Podcast appearances and mentions of sergio mims

Erik Childress & Peter Sobczynski bring you this week's physical media roundup which includes a great upgrade for the family involving a cat and a mouse. Horror fans get some 4K upgrades from four different decades. Film Noir gets several different takes including through the mind of Woody Allen. A legendary black filmmaker championed over the years by Sergio Mims gets his whole collection. There are early appearances by Sam Elliott, Sean Penn and John Cusack along with a reappraisal of a current Oscar contender. A more positive reappraisal has been happening for years with a Shane Black film now in 4K and Peter takes us down the rabbit hole of the time Jean-Luc Godard made a Shakespeare adaptation for Cannon Films. 0:00 – Intro 3:09 - Criterion (King Lear) 17:26 - Warner Archive (Tom and Jerry: The Complete CinemaScope Collection) 21:31 – Warner Bros. (The Nice Guys 4K) 30:18 - Kino (Oscar Micheaux: The Complete Collection, Film Noir: The Dark Side of Cinema XXIII (Rope of Sand / Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye / Never Love a Stranger), Play It Again Sam, Hot Pursuit) 57:11 - Fun City (Lifeguard, Racing with the Moon) 1:08:50 - Universal (Conclave 4K) 1:13:42 - Arrow (Alice Sweet Alice 4K) 1:22:52 - Shout Factory (Galaxy of Terror 4K, Ghosts of Mars 4K, The Last Voyage of the Demeter 4K) 1:35:21 – New Blu-ray Announcements

An annual tradition that goes back to the days of WHPK Radio at the University of Chicago where Erik Childress joined Sergio Mims to discuss all things movies and certainly physical media, Erik is now joined by Peter Sobczynski for it to endure. Each of them has chosen ten films that to this day remain only on DVD (or not at all) that they believe deserve the upgrade. There are films about the circus, about priests and prostitution, love triangles and the dark side of Hollywood. There is politics and courtrooms, games of skill, concerts and debuts in front of and behind the camera. Even if they kinda know the answer to the main question, this is a time for everyone to work together to bring these works of art (and even some lesser art) to a proper format so they can be preserved, protected and enjoyed for generations to come. 0:00 – Intro 3:14 – Peter's 1st Title 12:03 – Erik's 1st Title 18:56 – Peter's 2nd Title 30:02 – Erik's 2nd Title 36:07 – Peter's 3rd Title 45:50 – Erik's 3rd Title 50:55 – Peter's 4th Title 1:02:05 – Erik's 4th Title 1:09:15 – Peter's 5th Title 1:20:05 – Erik's 5th Title 1:26:33 – Peter's 6th Title 1:35:56 – Erik's 6th Title 1:45:20 – Peter's 7th Title 1:59:31 – Erik's 7th Title 2:07:27 – Peter's 8th Title 2:19:15 – Erik's 8th Title 2:27:56 – Peter's 9th Title 2:36:06 – Erik's 9th Title 2:43:05 – Peter's 10th Title 2:56:38 – Erik's 10th Title 3:01:52 - Outro

A tradition that has gone absent for too long on the podcast has been this show that began with Sergio Mims and Erik Childress on WHPK Radio Chicago and continued on here. Films that has still yet to get the upgrade treatment on physical media and every time a new one emerges you can hear Sergio screaming down “WE GOT ONE!”  We are finally continuing what we started, Sergio, with Peter Sobczynski stepping in to offer his half of 20 titles that still remain dormant on DVD or no physical media whatsoever. Erik and Peter serve up their choices which include films about baseball, politics, journalism and murder. There's a sci-fi musical and a concert film, true-life tragedies and even farces, satires and other films to laugh at. There is truly something here for everyone and it is time these films receive the upgrade they deserve.

Peter Sobczynski joins Erik Childress again to provide a rundown of what you can add to your physical media collection this week. You have brand new collections of films from Jackie Chan and Buster Keaton. The late William Friedkin does his first Tracy Letts adaptation and while it missed Halloween there is a great new edition of an overlooked horror film from J.A. Bayona. In time for Veteran's Day, Sony has two new 4K editions of war films and there is also a new Blu-ray of a guilty favorite from our longtime friend, Sergio Mims. Erik and Peter recall the first time they saw Fargo which gets an upgrade as does George Lucas' coming-of-age classic in time for its 50th Anniversary. Finally, Paramount celebrates the anniversary of two modern Christmas favorites with their own upgrade. Lookin' good, Billy Ray. Feeling good, Louis! 0:00 - Intro 1:40 - Criterion (Jackie Chan: Emergence of a Superstar) 9:59 - Cohen Media (The Buster Keaton Collection: Volume 5) 14:00 - MVD (A Bullet for Sandoval) 17:21 - Fun City (T.R. Baskin) 23:35 - Imprint (Bug, The Orphanage) 33:05 - Shout! Factory (Surviving the Game, Fargo (4K)) 46:14 - Sony (The Guns of Navarone (4K Steelbook), Black Hawk Down (4K Steelbook)) 1:00:21 - Universal (American Graffiti 4K, Violent Night 4K,) 1:09:22 - Paramount (Trading Places (40th Anniversary) (4K), Scrooged (35th Anniversary) (4K)) 1:28:47 – Recent Theatrical Titles Now On Blu-ray (& TV) 1:29:47 – New Blu-ray Announcements 1:34:14 - Outro

Catching you up on the latest in Blu-rays, Erik Childress and Peter Sobczynski look at offerings from John Woo, David Lynch, Bob Hope, Laurence Olivier and Dario Argento. That is just for starters. Peter gets to weigh in on some of his least favorite films from 2022 and one that pleasantly surprised him in 2023. They look back on a new edition from softcore master, Zalman King, as well as a barrage of new 4K releases that include a real gem from horror maestro, Wes Craven, working a bit outside his genre. But they most importantly include one of the great, still underappreciated, works from Walter Hill and a release over 20 years in the making that would have absolutely delighted our good friend, Sergio Mims. 0:00 - Intro 1:02 - Criterion (Last Hurrah For Chivalry, Inland Empire) 9:49 - Kino (Never Say Die, Thanks for the Memory) 13:06 - Warner Archive (The Prince and the Showgirl, Flamingo Road) 19:15 - Music Box (Leonor Will Never Die) 20:49 - Synapse (Phenomena (4K)) 28:09 - Ronin Flix (Wild Orchid 2) 35:18 - Lions Gate (Seriously Red, Alice, Darling, The Whale) 43:37 - Sony (A Man Called Otto) 46:27 - Universal (M3GAN, The Prince of Egypt (4K)) 53:50 - Shout! Factory (Crazy People, Critical Condition, Dr. Giggles, Sorry, Wrong Number, Streets of Fire (4K)   1:10:57 - Paramount (Babylon (4K), The Core (4K), Red Eye (4K), Dragonslayer (4K)) 1:31:41 – New Blu-ray Announcements 1:34:34 - Outro

It was budgeted at $11,000,000. That figured ballooned to over $40,000,000. And the movie made less than $4,000,000. I'm joined by Chicago film historian Sergio Mims to discuss the infamous Michael Cimino western Heaven's Gate. Thanks for listening to Overhated! There are 100+ more episodes at patreon.com/scottEweinberg. Subscribe to hear them all now! Check out the list of episodes here: bit.ly/3WZiLFk. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.

Senator Raphael Warnock wins in Georgia and Judge Doris Pryor gets confirmed by the senate. Ben riffs. And Monroe Anderson returns after being off a few weeks. He's got a lot on his mind, including...Warnock's win; Herschel Walker as the world's worst candidate; Barack Obama v. Bill Clinton; Trump's conviction; and MAGA propaganda. Or, why do Democrats believe MAGA trash talk? Also, a tribute to the great Sergio Mims. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Follow Jean de St. Aubin, Margaret Caples, Amir George, Jacqueline Stewart and Carl Seaton as they explore the remarkable success of the 28-year-old Black Harvest Film Festival, dedicated to the late Sergio Mims and his vision of empowering Black filmmakers to tell their own stories. Jean de St. Aubin is the executive director of the School of the Art Institute's Gene Siskel Film Center and the director of the Black Harvest Film Festival. Margaret Caples is the executive director of the Community Film Workshop. Amir George is an award-winning filmmaker and the artistic director of Kartemquin Films. Jacqueline Stewart is the president and director of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles. Carl Seaton is a director and producer whose career was shaped by mentor Sergio Mims.

Sergio Mims and Erik Childress discussed DVDs and Blu-rays for two decades on the radio and on this podcast. To honor his recent untimely passing, we wanted to continue this tradition and shine a light on the world of physical media that he was so passionate in preserving. For that, Erik is joined by Peter Sobczynski of RogerEbert.com to once again bring you all the latest and greatest for your home collection and holiday shopping needs. They talk a number of new 4K releases including an early film from Robert Zemeckis with possibly the greatest commentary track ever, Quentin Tarantino's debut, late Don Siegel, Elvis' return from the Army, one of the greatest films ever made and a foursome from Warner Bros. modern Christmas archive. There is also a colorful alien musical, new films from George Miller, Ti West and Claire Denis and the inspiration for a film that teamed Keanu Reeves and Ana De Armas 0:00 - Intro 3:05 - Shout Factory (Used Cars) 7:50 - Lionsgate (Reservoir Dogs, Pearl, Earth Girls Are Easy (Vestron Collector's Series)) 30:22 - Paramount (Blue Hawaii) 37:31 - Grindhouse (Death Game) 45:42 - Kino (Escape From Alcatraz (4K), Valachi papers) 59:11 - IFC (Both Sides of the Blade) 1:04:31 - WB (Three Thousand Years of Longing) 1:11:44 - WB 4K (Casablanca, Elf, The Polar Express, A Christmas Story, Christmas Vacation) 1:38:54 – New Blu-ray Announcements

Mindframes hosts Michael Cockerill and Dave Canfield join me for this special tribute to honor our dear friend Sergio Mims. Several years ago, I did an episode on one of his favorite directors, Michael Curtiz. Of course you are encouraged to listen to that. But I asked Mike & Dave to join me to revisit two titles in particular from Curtiz as well as recommend several others as a way of honoring the memory of Sergio. Perhaps one of these films is an all-time classic called CASABLANCA? In addition, we review a couple of recent titles like RRR and AFTERSUN. Not only that, but after our conversation, you'll get to hear Sergio one last time on this show. Over a year ago, we did a Patreon exclusive episode on THE CHARGE OF THE LIGHT BRIGADE, only not the Curtiz version surprisingly. Wanted everyone to hear Sergio's thoughts on that excellent film since it steps things up and is more faithful to the true story than Curtiz's take. Thank you so much for listening and mucho gratitude to Mike and Dave for coming on to talk some classics. We briefly mention our love of DOCTOR X, KING CREOLE and THE SEA WOLF! Listen to Sergio Mims' Michael Curtiz episode (7 years ago): https://directorsclubpodcast.libsyn.com/website/episode-99-michael-curtiz For more Mike & Dave reviews, check out Mindframes! https://mindframesfilm.com 00:00 - 08:04 - Intro 08:05 - 30:33 - What We Watched Recently 30:34 - 01:18:57 - Curtiz & Casablanca 01:18:58 - 01:55:20 - The Breaking Point 01:55:21 - 02:16:10 - Other Curtiz Films / Outro 02:16:11 - 03:01:11 - Sergio Mims Talks About The Charge Of The Light Brigade!

Normally something like this would be a bonus episode, but this is a special exception. As Erik wrote: Sergio Mims, our noted film scholar and friend, was well on his way to becoming “King Commentary” with all his official contributions to Blu-rays for Kino, Vinegar Syndrome and others. During the pandemic at the peak of lockdown, Collin Souter of Christmas Movies Actually, suggested that our good friend record one for Disney's controversial 1940 film, Song of the South. Sergio did not hesitate and delivered something for his friends. Some of them are here to again pay brief tribute to the man who was a regular part of the Movie Madness podcast. Jim Laczkowski is joined by both Collin and the Movie Madness host, Erik Childress, to introduce this track that can now be experienced by everyone. Whether you have a version of the film to sync up with or not it doesn't matter, because you can just sit back and soak in the words of a film lover who left us way too soon. Stay tuned for one more official episode around Thanksgiving followed by another upcoming contribution by guest co-host Bill Ackerman! 0:00 – A Tribute To Sergio Mims by Erik Childress, Jim Laczkowski & Collin Souter 16:43 – Instructions To Cue Up Commentary 17:36 – Song Of The South Commentary By Sergio Mims Be sure to also check out Collin's CMA tribute to Sergio feat. clips here: http://www.nowplayingnetwork.net/christmasmoviesactually/episode68  

Sergio Mims, our noted film scholar and friend, was well on his way to becoming “King Commentary” with all his official contributions to Blu-rays for Kino, Vinegar Syndrome and others. During the pandemic at the peak of lockdown, Collin Souter of Christmas Movies Actually, suggested that our good friend record one for Disney's controversial 1940 film, Song of the South. Sergio did not hesitate and delivered something for his friends. Some of them are here to again pay brief tribute to the man who was a regular part of the Movie Madness podcast. Erik Childress is joined by both Collin and the Director's Club host, Jim Laczkowski, to introduce this track that can now be experienced by everyone. Whether you have a version of the film to sync up with or not it doesn't matter, because you can just sit back and soak in the words of a film lover who left us way too soon. 0:00 – A Tribute To Sergio Mims by Erik Childress, Jim Laczkowski & Collin Souter 16:43 – Instructions To Cue Up Commentary 17:36 – Song Of The South Commentary By Sergio Mims

Collin and Kerry pay tribute to one of heir beloved guests and friends, Sergio Mims, who passed away unexpectedly in October. Sergio was a guest on four episodes, all of which are presented here in clips that represent everything he did best when on the mic. A true original, a thoughtful film critic and a generous soul, Sergio will be greatly missed. Luckily, we was a guest on many podcasts and we can always go back and listen to what it was like to hang out with him.  Among many other things, he was the co-founder of the Black Harvest Film Festival in Chicago, which starts November 4th and goes through the 27th. Go to https://www.siskelfilmcenter.org/blackharvest for more information.

This year's MacArthur genius grants were awarded. Guess who didn't get one--again! Ben riffs. And Monroe Anderson pays tribute to Sergio Mims. Also, the latest on E. Jean Carroll's defamation case against Trump. And Punch 9. Podcaster Marc Sims returns to talk Kanye and colorism.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

October continues with horror both real and imagined this week as Erik Childress and Steve Prokopy review eight new movies. They include a reminder of Andrea Riseborough's stirring portrayal of the road to alcoholic recovery (To Leslie) and Mila Kunis' far less stirring turn as a survivor of multiple traumas (Luckiest Girl Alive). Shawn Mendes is the voice of a singing croc (Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile) and Ruben Ostlund skewers the voices of the nouveau riche in his Palme d'or winning satire (Triangle of Sadness). Donald Sutherland and his iPhone grant revenge in a new Stephen King film that is horror adjacent (Mr. Harrigan's Phone) and Art the Clown is back (yet new to Erik) in a blood-drenched sequel (Terrifier 2). Also returning are the Cenobites in a new reimagining from David Bruckner (Hellraiser) and another David (O. Russell) tries out an ensemble comic mystery to warn of impending worldwide horror (Amsterdam). Erik and Steve also pay tribute to the loss of their friend and Movie Madness regular, Sergio Mims. 0:00 – Intro & A Remembrance Of Sergio Mims 15:45 - To Leslie 32:03 - Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile 41:02 - Luckiest Girl Alive 49:23 - Mr. Harrigan's Phone 1:06:08 - Terrifier 2 1:18:22 - Hellraiser 1:35:56 - Triangle of Sadness 1:54:28 - Amsterdam 2:16:37 - Outro

Nathaniel Thompson is EVERYWHERE surrounding film and physical media nowadays. He has been present on releases from the vast majority of these boutique labels, he has appeared in multiple series on Shudder, written multiple books surrounding the industry, and is possibly most known for being the individual behind Mondo-Digital.com. He is genuinely one of the most prolific film scholars/contributors of our time. We had a lengthy discussion about so many different topics including how these labels get rights for films, how German crime films need more representation on physical media, how other commentators (including the recently passed Sergio Mims) work together to make a good commentary that will interest film fans, and SO MUCH MORE. Please watch this incredibly enjoyable discussion with Nathaniel Thompson! - Note: Sergio Mims passed away suddenly this week. You will see/hear a short piece about him at the beginning because he came up organically in our conversation.  Sergio's obituary: https://chicago.suntimes.com/obituaries/2022/10/6/23391442/sergio-mims-movie-critic-black-harvest-film-festival-obituary Sergio's Conversation with Lee Gambin: https://diaboliquemagazine.com/episode-12-a-conversation-with-sergio-mims - Stay up to date with Mondo-Digital here: http://mondo-digital.com Follow Mondo-Digital on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063548171855 Follow Mondo-Digital on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mondodigital Follow Mondo-Digital on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mondodig/ Follow Nathaniel Thompson/Mondo-Digital on Letterboxd: https://letterboxd.com/mondodigital/ Nathaniel's list of all (or, at least most) of the Commentaries he has appeared on: https://letterboxd.com/mondodigital/list/audio-commentaries-ive-done/ Nathaniel's ranked list on Crime films (mostly German crime films): https://letterboxd.com/mondodigital/list/krimis-ranked/ Nathaniel's ranked Jess Franco list: https://letterboxd.com/mondodigital/list/jess-franco-ranked/ Order Nathaniel's book that releases next week in the US: https://amzn.to/3CGHpCN - Become a patron here: https://www.patreon.com/DiscConnected - Like the page and follow on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/TheDiscConnected - Join me on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/thediscconnected/ - Or on Twitter: https://twitter.com/disc_connected - Email: DiscConnectedMedia@gmail.com -- Merch: https://disc-connected.creator-spring.com/ - Podcast: https://thediscconnected.podbean.com - If you happen to be shopping on Amazon for something and would like to share some of Lord Bezos' profits with my channel at no additional cost to you, please consider shopping through my link: https://amzn.to/39mcX1t - Tip Jar: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=TDEVSPJZ9EFCW or paypal.me/RVinls (friends and family only) or  Amazon wish list: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/20CR2ZN456P1B?ref_=wl_share - Music is by Michael J. LeRose- michaelxcreates@gmail.com. Outro is K(NO)W by Crusoe via a Creative Commons Attribution License and verbal/written permission from the artist. - Links above may be affiliate/promotional links that provide me a tiny commission to support the sight and do not charge the consumer anything extra.

Nick pays tribute to film critic, scholar, activist and writer Sergio Mims, a dear friend and colleague who recently passed away. Then actor David Dastmalchian (star of Dune, The Flash, The Suicide Squad, Twin Peaks and more) talks about his love of horror and how it began (Oliver Reed in The Curse of the Werewolf!), the latest comic book adventures of his character "Count Crowley," the making of Dune, his time spent in Chicago, and much more. Then Esmeralda Leon and Nick begin the yearly Spooktacular by talking about Esma's favorite zombie movies, getting a visit from the one and only Count Fartula, and learning about the term "spoopy," which all the kids are using to describe things during Halloween time. [EP77]

What an episode in so many ways that it's hard to know where to begin in even writing an introduction. The first ten minutes are mostly about me remembering a friend and film critic near and dear to many of us along with promoting and supporting an upcoming film festival as well. I hope you won't skip over the beginning since it would mean a lot if you listened to the tribute about someone very important to my life and to the lives of many. There will be more words and a separate write-up on that to come. Of course the bulk of this episode surrounds the work of a filmmaker that also means a lot to me personally: Allan Moyle - a name I'm sure you know by now due to how many times I've mentioned the film PUMP UP THE VOLUME on this podcast. But what about his other work as well? My guests today are recurring co-host and Supporting Characters host Bill Ackerman and a delightful and accomplished newcomer, co-host of The Important Cinema Club Podcast, Justin Decloux.  All three of us have a lot to say about different personal experiences not just involving Allan Moyle's work, including TIMES SQUARE and EMPIRE RECORDS, but early on, due to this coming out in October, we provide various horror film recommendations that we consider to be “outside the box” (though mine are certainly ones I've championed in the past but they're now available to stream via The Criterion Channel). Be sure to grab a pen and paper to jot down some titles! This was recorded during an emotional time to be sure (what a year) but I'm truly grateful to my guests for coming on with short notice for this discussion and stay tuned to the feed for much more to come. The spirit of friend / hero and Chicago film historian Sergio Mims is infused in this episode as you'll hear. We are thinking of him and his many friends and family. Stay tuned for more information about an upcoming tribute to him at the Black Harvest Film Festival at the Gene Siskel Film Center.  00:00 - 10:20 - Introduction / Sergio Mims10:21 - 17:00 - Intro To The Show17:01 - 53:49 - Horror Recommendations For This Month53:50 - 01:35:38 - The Rubber Gun, Times Square01:35:39 - 02:04:39 - Pump Up The Volume02:04:40 - 02:33:46 - Empire Records, New Waterford Girl02:33:46 - 02:55:35 - Other Moyle Films / Top 3 / Outro Bill's Conversation With Sergio Mims:http://www.nowplayingnetwork.net/supportingcharacters/episode45 More About Sergio Mims:https://chicago.suntimes.com/obituaries/2022/10/6/23391442/sergio-mims-movie-critic-black-harvest-film-festival-obituary Mental Filmness Film Festival (Virtual):https://mentalfilmness2022.eventive.org/films Mental Filmness Film Festival (Live):https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mental-filmness-live-a-film-festival-about-mental-health-tickets-428260537797 Criterion Channel (80s Horror):https://www.criterionchannel.com/80s-horror Learn More About Justin & The Important Cinema Club:https://www.filmtrap.com

Erik Childress and Steve Prokopy clear out August with reviews of nine new films starting with an assist from show regular Sergio Mims when they all reviewed the new John Boyega bank robbery tale (Breaking). It's not Avatar but water plays a big part this week with a Dead Calm-like tale of lies on a boat (Into the Deep), more noir homage from Neil LaBute when a guy trying to stay out of trouble sees Diane Kruger in a lake (Out of the Blue) and the duo try to figure out if the new shark attack film is trying to be bad or just straight is (Maneater). Steve reviews a new film from The Squid and the Whale's Owen Klein (Funny Pages) and Erik is flat baffled by whatever the hell the new Kevin Hart/Mark Wahlberg film is trying to be (Me Time). Sylvester Stallone is a superhero in isolation (Samaritan), Nathalie Emmanuel discovers some creepy ancestors in her bloodline (The Invitation) and, finally, George Miller returns with his first film in seven years. Is Three Thousand Years of Longing all that they wished for? 0:00 - Intro 2:03 - Breaking 14:35 - Into the Deep 24:06 - Maneater 38:45 - Funny Pages 49:23 - Out of the Blue  1:00:30 - Me Time   1:14:29 - Samaritan 1:27:27 – The Invitation 1:42:23 - Three Thousand Years of Longing   2:01:04 - Outro

Kerry and Collin are joined by returning guest Sergio Mims to talk about John Fankenheimer's gritty cop thriller, "Dead Bang" (1989), starring Don Johnson as a cop on the edge, doing battle with white supremacists. Is it any better than Johnson's "Heartbeat" video? How do white supremacists celebrate Christmas? How many phones does Johnson destroy in this film? It's a deep dive into a movie that ain't that deep. Frankenheimer's work is further explored in the "We Just Say Book" segment and more goodies from the studios for the "Blu-ray Gift Exchange." 

Yeah, we're talking about the movie everyone's talking about this week, but only one podcast has our special guest Sergio Mims.  We discuss Nope, Jordan Peele, and Sergio's shock and horror of the Wakanda Forever trailer. Topics Intro 00-17:54 Cast Discussion 17:54 - 24:47 Spoiler-free Reviews 24:47 -37:21 Theme discussion: Fame, spectacle, and how to tame it 24:47 - 55:08 There is Black film beyond the Peele 55:08 - 1h:09m Michael and Dave talk comic con 1h:09m - 1h:11m Sergio on Wakanda Forever 1h:11m - 1h:25m Outro 1h:25m - End

Sergio Mims returns to the show to look at what is new out there in Blu-ray land. Along with Erik Childress they discuss some tremendous new 4K titles from Sony and Criterion. Erik makes the case for two other great crime tales on 4K that Sergio has just been so-so on. Sergio goes to bat for a new restoration of a film that was featured on Mystery Science Theater 3000 and clearly believes was unfair. They also talk a new release of an early Richard Donner film and run through a cadre of new-to-Blu-ray titles from the ever expanding Imprint that they believe is becoming one of the great companies delivering special edition physical media. 1:40 - Deaf Crocodile (The Sword and the Dragon) 10:49 - IFC (We Need To Do Something) 15:14 - Arrow (True Romance) 22:25 - Criterion (Raging Bull, Devil in a Blue Dress) 36:59 - Sony (Lawrence of Arabia, The Bridge on the River Kwai) 56:38 - Kino (Salt & Pepper, The Killing, Out of Sight, Native Son) 1:27:49 - Imprint (The President's Analyst, Man on a Swing, Barabbas, The Long Ships, The Contender, Bloody Sunday, The Warriors, After Dark Neo-Noir Cinema: Collection One) 2:12:08 - Outro

Trump & his advisors have their unhinged meeting in the White House. Ben riffs. And Monroe Anderson talks Trump and the January 6 hearing. Can it get anymore unhinged? Black Harvest co-founder Sergio Mims joins Monroe to talk Herschel Walker, Darren Bailey, MAGA allegiance and James Caan.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Never say die when it comes to physical media! Erik Childress and Sergio Mims have the latest and greatest here from jackasses to ordinary people. Jekylls, Hydes, Frankensteins, Werewolves and W.C. Fields. In particular there are a lot of great titles coming out in 4K including a John Landis classic and even an argument for an underrated Kenneth Branagh film. One of the greatest musicals of all time gets the treatment as does one of the greatest westerns of all time. If that's not fact, its legend. Erik talks about the glory of the first time he saw a newly minted The Untouchables on VHS and Sergio recounts his experience of seeing John McNaughton's Wild Things in the theater the first time. A lot of great titles this episode so get your wallets ready. 0:00 – Intro 0:49 – Imprint (The Counterfeit Traitor, Across 110th Street) 13:16 – Arrow (Mary Shelley's Frankenstein 4K, An American Werewolf In London 4K, Wild Things 4K) 40:55 – Warner Archive (Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde 1942, Singin' In The Rain 4K) 57:27 – Paramount (Beverly Hills Cop II 4K, Grease 2, Jackass Forever, Ordinary People, The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance 4K, The Untouchables 4K) 1:45:51 – Kino (The Man on The Flying Trapeze, You Can't Cheat an Honest Man) 1:51:42 – Blu-ray Coming Attractions 2:02:30 - Outro

The latest and greatest in Blu-rays returns to the podcast with Sergio Mims and a lot to catch up on. There is late era Sam Peckinpah and Steve McQueen not to mention some early-era Kevin Costner and perhaps inspiration for a young Alfonso Cuaron. Criterion 4Ks one of the greatest of all noirs and space documentaries. Kino gives the same treatment to Clint Eastwood and Sidney Poitier. And finally – yes, FINALLY! – one of the great Walter Hill films Sergio and Erik have been begging to get an upgrade from its shoddy DVD transfer is finally here and they are thrilled.   0:00 - Intro 2:06 – Flicker Alley (The Whistle at Eaton Falls) 8:58 – Criterion (Double Indemnity, The Flight of the Phoenix, For All Mankind) 30:21 – Lions Gate (Extreme Prejudice) 38:10 – Imprint (The Osterman Weekend, The Hunter, Marooned) 54:28 – Warner Archive (American Flyers, Fandango, The Window) 1:09:17 – Kino (Son of Samson, Flower Drum Song, In the Heat of the Night 4K, A Fistful of Dollars 4K, For a Few Dollars More 4K) 1:46:35 - Outro

Rod Sawyer--son of Mayor Sawyer--announce he's running for his father's old job. Ben riffs. And the Renaissance Man, Sergio Mims, returns to talk politics, Chicago & movies. Not necessarily in that order. He explains the concept of the "safe Negro". Also, potholes, casino, Black Lives Matter scandal and word or two or three about Operation Mincemeat. Finally, remember his prediction--President Biden will choose not to run for re-election.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For those who don't know, my favorite way to exercise has always been swimming. I'm slowly getting back into it as a regular part of my daily routine. Not only that, Frank Perry's THE SWIMMER is becoming an all-time favorite of mine with every viewing and I wanted to talk to a true film historian about it. Sergio Mims returns to the show for another bonus discussion on this fascinating Burt Lancaster picture from 1968 that audiences were probably not ready for at the time. As always, I learned a lot from Sergio but we talked a lot about its themes surrounding toxic masculinity, suburban angst and so much more. Grateful to Sergio for talking with me for an hour. This serves as a nice prelude to the upcoming Keith Gordon episode recording in a couple weeks about underrated films of the 1960s. Towards the end, we start talking about the state of cinema in general and even preview a couple of upcoming episodes later in the year! The next official director episode comes courtesy of new bi-monthly co-host Bill Ackerman of Supporting Characters so stay tuned for that soon! Not to mention the fact that Bill will also be covering the work of Frank Perry later in the year as well so you'll hear even more about his other films on this show in the future. Follow Sergio Mims On Twitter: https://twitter.com/sepia_cinema Check Out His Appearances On Movie Madness: http://www.nowplayingnetwork.net/moviemadness Opening Song: Tinseltown Swimming In Blood - Destroyer Closing Song: The Swimming Song - Loudon Wainwright III

It is that time of year again. Actually the first time since 2019 that the Chicago Critics Film Festival has hosted an entire week at the Music Box Theatre. Their return for a weekend in 2021 was a success but the festival co-produced by Erik Childress returns to full glory May 13-19 and along with Sergio Mims they breakdown, day by day, every film selected for the event. Two very special film festival events are discussed during this episode. Along with the CCFF which remains in its 9th year the only film festival entirely curated by working film critics, the duo talk about Sergio's experience as a presenter at this year's Turner Classic Movies Festival. Visit www.musicboxtheatre.com for tickets & passes.

For the Movie Madness' 300th episode, Erik Childress and Sergio Mims decided to undertake something they have talked about for some time. Matthew Robbins' 1981 film, Dragonslayer, is a film they have preached and pleaded for years to finally get a Blu-ray release (hell, let's go 4K at this point!) Sergio has turned into quite the commentary machine in recent years and Erik even still has one out there climbing the charts. And for this episode all you will need is your own copy of Dragonslayer and you can sync up the duo doing a full commentary track for the film. You can listen to the opening for instructions on when and where to press play after they discuss Sergio's great honor in being selected as a presenter at this year's Turner Classic Movies' Film Festival.   0:00 - Intro 12:17 – Dragonslayer Commentary Instructions 13:02 – Dragonslayer Commentary

Sergio Mims is back with the latest and greatest in Blu-rays and he focuses on three different studios with Erik Childress. Kino has a pair of great thrillers newly available in 4K as well as one from the ‘80s that may be more memorable for a promise of a single shot. Warner Archive puts James Cagney in an early version of Top Gun, one of the original versions of A Star Is Born and a stunning upgrade of a Cinerama cult classic. Finally, is the new 4K set of The Godfather Trilogy live up to the hype on the 50th Anniversary of the original? Listen in and get your wallets ready for some physical media.   0:00 - Intro 0:51 - Kino (Man's Favorite Sport, The Final Option, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, Touch of Evil) 27:46 – Warner Archive (Captain of the Clouds, A Star is Born (1937), The Wonderful World of the Brothers Grimm) 50:05 – Paramount (The Godfather Trilogy 4K) 59:56 - Outro

Two of Chicago's smartest movie minds--Sergio Mims from the Black Harvest Film Festival & Chris Buddy, director extraordinaire--join Ben to geek out over The Godfather. Can it really be 50 years? Favorite scenes. Why is it the greatest? What is its legacy? Back stories. Flaws--Sonny missed the punch! And more...See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Battle of the letters-to-editor in the Sun-Times. First, Kenneth Griffin, then a Sun-Times reader. Ben riffs. Monroe Anderson & Sergio Mims, co-founder of the Black Harvest Festival, and the great debate. Is media unfair to Mayor Lightfoot? Is the left wrong on NATO? Are we on the verge of WW III? And a few thoughts about The Godfather.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sergio Mims joins Erik Childress for another round in the latest and greatest in Blu-rays. Criterion has got the Coens and the Beatles. Paramount has Beavis & Butt-Head and Wayne & Garth. Universal has James Bond and Paul Schrader. Kino has another commentary with Sergio, they agree on a Burt Reynolds gem and whether a certain Billy Wilder classic now available in 4K is even amongst his strongest works. They are also particularly happy to see three of their choices from their Why Is This Not On Blu-ray shows finally get the format they deserve including a mystery from Stephen Sondheim, a 1930s musical and one of the great post-Jaws creature features from Shout Factory.   0:00 - Intro 5:26 – Criterion (A Hard Day's Night, Miller's Crossing, Written on the Wind) 27:41 – Shout Factory (Alligator) 38:10 – Paramount (Beavis & Butt-Head Do America, Wayne's World, La Dolce Vita) 1:00:37 – Universal (The Card Counter, No Time To Die) 1:07:31 – Kino (Breaking In, Gambit, Where There's Life, Monsieur Beaucaire, Some Like It Hot 4K) 1:28:10 – Warner Archive (The Last of Sheila, National Velvet, Stage Fright, The Three Musketeers 1948, Gold Diggers of 1933, Edge of Darkness (1943), Some Came Running) 2:19:47 - Outro

The Movie Madness Podcast goes back to Sundance (virtually) with Erik Childress, Steve Prokopy and Sergio Mims going through what they saw on their weeklong trip through the at-home app for a second straight year. More than 20 titles are discussed including new films from Kogonada, Justin Benson & Aaron Moorehead and Cooper Raiff. There are debuts from Jesse Eisenberg and Tig Notaro, and even a remake of Ikiru will Bill Nighy. Not to mention a group of incredible performances from Emma Thompson, Rebecca Hall, Thandiwe Newton, Aubrey Plaza and Dakota Johnson. The trio goes through most of the good and even some of the bad on a festival that is likely to be giving us something to look forward to the whole year.   0:00 - Intro 3:00 - When You Finish Saving the World 8:08 - Emergency 18:53 - Fresh 24:30 - After Yang 33:12 - The Janes 40:02 - Resurrection 48:15 - Fire of Love 52:25 - 892 59:48 - Something in the Dirt 1:04:24 - Living 1:11:23 - Honk For Jesus. Save Your Soul 1:21:03 - Good Luck To You Leo Grande 1:27:26 – Watcher 1:33:36 – Emily the Criminal 1:42:36 – Am I OK> 1:49:42 – Second Chance 1:53:44 – God's Country 2:03:58 – Cha Cha Real Smooth 2:10:04 – Sundance Tech 2:13:43 – More Films with Steve Prokopy 2:17:27 – More Films with Erik Childress 2:18:48 – We Need To Talk About Cosby 2:28:27 - Outro

Of all the weird news of the day, the weirdest may be Jesse Sullivan's Tribune essay on how to end crime in Chicago. Which Ben read so you don't have to. Ben riffs. Then Monroe Anderson weighs in the marxist notion that racism is dead. And Sergio Mims returns to join the conversation about Mayor Richard Irvin, crime and Republican politics.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sergio Mims joins Erik Childress to take a look back on the careers of two men who became legends in their own time. Director Peter Bogdanovich came out of the gate with three films that established a legacy, but whose ego and crave of the spotlight began to take a toll. Though he continued working up until nearly his passing, his films never achieved the level of acclaim he did in the early ‘70s. Sidney Poitier, on the other hand, is one of the few to claim the title of trailblazer and it not be just another word. Erik & Sergio look at a number of films through their careers to hopefully shine a spotlight on a rather tragic beginning to 2022.

Ben crosses COVID country as he flies home from California. Did the guy coughing on Ben's neck given him COVID? It's very scary out there, folks. And Monroe Anderson & Sergio Mims tag team on all the news of the year. Including an extended take on the Rhode Island Republican who lost her one Black friend cause of CRT. Can the news get weirder?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The bi-annual series with Erik Childress and Sergio Mims closes out 2021 with a giant three-plus hour show dedicated to 20 films that have yet to find their way beyond DVD and, at least in one case, out of VHS if you can even find that. Ten choices each spanning a variety of eras include film noirs, comedies, television adaptations and even a television series. Blaxploitation and musicals, a satire of one era and a whole other era that many would rather forget but Sergio is here to remind you (and others) about. The hinting is only part of the fun as you discover not only their choices but perhaps even the films themselves. And at least one studio could not wait to announce one of these just days after the taping.

The most epic episode yet! Kerry and Collin talk to five guests (separately)--Nell Minow, Sergio Mims, Peter Sobczynski, Tadd Good and Dave Canfield--about the enduring legacy, the origins, the personal attachments to and the cultural significance of Frank Capra's timeless classic, "It's A Wonderful Life." What helps it stand the test of time? Can one movie really help us get past our differences and see the world in a new light? How does the 1977 TV remake, starring Marlo Thomas, hold up? Collin and Kerry also answer listener mail and feedback. BONUS discussion at the very end about another enduring classic. 

Erik Childress and Sergio Mims deliver one last Blu-ray show for 2021 with an impressive group of titles just in time to make your film lovers merry for Christmas. From Criterion they talk about one of the greatest films of all-time and one of their choices for the best film of 2020. Paramount delivers on a couple of Warren Beatty classics while also fulfilling another from the hosts' Not-On-Blu-Ray lists. As does Warner Archive with a timely delivered mystery given the passing of one of its screenwriters as well as the awesomeness of the Mad Max Anthology. Sergio hypes up a nearly long lost film from Flicker Alley along with his absolute love of The Guns of Navarone. Then there is nearly an hour dedicated to some great titles from Kino including the original version of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, a bunch of Charles Bronson & W.C. Fields for your dads, one of Steven Spielberg's earliest efforts and a pair of classic horror titles now available on 4K. Get those lists ready because they are going to fill them up here. 0:00 – Intro 3:10 - Criterion (Citizen Kane, One Night in Miami) 16:54 - Flicker Alley (The Bitter Stems) 23:26 – Sony (The Guns of Navarone 4k) 33:25 – Paramount (What Lies Beneath, Heaven Can Wait, Reds 51:06 – Warner Bros. (Mad Max Anthology) 59:24 – Warner Archive (Party Girl, Fury, Ivanhoe, The Last of Sheila) 1:28:30 – Kino  (Bedtime Story, Mr.Majestyk, Chato's Land, Breakheart Pass, It's a Gift, The Bank Dick, Kolchak: The Night Stalker, Night Gallery, The Silence of the Lambs 4K, Invasion of the Body Snatchers 4K) 2:25:01 - Outro

Six new movies are covered on the weekly movie review edition of the show with Erik Childress and Steve Prokopy looking at a new documentary about a film legend (The Real Charlie Chaplin) and the week from hell of a TV legend (Being the Ricardos). A film dramatizes the debate over compensating student athletes (National Champions) but who will compensate us for the latest from Sandra Bullock (The Unforgivable) and Adam McKay (Don't Look Up). Then if you missed the full show with Sergio Mims, Steve gets his chance to talk about Steven Spielberg's West Side Story. 0:00 - Intro 1:22 – National Champions 21:02 – The Real Charlie Chaplin 31:38 – The Unforgivable 45:27 – Being the Ricardos 1:03:49 - Don't Look Up 1:27:50 - West Side Story 1:48:10 - Outro

The title of the episode almost says it all but it turns out both Erik Childress and Sergio Mims have a lot to say about Steven Spielberg's remake of the Oscar-winning 1961 musical. Sergio, who also hosts a classical music show on WHPK Radio in Chicago, takes us through the choreographers, Leonard Bernstein and his thoughts both positive and negative on the original. Erik also shares his thoughts on how the 1961 film shaped his perspective on musicals at an early age and how the new film has managed to surpass it at every level. Both marvel at one particular performance in the remake which also manages to honor another with some key changes made to the original text. While they may have some quibbles and disagree here and there one thing they agree on is this is one of the best films of 2021.

Black Friday and Christmas are coming up, so what better time to talk up some Blu-rays you may want to add to your wish lists. Erik Childress and Sergio Mims discuss a great documentary that should be on everyone's shelves about one of the greatest television shows ever produced. For the kids Shout Factory has a whole lineup of new Laika packages and the pair also get into who is a Labyrinth guy and who is a Dark Crystal guy. Paramount has some great 4K titles including two-thirds of the original Star Trek movies and one of the most successful horror films to be released during the holidays. Sergio also pushes back on the criticism of the new 4K of Quentin Tarantino's Inglourious Basterds and runs down a bunch of new stuff from Warner Archive including the long-awaited debut of one of the great comic debuts ever. 0:00 - Intro 2:42 – Street Gang: How We Got To Sesame Street 9:21 – Shout Factory (Coraline, Paranorman, Kubo and the Two Strings, The Boxtrolls) 14:25 – Sony (Labyrinth) 22:02 – Paramount (Star Trek 1-4 Collection 4K, Scream 4K, Breakdown, The Sheik) 42:45 – Universal (Inglourious Basterds 4K) 58:55 – Warner Bros. (Zack Snyder's Justice League) 1:02:15 – Warner Archive  (Night Shift, Ghost Ship, Bedlam, Mad Love, Children of the Damned 1:38:23 – Studio Classics (The Servant) 1:46:50 - Outro

Movies never stop and neither do the Blu-rays which is why Erik Childress and Sergio Mims continue to talk about them so you can build your physical media collection. It may only be on DVD but any cornucopia of Richard Pryor material is a gift and they discuss a new one from Time-Life. Sergio digs into the Arrow release of Ridley Scott's Legend and Criterion's The Damned. They go through a variety of titles from Kino and a pair of major 4K releases from Warner Bros. that bring both praise and reservations for their classic status. Finally they dig into the Warner Archive to discuss a problematic Errol Flynn film, a great James Stewart western, an overlooked Dustin Hoffman performances and one of the funniest comedies of all-time that is a must-have. 0:00 - Outro 2:04 – Time-Life (The Ultimate Richard Pryor Collection) 8:26 – Arrow (Legend) 15:12 – Criterion (The Damned) 25:20 – Kino (The Comedy of Errors, The Tomb of Ligeia, Arabesque, Masquerade, The Last Sunset, The Hunter Will Get You, Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid) 58:12 – Warner Bros. (A Clockwork Orange 4K, The Shawshank Redemption 4K) 1:22:14 – Warner Archive (Santa Fe Trail, The Naked Spur, Straight Time, A Night at the Opera) 1:48:40 - Outro

Aside from all their duties as film critics, journalists, radio show hosts and TV guests, Erik Childress and Sergio Mims also each produce film festivals in the city of Chicago. Erik created the Chicago Critics Film Festival, the only event curated entirely by film critics and Sergio has been producing the Black Harvest Film Festival for over 25 years. Both events are taking place this year in November and each are teaming up to tell you all about what is in store for you if you can attend either. But first they also have some films they saw at the Chicago International Film Festival and they have a little love to give there before unveiling what they have helped put together this year. 0:00 – Intro / The 2021 Chicago International Film Festival 3:10 – The French Dispatch 7:02 – Any Given Day 9:29 – Punch 9 For Harold Washington 21:29 – Petite Maman 24:29 – Oscar Micheaux: The Superhero of Black Filmmaking 30:04 – Hellbender 32:15 – The Sadness 35:06 – Spencer 48:09 – The Beta Test 52:38 – The Chicago Critics Film Festival 1:25:32 – The Black Harvest Film Festival

It's Blu-ray time again on the podcast. Erik Childress and Sergio Mims concentrate on just a few studios but a lot of titles including films from a silent film comedian. Sergio goes over some recent musicals released by Warner Archive as well as an Errol Flynn war film. If you ever wanted to see Strother Martin in a horror film, Arrow Video has one for you along with a couple of new 4K titles. One from Dario Argento is there for your Halloween viewing and the other is there to re-evaluate David Lynch's version of the adaptation being hyperbolized to a fault. Is the 1984 Dune as bad as its reputation or does a new sheen make its visuals as impressive as people believe the 2021 version to be? 0:00 - Intro 3:30 – Undercrank (Edward Everett Horton 8 Silent Comedies) 9:10 – Arrow (The Brotherhood of Satan, The Cat O Nine Tails, Dune) 55:08 – Warner Bros. (Mortal Kombat) 1:01:06 – Warner Archive (In the Good Old Summertime, Take Me Out to the Ball Game, Ziegfeld Follies, Objective Burma) 1:45:50 - Outro

The Chicago Blackhawks hockey team finally fess up to covering up allegations of sexual assault during the 2010 playoffs. Ben riffs. And Monroe Anderson & Sergio Mims talk Kyle Rittenhouse trial, mask mandates, Chicago Reader, Harold Washington, Bernie Epton and Black Harvest film festival. And more...See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Erik Childress and Sergio Mims have a lot of Blu-ray releases to catch-up on and they begin here with the latest from their friends at Indicator, Paramount, Warner Bros. and Kino. They discuss the confusion over the ending to Jagged Edge, the legacies of both Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and Mommie Dearest. They also go through an array of titles from Kino including films from Billy Wilder and Cecil B. DeMille as well as a pair of new commentary tracks that Sergio has contributed and are available now. 0:00 – Intro 1:30 – Indicator (Jagged Edge, The Big Fix, The Bingo Traveling All-Stars and Motor Kings) 33:53 – Paramount (Mommie Dearest, A Place in the Sun, Nashville) 57:05 – Warner Bros. (Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory 4K) 1:11:40 – Kino (Thoroughly Modern Millie, The Fortune Cookie, Union Pacific, Unconquered, The Last Man On Earth, Lilies of the Field, Moment by Moment) 2:13:29 - Outro

An episode two years in the making. Or 15. Or nearly 60, depending on if you want to start with the beginning of the James Bond franchise, the stay of the Daniel Craig era or when his final outing as 007 was supposed to come out. It is finally time for No Time To Die and Bond expert, Sergio Mims, joins Erik Childress to do a full dive into the series. They talk Connery, Moore, Dalton, Brosnan and even Lazenby. Their early experiences with the movies and before that, the books, are discussed. What is the Bond film that purists hate but at least one of them has a fondness for? Ultimately it is all sprinkled in to the discussion of the 25th Bond film, their full reaction to it (with spoilers) and whether or not it was a worthy finale to Craig's arc.