Two moderately qualified professionals and friends discuss their favorite films, facts, opinions and personal anecdotes themed around a niche genre each week. Join BFFs (“Best Film Friends”) Emily and Madison for their bi-weekly virtual movie club. Watch
Madison Zimmerman & Emily Steidl
The Reel Friends: A Movie Podcast is an absolute gem that I stumbled upon and am so glad I did. From the very first episode, Emily and Madison exude infectious energy that draws you in and keeps you engaged throughout. Their chemistry is undeniable, making it feel like you're eavesdropping on a conversation between two best friends who just happen to be incredibly knowledgeable about movies. It's impressive how effortlessly they discuss a wide range of films, from classics to new releases, with such humor and insight.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is the level of expertise and knowledge that Emily and Madison bring to each episode. They have clearly done their research and have a genuine love for cinema, which shines through in their discussions. Whether they're dissecting the symbolism in independent films or gushing over blockbuster hits, their insights are always thoughtful and thought-provoking. Additionally, their ability to seamlessly blend humor into their analysis makes for an entertaining listening experience.
The sound quality of The Reel Friends podcast is top-notch, which is surprising for a new show. It feels polished and professional, enhancing the overall enjoyment of each episode. It's refreshing to listen to hosts who not only know what they're talking about but also present it in a way that feels fresh and exciting. The variety of topics covered also adds another layer of appeal to this podcast, as you never know what cinematic gem they'll explore next.
While it's difficult to find any major flaws with The Reel Friends: A Movie Podcast, one minor aspect that could be improved upon is the structure of the episodes. Sometimes it feels like they jump from topic to topic without much transition or organization. This can make it slightly challenging to follow along if you're not already familiar with the movies being discussed. However, this is a minor critique that doesn't take away from the overall enjoyment of the podcast.
In conclusion, The Reel Friends: A Movie Podcast is a standout show that deserves a spot in everyone's playlist. Emily and Madison bring their infectious energy, expertise, and humor to every episode, creating a captivating listening experience. Whether you're a film aficionado or just love casual movie discussions, this podcast will entertain and enlighten you in equal measure. I can't wait to hear what they have in store for future episodes!
In episode 63 of Reel Friends, Madison & Emily recap their divisive 2024 movie experiences with their favorite and least favorite films of the year. To recap: Emilia Perez was on Arrakis with my mom when she was researching spiders right before she died. Join us next episode for Interview with a Vampire & Other Serious Actors Having a Very Silly Time.
In episode 62 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison chat ‘Pan's Labyrinth' & other stories about kids that... aren't really for kids. Join them as they fawn (wink) over Guillermo Del Toro, review the film's fairy tale origin, and rage about Ophelia risking everything for a grape.
Emily and Madison are back with a special Short Reel with their picks for the 96th Annual Academy Awards, aka their favorite day of the year. Join them as they choose what they think WILL win and what SHOULD win in this year's top categories *whispers* and why they don't care about 'Oppenheimer'. HAPPY VOTING, REEL FRIENDS!
In episode 60 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison talk about movies that keep them up at night, starting with the 2014 film ‘It Follows'. Join them as they chat about the the film's heavy 80s references, discuss the ‘Lost in Translation' influence, and how they would attempt to defeat “It." Plus, join us next episode for ‘Pan's Labyrinth' & Other Stories About Kids that Aren't Really for Kids.
In episode 59 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison are pullin' up to the town of Bedrock with 'The Flinstones' & Other Flawless Executions of Production Design. Join them as they chat about the movie's hilarious use of props, their favorite examples of great production design, and their deep affection for Rick Moranis. Plus, join us next episode for 'It Follow' & Other Endings That Keep Us Up At Night.
In episode 58 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison are chatting AI romance and villains with 2013's 'Her'. Join them as they chat about the movie's relevance to the SAG strikes, discuss the 'Lost in Translation' influence, and unpack Samantha and Theodore's unconventional romance. Plus, join us next week for 'The Flinstones' & Other Flawless Executions of Production Design.
In episode 57 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison trek into Tarantino territory with 'Inglorious Basterds'. Join them as they unpack the film's use of language as a narrative tool, chat about one of cinema's best villains, and definitely do not* play a round of FMK because that would be inappropriate. Plus, join us next episode for 'Her' & Other Unique Takes on AI. *they do
In episode 56 of Reel Friends, Emily and Madison are unpacking the manic pixie dream girl with 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind'. Join them as they give the breakdown of how to spot the character trope, decide whether Clementine adheres to the definition, and why this film stands the test of time regardless. Plus, join us next episode for 'Inglorious Bastards' and other films that rewrote history.
In episode 55 of Reel Friends, Emily and Madison dive into their favorite relatable wedding comedies with 'My Big Fat Greek Wedding.' Join them as they chat about chaotic marital gatherings, why they think this movie stands the test of time, and hear Emily ask Madison a big question at the end of the episode. Plus, join us next time for 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind' & Other Manic Pixie Dream Girls.
Still need to fill out your ballot for Oscar Sunday? We gotchu. Emily and Madison are back with a special Short Reel with their picks for the 95th Annual Academy Awards, aka their favorite day of the year. Join them as they choose what they think WILL win and what SHOULD win in this year's top categories. HAPPY VOTING, REEL FRIENDS!
In episode 53 of Reel Friends, Emily and Madison are embracing the hooky vibes to chat about 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off' & other 4th wall breaks. Join them as they absolutely roast Ferris, name the real hero of the film, and chat about their complicated thoughts on John Hughes. Plus, join us next episode for a 2023 Oscar breakdown.
Set sail with Madison & Emily as they discuss the cinematic masterpiece 'Titanic' and settle a feud with "Movies We Agree On". They're joined by Reel Friends Krystal and Kelsey to unpack why this movie will stand the text of time, fondly recall Leo-mania, and give their thoughts on the ~the door~.
In the Season 3 premiere of Reel Friends, Madison & Emily traverse the cinematic multiverse of 2022 with their favorite and least favorite films of the year. They laugh, they cry, and they praise Jamie Lee Curtis. Plus, join us next week for Titanic & Other Movies We Agree On.
On episode 50 and the Season 2 Finale of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison are joined but LIGHT THE FUSE Podcast Hosts Charles & Drew to the one, the only, Mr. Tom Cruise. Join them as they delve into Cruise's expansive career, what makes him one of the singular entertainers of our time, and hear Emily choose chaos by selecting 'Rock of Ages' as her favorite of his films. “Light the Fuse” is a weekly podcast about MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE. We interview people who worked on the franchise, including Oscar-winning directors, writers, cinematographers, composers, and editors. Follow them @lightthefusepod
In episode 49 of Reel Friends, Madison & Emily are feeling the rhythm with 'The Emperor's New Groove' & Other Underrated Animated Films. Join them as they proclaim Yzma Disney's funniest villain and how this film kicked of Disney's "post-renaissance" era with an underrated bang. Plus, join us next week for a special season finale joined by LIGHT THE FUSE.
In episode 48 of Reel Friends, Madison & Emily are finally fulfilling their life long dream of hosting a fishing podcast chatting 'Big Fish' & Other Films Based in Folklore. Join them as they dive behind the scenes of this fantastical film, chat casting & visual storytelling, and ask hard hitting questions like "Is Edward Bloom a creep?". Plus join us next week for 'The Emperor's New Groove' & Other Underrated Animated Films.
In episode 47 of Reel Friends, Madison & Emily are hunting for fact over fiction with 'Catch Me If You Can' & Other Amazing Films Inspired By True Stories. Join them as they unpack all the ways Spielberg dramatized the film and how Frank Abagnale Jr. differs from his onscreen counterpart (spoilers, he's way worse). Plus, join us next week for 'Big Fish' & Other Films Based in Folklore.
In episode 46 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison are revisiting their teen years and discussing the best of high school romances with '10 Things I Hate About You'. Join them and unpack why the reimagined version of 'Taming of the Shew' holds up better than the original, the genius of Letters to Cleo, and the fact that Joey Donner is now a cult leader (?!). Plus, join us next week for 'Catch Me if You Can' & Other Amazing Films Inspired by True Stories.
In episode 45 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison are riding a sugar high discussing 'Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory' & Other Questionable Adult Role Models. Join them as they unpack Roald Dahl's dislike of the film, Gene Wilder's improvisation on set, and yes, Grandpa Joe. Plus, join us next week for '10 Things I Hate About You' & The Best of High School Romances.
Reel Friends' 3rd Short Reel is not so short, but we've seen things stranger that this. Join Madison & Emily as that they dive into 'Stranger Things Season 4 Vol. 2' like Steve dove through Watergate discussing their favorite theories (thanks, TikTok!) and unanswered questions: What song will save Nancy from Vecna's curse? What is Will painting? Will Steve turn into an Upside Down vampire and seek his romantic revenge? The options are endless for this Friday's Vol. 2 release, so get Dustin's Thinking Cap on and solidify your theories before watching!
In episode 43 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison are all about spoilers and talking 'Arrival' & Other Plot Twists We Didn't See Coming. Join them as they dive into the films complicated screenplay, define what Denis Villaneuve calls "dirty sci-fi", and unpack all their favorite cinematic twists. Plus, join us next week for 'Willie Wonka & The Chocolate Factory' & Other Questionable Adult Role Models.
In episode 42 of Reel Friends, Madison & Emily are returning to their roots to chat 'Citizen Kane' & Other Movies Film Students Won't Shut Up About. Join them as they talk through the staples of cinema education, hear an excerpt from Emily's 'Citizen Kane' thesis paper, and of course, get into the "Rosebud" of is all. Plus, join us next week for 'Arrival' & Other Plot Twists I We Didn't See Coming.
On episode 41 of Reel Friends, Madison & Emily join Armand of Cinedicate Film & TV Podcast for his Art House season to discuss Robert Eggers 2015 horror film, 'The Witch'.
In episode 40 of Reel Friends, Madison and Emily are stress-chatting 'Whiplash' & Other Scene-Stealing Supporting Roles. Join them as they discuss J.K. Simmons show-stopping (and terrifying) performance, unpack the film's complicated character dynamics, and ponder the ultimate question: did Fletcher get his Charlie Parker? Plus, join us next episode for 'Citizen Kane' & Other Movies Film Students Won't Shut Up About.
On a special collaboration episode, Madison & Emily join Elle, George & Dean with Three Tickets to Podcast to talk about 'Dumb & Dumber'.
In episode 38 of Reel Friends, Emily and Madison are back with "The Great Debate" where they sit down and hash out their movie differences. This week, they're joined by Reel Friends Krystal & Kelsey to help debate 'Avatar'; join them as they discuss the goods and bads of papyrus, Unobtanium and the film's infamous dialogue. Warning, friendships are both forged and destroyed on the battleground of 'Avatar'.
In episode 37 of Reel Friends, Madison & Emily are discussing 'What We Do In The Shadows' & other career launching projects. Join them as they unpack the genius of Taika Waititi, the movie's massive 180 page script, and which pop-culture vampire each of the main characters are based on. Plus, join us next week for 'Avatar' & other movies we disagree on (part 2!).
Still need to fill out your ballot for Oscar Sunday? FEAR NOT! Emily and Madison are here with a special Short Reel with their picks for the 94th Annual Academy Awards, aka their favorite day of the year. Join them as they choose what they think WILL win and what SHOULD win in this year's top 10 categories, voice their anger over some key snubs, and what could be some possible upsets. Join us Sunday for live, unsolicited coverage of the awards on Instagram! HAPPY VOTING, REEL FRIENDS!
In episode 35 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison are walkin' down the lane with a happy refrain discussing 'Singin' In the Rain' & Other Movies to watching for a pick-me-up. Join them as they unpack the lore of Gene Kelly's less than sunny onset energy, their favorite musical numbers (spoiler, it's not Singin' in the Rain) and reveal the famous actor who comforted Debbie Reynolds during an especially hard dance number. Plus, join us next episode for 'What We Do in the Shadows' & Other Career Launching Projects.
In episode 34 of Reel Friends, Madison & Emily are packing a punch with 'Kill Bill Vol. 1' & Other Fierce Female Revenge Stories. Join them as they detail the origins of 'Kill Bill', discuss their favorite Tarantino films, and speculate over the illusive 'Kill Bill Vol. 3' (GIVE IT TO US, QUENTIN). Join us next week for 'Singin' In The Rain' & Other Movies to Watch For a Pick Me Up.
In episode 33 of Reel Friends, Madison & Emily run like the wind blows into 'Forrest Gump' & Other Movies That Can Never Be Remade. Join them as they unpack the art of a successful remake, why Forrest Gump was made by the perfect people at the perfect time, and share their unpopular opinion on Forrest & Jenny. Plus, join us next week for 'Kill Bill: Vol. 1' & Other Fierce Female Revenge Films.
In episode 32 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison stick it to the man with 'School of Rock' & Other Talented Youth Ensembles. Join them as they talk about the movies rock influences, the plea Jack Black made to Led Zeppelin for song rights, and mostly just quote the movie. Join us next episode for 'Forrest Gump' & Other Movies That Can Never Be Remade.
In episode 31 of Reel Friends, Madison & Emily have a sighting with 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' & Other Extraterrestrials in Cinema. Join them as they dive into the history of aliens in cinema, define what exactly it mean to have an encounter of the third kind, and rage over Roy abandoning his family for a space adventure. Plus, join us next episode for 'School of Rock' & Other Talented Youth Ensembles!
Introducing... Short Reels! Up first, Emily and Madison unpack the newly released Scream (2022) reboot. They came, they saw, they... were underwhelmed. Join them as they talk through the pros and cons of this new addition to the franchise, their thoughts on the killer reveal, and why Wes Craven's presence was sorely missed. Be warned: massive spoilers that will hit ya like a stab in the gut.Listen to Reel Friends' 'Scream (1-4) Deep Dive' on Episode 24!Graphic Design: Katie Steidl
In episode 29 of Reel Friends, Madison & Emily review the cinematic rollercoaster that was 2021. Join them as they name their top 5 movies of the year (spoiler alert, they both sneak in 6), choose the years standout performers (we're looking at you, Andrew, Zendaya & Timmy) and make their early guesses for what will win big at the 2022 Academy Awards. Thanks to all our Reel Friends for joining us this year! Catch us every other week with new episodes in 2022, starting next episode with 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind & Other Extraterrestrials in Cinema'.
In episode 28 of Reel Friends, grab your ski poles and hop on a train to beautiful snowy Vermont with Emily & Madison as they cover 'White Christmas' & Other Bygone Holiday Classics. Join them as they discuss crazy age differences in the cast, the importance of classic films to their families, and why Vera-Ellen's legs and dancing skills are absolute goals. We're taking a break next week to spend time with our families, so our next episode will drop on Monday 1/3. Happy Holidays to all our Reel Friends!
In episode 27 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison cuddle up with some hot cocoa (lol, who are we kidding, it was wine) to discuss The Family Stone & Other Dysfunctional Holiday Gatherings. Join them as they discuss the lovable but cringy holiday film, unpack challenging family dynamics, and praise whoever is designing Diane Keaton's cinematic wardrobe. Join us next week for the final chapter of our holiday series with White Christmas & Other Bygone Holiday Classics.
Kicking off Season 2 of Reel Friends, Madison & Emily gather for the holidays to discuss How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) & Other Yuletide Fever Dreams. Listen in as they process how bizarre the vast majority of all holiday movies are, the genius that is Jim Carrey, and admire Ron Howard for giving a Why to the Who's What. Plus, join us next week for part 2 of our holiday chapter with The Family Stone & Other Dysfunctional Holiday Gatherings.
On a special Halloween episode and the season finale of Reel Friends, Madison & Emily are joined by Allison & Melissa Villaseñor to discuss the cinematic masterpiece, 'Hocus Pocus.' Join them as they giggle (a lot) over the film's funniest moments, express their love for Billy Butcherson, and discuss their favorite past Halloween costumes. Catch us for season 2 in December!
In episode 24 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison call you on the phone and ask, "What's your favorite scary movie?" Join them in this 'Scream' Deep Dive as they discuss all four films in the franchise, their favorite & least favorite deaths, and which Ghost Face reigns supreme. Plus, join us next week with very special guests Allison & Melissa Villaseñor, where we'll put a spell on you as we talk all things 'Hocus Pocus.'
In episode 23 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison walk very leisurely into 'Halloween' (2018) & Other Horror Reboots. Join them as they discuss their favorite and least favorite reboots, determine who the original Scream Queen is, and why Michael Meyers & Laurie Strode stand the test of time. Plus, join us next week for a special 'Scream' Deep Dive.
In episode 22 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison gather around the cauldron with 'Practical Magic' & Other Witchy Movies That Encourage Female Unification. Join them as they discuss the film's unique depiction of witchcraft, the beauty of female friendship, and their other favorite fictional witches. Plus, join us next week for 'Halloween' (2018) & Other Horror Reboots.
In episode 21 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison stroll around Central Park with 'When Harry Met Sally' & Other Realistic Romantic Comedies. Join them as they discuss the film origins, admire the dynamic artistic partnership of Rob Reiner & Nora Ephron, and answer the age-old question: can men and women just be friends? Plus, join us next week for the start of spoOoOky season with 'Practical Magic' & Other Witchy Movies That Inspire Female Unification.
In this special episode, Madison & Emily are joined by Reel Friend Peter Lee to take a look back at episodes 1-19. Listen in as they discuss what movies they missed within each genre, their favorite moments, settle some hot debates, and a few important corrections. Plus, join us next week for 'When Harry Met Sally' & Other Realistic Romantic Comedies.
In episode 19 of Reel Friends, Madison & Emily venture to Mordor to watch the entire 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy in an epic quest to attempt to cure their hangovers. Join them as they discuss other great hangover movies, who the true heroes are in the film, and what they think Legolas's sweat smells like*. Plus, buckle up and join us next week for a very special episode: 'Reel Friends Retrospective' featuring Peter Lee. *Fair warning, your hosts are in rare form this episode. While burps and other nonsense are usually edited out, they were deemed necessary include in order to depict Madison & Emily's current state of being for this week's genre.
In episode 18 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison discuss the 2003 movie 'Holes' & other great book-to-screen adaptations. Join them as they discuss other great movies that have met the adaptation mark, some that failed to live up to their literary predecessors, and dig up their favorite moments in 'Holes'. Plus, join us next week for 'Lord of the Ring' & Other Movies to Watch Hungover.
In episode 17 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison hit the high seas with 'Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl' & Other Cinematic Theme Park Rides. Join them as they discuss their favorite rides, pitch their own movies based on existing Disneyland attractions, and attempt their most rugged pirate accents. Plus, join us next week for 'Holes' & Other Great Book to Screen Adaptations.
In episode 16 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison relive the day on repeat as they discuss 'Edge of Tomorrow' & Other Movies with Solid Time Loops. Join them as they discuss potential plot holes, why Rita is the real hero of the film, and what they would do with infinite time on their hands. Plus, join in next week for 'Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl' & Other Cinematic Theme Park Rides
In episode 15 of Reel Friends, Emily & Madison travel to Boston to ask one question: who's the real rat? Join them as they discuss 2006's 'The Departed' & Other Dynamic Actor/Director Duos, review some of the film's almost castings, and unpack all the clues Martin Scorcese leaves for characters' impending deaths. Plus, join us next week for Edge of Tomorrow & Other Solid Time Loops.
In episode 14, Emily & Madison jump aboard the Cat Bus to discuss 1988's 'My Neighbor Totoro' & Other Fantastic Miyazaki Movies. Join them as they review the film's realistic depiction of childhood, catchy tunes, and their favorite memories from Studio Ghibli films. Plus, join in next week for 'The Departed' & Other Dynamic Actor/Director Duos.
In episode 13, Madison & Emily discuss 'The Truman Show' and Other Fictional Works That Caused Real Panic. Join them as they discuss the film's dark origins, unexpected cast, and how it spurred what psychologists have deemed "Truman Syndrome". Plus, join them next week for ‘My Neighbor Totoro' & Other Fantastic Miyazaki Films.
© 2020-2025 Ivy Podcast Discovery LLC
