The Podfather

Taking another left turn in the world of crime films, Alex and Jordan discuss the 1997 anime film “Perfect Blue”. We discuss the way the film dissects the way pop culture treats young women, the way the film handles its twists and turns, and the benefits of animation when it comes to storytelling of this kind.

In today's unorthodox episode, we discuss David Lynch's unorthodox film “Mulholland Drive”. Is it a crime movie? Is it a good movie? Is it a groundbreaking masterpiece? Alex and Jordan try to find an answer, and on top of everything else try an unorthodox Arnott's Time choice..

To celebrate our FOURTH birthday, Alex and Jordan, (along with four-time Podfather guest Daniel Lammin) discuss David Fincher's 1995 thriller “Seven”. We discuss the film's social and psychological longevity, Fincher and his team's masterful use of colour and sound, and whether that ending still works once you know what's going to happen.

It's back-to-back Safdie as we talk about the Brothers' 2017 film “Good Time”. We discuss their unique approach to filmmaking, Robert Pattinson's admirable career trajectory and how important colour and editing are to storytelling.

Adam Sandler, star of such hits as “Pixels”, “Grown Ups 2 and “Jack and Jill” shines in his new release, “Uncut Gems”. Alex and Jordan discuss Sandler's powerful performance, the incredible direction from the Safdie Brothers and why it's so important to see movies that defy expectations. We also take a look at the nominees for the 2020 Oscars and review a Crimpy Arnott's Classic.

Another episode recorded out of time, on today's Podfather we look at two very similar but also very different versions of the same film - “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” (1988) and “The Hustle” (2019) - both retellings of 1964's “Bedtime Story”. ↳ Skip to the movie: 11:56

Here's one we prepared earlier! Doing things a little differently, on today's episode we have a 2018 crime film triple bill. We look at not one, not two, but three films that Alex and Jordan saw together at the Elsternwick Classic during our hiatus and are revisiting now to reveal to you our Podfather Scores. We discuss Bad Times at the El Royale, Widows, and The Old Man and the Gun, and see if our opinion of the films has changed since we saw them late last year. ↳ Skip to the movie: 11:55

Guy Ritchie wades back into gangster waters with his new film “The Gentlemen”, but does it live up to his former geezer crime flicks? In today's episode we dissect the first gangster film of 2020 and decide whether or not it deserves a place on the coveted list of Gangster Movies To See Before You Die or if we'll have forgotten it by the end of the year. ↳ Skip to the movie: 18:52

In a very special Christmas episode, we discuss everybody's favourite Christmastime crime film, “Die Hard”. We look at why the Bruce Willis classic has stood the test of time, Alan Rickman's cinematic debut, plus we talk to Jonathan Foster from the Prince Charles Cinema about the enduring appeal of the film at the time of year. Thanks for listening, Merry Christmas from The Podfather!

This is the one we've been waiting for! Joined once again by the wonderful Daniel Lammin, in today's episode we dissect Martin Scorsese's new gangster opus, “The Irishman”. We look at the much discussed running time and de-aging process, the masterclass performances from all, and the mature, nuanced storytelling from Marty and his band of usual suspects. Also how good does Stephen Graham look in those shorts?! ↳ Skip to the movie: 5:46 Links • The Irishman • www.thepodfatherpodcast.com • The Podfather LIST • Facebook • thepodfatherpodcast@gmail.com Twitter • @alexanderamster • @DanielLammin • @jordobroado  • @thepodfatherpod

Joined by Lani Le Fleur and Bud Wilkins from Melbourne-based funk band Le Fleur, today we delve into the world of disco and angel dust in "Disco Godfather" (1979). The four of us discuss the filmic landscape it stemmed from, the impressive musicians who feature on the soundtrack, and the entrancing lead performance from Mr. Rudy Ray Moore. ↳ Skip to the movie: 9:41

Today we head back to our Bible, “101 Gangster Movies”, and dissect John Huston's 1948 Post-WW2 gangster film “Key Largo”. We look at the performances of leading man Humphrey Bogart and the excellent supporting cast, and discuss the joys and difficulties with watching movies made 70 years ago. We also meet, then eat, another Arnott's classic. ↳ Skip to the movie: 8:48

Does Todd Phillips' highly anticipated Joker film meet expectations? Find out on today's episode of The Podfather! Alex and Jordan head back to Gotham City to discuss whether “Joker” lives up to the Scorsese films it aspires to be, whether Joaquin Phoenix's titular performance matches his own past greatness and the casting of our old pal Bobby De Niro. ↳ Skip to the movie: 5:25

Alex and Jordan welcome you back to a new look, but same old Podfather! On today's episode we drink up the 1988 could-be classic, Tequila Sunrise - and the cocktail it was named after. We discuss Michelle Pfeiffer's stand out performance, the sax-laden 80's score and figure out why it hasn't stood the test of time. Catch us fortnightly and don't forget to find us on facebook, twitter, and at thepodfatherpodcast@gmail.com ↳ Skip to the movie: 6:53

Reunited and it feels so good! Alex and Jordan return with a reunion special on the new Tarantino film, “Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood”! Returning special guest, film reviewer and Green Room nominated theatre director Daniel Lammin, joins us as we dissect the narrative structure and cultural significance of the film, as well as the memorable performances from its stacked cast. We also bring back fan-favourite segment, Arnott's Time, to keep you hangin' on. ↳ Skip to the movie: 19:04

We've finally arrived at "Ocean's 8", starring Sandy Bullock as Debbie Ocean - the heist film that is still kicking butt at the box office! We discuss the film's place within the "Ocean's" franchise, look at similarities between Ocean's 11 (2001), and ask whether it stands on its own as a heist movie. We also talk about the cast, cameos, charisma and chemistry which help make the film what it is. ↳ Skip to the movie: 06:46

With 'Ocean's 8' dominating at the box office, we go back to the start of the current ‘Ocean's' franchise - 2001's ‘Ocean's 11', directed by Steven Soderbergh and starring George Clooney as the titular Danny Ocean. With a great supporting cast, all the twists and turns of an engaging heist flick (featuring a criminally under-utilised Julia Roberts), we take a deep dive into one of the only heist movies in recent memory to spawn two direct sequels and a spin-off. ↳ Skip to the movie: 30

Before we watch 'Ocean's 8', we're heading back to the two original ‘Ocean's' films, starting with the Rat Pack starring ‘Ocean's 11' (1960). We discuss the lacklustre opening hour, the hard-to-tell-apart cast and the way these “heartthrobs” from a bygone era talk about women. Spoiler alert, not very well... ↳ Skip to the movie: 20:11

If you've been wondering whether or not Alex and Jordan liked the Ron Howard new heist movie, then wonder no more! Joined once again by the loveable Liam Taylor, we discuss the new entry into the Star Wars franchise, the gangster-ish, caper-y “Solo: A Star Wars Story”. We delve into whether it works as a heist film, whether it works as a Star Wars film, and whether a film like this (and its cast) can ever live up to fan expectations, whether high or low… ↳ Skip to the movie: 18:40

In today's episode, we have a rather lengthy conversation about the pros and cons of franchise filmmaking, and then finally launch into a rather rambling disagreement about whether or not “Bloody Mama” (1970) has any merit as a film. We discuss the lack of morals displayed by the characters, the Oedipal themes of the story and, of course, young Bobby De Niro's incredible bone structure. ↳ Skip to the movie: 29:20

After discussing the 1979 “Going in Style” last week, today we look at Zach Braff's 2017 remake. We look at the way the old actors are treated with dignity by the film (while still getting to do some very silly comedy), the differences between the two films, and what works about the modern take on a nearly 40 year old film. ↳ Skip to the movie: 12:33

Once more departing from the strict gangster genre this week, we look at another heist/caper film, “Going in Style” (1979). Alex and Jordan delve into why the film works, what perhaps falls flat within the crime narrative, and draws parallels between this film and other, more crime dominated films we've watched for the show. Next week we'll be looking at the 2017 remake. Also, be sure to keep your ears open for a new edition of the Podfather Quiz at the end of the episode! ↳ Skip to the movie:

Today we go back to 1938, for an episode on the James Cagney starring "Angels with Dirty Faces". We discuss the way the film exists as more of a reflective movie than an outright entertaining one, but look at its merits as a gangster film to see "before you get whacked". Waddya hear waddya say! ↳ Skip to the movie: 21:46

Joined today by special guest Ben Grainger, Alex and Jordan discuss Ridley Scott's 2007 American gangster film, “American Gangster”. We look at the way the film handles the gangster narrative in a different way to many New York based films, as well as Rusty Crowe's iffy accent and Denzel Washington's effortless charm. ↳ Skip to the movie: 06.09

Penned at the same time as "Reservoir Dogs", but directed by Tony Scott instead of writer Quentin Tarantino, "True Romance" (1993) is a crime film that packed a punch when it was first released, and today we discuss whether or not it holds up today. We discuss the vignette-y nature of the film, the wonderful cast and the Tarantino writing schtick that would have been fresh in the early 90's but maybe hasn't aged so well in the last 25 years. ↳ Skip to the movie: 20:07

"Bonnie and Clyde” (dir. Arthur Penn), the film that was responsible for rejuvenating the gangster genre in the late 60's but delivered so much more than a standard Old Hollywood gangster flick, is the subject of today's episode. Coming at it from two differing levels of enjoyment, Jordan and Alex discuss the context of the film's release, as well as whether or not it is as engaging today as it was when it was first released. ↳ Skip to the movie: 19:05

"The Dark Knight" (Christopher Nolan, 2008) - probably the most well regarded comic book movie of the noughties, and arguably the best Batman movie ever made, but could it also be one of the best gangster movies? In today's episode, Alex and Jordan delve into what makes the film work as a crime drama, and whether it fits into the same group as films like “Heat” or “The Godfather". After all - it's not what films are underneath, but what they do that defines them. ↳ Skip to the movie: 09:57

Another Australian film this week, we're talking Andrew Dominik's 2000 film “Chopper”. We discuss Eric Bana's excellent performance, Chopper's legacy and notoriety in Australian culture, as well as the increasingly frequent question for this podcast of “is this actually a gangster movie?”. Stay tuned for some of Alex and Jordan's shaving habits at the end. Cutting edge stuff. ↳ Skip to the movie: 09:21

Today's movie comes from just down the street, the 2010 Australian crime drama "Animal Kingdom". We discuss what it's like seeing this kind of story take place in our part of the world, showcasing characters we're familiar with in our own lives. We also talk the recent Academy Awards and biscuits for brekky. ↳ Skip to the movie: 25:50

Is “The Sting” (1973) actually a gangster movie? Does it really matter? This week we talk about Best Picture Winner at the 1974 Oscars, Robert Redford's only Oscar nominated performance, the catchy score, the superb costumes and sets and the incredible story that give this movie its.. sting. (Sorry.) ↳ Skip to the movie: 13:05

In this episode we look at “Infernal Affairs” (2002), the Hong Kong film that Scorsese's “The Departed” (2006) was based on. We compare the two and discuss the nuanced performances of the two leads, Andy Lau and Tony Leung. We also waffle a bit (a lot) about Star Wars, fan feedback and Tommy Wiseau. ↳ Skip to the movie: 24:24

We're back, baby! After an extended hiatus, Alex and Jordan return on different sides of the planet to keep talking about gangster flicks! Today's episode is about Brian De Palma's “The Untouchables” (1987). How does it stack up to his other gangster films, “Scarface” and “Carlito's Way”? Did Sean Connery deserve his Best Supporting Actor Oscar? And is this the film in which De Palma finally learns the art of subtlety? (Spoiler: Nope) ↳ Skip to the movie: 18:45

Back from our extended break with a one-off impromptu episode from a London pub, we discuss a few gangster films we've seen individually, as well as Edgar Wright's "Baby Driver" and Patty Jenkins' "Wonder Woman". Joined by guest Trelawney Edgar, we also explore the role of women in these films and, by the way, how bloody good are The Commodores you guys?!

Joined by guest Angus Attwood, today we conclude our FBI/Depp trio with Scott Cooper's "Black Mass" (2015). We discuss the meandering narrative, the three women in the cast who steal the film, and whether or not Depp's Whitey Bulger stands up to his Donnie Brasco. ↳ Skip to the movie: 12:17

The second in our Depp/FBI trilogy, today's episode is about Michael Mann's 2009 film, "Public Enemies”. We discuss the film's slow pace, its similarities to Mann's “Heat” (1995) and the powerhouse performance of Marion Cotillard. We also talk about the life of the real John Dillinger, and whether or not Depp captures his personality in the film. ↳ Skip to the movie: 08:51

The first of three episodes about Johnny Depp/FBI films, today we're talkin' Mike Newell's 'Donnie Brasco' (1997). We discuss the depiction of real life characters and events, the somewhat subtle performances from infamous scenery-chewers Depp and Pacino, and tell one of Mr. Pacino's favourite jokes. ↳ Skip to the movie: 12:12

This week's ep is a recording of the live broadcast of our First Birthday Episode! Joined by guest Liam Taylor, we look at Martin Scorsese's underwhelming “Gangs of New York” (2002) as we discuss the hit and miss cast, the strange editing choices and how the historical accuracy holds up. In Arnott's Time we review the classic Original Barbecue Shapes! ↳ Skip to the movie: 13:10

Tom Hanks on the run is the order of the day in today's episode, as we discuss Sam Mendes' “Road to Perdition” (2002). We discuss the beautiful cinematography and the wonderful cast, as well as the perhaps too “Hollywood” feel of the film and the clunky narration. Stay tuned til the end for a brand new “Happy Slappy” Podfather Quiz! The Podfather's First Birthday Facebook LIVE Episode Next Week - Monday Feb 27! ↳ Skip to the movie: 09:10

This week we visit Stephen Frear's 1984 film, ‘The Hit', starring a young Tim Roth and the late John Hurt. We look at the film's slow pace, unpredictable drifting narrative and the relatively understated performances of the lead actors. We also briefly talk footy and look at the new range of Arnott's Tim Tams! ↳ Skip to the movie: 12:53

And we're back! After taking a December break, Alex and Jordan return with the mother of all match ups - Al Pacino and Robert De Niro in Michael Mann's ‘Heat' (1995). We discuss each actor's performance and the dynamic between the two, as well as the skill behind the camera and the film's place within the plethora of mid-nineties gangster films. ↳ Skip to the movie: 10:50

Is Brian De Palma's second Pacino collaboration better than his first? Today we look at 1993's "Carlito's Way", its interesting take on the familiar gangster narrative and whether or not it pulls off. We also briefly talk about Pacino's facial hair if that's your thing. ↳ Skip to the movie: 12:14

We're analysing 'Analyze This' (1999) in today's ep - the Bob De Niro and Billy Crystal starring gangster comedy film from director Harold Ramis. We look at whether it holds its own as both a comedy film and a gangster flick, the performances from its two leads, as well as the nods to gangster films from the past. ↳ Skip to the movie: 15:06

We didn't have time to record an episode this week, so here's our first pre-recorded bonus episode! Rather than discuss a gangster film, we recommend each other a few of our own “must-see” films. We also discuss the trend of putting out Christmas stock far too early in the year, and look into the ingrained sexism in the hairdressing industry.

Heading back to the UK, this time in the early fifties, today's episode is on “The Lavender Hill Mob” (1951). We discuss how delightfully British it is, the superb Oscar-winning screenplay and Alec Guinness' immensely enjoyable performance that is a very far cry from Obi-Wan Kenobi. This week also sees the return of the Happy Slappy Podfather Quiz! ↳ Skip to the movie: 07:16

Is Guy Ritchie really the British Tarantino? That's one of many questions we ask ourselves in today's episode as we discuss his second film, “Snatch” (2000). We discuss whether or not it holds up to his debut, his less-than-memorable character and narrative choices, and the indisputable highlight of the film, Mr. William Bradley Pitt. ↳ Skip to the movie: 11:03

This week's episode is about Mario Van Peebles' “New Jack City” (1991). We look at the context of the film's release, Van Peebles' choices behind the camera, and cast who try their utmost to keep the film afloat as it threatens to crumble under its own weight. We also discuss Arnott's Shortbread Creams. ↳ Skip to the movie: 07:48

In today's episode we finish our Tarantino trilogy with “Jackie Brown” (1997). We discuss his choice to break his mould and adapt someone else's text, his continuing excellence when it comes to casting, and how the film belongs more to Pam Grier and Robert Forster than anyone else. Keep an ear out too for some interesting developments in our love for Australian biscuits. ↳ Skip to the movie: 18:50

After broadcasting live to Facebook, this week's recording is all about Pulp Fiction! Joined by special guest Daniel Lammin, we discuss Tarantino's growing skill as a writer, the copious moments of sheer fun in the film, and the bits that maybe stop it from being a true masterpiece. ↳ Skip to the movie: 09:42

The first week of three Tarantino street-level crime films, in today's episode we're talking "Reservoir Dogs” (1992). We discuss his incredibly confident screenplay, the perfect casting choices and the soundtrack to die for, as well as our respect for the “Tim Roth story-telling sequence”. Keep you ears out for a brief musical interlude and another Happy Slappy Podfather Quiz! ↳ Skip to the movie: 13:18

Whipped cream, underage gangsters and conspicuously low singing voices dominate our conversation today as we discuss “Bugsy Malone” (1976). We aim to figure out just why the film is so much damn fun, which past Hollywood stars Bugsy reminded us of, and where it falls within the ranks of The Podfather's viewing gallery so far! ↳ Skip to the movie: 07:02

In today's episode we take a look at Abel Ferrara's 1990 film "King of New York". We examine Christopher Walken's lead performance, the interesting lighting choices and bizarre pacing as we decide if it is, in fact, a gangster film one MUST see before they die. ↳ Skip to the movie: 10:34