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Podcast Episode Description: In this episode of Mindframes, Michael Cockerill and Dave Canfield dive into the chilling world of Heretic, the latest horror film by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods (A Quiet Place). We explore the film's themes of faith, control, and belief, contrasting its intellectual horror with its visceral thrills. Join us as we analyze Hugh Grant's standout performance as the sinister Mr. Reed, the dynamic interplay between the two Mormon missionaries, Sister Barnes and Sister Paxton, and the movie's ambiguous exploration of spirituality and skepticism. Whether you're intrigued by the film's intricate set design, its dialogue-driven narrative, or its controversial take on religious and philosophical themes, this episode is for you. We also share insights on how Heretic fits into the broader landscape of 2024's standout horror films, with comparisons to Hereditary, Get Out, and The Exorcist. Tune in to hear our recommendations and join the conversation about one of the year's most thought-provoking horror films. Podcast Summary with Timestamps 0:00 – 1:00 – Intro Michael and Dave introduce the episode, setting the stage for a deep dive into Heretic by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods. They touch on the directors' previous works (A Quiet Place, Haunt) and their distinct horror style. 1:01 – 5:30 – Overview of Heretic A brief plot summary: Two Mormon missionaries, Sister Barnes (Sophie Thatcher) and Sister Paxton (Chloe East), find themselves trapped by Mr. Reed (Hugh Grant), whose philosophical and theological challenges evolve into a fight for survival. 5:31 – 12:00 – Themes of Faith and Control The hosts explore the film's central themes, including the idea of religion as a mechanism of control versus a source of hope. Mr. Reed's character embodies skepticism, while the missionaries represent differing interpretations of belief. 12:01 – 18:30 – Performances and Character Dynamics Hugh Grant's portrayal of Mr. Reed is highlighted as a standout performance. The hosts delve into the dynamic between the sisters, contrasting Sister Barnes' depth of faith with Sister Paxton's cultural adherence. 18:31 – 24:00 – Set Design and Technical Elements A discussion on the film's claustrophobic set design, the use of close-ups, and the intricate dollhouse motif that symbolizes control and manipulation. 24:01 – 30:00 – Comparisons to Other Films Connections are drawn to Hereditary, Get Out, and The Exorcist. The hosts note Heretic's unique blend of intellectual and visceral horror and its place within 2024's strong lineup of religious-themed horror films. 30:01 – 35:00 – Spoiler Section: Plot Twists and Ending A dive into the film's third act and its ambiguous ending. The hosts debate whether the film effectively balances its critique of faith and religion with its horror elements. 35:01 – 40:00 – Final Thoughts and Recommendations Michael and Dave share their final impressions, recommending Heretic for its bold themes and strong performances. They reflect on how the film leaves viewers questioning belief, control, and the power of faith. 40:01 – End – Outro The hosts close the episode, previewing a potential future discussion on Conclave, another film tackling themes of faith and religion. They invite listeners to connect with Mindframes online and thank them for tuning in.
Once upon a time, there was a true unicorn, a startup named Uber. Led by CEO Travis Kalanick, the company broke all the rules of business and truly disrupted the way people move through the world. But with a meteoric rise comes a steep fall. As it turns out, an inherently unstable business model and an even more unstable leader do not bode well for long term success. On this episode of the Gadget Lab, we are Super Pumped to talk New York Times tech reporter Mike Isaac about his explosive new book (it’s called Super Pumped) that chronicles the tumultuous rise and fall of Uber and the man who ran it. Also in tech news, Sonos unveils its first Bluetooth speaker, and Facebook introduces a new dating service. (What could go wrong?) Show Notes: Learn more about Mike Isaac’s Super Pumped here, and read WIRED’s review here. Read Lauren’s first look at the Sonos Move here. Read more from Louise Matsakis about Facebook dating here. Recommendations: Michael recommends Thomas Campbell’s skateboarding film Ye Olde Destruction. Lauren recommends Bay Curious podcast and Lana Del Rey’s new album Norman Fucking Rockwell! You can follow Mike Isaac on Twitter at @MikeIsaac. Michael Calore can be found at @snackfight. Lauren Goode is @laurengoode. Arielle Pardes can be found at @pardesoteric. Bling the main hotline at @GadgetLab. Our theme song is by Solar Keys. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Amanda and Sarah welcome guests Michael and Jessica of Grimm Life Collective, a YouTube video series described as "the Travel Channel of the weird." The two discuss their ghoulish whirlwind romance, their adventures visiting cool creepy sites throughout the United States, and their mutual love of horror and Disney. Other subjects covered include a visit to Waco, a Data fetish, and a new term for seductive puppets. Recommendations: Michael recommends the dark 1991 comedy The Dark Backward and the new sci-fi horror film Brightburn. Jessica recommends The Vampire Journals by Full Moon Productions and the horror prequel Hannibal Rising. For updates on future episodes and other fun stuff, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Amanda and Sarah welcome guest Michael McBurney, an actor and improv comic who works with the Arcade Comedy Theater, Vigilance Theater Group, and Throughline Theatre Company. He discusses his obsession with the supernatural and paranormal and his own experiences with a horrifying lucid dream, a spooky little sister, and a possibly haunted abandoned site called the Beverly Hills Hotel. Other subjects covered include the horrors of wax and waxing, the therapeutic qualities of bad TV, and a cool junior ghoul. Recommendations: Michael recommends the book and TV adaptation of The Terror by Dan Simmons and the new remake of Suspiria. For updates on future episodes and other fun stuff, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Honestly, if we were in this movie, we’d have gender re-assignment surgery too…it would be the only way to escape. This week, Bil, Michael and Daniel discuss CAN’T STOP THE MUSIC by Nancy Walker Listen to it here (language warning): This Week’s Recommendations Michael loves play Alto’s Adventure Bil couldn’t stop listening to the audio version […]
A sexy thriller…but are there any thrills? IS THERE ANY SEX? You’ll find out this week. Join Bil, Daniel and Michael for a look at OUT TO KILL by Rob Williams Available on Netflix Listen to it here (language warning): This Week’s Recommendations Michael loved The Girl With All The Gifts by M.R. Carey Bil loves the new album by Marina […]
It’s part Another Woman, it’s part Manhattan Murder Mystery, part Chicken Nugget confusion and all about Dry Elbows! Join Bil, Daniel Krolik and our dear returned Michael for a look at Scenes From A Gay Marriage by Matt Riddlehoover Available on Google Play Listen to it here (language warning): This Week’s Recommendations Michael loved Eastern Boys Bil wants you to go to the Barbara […]