Reel Film Chronicles

Because we exist now in a purgatory between reality and unreality and all original thought has been expunged, filtered out through a cosmic sieve that we can neither perceive nor define, we are now subject to a neverending cavalcade of remakes, reboots, reminaginings, and sequels. Gladiator II is not just a legacy sequel to an Oscar-winning film that has become revered among fans and critics alike; it is yet another herald of the New Age, in which our collective consciousness is only capable of telling stories that have already been told and consuming those same stories again, and again, and again in an endless cycle until the heat death of this universe and our reabsorption into the next link in the Great Chain of Being. Fortunately for us, some of those stories are told by Ridley Scott and are still spectacles worthy of the big screen. Gladiator II is a direct sequel to Gladiator, catching us up on the state of the Roman Empire since the heroic General Maximus gave his life to bring down a corrupt leader and provide a glimmer of hope for the oppressed and the outcast. As always, Ridley Scott has his finger on the pulse, and shows that Maximus' sacrifice led to... the rise of not one but two insane Emperors drunk on their own power and slowly destroying their own empire. But a new her will arise in Hanno, a warrior who is enslaved and forced to fight as a gladiator but who secretly holds the power to overthrow the empire... Listen, if you've seen the first one you know the drill, but you also know the old saying; if it ain't broke, don't fix it. If you have the constitution, then journey with The Reel Film Chronicles into this fantasy world that vaguely resembles ancient Rome to see if the second time really is the charm and whether Gladiator II answers the age-old question that echoes in eternity: Are you not entertained?GLADIATOR II (2024)Directed by: Ridley ScottStarring: Paul Mescal - Denzel Washington - Pedro Pascal - Connie NielsenGenres: drama - action - adventureRuntime: 148 minutesOur Website: ⁠⁠⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠⁠⁠Our Letterboxd Profiles: ⁠⁠⁠Brian⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Nathan⁠⁠⁠Nathan's Site: ⁠⁠⁠Feed the Voices⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Letterboxd⁠⁠ ⁠| ⁠⁠⁠IMDb⁠⁠⁠Episode 92Gladiator 2

Will they be, though? Will they? We confirm that things WILL be different, as your intrepid hosts delve into a time-twisty lo-fi sci-fi thriller that focuses on two siblings hiding from the law in a house that seems to exist outside our regular time. Yeah, it's a great concept and honestly, a pretty great film, especially if you're into these kind of indie concept films. With some great performances and intriguing story that's rife with meaning, Things Will be Different is a film that's worthy of your time. So check it out, then swing back to our discussion on the movie, which, I guess, is no different than our other episodes in terms of the format we follow, but still, the conversation is good, and we appreciate your company.THINGS WILL BE DIFFERENT (2024)Directed by: Michael FelkerStarring: Adam David Thompson - Riley DandyGenres: science-fiction - thriller - horrorRuntime: 102 minutesOur Website: ⁠⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠⁠Our Letterboxd Profiles: ⁠⁠Brian⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Nathan⁠⁠Nathan's Site: ⁠⁠Feed the Voices⁠⁠⁠⁠Letterboxd⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠IMDb⁠⁠Episode 91

The lights dim. The curtains rise. A murmur passes through the room, the residual sound of a thousand voices going silent. The stage is set. A street from another century. A lamppost that would make Gene Kelly feel right at home. A series of storefronts with nothing behind them but a skeleton of two-by-fours. Then there he is, appearing as though by magic. Joaquin Phoenix. In his full Joker makeup. As he starts into a passionate musical number, bellowing his emotions to the back of the room and beginning a highly choreographed dance number, two thoughts cross your mind: 1) Joaquin Phoenix truly is one of the greatest performers of our generation and 2) What the hell is he doing in your kid's school play? Mr. Phoenix is definitely not out of place in Joker: Folie à Deux, Todd Phillips' follow up to his smash hit Joker, which took the box office by storm back in 2019, earning nearly $1 billion for Warner Bros. Joker 2? Let's say its contributions to Warner Bros.' portfolio were more... aspirational than financial. In a genre-bending twist, Phillips and Phoenix take superhero movies into a new realm with the help of Lady Gaga, introducing the world to the first musical superhero blockbuster movie of the modern era. Taking a sharp left turn from where most audiences thought about the trajectory of the character and world, the team behind the second Joker movie instead decided to try something completely different with the character and the genre. Whether or not that new direction worked for you (and based purely on box office numbers, odds are that it did not) is a matter of taste. Either way, Joker: Folie à Deux is nothing if not a bold vision, and your intrepid hosts at The Reel Film Chronicles have gallantly sallied forth to explore the deranged minds at the heart of of this film and the characters they've created on screen for our twisted amusement.JOKER: FOLIE à DEUX (2024)directed by: Todd Phillipsstarring: Joaquin Phoenix - Lady Gaga - Brendan Gleeson - Catherine Keenerruntime: 138 minutesOur Website: ⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠Our Letterboxd Profiles: ⁠Brian⁠ | ⁠Nathan⁠Nathan's Site: ⁠Feed the Voices⁠⁠Letterboxd⁠ | ⁠IMDb⁠episode 90

Never before would one have considered the inoffensive little cuckoo as a symbol of death, destruction, and parasitic infection. But thanks to writer-director Tilman Singer, now that's all you'll ever associate with them every time you think about those cute little birds, which I have to assume is at least once an hour. You know, like most normal people. Cuckoo is a movie that explores what it means to be part of a family as well as the potential consequences of what it might mean if another species of human beings evolved alongside our own. Two totally normal thoughts that most people grapple with at least once in the normal course of their lives. While historically, most people go cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs, in this episode your intrepid hosts go cuckoo for horror stuff, as the Reel Film Chronicles explores the meaning of life, the universe, and brood parasitism in our typically analytical and well-researched review of 2024's Cuckoo.Nathan's Full Review on CuckooCUCKOO (2024)directed by: Tilman Singerstarring: Hunter Schafer | Jan Bluthardt | Marton Csokas | Jessica Henwick | Dan Stevensruntime: 103 minutesOur Website: Reel Film ChroniclesOur Letterboxd Profiles: Brian | NathanNathan's Site: Feed the VoicesLetterboxd | IMDbepisode 89

For every action there is a reaction; for every yin, a yang; for every Casino Royale, a Quantum of Solace. And so in conjunction with our Top 10 of 2024 episode, we must also release our Bottom 5 of 2024, and so maintain balance in the universe and prevent the untimely destruction of existence due to a variance in the fabric of space time itself. It's all in good fun as the Reel Film Chronicles cover their picks for movies in 2024 that missed the mark despite lofty narrative ambitions, suffered from an excess of studio interference, or just seemed like they were put together for some kind of tax write off. These are merely the opinions of some casual movie fans, so as always, we recommend not taking any opinions offered herein as having any kind of authority whatsoever and invite you to make up your own minds. Reel Film Chronicles

You are, perhaps, never more acutely aware of the apparent injustice woven into the fabric of the universe than when you love a movie everyone else hates or hate a movie everybody else loves. Welcome back once again for the Reel Film Chronicles yearly tradition of reviewing our top 10 movies of the previous calendar year. In this case, your intrepid hosts each run down their top 10 movies of 2024. The suspense is palpable and the stakes couldn't be higher as they try to unravel the ultimate mystery: Do they agree on their favourite movies of 2024? And perhaps even more mysterious: Do YOU agree on their picks? So follow along fellow movie fans, both hardcore and casual, as we explore some of the finest works of cinema to grace our screens, both large and small, in 2024. Perhaps you'll discover a new hidden gem, or perhaps you can just rage listen and revel in our wrongness. Either way, you're in for a good time. So tune in and embark with the Reel Film Chronicles on the next step of your film journey.Reel Film Chronicles

This year marks the 85th anniversary of everyone's favourite comic book hero. So here we are, a bit behind (as per usual) with an episode where we revisit - complete with nostalgia glasses - Tim Burton's BATMAN from 1989! Apologies again for the audio quality - we have one more episode left in the bank where we were afflicted by this condition, but then it's back to the usual "stellar" sound you've come to expect. Well, nearly there at least. Batman (1989) directed by: Tim Burton starring: Michael Keaton - Michael Keaton - Kim Basinger genres: action - fantasy - crime - superhero runtime: 126min

We're back from an unplanned hiatus, with M Night's latest film, TRAP! And apologies in advance: Nathan's audio quality is a bit poor, due to a technical slight that ended up in him recording on the wrong microphone. I did my best but I'm no audio engineer, so I thank you in advance for your patience over the next couple of episodes as we get that rectified. I promise: it's all the same great content and commentary you come to expect! TRAP (2024)directed by: M. Night Shyamalanstarring: Josh Hartnett - Ariel Donoghue - Saleka - Alison Pillgenres: horror - thriller - crimeruntime: 105 min The Film: Letterboxd - IMDb - TMDb https://reelfilmchronicles.com

We were long overdue for another episode featuring fan and podcast-favourite Nic Cage, and what better film for discussion than the much anticipated LONGLEGS? We're going to give a quick rundown of recent Nic Cage films, as well as director Osgood Perkins filmography before we jump headfirst into the feature film. We have lots to say for a film with lots of genres - we think there's a little something for everyone here. Get yourself comfortable and listen in! Also, go watch the movie first! We don't hold back on spoilers in our discussion (we give plenty of warning in the episode). Longlegs (2024) directed by: Osgood Perkins starring: Maika Monroe - Nicolas Cage - Blair Underwood - Alicia Witt genres: horror - crime - thriller runtime: 101 min REEL FILM CHRONICLES Facebook | Instagram Letterboxd | IMDb | TMDB

Possibly the first western film we've covered on the podcast, and who better than to guide us into the genre than Kevin Costner, with his latest ambitious multi-part movie project? We give a quick rundown of Costner's acting and directorial efforts, and our experiences with the western genre before we kick our spurs and discuss the movie at length - which is mostly what we enjoyed about the film. * Spoiler warning given during the episode, but we don't hold back during our conversation here. * Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1 (2024) directed by: Kevin Costner starring: Kevin Costner - Sienna Miller - Sam Worthington - Jena Malone - Owen Crow Shoe genres: western runtime: 181 minutes Website: Reel Film Chronicles Movie Links: Letterboxd - IMDb - TMDB

From Guy Ritchie, the master of ungentlemanly filmmaking, comes The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare, a heartwarming tale about a band of friends bound together through an unshakeable bond: a shared compulsion to kill Nazis. Based loosely (just ever so loosely) on a "true" story (we cannot stress just how loosely this movie was based on actual events), the movie follows Superman, Jack Reacher, and friends as they set out to cripple Nazi U-boat operations in the north Atlantic to give England the breathing room it needs to fight back against Hitler's advancing cronies the best way one can: by organizing a heist. Just a great, big, old Nazi-killing heist. As with any great heist, nothing goes to plan, until it does, then it doesn't, but then it does, and a lot of Nazis die in the end, which if we're being honest, is probably the best way for any heist to end. So join us as we travel back in time to World War II (not literally, of course - that's impossible as far as you know) to explore Guy Ritchie's latest movie The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare to see if this is a return to form and the trusted Ritchie formula for on-screen hijinks. And if not, just through sheer law of averages, one of the fifteen movies he's releasing this year is bound to be to your liking. The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare (2024) directed by: Guy Ritchie starring: Henry Cavill - Eiza González - Alan Ritchson - Henry Golding genres: action - war - drama runtime: 120 minutes Operation Postmaster (Wikipedia) Website: Reel Film Chronicles Movie Links: Letterboxd - IMDb - TMDB

Do you have what it takes to make it epic? Well, we certainly try, at least! We sing the praises of this latest instalment in George Miller's Mad Max Saga by delving into everything that we enjoyed about this bombastic and layered action film. From the acting, the special effects, the creative names, the incredible soundtrack, the story, characters and more, we also take time to appreciate how it fits perfectly in with it's sequel film Fury Road (which came out nine (!!) years ago. By the finish, we gave our ratings for this film, but also each Mad Max entry. This episode is not to be missed! * Spoilers for all Mad Max movies, including Furiosa, are contained within. * Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024) directed by: George Miller starring: Anya Taylor-Joy - Chris Hemsworth - Tom Burke - Alyla Browne - Lachy Hulme genres: action - adventure - science-fiction runtime: 149min reelfilmchronicles.com Letterboxd | IMDb

We delve into this Amazon produced remake of a fan favorite: ROAD HOUSE. We offer our take on this movie without the nostalgia glasses that many may have, as Brian missed the original film entirely, and Nathan watched it just before jumping into this new iteration. We start the episode giving a rundown of director Doug Liman's filmography, then jump into the film (with spoilers for both this one and the original throughout). We'll explore the characters, the acting, the action and visual effects, all set against the backdrop of what could effectively be a "direct to video" film starring one of our generation's greatest actors. Road House (2024) directed by: Doug Liman starring: Jake Gyllenhaal - Daniela Melchior - Billy Magnussen - Jessica Williams genres: thriller - action runtime: 121 minutes Reel Film Chronicles Letterboxd - IMDb

Caught in the shadow of a cinematic legacy or stepping into the light on her own terms? Caitlin Cronenberg's HUMANE marks her entrance into the feature film arena, and we're here to dissect just how the threads of family renown and nepotism weave through her narrative tapestry. The heart of our episode beats strong with a foray into the film, a story that boldly navigates the murky junction of family ties, environmental disaster, governmental tendrils, and moral ambiguity. Emily Hampshire's stirring portrayal anchors the tale, with Canadian stars like Jay Baruchel and Enrico Colantoni adding layers to this complex narrative. Whether you're a first-time viewer or a critique-hardened cinephile, the film's emotional and thematic depth is sure to strike a chord, and we're here to analyze every note. As the credits roll on our cinematic discussion, we engage in the "ultimate" ratings guessing game, which you can play along with while listening. The conversation unfolds into a broader meditation on the personal journey of evaluating art, and the Cronenberg name becomes a lens through which we ponder the unpredictable alchemy of filmmaking success. Join us for a vibrant exploration of film, family, and the enduring question of what it means to make a mark in the shadow of giants. HUMANE (2024) directed by: Caitlin Cronenberg starring: Jay Baruchel - Emily Hampshire - Sebastian Chacon - Alanna Bale genres: science fiction - horror - thriller runtime: 93 min www.reelfilmchronicles.com Letterboxd | IMDb

This podcast is a tomb. In the Year of our Lord 1997, a movie was unleashed on an unsuspecting population. A movie so vile, so terrifying, so violent, so gruesome that it borrowed its way into our collective conscience, wrapping its tendrils around our cerebral cortex, refusing to let us forget her. That movie was Event Horizon. A sci-fi-horror staple for those in the know, it became a beloved cult classic, even (or maybe especially) among those of us who were traumatized at a young age by the grisly imagery and claustrophobic atmosphere. Event Horizon wound up being one of those lighting-in-a-bottle (or hellfire-in-a-spaceship) situations, with a unique concept executed to perfection with an all-star cast led by Laurence Fishburne and Sam Neill on a spaceship set that looked like the design had been pulled from the deranged minds of Clive Barker's Cenobites. Violent murders, slow descents into madness, and a spaceship that may or may not have travelled to the literal incarnation of Hell are all hallmarks of one of the most idiosyncratic and memorable entries into both the sci-fi and horror movie pantheons. The choice laid before you now is this; listen to this episode of The Real Film Chronicles and delve into the twisted world of Event Horizon or save yourself... from Hell! Event Horizon (1997) | directed by: Paul W. S. Anderson | starring: Laurence Fishburne - Sam Neill - Kathleen Quinlan - Joely Richardson | science fiction - mystery - horror | 95 min Reel Film Chronicles Letterboxd

We're happy to be diving deep into Dune Part Two, the eagerly anticipated sequel with a feature-length discussion on everything we loved about the movie. We also talk about differences with the book (but we don't go deep there, and try to avoid book spoilers). Dune: Part Two (2024) | directed by: Denis Villeneuve | starring: Timothée Chalamet - Zendaya - Rebecca Ferguson - Javier Bardem - Josh Brolin - Austin Butler | adventure - science fiction | 167 min https://reelfilmchronicles.com Letterboxd

SHED THE LIES Join your intrepid hosts as we delve into this 2023 Netflix crime thriller - a surprisingly good (well, it surprised us at least) film that offers more than any description or trailer could provide. We're fans of all the actors here, and we fanboy over Benicio del Toro and his burning performance here, and talk about how the film world needs more Alicia Silverstone. REPTILE (2023) | directed by: Grant Singer | starring: Benicio del Toro - Justin Timberlake - Alicia Silverstone - Michael Pitt | crime | 136min https://reelfilmchronicles.com https://boxd.it/wKjc * Rated explicit/mature for language and subject matter.

Welcome to the world of The Killer and watch as obsessive, perfectionist filmmaker David Fincher tells the story of an obsessive, perfectionist killer living out his either his worst nightmare or darkest fantasy: his life spiraling out of control after an extra ruins his perfect shot then going on a bloody rampage to get revenge against everybody who has ever wronged him. If I were one of the executives at Fox who had anything to do with Alien 3, I'd probably sleep with at least one eye open from now on. With The Killer, Fincher continues his tradition of protagonists who are weird, misanthropic, and/or emotionally detached loners, live by a very specific set of rules, and wax philosophical about humanity's inhumanity in endless voiceover. A self-described unremarkable man who is exceptional at his job through endless, obsessive practice and meticulous attention to detail, the titular killer is perhaps the most appropriately autobiographical self-insert character that Fincher could have imagined. With murder, mayhem, and a shady underworld of secret assassins (no, not THAT world of secret assassins), and meditations on how the thin veil of civility that is society barely conceals the base instincts of the human race at bay and our most cherished ideals are all lies carefully disseminated to help the powerful exploit the masses, The Killer is sure to delight viewers of all ages. So join your intrepid hosts as we delve into the world of The Killer, explore the latest twisted entry into David Fincher's pantheon, and try our best to avoid ending up on any hit lists of our own. THE KILLER (2023) | directed by: David Fincher | starring: Michael Fassbender - Tilda Swinton - Charles Parnell - Arliss Howard - Kerry O'Malley - Sophie Charlotte | Thriller - Crime | 118 min https://reelfilmchronicles.com https://letterboxd.com/ryebone/list/reel-film-chronicles-podcast/ https://letterboxd.com/film/the-killer-2023/

A thick mist blankets the countryside as two riders cut their way through the waterlogged landscape, man and beast alike soaked by a slanted rain as ignorant of mercy as it was of the difference between pleasure and pain, redemption and damnation. There was only the fall. Then, a commotion. A man and woman hunted by a group of men, unaware that their role would soon be reversed from predator to prey. One of the riders dismounts, his boots splashing in the puddles, creating tsunamis in miniature. Time slows. The men turn their weapons on the intruder, irritated at the interruption of their sport, but to no avail. Even unarmed, the masked interloper makes quick work of his opponents, moving faster than his opponents can react, disarming and leaving them to wallow in their misery in the mud, and the dirt, and the rain. Always and still, there was the rain. The year is 2001. The movie is Brotherhood of the Wolf. The result is a cult classic in the making. Based - very loosely as is usually the case - on actual events, the movie tells the story of two unlikely friends sent to solve the mystery of reports of a vicious beast that is terrorizing the French countryside. For sheer value, one can hardly do better, as Brotherhood of the Wolf is really (at least) five movies in one: an historical epic, a romance, a detective story, a political drama, and an action movie. A story that involves secret cults, bone swords, brothels, royal politics, evil deformed appendages, and taxidermy, Brotherhood of the Wolf is a very specific sort of fever dream that could only have sprung forth from the collective consciousness of the early 2000s. As brazen as it is inventive, Brotherhood of the Wolf is nothing if not unique, and truly one of those films that stands alone almost as a genre unto itself. So join your intrepid hosts at the Reel Film Chronicles as they take you on a journey into the world of 18th Century France to unravel the mystery of the beast of Gévaudan. ********** Brotherhood of the Wolf (2001) | directed by: Christophe Gans | starring: Samuel Le Bihan - - Mark Dacascos - Vincent Cassel - Émilie Dequenne - Monica Bellucci | Adventure - Action - Horror - History | 143 min ********** https://reelfilmchronicles.com Le Pacte des loups: https://boxd.it/21OY

ADULTHOOD. Warning: Side effects may include drowsiness, swelling, loss of vision and/or hearing, memory loss, crippling self doubt, depression, memory loss, the realization that no adult ever had things figured out, waxing nostalgic for the way things used to be, trouble breathing, having to figure out stupid stuff like mortgages, memory loss, actually enjoying going furniture shopping, the uncontrollable urge to criticize younger generations, awkwardly fumbling your way through numerous social events when you'd rather be at home, drifting apart from friends and loved ones with the occasional reconciliation, memory loss, the uncontrollable urge to criticize older generations, and obsessing over those small parts of your life where you seem to have some semblance of control just for the slightest chance at experiencing something real. Other side effects not listed may also occur in some adults. If you notice any other effects, tough luck, there's no one you can call and you're on your own, because nobody else has their deal figured out either. Take only as prescribed. Results may vary. Join your intrepid hosts in this exciting episode of the Reel Film Chronicles as they discuss the 2023 film The Adults, which explores the complex relationship of a trio of siblings trying to navigate life in the real world in a slice-of-life format that is in turns heart wrenching and heartwarming.  The Adults (2023) | directed by: Dustin Guy Defa | starring: Michael Cera - Hannah Gross - Sophia Lillis | Comedy - Drama | 91 min https://reelfilmchronicles.com

In this very special episode, your intrepid hosts dive into the depths of cinematic disappointment as they unveil their Bottom Five Films of 2023. Welcome once again to our annual rundown of the cinematic catastrophes that left us bewildered, disappointed, and perhaps a little angry over the past year. From cringe-inducing sci-fi flops to poorly executed franchise entries, and forgettable thrillers, the bottom five list represents a cautionary tale of what happens when creative vision goes awry or when the alchemy of storytelling fails to transmute into cinematic gold. This is where, as the saying goes, we wade through the murky waters of mediocrity, and we mark the passing of another rotation around our nearest star with a grimace and a shake of the head, as we recall the films that failed to leave any positive impression on us or left us disappointed. This annual tradition serves as a solemn reminder of the diverse landscape of cinema, where not every endeavor reaches the heights of greatness, and some inevitably crash and burn in spectacular fashion. So join us, The Reel Film Chronicles, as we reflect on the unfortunate missteps and cinematic misfires of the past year. Whether you cringe in solidarity or vehemently disagree with our choices, your engagement fuels our passion for discussing the art of filmmaking, even when it's less than stellar. We thank you for enduring this journey with us, whether it's out of morbid curiosity or a shared disdain for the cinematic failures of 2023. https://reelfilmchronicles.com

In this very special episode, your intrepid hosts run down their Top 10 Films of 2023. Welcome once again to our annual rundown of our top 10 films, as we review the movies that moved, entertained, awed, or otherwise inspired us over the past year. From mega blockbusters to independent dramas, established action franchises to emerging horror icons, giant radioactive lizards to famous historical figures, there's a little something for everybody. This is where, as the saying goes, the rubber meets the road, and we mark the passing of another rotation around our nearest star with a look back at the cinematic stories that left their impression on us. This annual tradition is a way for us to take some time to reflect on a few of our new favourite films and share our love of movies with our listeners, hopefully inspiring those of you on your own film journey with a mix of the comfort of the familiar and the excitement of the undiscovered. So listen along with The Reel Film Chronicles, and maybe discover a few new favourite movies as well. Or hate listen with complete and utter disdain for all of our picks for 2023's top 10. Either way it boosts our numbers, so it's all good in the end, and we thank you for your patronage (or anti-patronage, as the case may be). https://reelfilmchronicles.com

What do you do when an unstoppable, evil army threatens your peaceful village? Why, you scour the countryside to retain the services of a small group of reluctant warriors with troubled back stories looking to make up for the sins of the past. And if it's your peaceful moon that's threatened, well then you scour the galaxy for your group of misfit warriors to defend you and your peaceful townsfolk. Hey, it worked for Akira Kurosawa. Rebel Moon, the latest action extravaganza from Zack Snyder, draws on some heavy inspiration from the likes of such classic and beloved films as Seven Samurai, Star Wars, and Eight Legged Freaks to bring you a story only Zack Snyder could tell. Filled to the brim with mythological creatures; sweaty, shirtless men; and broken warriors with checkered pasts looking for one last chance at redemption, Rebel Moon is nothing if not ambitious, seeking to stake a claim among the pantheon of great science fiction movies. In this episode, your intrepid hosts provide their insightful insights about Rebel Moon and whether it lived up (or down) to the hype. So grab your laser guns and definitely-not-lightsabers-but-also-definitely-not-NOT-lightsabers and strap yourselves in for a journey into a galaxy far, far away (but definitely not THAT galaxy far, far away). Rebel Moon - Part One: A Child of Fire (2023)| directed by: Zack Snyder| starring: Sofia Boutella - Michiel Huisman - Ed Skrein - Djimon Hounsou - Bae Doona - Staz Nair - Charlie Hunnam - Ray Fisher| Science Fiction - Drama - Action| 134 min https://reelfilmchronicles.com

Extraction 2 (2023) | directed by: Sam Hargrave | starring: Chris Hemsworth - Golshifteh Farahani - Adam Bessa - Tornike Gogrichiani | Action - Thriller | 123 min ⁠https://reelfilmchronicles.com

The smoke clears. The dust settles. For one, brief moment, it seems as though the stillness of the air could be a tranquil silence. A peaceful rearrangement of particles. That rare alignment of the cosmos that grants those most rare moments of serenity, where the world is in harmony, and the forces of nature and man align. But then, the moment passes. As your gaze trails ever upwards, your eyes slowly taking in the sight in front of you. Slowly, so that your brain has time to process the signals being sent to it. To try to make sense of this scaly monolith. This prehistoric behemoth. This harbinger of death. Godzilla. For everything there is a season, and for every generation there is a Godzilla. Luckily for us, Godzilla Minus One (like its most recent predecessor, Shin Godzilla) has emerged as a unique voice, shepherding both us and its protagonist into a new golden age. Unlike the recent spate of Hollywood Godzilla-verse offerings, which are, at best, popcorn flicks, Godzilla Minus One delivers not only on the action (which, again, unlike its Hollywood counterparts, is clearly lit and easy to follow) but also on the social allegory (which is woefully absent from his current incarnation in Hollywood. Under the careful watch of Toho, the studio that has curated the story of everybody's favourite giant lizard for nearly 70 years, Godzilla Minus One at once takes Godzilla in a bold and engaging new direction while remaining true and paying homage to a long and rich cinematic history. Originally a metaphor for the horrors of nuclear war, Godzilla turned out to be an unexpected entry into the pantheon of Japanese cinema that tried to make sense of the destruction and death that marked the end of World War II. Since then, Godzilla has been reimagined and reborn time and time again, as a campy kaiju combatant, a gargantuan anti-hero protecting the people of earth from threats even larger than himself, a horror icon on par with Dracula or Frakenstein, a literal larger-than-life action star, and full circle to as a metaphor to explore the social impact of new horrors and catastrophes in a way that can only be achieved with the help of a lizard the size of a skyscraper. As portrayed in Godzilla Minus One, Godzilla is at once a stunning metaphor for the unique horrors wrought by a nuclear war but also as a powerful symbol that forces the human characters to confront issues of heroism, sacrifice, the value of human life, the failures of leadership, and what it means to reckon not only with putting their lives back together after a devastating war, especially dealing with the residual guilt and shame of being on the losing side of a war. The more sobering truth, of course, is that war has no winners, only survivors. But Godzilla Minus One uses the subsequent attack (with Godzilla's "heat ray" perhaps the most terrifying it has ever appeared on screen, directly evoking images of nuclear holocaust) to explore how survivors of a war, both veterans and civilians, process their trauma and grief and try to make sense of the bloodshed and chaos in a movie that is at once thrilling as it is contemplative and philosophical. So listen in as your intrepid hosts explore Godzilla Minus One, the latest movie in a series so long-lived and resilient that it's rivaled only by good old 007 himself, James Bond. Whether you're new to the Godzilla phenomenon or you've been a fan since the beginning, we hope you'll enjoy our usual level of insight as we discuss Godzilla Minus One. Godzilla Minus One (2023) | directed by: Takashi Yamazaki | starring: Ryunosuke Kamiki - Hidetaka Yoshioka - Minami Hamabe - Kuranosuke Sasaki | Horror - Action - Science Fiction | 125 min ⁠https://reelfilmchronicles.com

"Now I have a machine gun. Ho, ho, ho." Often imitated but never duplicated, Die Hard has withstood the test of time to become firmly established in that hallowed pantheon of All-Time Classic Action Films. Its protagonist, John McClane, the wrong man in the wrong place at the wrong time, has become an archetypal action movie hero, the everyman answer to the muscle-bound question posed by the likes of Schwarzenegger and Stallone. Played to perfection by Bruce Willis, McClane was relatable precisely because he wasn't indestructible and showed real vulnerability, both physical and emotional, despite his gruff and sometimes disheveled exterior. Forever the fly in the ointment of any thief or terrorist who happened to pick the wrong building, airport, or city to steal from or terrorize (not that there's ever a right target for such activities), McClane was somebody the audience could cheer for because despite his flaws, he would always fight to the end. No matter how many times he was battered, bruised, beaten, or knocked down, he would pick himself up, bandage those wounds, and walk, limp, or drag himself to the next fight. Long before Captain America vocalized his willingness to go toe to toe with his opponents, McClane was already doing it all day, and if I may say so myself, with a much better catch phrase. Stuck in a skyscraper with a surprisingly diverse group of terrorists, John McClane's quest to free the hostages and rescue his estranged wife has become so iconic that the concept of "Die Hard in/on a Unique Location/Vehicle" has become a genre unto itself. So come out to the coast and have a few laughs with your intrepid hosts as they discuss the enduring legacy of Die Hard just in time for the holidays. No matter where you fall in the debate about its validity as a Christmas movie, there's never a bad time of year to revisit the action movie that most action movies wish they could be when they grow up. And if it's your first time watching Die Hard, then welcome to the party pal!    Die Hard (1988) | directed by: John McTiernan | starring: Bruce Willis - Alan Rickman - Bonnie Bedelia - Reginald VelJohnson | Thriller - Action | 132 min https://reelfilmchronicles.com

Hang on to your webs spider-boys and spider-girls, because in this episode, we're swinging out Across the Spiderverse. In this follow-up to the critically acclaimed and beloved Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, Miles Morales is grappling with how the consequences of being a hero affect him personally as well as those around him. Building on the frenetic animation style of the first film, Across the Spiderverse draws audiences in with a kaleidoscopic and vibrant visual approach that will delight and engage everyone, except for those with severe epilepsy who will likely be sent into a seizure during the opening titles alone. Taking inspiration from the Spider-Man comics (and we do mean every Spider-Man comic ever) along with every piece of Spider-Man media known to exist, Across the Spiderverse is at once a sprawling epic adventure with multiversal stakes and an incredibly focused personal story of growth, belonging, and morality perfectly woven together that will take at least ten rewatches to catch every little reference and easter egg. So slap on your spandex bodysuit, grab your mask, and join The Reel Film Chronicles as we explore the latest adventure from your friendly neighbourhood Spider-Folks.  Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023) | directed by: Joaquim Dos Santos, Justin K. Thompson, Kemp Powers | starring: Shameik Moore - Hailee Steinfeld - Jason Schwartzman - Oscar Isaac - Brian Tyree-Henry - Luna Lauren Velez | Animation - Adventure - Science-Fiction - Action | 140 min https://reelfilmchronicles.com

A man out of time must summon the courage to save the life of a young child while battling humankind's most ancient of enemies: the dinosaur. Also, gross bugs that crawl into bodily orifices while you're sleeping. Though a box office flop, the movie 65 serves as a cinematic curiosity: a sci-fi genre film with a bizzare premise that tackles its subject matter with absolute seriousness. For all of its nonsensical plot points and, frankly, bewildering world- and character-building, 65 remains steadfast and laser-focused on its mission. Though what that mission might have been has likely been forever lost to the cutting room floor. Still, if you're looking for a good time where a space-man fights dinosaurs with his lasergun, then you may have just stumbled upon the masterpiece to end all masterpieces. So listen along as we explore 65, the viability of using paprika as a communication medium, the relative effectiveness of small, blinking lights as a security system, and the potential qualifications for being a long-haul space trucker. The Creator (2023) | directed by: Scott Beck, Bryan Woods | starring: Adam Driver - Ariana Greenblatt | Science Fiction - Adventure - Action | 92 min https://reelfilmchronicles.com * Rated explicit for language.

Since the dawn of civilization, humankind has looked up into the cosmos, and with our hearts and minds overcome by the vastness of eternity, we've silently pondered the ultimate question at the core of our existence: Why are robots so cool? The Creator is our latest attempt to answer this age-old quandary. Helmed by Gareth “Rogue One” Edwards, the film is a special effects showcase made for the big screen, and a rarity in this day and age: a big budget sci-fi blockbuster based on original idea. In a world where human beings and AI are locked in a struggle for existence, and nations wage wars based on ignorance and partisan ideologies with no room for compromise, go and watch The Creator and take a break from all of that nonsense. Instead, watch a bunch of cool human on robot action as everyone learns a valuable lesson about the power of love, and also about the need to blow up orbital weapons platforms that reign down death arbitrarily on the citizens of sovereign nations. Join your intrepid hosts at The Reel Film Chronicles to explore the world of The Creator and discover if this sci-fi dystopia is right for you. The Creator (2023) | directed by: Gareth Edwards | starring: John David Washington - Madeleine Yuna Voyles - Gemma Chan - Allison Janney - Ken Watanabe | Science Fiction - Thriller - Action | 134 min ⁠https://reelfilmchronicles.com

No One Will Save You (2023) | directed by: Brian Duffield | starring: Kaitlyn Dever - Elizabeth Kaluev | Thriller - Horror - Science Fiction | 93 min https://reelfilmchronicles.com

In this universe, there are things known, and there are things unknown, and sometimes bridging that gap just takes a little conversation. Talk To Me is this year's breakout horror hit from Australia (which is totally a thing we expect from the Land Down Under every year), offering a unique take on the ghost story / demon possession genre and creating all kinds of buzz in the horror world. An underdog pack of teens battling supernatural forces: Oh you've seen that before, you say? Well, you're only half wrong. While the setup is as familiar as a beaten up old hockey mask, the execution puts a novel spin on some familiar horror tropes. You thought ghosts and demons were scary enough on their own? Well, Talk To Me takes it up a notch by using them as metaphors to explore such real-life horrors as grief, trauma, peer pressure, self harm, and drug use. So yeah. Scary and depressing. Let us in as we talk to you about Talk To Me, and discuss whether the film scratched that horror itch or made us want to gouge our own eyes out.  Talk to Me (2023) | directed by: Michael Philippou, Danny Philippou | starring: Sophie Wilde - Alexandra Jensen - Joe Bird - Otis Dhanji - Miranda Otto | Thriller - Horror | 95 min https://reelfilmchronicles.com

There's a legend that's spoken of in hushed tones by people of every country and creed, from the dive bars of Los Angeles to the back alleys of Brazil to the neon-lit cityscape of downtown Tokyo. A whisper, carried faintly upon the breeze, of a promise that lies just over the horizon. The legend speaks of a tribe, a family, made up of the unwanted. Misfits. Outcasts. Criminals. This is a family where all are welcome at the table, bound together through the holy communion of Corona and BBQ. A family bound by a simple maxim: Ride or die. A band of kindred souls that dole out second chances as freely and frequently as they switch gears. This is the world of The Fast and The Furious. Fast X is the tenth mainline film of a series that spans two decades and boasts the kind of staying power and legitimacy that only multiple billions of dollars can. Come along for the ride in this high-octane episode as your intrepid hosts put the pedal to the metal and charge full speed ahead into the simultaneously sincere and unhinged world of Fast X. In a series where the protagonists evolved from thieves stealing DVD players to super spies who build and launch a makeshift spaceship in their backyard, true discipleship requires only that you embrace the impossible as improbable, the improbable as possible, and the possible as anything your imagination can conceive. Buckle up; it's going to be a wild ride. Fast X (2023) | directed by: Louis Leterrier | starring: Vin Diesel - Michelle Rodriguez - Tyrese Gibson - Ludacris - John Cena - Jason Momoa | Crime - Action - Thriller | 142 min https://reelfilmchronicles.com

Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water. From the director who brought us Rambo: Last Blood comes a new terrifying vision of aquatic violence known as The Black Demon. Is it a giant shark? A mutant aberration? A zoological holdover from an ancient race of megalodons? An instrument of vengeance sent by the gods to punish humanity for our crimes against nature? An allegory for the consequences of our centuries of environmental mismanagement? The manifestation of one man's guilt as he struggles to find his humanity and a hint of redemption in a cruel, unforgiving world? Who's to say? No really, who? With an eclectic mix of family drama, action, shady corporate politics, violence, esoteric references to '90s sitcoms, and a hint of the supernatural, The Black Demon seems to have a lot to say, and lucky for you, the Reel Film Chronicles is here to make sense of it all. In a topsy, turvy world it's nice to know that there's a podcast out there that makes everything all right. So join your intrepid hosts as they attempt to exorcise The Black Demon in this week's exciting nautical adventure. The Black Demon (2023) | directed by: Adrian Grünberg | starring: Josh Lucas - Fernanda Urrejola - Julio Cedillo - Venus Ariel | Thriller - Horror | 101 min https://reelfilmchronicles.com

It's a me, the Real Film Chronicles review of the Super Mario Bros. Movie! After 40 years and a couple of false starts, Nintendo finally made a successful transition from video games to the silver screen (all due respect to The Wizard and 1993's Super Mario Bros.). With an all-star cast; the full might of the animated film film titan, Illumination; Nintendo's Scrooge-McDuck-esque coffers; and four decades of simmering nostalgia, The Super Mario Bros. Movie seems to have cemented its place in movie history, raking in over a billion dollars during its theatrical run. But does the movie do justice to the timeless tale of two plumbers from Brooklyn transported to a magical realm of princesses, sentient mushrooms, talking apes, and dinosaur despots? Listen in as your intrepid hosts explore the ins and outs of Nintendo's first successful film and maybe also learn a thing or two about the untold film history of your old pals Mario and Luigi. So dust off that Tanookie suit, hop in your go-kart, and take a ride down rainbow road with The Reel Film Chronicles to keep you company. And just remember, the real blue shell is the friends we make along the way. The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023) | directed by: Michael Jelenic, Aaron Horvath | starring: Chris Pratt - Anya Taylor-Joy - Charlie Day - Jack Black - Keegan-Michael Key | Adventure - Comedy - Animation - Video Game | 93 min https://reelfilmchronicles.com

Strap yourself in and prepare for a non-stop, white-knuckle, action-packed thrill ride. And if that doesn't pan out, then you can always unstrap yourself and sit down to watch Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre instead, the perfect movie for a lazy Sunday afternoon. Guy Ritchie's action adventure spy movie runs at a brisk pace quite confidently down the exact middle of the road, moored as much by the obvious fun Ritchie takes in getting to tell his own stories in his own voice as by the script, cast, or action sequences. Elevated by a talented cast, the movie seems as much an excuse for Ritchie and his crew of regular contributors to hang out in exotic locations worldwide and enjoy themselves as much as to actually film a movie. Which, honestly, you can't really get too upset about because any one of us would probably want to do the same thing given the chance. Join your intrepid hosts as they dive into the world of Operation Fortune and the filmography of one of Hollywood's definitely A-List directors.  OPERATION FORTUNE (2023) | dir: Guy Ritchie | Starring: Jason Statham - Aubrey Plaza - Josh Hartnett - Hugh Grant | Comedy - Action - Thriller - Adventure | 114 min Our website: ⁠https://reelfilmchronicles.com⁠ -- Credits -- Opening Music by ⁠Twisterium⁠ from ⁠Pixabay⁠

If there's one constant in the film industry, it's that the only sure way to improve a movie is to add copious amounts of cocaine, either behind or in front of the camera. If any movie proves this, it is certainly Cocaine Bear. Unleashed upon suspecting audiences after an incredibly effective marketing campaign, the bloody, drug-fuelled mayhem of the movie ironically serves as a sort of cinematic palate cleanser, offering a ridiculously fun escape from the drudgery of the real world. Stretching even the most liberal interpretation of the oft-invoked Hollywood mantra of "Based on a true story," Cocaine Bear is refreshing in that it makes no pretense of even trying to portray actual events, sticking mostly to the two things that make this movie such a fun ride: namely, the cocaine and the bear. Directed by the prolific Elizabeth Banks and including a colourful cast of oddball characters, Cocaine Bear is surely the kind of film that you want injected straight into your veins. Join your intrepid hosts as they break down the blood-soaked, drug-induced lunacy of Cocaine Bear. For if not to portray a wild animal out of its mind on cocaine brutally murdering people, then why was the medium of film even invented? COCAINE BEAR (2023) | dir: Elizabeth Banks | Starring: Keri Russell - Brooklynn Prince - Christian Convery | Thriller - Comedy - Crime | 96 min Our website: https://reelfilmchronicles.com -- Credits -- Opening Music by ⁠Twisterium⁠ from ⁠Pixabay⁠

What one podcast can do, another can do!. Welcome to The Edge. You find yourself facing an existential crisis as you try to survive in the wilderness with nothing more than your wits, the clothes on your back, a pocket knife, and your two friends. Cold, wet, and a hundred miles from anywhere remotely resembling civilization, you struggle to scrounge up food and shelter while trying to figure out who among your fellow survivors you can trust and who your wife may or may not be thanking for "all the long nights." On top of this, you must contend with a crazed bear, a 1,500-pound behemoth with a taste for human blood and a flair for the dramatic. But on the bright side, if you make it out of this alive, your current best survival horror story about not being able to hail a cab on the streets of New York that one time will definitely get knocked down to second place. If you think you have the intestinal fortitude to brave the elements, then once you get back, treat yourself by tuning in to the Reel Film Chronicles as we explore the stone-cold1997 masterpiece, The Edge.  THE EDGE (1997) | dir: Lee Tamahori | Starring: Anthony Hopkins - Alec Baldwin - Elle Machperson - Harold Perrineau | action - adventure - drama - survival | 117 min Be sure to check out our site for more reviews and thoughts on films here: Reel Film Chronicles⁠⁠ -- Credits -- Opening Music by ⁠Twisterium⁠ from ⁠Pixabay⁠ Closing Music by Lexin_Music from Pixabay

In the world of the undead, one name reigns supreme and sends a shiver down the spines of all who dare whisper it aloud: Renfield? After 90 years, the Dracula mythology continues to fascinate audiences, and now the cursed manservant of the granddaddy of all vampires is finally getting his due. Putting yet another spin on everyone's favourite bloodsucker, the 2023 movie Renfield focuses on the toxic relationship between a centuries-old vampire and his put-upon right-hand man with a blend of horror, action, and humour all served up by Chris McKay, the visionary director who brought us Lego Batman. Join your intrepid hosts over at the Reel Film Chronicles as we dissect Renfield and the titular character's attempts to exorcise his demons - both literal and metaphorical - amidst a blood-fuelled rampage of undead ghouls, abusive ex-boyfriends, coked-up crime families, corrupt police, and an unhinged Nicholas Cage, in a blend of on-screen insanity that gives Joe Carnahan a run for his money. RENFIELD (2023) | directed by Chris McKay | starring: Nicholas Hoult - Nicolas Cage - Awkwafina - Ben Schwartz | Horror - Fantasy - Comedy | 93 min -- AROUND THE WEB -- Be sure to check out our site for more reviews and thoughts on films here: ⁠⁠The Reel Film Chronicles⁠⁠ Comments? Suggestions? Email them to ReelFilmChronicles@outlook.com, or head over to our ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ page for regular updates! ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Web: ⁠⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Feed the Voices⁠⁠ Letterboxd: ⁠⁠Brian⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Nathan⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠Brian ⁠⁠| ⁠⁠Nathan⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠⁠ -- Credit -- Opening Music by ⁠⁠Twisterium⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠ Closing Music by SoulProdMusic from Pixabay

Throughout history, people have been called upon to make a choice. And now, that burden falls to you. The fate of the world may, for all you know, rely entirely on you listening to this episode as your intrepid hosts venture out into the woods to answer the Knock at the Cabin. The latest film from prolific director M. Night Shyamalan is an anxiety-inducing phycological horror that asks some very poignant, age-old questions about life, the universe, and everything. A family on vacation is subject to an unexpected visit from a group of strangers armed with admittedly pretty rad looking weapons. Before they know what's happening, the family soon finds themselves tied up and forced to talk about their attacker's religious beliefs over the course of twenty-four hours, like the world's most aggressive Jehovah's Witnesses or every Thanksgiving. Claiming they've witnessed signs of a coming apocalypse through some kind of sixth sense, this fearsome foursome put the family's seemingly unbreakable bond to the test. Are these strangers truly the four horsemen of the apocalypse? Or have they experienced some kind of split from reality? So make your choice, and tune in to discover whether Knock at the Cabin is part of your destiny. KNOCK AT THE CABIN (2023) | directed by M. Night Shyamalan | starring: Dave Bautista - Jonathan Groff - Ben Aldridge - Kristen Cui - Nikki Amuka-Bird - Rupert Grint | horror - thriller - mystery | 100 min -- AROUND THE WEB -- Be sure to check out our site for more reviews and thoughts on films here: ⁠⁠The Reel Film Chronicles⁠⁠ Comments? Suggestions? Email them to ReelFilmChronicles@outlook.com, or head over to our ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ page for regular updates! ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Web: ⁠⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Feed the Voices⁠⁠ Letterboxd: ⁠⁠Brian⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Nathan⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠Brian ⁠⁠| ⁠⁠Nathan⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠⁠ -- Credit -- Opening Music by ⁠⁠Twisterium⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠ Closing Music by Defekt_Maschine from Pixabay

Vampires. Brooding creatures of the night that stalk their prey in the shadows. Their ideal habitat: sunny California? Welcome to the world of Day Shift, a tale of working class vampire hunters just trying to make ends meet by brutally murdering and plundering the corpses of another race of sentient beings. Gather up your garlic and the holiest water you can muster as you experience a world where the vampires are perhaps more twisted and evil than ever before as they deal not only in human blood but also in real estate, driving down prices in a vampire gentrification scheme worthy of a Policy Academy movie. Facing down these bloodsucking real estate tycoons are Bud (Jamie Foxx) and an entire underworld of vampire hunters and various associated bureaucrats, with a network and economy so vast it puts the secret assassin's society of John Wick to shame. Join us as we take a bite out of Day Shift and explore the not-so-shadowy world of vampire hunting in the Golden State. DAY SHIFT (2022) | directed by J.J. Perry | starring: Jamie Foxx - Dave Franco - Natasha Liu Bordizzo - Meagan Good - Zion Broadnax - Snoop Dogg | horror - action - fantasy - comedy | 113 min -- AROUND THE WEB -- Be sure to check out our site for more reviews and thoughts on films here: ⁠⁠The Reel Film Chronicles⁠⁠ Comments? Suggestions? Email them to ReelFilmChronicles@outlook.com, or head over to our ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ page for regular updates! ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Web: ⁠⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Feed the Voices⁠⁠ Letterboxd: ⁠⁠Brian⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Nathan⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠Brian ⁠⁠| ⁠⁠Nathan⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠⁠ -- Credit -- Opening Music by ⁠⁠Twisterium⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠ Closing Music by ⁠SoulProdMusic⁠ from ⁠Pixabay

This episode is going to suck... your blood! Join your intrepid hosts in this retrospective of their personal favourite vampire movies. The vampire mythos has captured the hearts and minds of people for centuries for a variety of reasons, spawning countless books and movies and entire subcultures. Maybe it's the dangerous lure of immortality and supernatural powers. Perhaps it's the examination of what it means to be human through counter-example and the moral quandaries of a life in the shadows. Maybe there are just a lot more cape aficionados out there than we realized. Whatever the case may be, tune in to find out the vampire films that really get our blood pumping and revisit some old favorite's and maybe discover a new favourite vampire tale. -- AROUND THE WEB -- Be sure to check out our site for more reviews and thoughts on films here: ⁠⁠The Reel Film Chronicles⁠⁠ Comments? Suggestions? Email them to ReelFilmChronicles@outlook.com, or head over to our ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ page for regular updates! ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Web: ⁠⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Feed the Voices⁠⁠ Letterboxd: ⁠⁠Brian⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Nathan⁠⁠ Twitter: ⁠⁠Brian ⁠⁠| ⁠⁠Nathan⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠⁠ -- Credit -- Opening Music by ⁠⁠Twisterium⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠ Closing Music by SoulProdMusic from Pixabay

Sometimes we all need a little vacation. A little time in the sun. A few drinks. Some good food. Chance encounters with charming strangers. Clandestine hand jobs. Accidental homicides. Drug-fuelled orgies. Human cloning. You know. The usual regimen of rest and relaxation. Welcome to Infinity Pool. Have you ever considered how spending some time getting away from it all you might be inadvertently (or not-so-inadvertently) contributing to the exploitation and appropriation of other cultures and nations? Well, forget about taking another guilt-free vacation ever again, because Infinity Pool takes a scathing look at the battle for one man's soul while also turning an uncomfortably critical eye on the tourism industry. Brought to you by the twisted mind of Brandon Cronenberg, son of David Cronenberg, this is not a movie for the squeamish or the faint of heart. Playing in the same thematic sandbox as his father, Cronenberg II definitively carves out his own cinematic territory with his third film. Would a consequence-free world to be an opportunity to explore the boundaries of pleasure and pain and dance upon that thin line between ecstasy and depravity or would it create a moral hellscape, a perpetual state of perdition from which there is no salvation, from forces either internal or external? Join your intrepid hosts and dip your toes into the Infinity Pool to explore a veritable tsunami of moral, philosophical, and existential quandaries that will no doubt seep into the deepest, darkest regions of your mind. Just make sure not to eat anything for at least a half an hour before listening to this episode. INFINITY POOL (2023) | directed by Brandon Cronenberg | starring: Alexander Skarsgard - Mia Goth - Cleopatra Coleman - Jalil Lespert | horror - science-fiction - thriller | 118 min -- AROUND THE WEB -- Be sure to check out our site for more reviews and thoughts on films here: ⁠The Reel Film Chronicles⁠ Comments? Suggestions? Email them to ReelFilmChronicles@outlook.com, or head over to our ⁠Facebook⁠ page for regular updates! ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ Web: ⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠ | ⁠Feed the Voices⁠ Letterboxd: ⁠Brian⁠ | ⁠Nathan⁠ Twitter: ⁠Brian ⁠| ⁠Nathan⁠ | ⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠ -- Credit -- Opening Music by ⁠Twisterium⁠ from ⁠Pixabay⁠ Closing Music by Defekt_Maschine from Pixabay

Tendrils of fog spread across the landscape. A lone hunter emerges from the darkness, weapon drenched in blood, eyes gleaming in the moonlight. The destiny of a thousand generations has culminated in this single moment. Only one question remains: Will you be predator, or prey? In this episode, we take a deep dive into Prey, the latest movie in the Predator film series. Once again, or maybe for the first time depending on your point of view, a member of a technologically advanced alien race that seemingly consists entirely of trophy hunting jerks comes to Earth to stalk his prey. In a much-needed departure for the series, we find ourselves going the prequel route with this particular predator wreaking havoc in Eighteenth Century North America and facing off against Naru, a young Comanche warrior. Whether you're a long-time fan of the Predator series looking forward to how the filmmakers will weave in fan favourite lines like "If it bleeds, we can kill it," or just starting your journey into the exciting world of murderous, half-invisible aliens, tune in to find out whether this update on a familiar formula is worth adding to your watchlist.  PREY (2022) | directed by Dan Trachtenberg | starring: Amber Midthunder - Dakota Beavers - Michelle Thrush - Stormee Kipp | thriller - science-fiction - action | 100 min -- AROUND THE WEB -- Be sure to check out our site for more reviews and thoughts on films here: ⁠The Reel Film Chronicles⁠ Comments? Suggestions? Email them to ReelFilmChronicles@outlook.com, or head over to our ⁠Facebook⁠ page for regular updates! ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ Web: ⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠ | ⁠Feed the Voices⁠ Letterboxd: ⁠Brian⁠ | ⁠Nathan⁠ Twitter: ⁠Brian ⁠| ⁠Nathan⁠ | ⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠ -- Credit -- Opening Music by ⁠Twisterium⁠ from ⁠Pixabay⁠

Every year, there is an event in the film industry so momentous that throngs of people gather from every corner of the globe, hanging on every word as though bestowed upon them by a mighty prophet bringing tidings of wisdom and insight on a scale previously unheard of. That's right, it's time for The Reel Film Chronicles yearly top 10 episode. Join your intrepid hosts as they reminisce and wax philosophical about their favourite movies of 2022. Better than the Oscars, the Golden Globes, and the BAFTAs combined, this countdown of films that made an impact on us from the last (calendar) year covers the gamut from low-budget indie films to intestine-rattling blockbusters. Using our patented and scientifically proven method to assess movies, we break down exactly why these motion pictures touched our hearts and our minds and places in between. So listen in to find out what all the kids are talking about, and maybe discover some new favourite movies along the way -- CHAPTERS --  0:00 - Introduction & Overview 3:38 - 5: Dual (Nathan) 6:23 - 5: Spiderhead (Brian) 8:07 - 4: Halloween Ends (Nathan) 10:43 - 4: Morbius (Brian) 13:58 - 3: Jurassic World Dominion (Nathan) 18:37 - 3: Gold (Brian) 21:56 - 2: Moonfall (Nathan) 25:31 - 2: Dark Glasses (Brian) 28:16 - 1 :Interceptor (Nathan) 32:20 - 1: The Cellar (Brian) 34:34 - Honorable Mentions -- AROUND THE WEB -- Be sure to check out our site for more reviews and thoughts on films here: ⁠The Reel Film Chronicles⁠ Comments? Suggestions? Email them to ReelFilmChronicles@outlook.com, or head over to our ⁠Facebook⁠ page for regular updates! ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ Web: ⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠ | ⁠Feed the Voices⁠ Letterboxd: ⁠Brian⁠ | ⁠Nathan⁠ Twitter: ⁠Brian ⁠| ⁠Nathan⁠ | ⁠Reel Film Chronicles⁠ -- Credit -- Opening Music by ⁠Twisterium⁠ from ⁠Pixabay⁠ Closing Music by Hot_Music from Pixabay

Every year, there is an event in the film industry so momentous that throngs of people gather from every corner of the globe, hanging on every word as though bestowed upon them by a mighty prophet bringing tidings of wisdom and insight on a scale previously unheard of. That's right, it's time for The Reel Film Chronicles yearly top 10 episode. Join your intrepid hosts as they reminisce and wax philosophical about their favourite movies of 2022. Better than the Oscars, the Golden Globes, and the BAFTAs combined, this countdown of films that made an impact on us from the last (calendar) year covers the gamut from low-budget indie films to intestine-rattling blockbusters. Using our patented and scientifically proven method to assess movies, we break down exactly why these motion pictures touched our hearts and our minds and places in between. So listen in to find out what all the kids are talking about, and maybe discover some new favourite movies along the way -- CHAPTERS --  00:00:00 Introduction & Criteria 00:04:04 Honorable Mentions 00:12:23 Movie Count 00:15:04 10 - Avatar The Way of Water (Nathan) 00:16:19 10 - Night of the Coconut (Brian) 00:20:22 9 - Something in the Dirt (Nathan) 00:23:51 9 - Avatar the Way of Water (Brian) 00:26:30 8 - Top Gun Maverick (Nathan) 00:30:03 8 - The Batman (Brian) 00:32:44 7 - The Banshees of Inisherin (Nathan) 00:34:54 7 - The Fabelmans (Brian) 00:37:07 6 - Men (Nathan) 00:41:09 6 - Top Gun Maverick (Brian) 00:45:46 5 - Nope (Nathan) 00:50:17 5 - Glass Onion (Brian) 00:54:27 4 - Deadstream (Nathan) 00:58:59 4 - RRR (Brian) 01:01:29 3 - RRR (Nathan) 01:04:30 3 - Everything Everywhere All at Once (Brian) 01:07:07 2 - Crimes of the Future (Nathan) 01:12:23 2 - Nope (Brian) 01:17:14        1 - Everything Everywhere all at Once (Nathan) 01:21:07 1 - The Banshees of Inisherin (Brian) 01:26:31 Closing Remarks -- AROUND THE WEB -- Be sure to check out our site for more reviews and thoughts on films here: The Reel Film Chronicles Comments? Suggestions? Email them to ReelFilmChronicles@outlook.com, or head over to our Facebook page for regular updates! Facebook | Instagram Web: Reel Film Chronicles | Feed the Voices Letterboxd: Brian | Nathan Twitter: Brian | Nathan | Reel Film Chronicles -- Credit -- Opening Music by Twisterium from Pixabay Closing Music by Hot_Music from Pixabay

Tie up your donkey and come on down to the pub to grab a pint with the Reel Film Chronicles as we discuss the The Banshees of Inisherin. Set on the... let's call them "sunny" shores of a remote Irish island in the early 1920s, Banshees follows the aftermath of the fallout between two longtime friends. This deteriorating friendship sets into motion a darkly comedic series of events involving beatings, destruction of property, and unnecessary amputations. Brendan Gleeson and Colin Farrell reunite with writer/director Martin McDonagh for another tragicomic outing, fulfilling the destinies foretold by the Fates after the success of In Bruges back in the mist-shrouded days of yore in the ancient past of 2008. Can the trio recapture the magic they first conjured up 14 years ago? Listen in to find out if Banshees of Inisherin was blessed with the luck of the Irish or if its demise was presaged as though by the mythical creature from whence the film takes its very name. THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN (2022) | directed by Martin McDonagh | starring: Colin Farrell - Brendan Gleeson - Kerry Condon - Barry Keoghan | drama - comedy | 114 min -- AROUND THE WEB -- Be sure to check out our site for more reviews and thoughts on films here: The Reel Film Chronicles Comments? Suggestions? Email them to ReelFilmChronicles@outlook.com, or head over to our Facebook page for regular updates! Facebook | Instagram Web: Reel Film Chronicles | Feed the Voices Letterboxd: Brian | Nathan Twitter: Brian | Nathan | Reel Film Chronicles -- Credit -- Opening Music by Twisterium from Pixabay Closing Music by Zakhar Valaha from Pixabay

Do you enjoy deconstructing hierarchies of sexual, political, and artistic power within our society? Have you ever depicted stunning imagery blurring the lines between pleasure and pain? Have you ever found yourself described as "body horror?" Do you find yourself consistently having to work on a very tight budget, often with support from Telefilm Canada? Have you ever had to have your violence toned down by some kind of ratings board? Well then, you might be a David Cronenberg film. One of Canada's favourite sons is back with his latest and greatest, Crimes of the Future. Fully encapsulating all phases of his earlier work, Cronenberg's newest endeavour is as much an ode to his own repertoire as it is a movie in its own right. Set in a dystopic future where humanity is forced to face - or deny - the next stage in our evolution, Crimes of the Future dares to ask questions about how future generations will adapt to an environment increasingly darkened by the shadow of the byproducts of our industrialized society. It also asks questions about the artistic relevance of a mutant man covered in human ears and many other pressing social and political issues. Crimes of the Future has all of the hallmarks of a David Cronenberg joint, but does it stack up to his earlier work? And if it does, is Cronenberg even your particular cup of tea? Listen in to the latest episode of the Reel Film Chronicles as we dissect Crimes of the Future, and decide whether you've found your next hidden gem you won't shut up about to family and friends or you'd rather sit in a bathroom eating a garbage can before being suffocated by your own mother. Either way, welcome to the wonderful world of David Cronenberg. CRIMES OF THE FUTURE (2022) | directed by David Cronenberg | starring: Viggo Mortensen - Lea Seydoux - Scott Speedman - Kristen Stewart | horror - drama - sci-fi | 107 min -- CHAPTERS -- 00:00 - Introduction, Overview and Cronenberg 12:04 - Feature Film Discussion 56:12 - Ratings 59:42 - Final Thoughts and Closing -- AROUND THE WEB -- Be sure to check out our site for more reviews and thoughts on films here: The Reel Film Chronicles Comments? Suggestions? Email them to ReelFilmChronicles@outlook.com, or head over to our Facebook page for regular updates! Facebook | Instagram Web: Reel Film Chronicles | Feed the Voices Letterboxd: Brian | Nathan Twitter: Brian | Nathan | Reel Film Chronicles -- Credit -- Opening Music by Twisterium from Pixabay Closing Music by Lexin_Music from Pixabay

There are few things as scary as the certainty that so often accompanies our most deeply held beliefs. Well, that and spiders. But mostly humanity's unfailing confidence in our own most fallacious viewpoints. What does this have to do with Jordan Peele's latest feature-length film, Nope, you may ask? Well, you devilishly handsome / dazzling beautiful, incredibly perceptive, mysterious, definitely-not-imaginary stranger I didn't just invent for rhetorical purposes, I'm glad you asked. Like his previous two movies, Peele's latest offering is a horror movie that explores a plethora of current social issues while at the same time scaring the pants and/or skirts off of audiences. Tackling everything from the more exploitative aspects of the entertainment industry to the struggle against the erasure of black history, Nope offers intelligent social commentary along with its fair share of thrills, spills, and kills, drawing on a broad array of influences, from Akira to Jurassic Park. Join your intrepid hosts as we explore Jordan Peele's latest entry into the horror pantheon and discover whether he manages to entertain and inspire or whether you should indeed follow the advice of the movie's title. So grab your cowboy hats and your latest copy of MAD Magazine, and join the Reel Film Chronicles as we take a deep dive on Nope. (No chimps allowed.) NOPE (2022) | directed by Jordan Peele | starring: Daniel Kaluuya - Keke Palmer - Brandon Perea - Steven Yeun - Michael Wincott | thriller - sci-fi - horror | 130 min -- AROUND THE WEB -- Be sure to check out our site for more reviews and thoughts on films here: The Reel Film Chronicles Comments? Suggestions? Email them to ReelFilmChronicles@outlook.com, or head over to our Facebook page for regular updates! Facebook | Instagram Web: Reel Film Chronicles | Feed the Voices Letterboxd: Brian | Nathan Twitter: Brian | Nathan | Reel Film Chronicles -- Credit -- Opening Music by Twisterium from Pixabay Closing Music by scaperlee from Pixabay

In the future, historians will look at human history as two distinct epochs: the time before RRR and the time after RRR. A true epic in every sense of the word, RRR took the world by storm in 2022, effectively acting as a gauntlet thrown down by Tollywood that dared everyone else to try and top them. Full to the brim with action sequences that will surprise even the most jaded moviegoer and (melo)drama to spare, RRR is the full package. Whether you're looking for action; adventure; romance; bromance; throwing a leopard at the head of a bitter enemy; or epic dance competitions, RRR has got you covered. Join your intrepid hosts as they dive into one of 2022's worst-kept secrets and prepare to Rise, Roar, and Revolt as audiences have done worldwide. RRR (2022) | directed by S. S. Rajamouli | starring: N. T. Rama Rao Jr. - Ram Charan - Alia Bhatt - Ajay Devgn - Ray Stevenson | action - drama | 187 min -- AROUND THE WEB -- Be sure to check out our site for more reviews and thoughts on films here: The Reel Film Chronicles Comments? Suggestions? Email them to ReelFilmChronicles@outlook.com, or head over to our Facebook page for regular updates! Facebook | Instagram Web: Reel Film Chronicles | Feed the Voices Letterboxd: Brian | Nathan Twitter: Brian | Nathan | Reel Film Chronicles -- Credit -- Opening Music by Twisterium from Pixabay Closing Music by Lexin_Music from Pixabay

The future is now, and it is blue. Return to Pandora with Avatar: The Way of Water, a vibrant, fully realized alien world populated by sexy, blue cat people who will make you feel things you didn't know were possible. After thirteen years, James Cameron is back with the sequel to his incredibly popular movie Avatar in a bid to unseat Marvel and Star Wars from their thrones as the monarchs of modern blockbuster films. What the film lacks in subtlety it makes up for in spectacle. Bear witness as Cameron and his team of technical wizards take us to the edge of photorealism, creating a world so visually stunning that it wouldn't be surprising to learn they had actually filmed real aliens on a distant planet. Armed with thirteen years of technological advancements, Avatar: The Way of Water boasts a runtime of more than three hours, so CGI action is your cup of tea, prepare yourself for a really big cup. Join Jake Sully, Neytiri, their children, and the rest of Na'vi as they continue to fight against the human colonizers in their ongoing battle to hammer home the movie's anit-imperialist, pro-environmental themes, which are as important as they are obvious. So join us as we dive in (pun intended) to the next chapter in James Cameron's sci-fi epic that takes audiences deep below the surface of Pandora's oceans and discover whether you'd like to test the waters for yourself. One episode ends, another begins. AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER (2022) | directed by James Cameron | starring: Sam Worthington - Zoe Saldana - Sigourney Weaver - Stephen Lang - Kate Winslet | science-fiction - action - adventure | 192 min -- AROUND THE WEB -- Be sure to check out our site for more reviews and thoughts on films here: The Reel Film Chronicles Comments? Suggestions? Email them to ReelFilmChronicles@outlook.com, or head over to our Facebook page for regular updates! Facebook | Instagram Web: Reel Film Chronicles | Feed the Voices Letterboxd: Brian | Nathan Twitter: Brian | Nathan | Reel Film Chronicles -- Credit -- Opening Music by Twisterium from Pixabay

In this episode, your intrepid hosts dive into The Fabelmans, Steven Spielberg's loving, personal tribute to Steven Spielberg. A semi-autobiographical journey back to the 1950s and 60s, The Fabelmans follows young Sammy Spielberg Fabelman and his family as he discovers his true calling as a maker of films. As the power of cinema compels him, Sammy hones both his technical skill and artistic expression as he grows into an amateur writer/director/editor/savant as he and his family face their own personal and collective trials and tribulations. So join us as we explore the latest movie from one of the greatest directors of all time and discover the magic of cinema all over again, if that's what you're into. Just make sure to keep your eye on that horizon. THE FABELMANS (2022) | directed by Steven Spielberg | starring: Gabriel LaBelle - Michelle Williams - Paul Dano - Seth Rogen | drama | 151 min -- AROUND THE WEB -- Be sure to check out our site for more reviews and thoughts on films here: The Reel Film Chronicles Comments? Suggestions? Email them to ReelFilmChronicles@outlook.com, or head over to our Facebook page for regular updates! Facebook | Instagram Web: Reel Film Chronicles | Feed the Voices Letterboxd: Brian | Nathan Twitter: Brian | Nathan | Reel Film Chronicles -- Credit -- Opening Music by Twisterium from Pixabay