Unsung Cinematics
Unsung Cinematics
The Unsung Cinematics podcast reviews some of the best kept secrets in TV and Film. Your hosts Stewart and Rasto provide insight to a misunderstood movie to see if it deserves the title of being “unsung”. We dust off and discuss films and television shows that are considered underrated, forgotten, and even neglected.
Produced by:
Rastislav Miklos and Stewart Rathje
Hosts:
Rastislav Miklos and Stewart Rathje
Special Guests:
Ken Flatt
Created:
2020
Independent Rating:
Occasional swearing and reference to adult situations.
Distribution Rights:
Rastislav Miklos and Stewart Rathje
Contact:
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Inherent Vice (2014)
Gordina California is the home to this beach community that like many other cities in the US during the early 70’s was in the middle of it’s smoky drug haze.
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Luna (2014)
Secrets are revealed as Grant and Christine visit an old friend for the weekend at a sea-side house. Luna is art film from 2014 directed and written by Dave McKean.
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Dog Soldiers (2002)
Based in the Scottish Hilands, this 2002 UK film called Dog Soldiers mixes horror, with werewolves and a bit of military based action.
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Wiener Dog (2016)
Wiener Dog is a 2016 Comedy Drama by Todd Solondz who also directed Welcome to the Dollhouse.
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Never Grow Old (2019)
Never Grow Old is a 2019 dark western that puts a small frontier Irish undertaker (Patrick Tate) played by Emile Hirsch and his family to the test when a bounty hunter played by John Cusack moves in to terrorize the small christian community just outside of California.
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The Road (2009)
Wish I Was Here was supposed to be a heartwarming tale of a struggling Los Angeles family but ends up being a R rated family film; if that is even possible?
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Fubar (2002)
I hope your remote control isn’t broken because this movies suck knob is cranked all the way up to 10.
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Detachment (2011)
Get out your notebook but don’t write in it because you aren’t making any new memories anyways.
Read MoreSeason 2 Episode Guide
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 1996
Rating: PG
Director:
Writers:
Where to Watch:
Free on YouTube (North America) and other streaming services.
Comic:
n/a
Stars:
Starring Rick Moranis as David, Tom Arnold as Roscoe and Julianne Phillips as Victoria. Also featuring Curtis Armstrong, Don Knotts, Justin Jon Ross, and Michael Zwiener.
Show Notes:
Big Bully is a 1996 dark comedy film about the childhood rivalry between two kids who years later rekindle that rivalry. As a child David is constantly being bullied by Roscoe who is much larger than he is. After an incident with a stolen moon rock, Roscoe is sent to Juvenile hall, never to be heard from again. That is until years later. When David returns to his home city and finds Roscoe there, the old bully comes back out to torment David.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos, Ken Flatt
Released: 2017
Rating: R
Director:
Writers:
Where to Watch:
YouTube and other streaming services.
Comic:
n/a
Stars:
Directed and written by Eshom, and Ian Nelms. Starring John Hawkes, Anthony Anderson, Octavia Spencer, Robert Forster and appearance by Caity Lotz.
Show Notes:
Small Town Crime is a modernized neo noir crime mystery from 2017. In typical murder mystery style a disgraced cop finds the body of a dead prostitute while on one his drunken benders. Determined to get back in the good graces of his police department, and unable to let go of that investigative drive to solve crime, he decides to secretly take on the case of this murdered woman.
Episode Links:
Small Town Crime Trailer on Youtube
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2005
Rating: PG
Director:
Writers:
Where to Watch:
Apple TV, Amazon
Comic:
n/a
Stars:
The film is written and directed by Joshua Stern in his directorial debut. Starring Ian McKellen as Gabriel, Aaron Eckhart as Zachary, Brittany Murphy as Maggie, Nick Nolte as T.L. Pierson, and William Hurt as Dr. Peter Reed.
Show Notes:
Neverwas is a 2005 fantasy, drama, mystery film that explores the inner workings of a schizophrenic patient and his fantasy. The movie is a Canadian and US join project that focuses on the character of Zachary who wants to close a chapter of his life in which his dad commits suicide. Unknown to him, his past comes to life as a fantasy book that his dad wrote and his newest patient seems to already know who he is.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2015
Rating: R
Director:
Writers:
Where to Watch:
Amazon, Youtube, Other Streaming Services
Comic:
n/a
Stars:
John Hawkes, Crystal Reed, Vail Bloom, Joanna Cassidy, Dichen Lachman, Robert Forster and Jeff Fahey.
Show Notes:
Too Late is a 2015 Film that follows the life of a Los Angeles private investigator as he tries to solve a murder mystery of a young stripper.
The film is unique as it is done in 5, 20 minute takes or scenes on 35mm film without any cuts in between the scenes. The film uses some clever techniques to tell the story, and there is a surprise ending.
Episode Links:
Too Late (2015) Trailers and Information on IMDB
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos, Ken Flatt
Released: 2015
Rating: PG
Director:
Writers:
Where to Watch:
Tubu, Paramount Plus, Other Streaming Services
Comic:
n/a
Stars:
Starring Jackson Martin, Nick Serino, and Reece Moffett who are both local actors to the region.
Show Notes:
Sleeping Giant is a 2015 coming of age film of 3 boys who are on summer vacation in the Thunder Bay Region and are struggling to find something to do while at their cottage/camp. The three teenage boys get into a ton of trouble, as they are always bickering, getting into fights, and causing mischief. Exploring Lake Superior, they come across the sleeping giant region, and some cliffs that hold some disturbing truths about it.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2022
Rating: PG
Director:
Writers:
Noah Baumbach, book by Don DeLillo
Where to Watch:
Netflix
Comic:
n/a
Stars:
Starring Adam Driver as Jack (Professor), Greta Gerwig as Babette, Don Cheadle as Murray, and May Nivola as Steffie.
Show Notes:
White noise is a 2022 dark comedy that tells the story of a professor of Nazi philosophy. His wife and family are along for the ride as they deal with the absurdities and noise of modern day life. Set in the 1984 in a small Northern Ohio town, the family is forced to come to grips with how meaningless modern life seems to be. The film touchs on aspects of death, the blurring of reality and fiction in modern society, conspiracies, and the existential crisis that can come from trying to keep up with the Joneses.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2010
Rating: R for Language, and one scene with sexuality.
Director:
Dan Rush
Writers:
Dan Rush, Raymond Carver (Short Story), Will Ferrell helped with screenplay
Where to Watch:
Amazon, Netflix, Google, Etc
Comic:
n/a
Stars:
Starring Will Ferrell as Nicholas, Christopher Wallace as Kenny, Rebecca Hall as Samantha, and Michael Pena as Frank.
Show Notes:
Everything must Go is a 2010 drama film written and directed by Dan Rush that explores the everything life of a middle aged man who loses his job, his wife, his house and is forced to live on his front lawn.
Based on a fictional work 'Why Don't You Dance' by Raymond Carver Dan re-write's the screenplay for the big screen with permission from Raymond Carvers widow.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2022
Rating: R for Language, Sexuality and the inappropriate use for a convenience store.
Director:
Kevin Smith is the Producer, Director and Writer, distribution by Lionsgate
Writers:
Kevin Smith
Where to Watch:
Amazon, Netflix, Etc
Comic:
n/a
Stars:
Starring Brian O'Halloran as Dante, Jeff Anderson as Randall, Jason Mewes as Jay, Kevin Smith as Silent Bob, Trevor Fehrman as Elias, Marilyn Ghigliotti as Veronica and guest apperance from Rosario Dawson as Becky.
Show Notes:
Clerks III or Three is a 2022 comedy, drama film written and directed by Kevin Smith that goes back to the beginning of the Clerks Franchise to wrap up his trilogy; we hope! Rated R for mature viewers.
The film has an inception quality about it, as Randall and Dante decide to shoot a homemade film about their early days as convenience store and movie rental shop clerks. Silent Bob takes them on a ride into their past. Emotions flare as the past and present collide.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos and Guest Tyler Reid
Released: 1994
Director:
The animation is directed by Isao Takhata, produced by Studio Ghibli, and distributed by Toho.
Writers:
Isao Takhata
Where to Watch:
Amazon, Netflix, Etc
Comic:
n/a
Stars:
Starring voice actors Makoto Nonomura, Shigeru Izumiya, Shincho Kokontei and Yuriko Ishida.
Show Notes:
Unfortunately things begin to change for the Tanuki as they are being threatened by a new suburban project that is in development in their territory. In a series of mis-adventures and pranks the tanuki are forced to take more desperate measures to try and save their home.
The animation is directed by Isao Takhata, produced by Studio Ghibli, and distributed by Toho. Starring voice actors Makoto Nonomura, Shigeru Izumiya, Shincho Kokontei and Yuriko Ishida.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2014
Director:
Tommy Wirkola
Writers:
Tommy Wirkola and Geir Vegar Hoel.
Where to Watch:
Comic:
n/a
Stars:
The film stars Geir Vegar Hoel as Martin, Martin Starr as Daniel, Jocelyn DeBoer as Monica, Ingrid Haas as Blake and Orjan Gamst as Herzog.
Show Notes:
Dead snow 2 is the 2014 sequel to the Norwegian comedy/horror flick that follows up on what happened to Martin and the Zombies that were hell bent on getting back their loot.
Martin does indeed escape, but finds out the Nazi Zombies lead by Herzog isn't just concerned about their gold, but also have a much more well planned and sinister plot to carry out their original military orders. Major battles ensue as Martin recruits his own undead army to take on the Nazi's.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2020
Director:
Joe Carnahan
Writers:
Where to Watch:
Comic:
n/a
Stars:
Frank Grillo as Roy, Mel Gibson as Colonel Clive Ventor, Naomi Watts as Jemma, and Michelle Yeoh as Dai Feng
Show Notes:
Boss Level is a 2020 Sci-Fi Action film that follows a retired Delta Force soldier in first and 3rd person narrative form. Roy Pulver gets stuck in a time loop and unfortunately for him wakes up every day; the same day to him being targeted by mysterious individuals who are attempting to kill him. Through each iteration of his time loop he gets a bit closer to solving the mystery of who is out to get him.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2022
Director:
Julius Avery
Writers:
Bragi F. Schut, Balboa Productions
Where to Watch:
Comic:
Bragi Schut, Marc Olivent, Renzo Podesta of Mythos Comics
Stars:
The film stars Sylvester Stallone as Joe, Javon Walton as Sam Cleary, Pilou Asbaek as Cyrus and Dascha Polanco as Tiffany Cleary.
Show Notes:
Samaritan is a 2022 action, superhero film based on the original comic books by Mythos Comics. A boy named Sam and his single mother living in a poor area of Granite City find themselves wrapped up in the criminal underground when Sam decides to help local thugs in their crime spree to help pay the bills. Granite city has been crumbling for decades when two brothers Samaritan and Nemesis who are arch rivals are suspected of being dead. Samaritan is Sam's hero and believes he is still alive. When an incident happens with Sam, and his neighbor Joe gets involved, he believes that he is in fact Samaritan.
stars Sylvester Stallone as Joe, Javon Walton as Sam Cleary, Pilou Asbaek as Cyrus and Dascha Polanco as Tiffany Cleary.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2009
Director:
Tommy Wirkola
Writers:
Tommy Wirkola
Stars:
The film stars Vegar Hoel as Martin, Stig Frode Henriksen as Roy, Jeppe Laursen as Erlend, Charlotte Frogner as Hanna, Lasse Valdal as Vegard, Evy Kasseth Røsten as Liv Beck and Orjan Gamst as Oberst (Zombie Leader)
Show Notes:
Dead snow is a 2009 Norwegian comedy/horror flick that follows the events of a group of young adults going on ski trip in Istind, Norway. The crew hikes into the remote snowy region with no cell phone service and arrives at a cabin to discover a dark secret about the area. Shortly after their arrival the vacationers are attacked by Nazi Zombies. The film is a mixture of modern zombie depiction, and Draugr from the Norse folklore. Things get out of hand quickly as the group fights for their lives in the snow with any weapon they can make or find.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2022
Director:
David Frankel
Writers:
Brad Copeland, and based on article by Jason Fagone
Stars:
The film stars Bryan Cranston as Jerry Selbee, Annette Bening as Marge Selbee, Rainn Wilson as Bill and Larry Wilmore as Steve
Show Notes:
Jerry and Marge Go Large is a down to earth American comedy drama based on a true story about about long-married couple Jerry and Marge Selbee. Jerry finds a mathematical loophole in the state lottery and wins millions, however he isn't the only one trying to cash in on the winnings. Him and his wife decide to take things to the next level by forming a corporation and recruits shareholders from his local town.
Episode Links:
Jerry and Marge Go Large (Trailer)
Boston Globe Article on the Lottery Winnings
Sixty Minutes Interview with Jerry and Marge Selbee
Huffington Post Article on the Selbee's
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2019
Director:
Kelly Reichardt
Writers:
Kelly Reichardt and Jonathan Raymond
Stars:
It stars John Magaro as Cookie, Orion Lee as King-Lu, Toby Jones as the Chief and Elie the cow.
Show Notes:
First Cow is a 2019 American western drama film about the life of two pioneers seeking their golden fortune in America. Life is hard for the two as like most they live in a small shack together. Determined to increase their status and lot in life they come up with a scheme to sell oily cakes, but they are missing one key ingredient; which they do find in a single lone cow.
Directed by Kelly Reichardt, from a screenplay by Reichardt and Jonathan Raymond based on Raymond's novel The Half Life. It stars John Magaro as Cookie, Orion Lee as King-Lu, Toby Jones as the Chief and Elie the cow.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 1962
Director:
Herk Harvey
Writers:
Herk Harvey and John Clifford
Stars:
It stars Candace Hilligoss as Mary Henry, Frances Feist as Mrs. Thomas, Herk Harvey as the Main Ghoul, Sidney Berger as John Linden, Art Ellison as the Minister and Stan Levitt as Dr. Samuels.
Show Notes:
Carnival of Souls is a 1962 American Independent Horror film that follows the life of a young women after the car she was in drove off a bridge. Afterwards she begins to feel disturbed and decides to take a new job as an organist in a nearby city. Once arriving she is drawn towards an abandoned carnival and begins to have mysterious visions.
Herk Harvey directed and produced the film, while John Clifford as well as Herk Harvey wrote the screenplay. It stars Candace Hilligoss as Mary Henry, Frances Feist as Mrs. Thomas, Herk Harvey as the Main Ghoul, Sidney Berger as John Linden, Art Ellison as the Minister and Stan Levitt as Dr. Samuels.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2019
Director:
Logan Marshall-Green and Blumhouse Productions
Writers:
Logan Marshall-Green
Stars:
It stars Ethan Hawke as Russel and Elaine Hendrix as Diane Spring. Minor appearances from Diane Gaeta, Betty Gabriel, Mo McRae, Chris Sullivan, Nate Mooney, Christopher Heyerdahl, Loni Love and Anne-Marie Johnson.
Show Notes:
Adopt a Highway is a 2019 American drama film that tells the tale of a newly released inmate after being in jail for 20 years for the simple possession of pot.
He finds out that life on the outside has changed, but the real surprise is when he stumbles upon a baby in a dumpster while at work. Not knowing what to do he takes the baby home.
Written and directed by Logan Marshall-Green in his directorial debut and produced by Blumhouse Productions (same studio as the new Firestarter remake of 2022.)
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2020
Director:
Chris White and 1091 pictures.
Writers:
Chris White
Stars:
Starring Brian Baumgartner as Skip, Andrew Eakle as Erik, Shannon Hutchinson as Sarah and Caleb Nix Hoffman as Scotty.
Show Notes:
Electric Jesus is 2020 coming of age film featuring on fire Christian Teens. The film follows a teenage boy with a sound mixer who wants to really light up his faith when he agrees to go on tour with 316 a Christian metal band.
Complications arise when a pastor’s daughter, 16 year-old Sarah, stows herself away in the band's RV after a church performance in Alabama. Once discovered, Skip must keep Sarah along for the next couple of weeks on the road—which turns out to be plenty of time for the talented girl to emerge as the band’s muse, head-turning opening act, and Erik’s first love.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2018
Director:
Steven Soderbergh and Joseph Malloch
Writers:
Jonathan Bernstein and James Greer
Stars:
Claire Foy as Sawyer, Joshua Leonard as David, and Jay Pharaoh as Nate. Cameo appearance by Matt Damon.
Show Notes:
Unsane is a 2018 film about a modern day woman that finds herself locked up in a behavioral center after being assessed as having psychological issues. Lines are blurred as she questions her own sanity and fights for her freedom. She catches a glimpse of one of the staff members and believes that he has been the one stalking and tormenting her for months. But is he real or a product of her delusion. Written by Jonathan Bernstein and James Greer, directed by Steven Soderbergh and Joseph Malloch. Starring Claire Foy as Sawyer, Joshua Leonard as David, and Jay Pharaoh as Nate. Cameo appearance by Matt Damon.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2022
Director:
Scott Conditt, and Jeremy Tremp
Writers:
Scott Conditt, and Jeremy Tremp
Stars:
Tom Plumley as Max, Hassie Harrison as Liz, Joey Morgan as Reggie, Eugene Wylder as Greg and a cameo appearance from Kevin Smith.
Show Notes:
Max Reload and the Nether Blasters is a Kickstarter film about a small town video game clerk, who spends most of his days playing fantasy role playing games with his two friends. When an unexpected and unreleased Coleco Vision game is delivered to the store he works at, Max feels compelled to stream the game to his livestream viewers. Unfortunately the game has a dark and sinister purpose, as Max unknowingly unleashes the dark forces of the Nether upon the world. Written, Directed and Edited by Scott Conditt, and Jeremy Tremp. Starring Tom Plumley as Max, Hassie Harrison as Liz, Joey Morgan as Reggie, Eugene Wylder as Greg and a cameo appearance from Kevin Smith.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2014
Director:
Paul Thomas Anderson/JoAnne Sellar, Paul Thomas Anderson
Writers:
Paul Thomas Anderson/JoAnne Sellar, Paul Thomas Anderson
Stars:
Joaquin Phoenix, Katherine Waterston, Owen Wilson, Josh Brolin
Show Notes:
Gordina California is the home to this beach community that like many other cities in the US during the early 70's was in the middle of it's smoky drug haze. Inherent vice is a (2014) Neo-Noir style that explores the reality of living through the 'hippy' phase of western culture. Doc Sportello is a private investigator that gets caught up in a case of a drug cartel and is forced to nagivate the psychedelic worlds or stoners, surfers, and corrupt law enforcent. Starring Joaquin Phoenix, Katherine Waterson, Josh Brolin, Owen Wilson and Reese Witherspoon.
Episode Links:
Season 1 Episode Guide
Published: March 1st, 2020
Director: Jean-Marc Vallée
Show Notes: Dull Knives aren't on the table but 'Sharp Objects' are as we take a serious look at this psychological murder mystery. Join us today for this Premiere episode of the Unsung Cinematics Podcast.
Episode Links:
Watch Sharp Objects Trailer Online
Published: March 1st, 2020
Director: Jean-Marc Vallée
Show Notes: What do pig teeth and roller skates have in common in this murder mystery? Find out as explore episodes 2 through 4 of the TV series Sharp Objects.
Episode Links:
Watch Sharp Objects Trailer Online
Published: March 1st, 2020
Director: Jean-Marc Vallée
Show Notes: "It's not safe for you here." Listen in and listen carefully as we unravel the final episodes of the murder mystery Sharp Objects.
Episode Links:
Watch Sharp Objects Trailer Online
Published: March 8th, 2020
Director: Robert Eggers
Show Notes: DRUKEN REVERLY AND SINGING MERMAIDS abound in this podcast. The Lighthouse is inspired by Edgar Allan Poes unfinished short story of the same name, stay tuned for more of this dark terror.
Episode Links:
Published: March 15th, 2020
Director: Ubaldo Ragona (as Ubaldo B. Ragona), Sidney Salkow
Starring: Vincent Price, Franca Bettoia, Emma Danieli
Show Notes: Do you think the corona virus is bad? Just wait until the virus mutates and we have a full blown zombie apocalypse on our hands. This podcast explores the 1964 'The Last Man on Earth' and what it would be like if a worldwide viral pandemic were to either infect or kill everyone it touches. Starring Vincent Price and based closely on the book 'I am Legend'
Episode Links:
Goofs and Inconsistencies on IMDB
Published: March 22nd, 2020
Director: Rian Johnson
Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Lukas Haas, Emilie de Ravin
Show Notes: Neo-noir high-school mafia movie 'Brick' from 2005. A teenage loner pushes his way into the underworld of a high school crime ring to investigate the disappearance of his ex-girlfriend.
Episode Links:
Published: March 29th, 2020
Director: Dave McKean
Starring: Stephanie Leonidas Jason Barry Rob Brydon Gina McKee
Show Notes: The film's story revolves around a young girl named Helena Campbell, who is sick of her family's career as circus performers. Helena's mother is hospitalized after they have an argument, and Helena finds herself trapped in a fantasy world shortly after. This 2005 film produced by the Jim Henson Company and the brainchild of Neil Gaiman. The film concepts were conceived while spending two weeks in the family home of Jim Henson, this film is sure to peak your interest even if it is a bit strange at times. This family movie has a PG rating is suitable for all audiences. Dream interpretation or an acid trip...you decide.
Episode Links:
Mirrormask Children's Hardcover Book
Published: April 3rd, 2020
Show Notes: In this special episode we summarize some of our favorite 12 films that are centered around priests or religious themes.
Published: April 5th, 2020
Director: Abe Forsythe
Starring: Lupita Nyong'o, Alexander England, Kat Stewart, Diesel La Torraca and Josh Gad
Show Notes: Watch out kids, cover your ears, and get out your plastic golf clubs because the zombies are coming for you in this R rated version of sesame street. Little Monsters is a 2019 zombie comedy film and an international co-production from Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States, it stars. The story revolves around a washed-up musician and a kindergarten teacher who are dead set on protecting a group of young schoolchildren during a sudden outbreak of zombies.
Episode Links:
Published: April 19th, 2020
Director: Spencer Susser
Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Rainn Wilson, Natalie Portman, Devin Brochu
Show Notes: I don't want any trouble...I think you do miss piggy...Hesher is a 2010 film about a self obsessed, fire starting, heavy metal rocker that is loosely based on the real life Metallica band member Cliff Burton. The movie explores the dynamic between Hesher, a young boy who lost his mother in a car crash, and his depressed Father.
Episode Links:
Published: 2010
Director: Christopher Morris
Starring: Will Adamsdale, Riz Ahmed, Adeel Akhtar
Show Notes: Only One Sheep was killed in the making of this film....The Dark Comedy 'Four Lions' from 2010 takes you into the world of 4 inept Muslims as they attempt Jihad on an unsuspecting marathon in Britain. Their ill-conceived plan culminates at the London Marathon with their bumbling attempts to disrupt the event while dressed in outlandish costumes.
Episode Links:
Published: 1995
Director: Todd Solondz
Starring: Heather Matarazzo, Christina Brucato, Brendan Sexton III and Eric Mabius.
Show Notes: Do you want to be a part of our special peoples club? If you do join us for this 1995 middle school coming of age film and you can be as special as you want. Welcome to the Dollhouse is a coming of age dark comedy directed by Todd Solondz. Dawn is a quirky and dorky girl with thick glasses who tries to fit in with her peers and goes to great lengths to ensure this happens. Starring Heather Matarazzo, Christina Brucato, Brendan Sexton III and Eric Mabius.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos, Ken Flatt
Published: 1986
Director: Roland Joffé
Starring: Robert De Niro, Jeremy Irons, Liam Neeson.
Show Notes: This 1986 drama film records the experiences of a slave trader whom converted to the Jesuit religious order in 18-century South America. After establishing a brand new mission in an eastern Paraguayan jungle the Jesuit missionaries must decide between their religious vows and protecting the Guarni people from a territorial dispute between the Spanish and the pro-slavery Portuguese.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos, Ken Flatt
Published: 1995
Director: Gregory Widen
Starring: Christopher Walken, Elias Koteas, Virginia Madsen, Eric Stoltz, and Viggo Mortensen
Show Notes: Do you believe in guardian angels?? If so the angels in this 1995 film certainly don't have your best interests at heart and would rather see your entrails laid out on the ground. The Archangel Gabriel is searching for an evil soul that is capable of turning the tides in an angelic civil war in heaven. A ex seminarian turned cop, a little girl, and her teacher have their work cut out for them as they try to stop Gabriel from attaining that soul for his own nefarious purposes. Directed by Gregory Widen, and starring Christopher Walken, Elias Koteas, Virginia Madsen, Eric Stoltz and Viggo Mortensen. This movie series features 5 movies in total.
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2014
Director: Tom McCarthy
Starring: Adam Sandler, Melonie Diaz, Steve Buscemi
Show Notes:
If you put yourself in another mans shoes will you actually become that man? The Cobbler is a 2014 film that takes this concept and runs with it. Since his fathers disappearance Max has taken over the family shoe repair business and discovers a magical heirloom that allows him to walk in another persons shoes. This underrated dramatic comedy stars Adam Sandler, Steve Buscemi, Dustin Hoffman and is directed by Tom McCarthy.
The Cobbler Episode Teaser:
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos with Guest Tyler Reid
Released: 2000
Director: Kinji Fukasaku
Starring: Tatsuya Fujiwara, Aki Maeda, Tarô Yamamoto
Show Notes:
Are you ready to kill your classmates with a pot lid? If so this film is for you. Battle Royale is a Japanese dystopian thriller from 2000 based in the near future. The Japanese government kidnaps a random class of ninth-grade students and forces them to kill each other under the revolutionary "Battle Royale" act. The film was controversial, underrated and was banned from distribution in several countries. Toei refused to sell the film to any United States distributor for a long time due to concerns about potential controversy and lawsuits. Directed by Kinji Fukasaku, starring Tatsuya Fujiwara, Aki Maeda, and Tarô Yamamoto. This film was eventually released to western markets in 2010 and has since become a cult movie. This movie never had a formal rating, but was rated 15 in Japan and has many scenes of extreme violence. Not suitable for younger viewers and watchable via subtitles.
Battle Royale Episode Teaser:
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos with Guest Ken Flatt
Released: 2018
Director: Fede Alvarez
Starring: Claire Foy, Beau Gadsdon, Sverrir Gudnason
Show Notes:
Don't get caught in this spiders web like Lisbeth did. The Girl in the Spiders Web is a 2018 film and the 4th installment at producing this hacker/thriller and the 5th in the series. Lisbeth Salander is a young computer hacker and anarchist who is falsely accused of stealing a very important computer program. She has partnered with journalist Mikael Blomkvist who are set to take down cybercriminals and corrupt government officials who are out to kill her. Directed by Fede Alvarez and starring Claire Foy, Beau Gadsdon, Sverrir Gudnason. This film is based on the Millennium series of best-selling and award-winning Swedish crime novels, created by journalist Stieg Larsson.
The Girl in the Spiders Web Episode Teaser:
Episode Links:
The Girl in the Spiders Web Trailer
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2010
Director: Jorma Taccone
Starring: Will Forte, Kristen Wiig, Val Kilmer and Ryan Phillippe.
Show Notes:
Stick that gun where the sun don't shine...Yeah where might that be? This MacGiver spoof is just what the proctologist ordered. MacGruber is a 2010 American action comedy film based on the Saturday Night Live sketch of the same name. MacGruber's work partner and love interest team up with a young lieutenant who becomes part of MacGruber's team to stop an evil villain called Dieter von Cunth from setting off a nuclear bomb. This movie didn't do so well in the box office, despite the big names behind it. Directed by Jorma Taccone, and starring Will Forte, Kristen Wiig, Val Kilmer and Ryan Phillippe.
Episode Teaser:
Episode Links:
Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2011
Director: Tony Kaye
Starring: Adrien Brody, Christina Hendricks, Marcia Gay Harden
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Get out your notebook but don't write in it because you aren't making any new memories anyways. Detachment is a 2011 drama film about a substitute teacher who drifts from classroom to classroom and attempts to connect with his students. Henry Barthes attempts to help and befriend anyone he comes in contact with. This niceness comes at a cost as at times he becomes too connected with those around him as he isn't the stable teacher he pretends to be. Directed by Tony Kaye and was written by Carl Lund. It stars Adrien Brody, Marcia Gay Harden, Christina Hendricks, William Petersen, Bryan Cranston, Tim Blake Nelson, Betty Kaye, Sami Gayle, Lucy Liu, Blythe Danner, and James Caan.
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Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos with Guest Ken Flatt
Released: 2002
Director: Michael Dowse
Starring: Paul Spence, David Lawrence, Gordon Skilling
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I hope your remote control isn't broken because this movies suck knob is cranked all the way up to 10. Fubar is a Canadian made mockumentary film, directed by Michael Dowse, based on the lives of two lifelong friends and head-bangers living out their lives, constantly drinking beer. FUBAR debuted at the Sundance Film Festival and is based in and around Calgary Alberta. Mayhem, destruction, and just given er are the motto for these two delinquents. Starring Paul Spence, David Lawrence and Gordon Skilling.
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Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2009
Director: John Hillcoat
Starring: Viggo Mortensen, Charlize Theron, Kodi Smit-McPhee
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The Road is a 2009 American post-apocalyptic survival film by John Hillcoat and based on the book of the same name written by Cormac McCarthy. A man and his boy decide to leave their secluded home because of the impending harsh winter and the recent death of his wife. Resources and food were scarce so they decide to travel south. They make their way through many treacherous situations in the hopes of finding greener pastures. On their journey they encounter cannibals, and others who are out to steal, cheat and otherwise harm. This film has a slow methodical pace, with real locations mimicking abandoned and dead locations through the entire movie. Starring Viggo Mortensen as the 'father', Kodi Smit-McPhee as the 'son', and Charlize Theron as the 'wife'. The film is Rated R for adult situations and chronicles the struggle between survival and human kindness.
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Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2014
Director: Zach Braff
Stars: Zach Braff, Joey King, Pierce Gagnon
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Wish I Was Here was supposed to be a heartwarming tale of a struggling Los Angeles family but ends up being a R rated family film; if that is even possible? Zach Braff is the writer and director and even actor of this film and believe it or not this film was funded by a kickstarter (crowdfunding project). A 35-year-old father (Aidan) of two played by Zach Braff is struggling to be an actor in L.A. while his wife, Sarah works a tedious data job. Aidan relies on his father in-laws monetary assistance so that the kids Tucker and Grace can attend an Orthodox Jewish day school. Money is tight, and life becomes hard as Gabe (father-in-law) reveals he has cancer and the kids are then forced to be home-schooled. Through teaching them about life his way, Aidan gradually discovers some of the parts of himself he couldn't find.
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Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2019
Director: Ivan Kavanagh
Stars: Emile Hirsch, John Cusack, Déborah François
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Never Grow Old is a 2019 dark western that puts a small frontier Irish undertaker (Patrick Tate) played by Emile Hirsch and his family to the test when a bounty hunter played by John Cusack moves in to terrorize the small christian community just outside of California. Patrick develops a taste for the money he makes as the body count climbs and this in turn endangers his family. The film receives an R rating and was totally released under the radar. It bombed at the box office. I was particularly enthralled with this western as it puts a new spin on the western genre. Directed by Ivan Kavanagh, starring Emile Hirsch, John Cusack, and Déborah François.
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Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2016
Director: Todd Solondz
Stars: Greta Gerwig, Keaton Nigel Cooke, Tracy Letts, Danny Devito
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Wiener Dog is a 2016 Comedy Drama by Todd Solondz who also directed Welcome to the Dollhouse. Wiener Dog is a spin-off from Welcome to the Dollhouse and also features Dawn Wiener. The story follows a Dachshund dog that is passed off from owner to owner and inspires the lives of the dysfunctional people whom it comes in contact with. The film is basically 4 short stories and each segment can be watched independently. Directed by Todd Solondz and starring Ellen Burstyn, Kieran Culkin, Julie Delpy, Danny DeVito, Greta Gerwig, Tracy Letts, and Zosia Mamet, The film is also inspired by the 1966 drama Au Hasard Balthazar, directed by Robert Bresson.
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Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2002
Director: Neil Marshall
Writer: Neil Marshall
Stars: Sean Pertwee, Kevin McKidd, Emma Cleasby
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Based in the Scottish Hilands, this 2002 UK film called Dog Soldiers mixes horror, with werewolves and a bit of military based action. Directed and edited by Neil Marshall, in his directorial debut, and starring Sean Pertwee, Kevin McKidd, Emma Cleasby and Liam Cunningham. A British-Luxembourgian co-production, set in the highlands of Scotland, it was filmed almost entirely in Luxembourg. In the U.S., it premiered as a Sci Fi Pictures telefilm on the Sci Fi Channel. The movie is rated R for those considering it.
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Hosts: Stewart Rathje, Rastislav Miklos
Released: 2014
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Secrets are revealed as Grant and Christine visit an old friend for the weekend at a sea-side house. Luna is art film from 2014 directed and written by Dave McKean. Using dream sequences in the same way as his previous film Mirrormask; Dave KcKean has really come of age with this film. Ben Daniels, Dervla Kirwan, Stephanie Leonidas and Michael Maloney star in this delightful movie that explores what it means to lose your innocence and what's it like to keep secrets all bottled up. This movie is not suitable for younger viewers as it explores adult themes.
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