personal insecurities and nightmares. A unique work of period dressed existential terror from writer-director Amanda Kramer, Give Me Pity!     Prison escapee Moose Malloy is looking for his old girlfriend Velma and fear for anyone who might be in his way. After killing a nightclub manager, freelance investigator The Falcon is on Moose's trail. Will The Falcon find Velma before Moose does? Will the gorgeous young reporter be an asset or a distraction? An unexpected adaption of a classic mystery novel by Raymond Chandler and the third of sixteen films in RKO's Falcon series, The Falcon Takes Over.     All that and Dave is lost on the moor, Craig has a glow about him, Tyler wallows, and Kevin tries to keep us from sinking. Join us, won't you?   Episode 387- All the World's a Stage

     This week a pair of films with recording methods used for devious purposes.     Harry Caul is the best wiretapper on the West Coast. His skill is almost as widely known as his intense privacy, complete professional detachment, and closed off nature, born from the guilt after a previous job that resulted in the multiple murders. When Harry pulls of the impossible and captures a complete conversation in an open and crowded square, he finds his professional standard wavering as his fear of repeating the past begins to grown. Widely acknowledged as one of Francis Ford Coppola's best films and one of the best films from the 1970s, The Conversation.     Mark is a journalist who needs a break from war zones and is assigned to interview Steve and John, the Canadian makers of an internet sensation and cultural breakthrough porn site. When the original deal is upended by the subjects, they pick up Beth and her friend, and Mark suddenly finds himself on a ride along he never would have imagined. Instead of cheap adult content, he finds himself caught in a revenge plot and driven out into the woods. Will Mark make it home to see his new born child? Does Steve actually possess the golden gift of gab he has built his brand on? Just who is this Beth and what is her connection to the site? The first film from Jeffery Andersen, a rape revenge thriller in the Norther Vancouver woods, Deeper: The Retribution of Beth.     All that and Kevin attended a fancy event, Dave fears the creeping tinnitus, and Tyler faces the toughest choice of his life. Join us, won't you?   Episode 386: Shallow Noise

      This week we take a look at three movies about creatures of the night and their hijinks over three continents and centuries of the masquerade.      In 1932 Austria, Sigmund Freud hires a painter, Viktor, to illustrate his monstrous dreams and takes on a new patient, Count Geza Von Kösznöm, who's problem is he hates his wife, who is obsessed with being able to see herself, and still longs for his centuries dead ex-girlfriend. To help immediately with the first problem, Freud recommends the Count hire Viktor. Complications arise due to Viktor's girlfriend, Lucy, looking exactly like the long lost love. Will Viktor be able to paint a portrait to satisfy the Countess? Will Lucy have herself overwritten by the Count's ancient memories? Can Sigmund get a good night's sleep? An Austrian horror comedy from David Rüehm, Therapy for a Vampire.     Charlotte, a shy, emotionally traumatized, and understandably repressed college freshman arrives to start her new life with a fencing scholarship. Tragically, she is also being targeted by a centuries old half vampire, who needs her blood to lifting his blood sucking curse and finds herself the target of the least likable and tedious girl on campus. Can Charlette find a place for her self on the team or will her bully push her out with the sheer power of her generic sarcasm? Will the vampire find their cure? Can we, as a planet, finally move beyond stupid concepts like virginity that are just excuses for men to fetishize and shame women? The 21st work from prolific Canadian director Carl Bessai and remake of a well loved 90s Skinemax classic, Embrace of the Vampire.     For centuries vampires ruled the world but now they are dying out and hunted by the long repressed remains of humanity. When Baron Meier Link abducts Charlotte, the daughter of a wealthy family, her father hires a dhampir named D to find her and rescue her dead or alive. D isn't the only hunter on the trail as the family has also hired the Marcus Brothers team to track their lost lamb. Soon all three groups clash in bloody conflicts to hold on to the girl. The second adaption of Kikuchi Hideyuki's massive novel franchise (55 entries at this moment) with gorgeous animation and fluid action from equally prolific studio Madhouse, Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust.     All that and Tyler makes a perfectly reasonable mistake, Kevin gets deep in his views, and Dave wonders if these memory problems should be concerning. Join us, won't you?   Episode 383- The Wrong D

     This week Anna, who has been away far too long for anyone's liking, returns for a pair of films about men who are not what they appear too be while hiding in plain sight.     Christine Faber's husband is dead. He is dead and buried. So why is she hearing his voice call to her across the beach? Dashing out into the night the investigate, Christine runs into Alexis. Alexis claims to be a real psychic medium and able to help her put her ghosts to rest. Fearing she is being taken advantage of Christine's fiancé, Paul, and her sister, Janet, decide to uncover her new friend as a fraud. Will they be able to expose a charlatan preying on a still grieving widow? Can Alexis deliver on his promise of respite from the ghost haunting her? Will this web of deceit and psychological torture be untangled before Christine meets a ghastly ghoulish ending? A classic noir from a blacklisted director with one of the genre's favorite femme fatales, The Amazing Mr. X (aka The Spiritualist).     After being left by her lover, Jenny makes the mistake of going to see her old friend turned Catholic priest Bernard at his church. Tragically, the ear hearing her confession of jilted romance and coerced abortion is not that of her old friend but elderly Father Meldrum. Meldrum, a fervent believer in the concept of divine justice, decides to nurture and guide Jenny in a way he has done many times before. How far can Meldrum push before anyone will help Jenny? Who do you turn to when no one will believe your desperate pleas for help? An overlooked shocker from one of England's most beloved cult filmmakers, Pete Walker, is a cold-blooded film about how those in power can use their position to harm with impunity- House of Mortal Sin.All that and Dave unburdens himself to a terrifying degree (off mic), Kevin has flashbacks to his days harassing vicars in the Highlands, and Anna wonders why they agreed to be dragged back into this mess. Join us, won't you?   Episode 382- The Bloody Pulpit

     This week we kick off October and Horror Season with something old from a legendary studio and something new from a go-to service for fright fiends.     Gerald and Marianne honeymooning through Bavaria in 1910 run out of gas and learn they are miles off course and days away from any fuel delivery. Taking refuge at the local inn, they catch the eye of Dr. Ravna and his children who invite them to a ball at their home. Separated during the festivities Gerald soon discovers that under all the frivolity lies a vampiric cult. Can Gerald save his bride? Will anyone lend him aid besides the drunk professor? Could Marianne really prefer the life of a bloodsucker? Don Sharp's first film for Hammer, Kiss of the Vampire.     Alone one night, while renovating her new home, Dani is brutally murdered. A former patient of her psychiatrist husband, Ted, is quickly convicted of the crime and sent back into Ted's care. Justice being quickly served, Ted begins his life anew and takes up with Yana, a pharmaceutical rep. Just when Ted thinks he can move on with his life, his deceased wife's blind twin sister shows up at his door with an unusual gift. Was the right person convicted? Will Ted ever find peace to leave his tragedy in the past? Could the mysterious gift be the key to supernatural justice? The second feature from Damian McCarthy, shot in the same converted barn as his first, Oddity.     All that and Dave probably missed something, Tyler spelunks the depth of exploitation nastiness, Kevin mourns the loss of another regiment in the squirrel army, and special guest Christianne (who can be found blogging as Vulnavia Morbius at krelllabs.blogspot.com) returns just in time to learn some very disturbing history. Join us, won't you?    Episode 381- That's an Odd Kiss

     This week- a clump of movies starring Jenna Ortega.     After a school shooting, Vada Cavell has to navigate her trauma and depression. Isolating herself from her family and closest friend. As Vada struggles to find ways to cope with her trauma, she bonds with those who sheltered with her during the shooting. A powerful debut feature from writer-director Megan Park with incredible performances, The Fallout.     In an effort to bolster his conservative base, Governor Harper Finn signs an executive order to immediately round up all illegal immigrants and their US-born children. The kids are given a choice, be deported or spend a few months working in a program assisting the elderly. A horror comedy from the Hallivis Brothers about issues facing Hispanic and Latino Americans, American Carnage.     Charlie has just graduated from college and decides to take a summer job with his older half-brother, Tom, on a scallop fishing boat. Corporate negligence and a string of bad luck lose the brothers two boats, put them in trouble with Canadian authorities, and force them into a desperate situation. A crime thriller with an incredibly talented cast from veteran writer-director Brian Helgeland, Finestkind.     Jonathon Miller is a failed writer teaching in a small Tennessee town. Cairo Sweet is an 18-year old senior living alone in a large mansion with generational wealth. Cairo is smart, highly literate, and flatters Miller's vanity by having read his terrible book. Miller unsuspectingly finds himself drawn into a plot to give Cairo something to write about for her Yale application essay. The debut from writer-director Jade Halley Bartlett, Miller's Girl.     All that and we prep for Halloween. Join us, won't you?   Episode 380- A Dollop of Ortega

     This week- a group of plucky skater punks get into shenanigans in LA and a plucky mob widow tries to start again but neither the Feds or Family will let her.     A septet of Latin American boys go against the hip hop trends and norms of their South Los Angeles neighborhood and embrace skateboards and punk rock in very tight pants. One day the boys decide to go skate at a school in the affluent Beverly Hills. Little do they suspect this would kick off an odyssey through a creepily camp satirical nightmare of affluence and classism. Only an auteur like Larry Clark would stop to ask this question burning at the forefront of global consciousness... Wassup Rockers.     Angela is married to a Long Island mafia rising star but the luster of their life has long since been rubbed off for her. When the boss finds out her husband is also having an affair with the same girl, hubby is not long for this world. Angela takes the opportunity to move out of their home of ill gotten gains and start again. Unfortunately for her both the boss and the FBI are desperately trying to get her in their respective beds. Jonathon Demme's broadly wacky comedy loudly swirls around a complex heroine struggling for freedom and a future where she is no longer Married to the Mob.     All that and Dave takes an uneventful hike, Tyler's backpack has jets, and Kevin begins his nefarious plot to rebuild the squirrel army and take over the local Little Waitrose. Join us, won't you?    Episode 379- Wassup Tony?

     This week- two movies about bromances and violence in remote places.     Genta has become disillusioned with the samurai life and has left it to be a wondering yakuza. Hanji could no longer tolerate his powerless existence and sold his farm to become a samurai. They find themselves on opposing sides after the assassination of the local chancellor. A darkly satirical look at the late stages of the samurai, Kill! (1968).     Michael is a graphic designer, living in the city, with his first child on the way. Chris is an addict, erratic and delusional, squatting in an abandoned building on reservation land. When Michael receives a video of Chris', he takes it as a final cry for help. Taking extreme actions the two men soon find themselves caught up in something beyond their comprehension and desperate for a satisfying Resolution (2012).All that and Tyler confesses his love, Dave schemes, and Kevin dances... dirtily. Join us, won't you?    Episode 378- Lethal Tales

     This week- two films about types of masculinity and finding your way.     Tyler Williams is a popular senior on the wrestling team. Learning he has a severe SLAP tear that requires surgery as soon as possible to repair, Tyler decides to hide it from everyone, especially his domineering father. When his injury is revealed, Tyler spirals to tragic results. The aftermath of which will test the Williams family and those around them. The third film from critically acclaimed writer-director Trey Edward Shults, Waves.     Romeo and Gavin have been best friends and neighbors as long as either can remember. When Romeo gets beaten up for defending Gavin from bullies, he is assisted by the slightly strange and aggressive Morrell. Morrell tries to romance Romeo's sister and drives a wedge between the boys, leading to a violent confrontation. The third film from beloved UK cult filmmaker Shane Meadows, as well as the screen debuts of both Paddy Considine and Vicky McClure, A Room for Romeo Brass.     All that and Dave gets REALLY ranty, Tyler rolls around his happy place, and Kevin might have forgotten something but it probably isn't important. Join us, won't you?   Episode 377- Dat Florida-Midland Flow 

      In the doorway of glory he finds Death who puts his hands in hers and whispers to him, :Now... come home, now."     "Soon", he says.                                   The Crow, James O'Barr     This week- four tales of vengeance for souls brought back to put the wrong things right. Detroit, a decrepit and crime ravaged city on Devil's Night, when gangs roam the streets leaving only burning buildings in their wake. One year ago, Shelly Webster was raped and mortally wounded as her fiancé, Eric Draven, was shot and thrown out of their loft apartment window. Tonight, Eric returns with the names of those who killed them ringing in his head. The first film entry in the franchise based on James O'Barr's cult masterpiece comic series, The Crow.     In Salt Lake City, three years ago, Alex Craven is framed for the murder of his girlfriend, Lauren. Tonight, Alex will be put to death for this crime and come back as the next Crow. With his lawyer and Erin, Lauren's sister, to help him, can Alex solve his own case and unravel the conspiracy that killed Lauren and set him up? Can anything bring The Crow: Salvation.     Jimmy Cuervo has been paroled after serving time for killing a rapist in a fight. He returns home to Lake Ravasu, a town that is divided between a corporate mining town and a Raven Aztec reservation, to be outcast by both sides. Except for his girlfriend, who he was protecting at the time of his crime, Lily Ignites the Dawn. Unfortunately, Lily has eyes which can see prophecies, which puts them in the sights of the local world ending Satanist cult. Jimmy comes back to hunt down the cult. Loosely based on the novel of the same name by Norman Patridge, The Crow: Wicked Prayer.     In Vancouver, on the night before Halloween, Eric Draven and his fiancée, Shelly, are killed in their loft apartment. One year later, Eric returns guided by a mystical bird and now having supernatural powers. He sets out to not just get revenge but also to find his own redemption. The syndicated tv adaption that was cancelled due to the studio being sold before they could begin the final arc, The Crow: Stairway to Heaven.      All that and Dave and Tyler have very different experiences with yet another avian avenger and Kevin gets his feathers plucked. Join us, won't you?   Episode 376- Dreaming The Crow Like Dream

     This week- a pair of films starring the late French icon Alain Delon.     Tom Ripley has been sent to Italy to retrieve Phillippe Greenleaf, son of a wealth San Francisco family. Phillippe has no intention of returning home, especially if it means leaving behind his fiancée, Marge. He soon grows cruel and abusive to the always fawning Tom. But Tom Ripley has ideas and plans of his own. The first film adaption of the original book Patricia Highsmith's classic novel series, Purple Noon (original title: Plein soleil).     A Gentile art dealer in Vichy France is mistaken from a Jewish man with the same name. Robert Klein's wealthy and secure life is thrown into a paranoid mystery as he tries desperately to both satisfy the authorities on his identity and find who put him in this position to begin with. A Kafkaesque film about obsession and identity, Monsieur Klein.     All that and Kevin is summoned with digital necromancy, Dave sees the bright lights big city, and Tyler sharpens his tongue for next week. Join us, won't you?   Episode 375- Ice-Cold Angel

     This week- a pair of features occupying areas adjacent to classic cartoons.     When his applejack distillery is destroyed in an accident, Jean Kayak has to find a new trade to survive the harsh winter. Taking up fur trading, something he doesn't exactly excel at, he soon finds love and danger in the forms of The Furrier and Hundreds of Beavers.     Super powered mutants are being born all around the world, these evolutionary leaps are treated with fear and bigotry. Now the United States government is trying to pass an act that would require mutants to reveal their identities and powers. When Marie's powers manifest during her first kiss, landing her liplocker in a coma, she runs away. Soon she finds herself in Canada, meeting a gruff drifter named Logan. When their paths are forced into a collision course between the opposing ideologies of Magneto and Professor Charles Xavier, leader of the X-Men.     All that and Dave is somewhere else, Tyler gets all lovey on a sharp thing, and Kevin joins him with a whole gaggle of others. Join us, won't you?   Episode 374- Mutant Beavers

     This week- a pair of moves designed to inspire nostalgia, even in the most begrudging of hearts.     After stopping the nefarious plans of Martin Whistler in the 23rd century, hardboiled trooper Jak Deth chases him back to 1980s Los Angeles. Taking over the body of his ancestor, Phil, Jak must find the body Whistler now inhabits before he can take over the world with his brain washed zombie cult known. The first entry in Full Moon's sprawling sci-fi fantasy series, Trancers.     Every once in a while a film comes along that so inspires its fandom that they can never loosen their love for it as decades pass. Sometimes they take  victory laps even before the second decade has passed. Is is a loving tribute to a classic 2001 franchise starter? Is it an experiment in absurdist art? Is it a cheap attempt to get free labor out of the online fandom for a quick buck? Maybe yes to all, either way it is Shrek Retold.     All that and Kevin goes where some of us have gone before, Craig suffers for his sins, Tyler contemplates a change, and Dave just wants to have fun. Join us, won't you?   Episode 373- Swamps are for Squids

     This week- a pair of films about criminal elements and the fast decent into obsession.     When his partner is killed, just three days before retirement, Secret Service Agent Richard Chance becomes obsessed with getting revenge on the counterfeiter Eric Masters. As Chance increasingly goes off the rails, indulging in sexual extortion of an informant and kidnapping and assault, his new partner is powerless to rein him in. Masters and Chance head toward an unavoidable confrontation that is the price they pay To Live and Die in L.A.     Summer on the Belgian-Netherlands border, eight teens indulge in their sexual curiosity to stave off boredom. This light play soon leads them down the paths of sociopathy, sex trafficking, obstruction of traffic, and murder. One of the most Movies to Scare Parents films ever made, a desperate to be shocking tale of the hidden spoiled sociopath predators that must lie in the heart of all youth everywhere... because reasons- We (Dutch title Wij).     All that and Dave had a night in a museum, Tyler experiences force feedback cinema at its franchisest, Craig watches Japanese classics under a pile of pug, and Kevin gets drills his secret squirrel army in secret. Join us, won't you?   Episode 372- Unsimulated Car Chase 

     This week- a celebration of France's vampire auteur that avoids almost purposefully avoids his beloved vampire work.     When Frederic sees a photograph of old ruins by the sea, he suddenly remembers a beautiful young woman his preteen self fell in love with. Obsessing over finding the ruins location, he soon finds himself the target of nefarious forces. Will Frederic find solace in the dilapidated stones or will he only see Lips of Blood (aka Levres de sang).     Driving along a lonely road late at night, Robert comes across a woman running. Stopping to help the obviously distressed and partially dressed blonde, he soon learns that she has memory issues and doesn't remember who or what she was running from or even who she has spent the last few hours with. A tale of medical negligence and patient abuse- The Night of the Hunted (French title- La nuit des traquees).     Years ago a small French village murdered a squad of Nazis and dumped their bodies in the lake. As everyone should have. Now the Nazis rise again as zombies hellbent on eating all the women they find and reclaiming one's daughter. Considered by some to be one of the worst films ever made- Zombie Lake (original title Les lac des morts vivants).     French secret service operative Rick is shot and killed. The only clue to the whereabouts of a new bioweapon he had in his possession is a picture of Eva, a young exotic dancer. Soon a desperate race against an evil syndicate in the search for the dreaded weapon begins on The Sidewalks of Bangkok (aka Les trottoirs de Bangkok).     All that and Dave gets really reference heavy with the 4th wall breaking meta, Kevin hurries his squirrel scientists to complete their doomsday device, Craig has his say, and Tyler calls out from the void. Join us, won't you?   Episode 371- Keep Rollin Rollin Rollin

     This week- a pair of French speaking serial killers and the people who obsess over them.     Saskia and Rex are on a biking holiday in France. At a rest stop, Saskia goes to buy drinks and is never seen again. Raymond is a wealthy family man who spends his free time practicing his approach to abducting women. Raymond refines his methods through fumbling trial and error. Three years later, Rex will learn exactly what happened to Saskia. A clinical tour of two men's obsessions that has firmly earned its place as one of the best horror films in world cinema- Spoorloos (aka The Vanishing).     Kelly-Anne is obsessed with the trial of Ludovic Chevalier, who is accused of being a serial killer that streamed his murders live to the world. She sleeps in an alley the courthouse, sits in the same seat with the best view of the accused, breaks into the homes of victims, and befriends Clementine- a serial killer groupie convinced of Chevalier's innocence. Soon Kelly-Anne joins the hunt down the missing video of the last victim's murder. A French-Canadian descent into cybercrime and obsession stuffed with Arthurian references and a vicious commentary on true crime fandom- Red Rooms.     All that and Tyler hordes the world's supply of trucker hats, Dave faces off against a giant shark, and Kevin finds a new way out of Craig's basement. Join us, won't you?   Episode 370- Lady of the Wake    

     This week- a pair of films about people on the make.     Small time hustler, Johnny Hooker, accidentally puts a giant target on his own back when steals a large amount of money from a violent crime boss's courier. His only hope is to ruin the crime boss with the help of Henry Gondorff, a once big time con artist currently on the run from the FBI. Together they put on a massive and desperate operation using horses and the wire service while hitmen and federal agents nip at their heels. Will Hooker survive to the end of the con? Will Gondorff give the feds the slip? The Sting.     After her son is caught filming himself masturbating in class, Romain's mother, Claire, decides it is time for some frank and honest discussions about sex with her family. Does Grandpa go to professionals to avoid emotions? Should Romain be committed for the safety of others because of his dangerous obsession over his own virginity? Why is nothing done with either of the siblings except sex scenes and brief time fillers? How does a couple with two adult children and a sexually obsessed teen keep the spark alive? Sexual Chronicles of a French Family.     All that plus a voice from the ether, Tyler seeks more obscure websites for ever cheapening thriller, Craig contemplates the meaning of hamburgers and disappointment, and Dave finally finishes his personal Oxygen Destroyer. Join us, won't you?    Episode 369- Newman's Own French Dressing

     This week we jump back to 1985 for a double feature of b-movie bliss.      Just before Christmas, Lane Meyer's only two interests, his girlfriend and skiing, are ripped away from him by Roy Stalin, the bully ski team captain. Unfortunately, Lane is about on par with the rest of the town for eccentricities and he does not take this dual rejection well. Plus he's living in the shadow of his genius younger brother, delightful mother, psychotic paperboy, race obsessed twins, and a best friend from a home so horrific that it can only be obliquely referenced to keep everything nice and family friendly. Can Lane find away to claim his rightful place on the ski team? Will he be able to mend his broken heart? Will the French exchange student next door break and dispose of the family she's living with? Or is Lane just Better Off Dead?      On the day of Queen Amethea's wedding her village is attacked by the evil and very rapey forces of Lord Arrakur. With everyone except her handmaiden and herself either murdered or captured to be sold into slavery, Amethea begins a quest to save her people and rid the world of the evil Arrakur. Unfortunately, she isn't very competent at anything other than being captured and leered at while misogynist kink fantasies play out. Will Queen Amethea bring justice to the land? Will the hidden rebels find a figure to rally behind? Can anything stop the revenge of the Barbarian Queen?     All that and Tyler and Dave get retro vibes with MaXXXine, Kevin finds himself lost among the sword and sandals set, and Craig learns that sometimes a 4-point turn just isn't enough. Join us, won't you?    Episode 367- Sirloin Sovereign

     This week a four pack of sci-fi with less than futuristic surroundings.      Scientist Sterling Peirce dreamed of a future where mankind no longer feared death, lived in harmony with all existence, and dedicated his life to the miracle elixir he created. Tragically, he died before his vision of a a peaceful future could come to pass. Years later, his son, Jaxxon Peirce, controls and manufactures a version of the elixir he calls Divinity.     A small group of people exiled to an island called The Burn depend on Ti-Jeanne. Meanwhile, she struggles against the destiny of her birth, fights for the love of the only available man, and fights against the repressive controlling grasp of Crack. A prequel to Nalo Hopkinson's debut novel, Brown Girl Begins. (Fun fact I forgot to mention in episode- Director Sharon Lewis played rapper Drake's mother on Degrassi TNG.)     Neuroscientists being testing of a remarkable breakthrough- connecting two brains directly. Lukas, researcher and generally bored of everything scumbag, is selected to be the first psychonaut- being injected into the head of an anonymous woman in a coma. Immediately, Lukas being making nonsensical stupid decisions and obsessing. Why does no one notice his extreme reactions and wild violent mood swings? They all too busy seeing the Vanishing Waves.     In the not-too-distant-future eugenics is the new way of life and everyone is sorted into valid and in-valid categories. Despite discrimination against the unmodified being technically illegal, it overnight became the only standard of worth for all mankind. Natural born Vincent Freeman is predicted to have the most ridiculous number of issues before an early death but he refuses to accept this. Finding a willing co-conspirator, Vincent sets out to follow his dream at Gattaca.     All that and Dave sees dead people, Tyler discovers a new fetish, and Kevin screams out from the void. Join us, won't you?   Episode 367- Lo-Fi Sci-Fi

     This week- a pair of films about high emotional responses.      Paul and Nelly run a successful hotel, have a beautiful child, and live what appears to be an idyllic life together. Until Paul begins to have suspicions about Nelly's fidelity. Paul soon finds himself sinking into a quagmire of jealous fantasies and anger. Will Paul get the help he needs? Are his fears secretly justified? Will society at large ever stop being misogynistic asshats that enable cycles of abuse? Claude Charbol's take on a 30 year old unfinished film by Henri-Georges Clouzot- L'Enfer (aka Torment aka Hell).     Oscar is on the run from home after a violent incident involving his best friend's father, he finds himself fallen in with a gang of child pickpockets. Oscar soon forms a deep bond with fellow preteen thief Peaches. 15 years later, Oscar finds himself running the gang and his childhood friend knocking at his door. Will Oscar be able to put his past to rest? Is there a future for any of them that doesn't include decades behind bars? How can someone sleep at night wasting this much on screen talent? Can Oscar really... Run with the Hunted.      Join us, won't you?    Episode 366- Lifted Jealousy

     This week two movies where everyone is pretty awful and the title is wished upon everyone on screen.     A friend group of recent college graduates are horrific to everyone around them and to each other. Kevin is obsessed with his bff's girlfriend. Alec is a serial cheater who only cares about career advancement. Billy is a serial cheater and occasional rapist who only cares about getting fucked up and playing the sax. Jules is a serial cheater who only cares about sleeping with her boss and waiting for her stepmother to die. Kirby is a terrifying stalker obsessing over the medical student he went out with once four years ago. Wendy is a racist who has failed to launch from her disgustingly rich parents. Leslie is... there. Together they will not do much but we can always hope they die in... St Elmo's Fire.     The summer of 1900,12 year old Leo is spending his break as the guest of his wealthy friend, Marcus. Immediately on arrival, Leo beings to crush on the daughter of the house, Marian, who is engaged to a local lord. The whole family treats him like a pet instead of like a person but he's fine with being kept because they give him things. When Marcus finds himself bed ridden with illness, Marian uses it as a chance to press Leo into service delivering her explicit letters and return illicit rendezvous plans with the gentleman farmer next door. Passions and tensions simmer in a way they can only in pastoral Edwardian England. Will the lovers be caught embraced in hay? Will the local lord be able to get his rival to join the military and get out of his way? Will Leo realize that these people aren't worth the time and set a small fire in the night or is he doomed to forever be under their thumbs as The Go-Between?     All that and Dave indulges in violent revenge, Kevin refuses to see the fun in Paris, Tyler builds a new shrine, and Craig finds frustration in the loop. Join us, won't you?    Episode 365- Die in a Firenull