Reel Reviews Radio

Reel Reviews #63: “Do I feel lucky? Well, do ya, punk?” Time to go back to a classic “Lone Cop” thriller to dig a little deeper and see why Harry Callahan continues to deliver. “Well, I’m all broken up over that man’s rights!”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Dirty Harry (20:43 min 19MB)

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• Dirty Harry – DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Reviews #62: “I don’t drink, I don’t smoke, I don’t do drugs… I play video games.” A fascinating documentary about the pursuit for the world championship Donkey Kong score. A true David and Goliath tale that keeps sucking you in the whole time. Find out “what happens when a loser who needs to wins, faces a winner who refuses to lose.”
Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – The King of Kong (15:19 min 14.2MB)

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• The King of Kong – DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Reviews #61: “Michael Jordan plays ball. Charles Manson kills people. I talk.” A great comedy that takes a hard look at political correctness with a good dose of social satire. Time to follow Nick Naylor, big tobacco’s chief lobbyist. “We don’t sell Tic Tacs, we sell cigarettes. And they’re cool, available, and *addictive*. The job is almost done for us.”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Thank You For Smoking (18:20 min 12.7MB)

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• Thank You for Smoking – DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Reviews #60: “If Plato is a fine red wine, then Aristotle is a dry martini.” Time to enjoy the freshman effort from writer/director Noah Baumbach. A smart script with endlessly quotable lines and a great ensemble cast of young “indie” actors comes together for a film worth watching. “I like a bartender who drinks.”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Kicking and Screaming (17:30 min 16.2MB)

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• Kicking and Screaming – DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Reviews #59: “Are you gonna bark all day little doggie, or are you going to bite?” Today we look at the 1992 film that really put Quentin Tarantino on the map. Let’s go hang out with some bad guys. “Why am I Mr. Pink?”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Reservoir Dogs (19:06 min 17.7MB)

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• Show Sponsored by: Peerflix – Trade DVDs online at Peerflix
• Reservoir Dogs – DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Reviews #58: “You’re tearing me apart.” An all time classic. James Dean turns in a great performance in the film which he is probably best remembered for. It’s time for tough kids, Fifties style. “What can you do when you have to be a man?”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Rebel Without A Cause (17:15 min 16MB)

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• Show Sponsored by: Peerflix – Trade DVDs online at Peerflix
• Rebel Without A Cause – DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Reviews #57: “Super Hood, Super High, Super Dude…” One of the original “Blaxploitation” films, this one helped to set the standard. An iconic performance by Ron O’Neal as Youngblood Priest and an amazing soundtrack by Curtis Mayfield makes Superfly a film worth watching. “It’s not so much what we do, it is having a choice.”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Superfly (18:20 min 16.9MB)

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• Superfly – DVD at Amazon
• Superfly Soundtrack – at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Reviews #56: Per the commentary: “Why close what you can slam?” This film is so bad, it is good – sort of. For film aficionados this is required viewing. I always talk about great film, here is the antithesis. We have all heard of it, so let’s take a look. Yes it is April 1, but this is not an April fools joke. Today we take a serious look at Showgirls. “Thanks, I bought it at Ver-sayce.”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Showgirls (17:05 min 15.8MB)

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• Showgirls VIP Edition – DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #55: “It sounds like they are conspiring to conspire.” Traffic is Steven Soderbergh’s powerful film examining the complex issue of the war on drugs. Using bold cinematography (as seen above) and a stellar cast, Soderbergh delivers a thought provoking film. “In Mexico, law enforcement is an entrepreneurial activity.”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Traffic (17:05 min 15.8MB)

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• Showgirls DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #54: “So you’re one of those public transportation snobs.” Whit Stillman’s first film is a funny and entertaining look at a time, “not so long ago.” This is another terrific gem I have been waiting for on DVD. “When you’re an egoist, none of the harm you do is intentional.”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Metropolitan (17:18 min 12MB)

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• Metropolitan DVD at Amazon
• Doomed Bourgeois in Love: Essays on the Films of Whit Stillman
• IMDB

Reel Review #53: “If they move, kill ‘em!” Not only one of the best Western’s ever made – one of the best films ever made. Sam Peckinpah hits his high note in this amazing film. There is so much to say – just watch it. “Let’s go.”

Download from the AOL servers: Cinephile Series – The Wild Bunch (47:15 min 32.6MB)

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• The Wild Bunch DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #52: “Greed is good.” Watch as Gordon Gekko teaches young Bud Fox about the realities of playing in the big leagues on Wall Street. “The main thing about money, Bud, is that it makes you do things you don’t want to do. ”

Cinephile Series Update: The Wild Bunch coming February 3rd!

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Wall Street (16:54 min 11.8MB)

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• Wall Street DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #51: “We could not talk or talk forever, and still find things to not talk about” A fun film in the “mockumentary” style. Watch as gifted improvisational comedians take you behind the scenes at the Mayflower Kennel Club Dog Show. “If you get tired, pull over, if you get hungry, eat something.”

Cinephile Series Update: The Wild Bunch coming February 3rd!

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Best In Show (18:45 min 12.9MB)

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• Best In Show DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #50: “I’m just like you, except I’m sitting down.” This is a great documentary from Think Film about quadriplegic rugby. An intense film about some intense athletes. “What? You ain’t going to hit a kid in a chair? I’ll hit you back.”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Murderball (14:47 min 13.6MB)

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• Murderball DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #49: “My Lord, we are undone, prepare to die.” Kurosawa’s late classic is a film to behold. Amazing cinematography and a classic story based on King Lear. You owe it to yourself to watch this film. “Man is born crying. When he has cried enough, he dies.”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Ran (15:14 min 14.1MB)

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• Ran DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #48: “It’s Halloween, everyone’s entitled to one good scare.” Check out the seminal teenage horror film – Halloween. A classic in its own right, Halloween combines an enthusiastic cast, a director with a vision and a producer who can make it happen. “But you can’t kill the boogie man!”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Halloween (19:48 min 18.3MB)

Links:

• Halloween DVD at Amazon
• IMDB
• Assault On Precinct 13
• Suspiria
• NY Times Article – Podcasting
• Add yourself to the Reel Reviews map!

Reel Review #47: “When I need dough, I get mean.” A great French thriller from 1953, directed by Henri-Georges Clouzot. Follow along as a group of men take on the suicide mission of driving trucks loaded with nitroglycerin 300 miles over treacherous mountain roads. “When someone else is driving I’m scared.”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – The Wages Of Fear (18:09 min 12.6MB)

Links:

• The Wages Of Fear – Criterion Collection DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Remember to stop by the site and vote for the Halloween Reel Review!

Reel Review #46: “I never try anything. I just do it. Wanna try me?” This 1965 Russ Meyer film has become a cult and camp classic over time. Not your standard Meyer film, it would probably be rated PG-13 if released today. As the DVD cover says, “Superwomen! Filmed in glorious black and blue.”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Faster, Pussycat! Kill!… Kill! (16:17 min 11.3MB)

Links:

• DVDs and Posters direct from Russ Meyer Films
• Faster, Pussycat! Kill!… Kill! DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #45: “You’re at the Grosvener, your name is Roundtree, like Smarties, like Shaft.” This is a fun film with great performances, especially Ben Kingsley as Don Logan. Check it out. “No, no, no, no ,no ,no !”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Sexy Beast (15:31 min 10.8MB)

Links:

• Sexy Beast DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #44: “PUT THAT COFFEE DOWN. Coffee is for closers only.” Glengarry Glen Ross is the kind of film that burns itself in your memory. Terrific performances by a cast including Al Pacino, Kevin Spacey, Alec Baldwin and Jack Lemmon. “You never open your mouth until you know what the shot is.”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Glengarry Glen Ross (18:25 min 12.7MB)

Links:

• Glengarry Glen Ross DVD at Amazon
• Salesman – Criterion Collection DVD at Amazon
• Mark Ontiveros – Audio Images (Thanks!)
• IMDB

Reel Review #43: “He is not even a real crook.” Watch the seminal serial killer film, Fritz Lang’s 1931 M staring Peter Lorre in a role that would catapult him to international recognition. “I can’t help what I do! I can’t help it, I can’t… ”

Download from the AOL servers: Reel Reviews – M (18:14 min 12.6MB)

Links:

• M DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #42: “I always tell the truth. Even when I lie.” Today we spend some time with Tony Montana as we give the Cinephile Series treatment to Scarface. Capping off a discussion of the film and its history is an interview with actor, Pepe Serna who played Angel Fernandez whom you will remember from the chainsaw scenes. Remember this discussion assumes you have seen the film first. “Lesson number one. Don’t underestimate the other guys greed!”

Download from AOL servers: Reel Reviews – Scarface (50:45 min 34.9MB)

Links:

• Scarface DVD at Amazon
• IMDB
• Pepe Serna’s Website

Reel Review #41: “We are better than everybody… We have a deep cesspool of creativity here.” This 2003 documentary chronicles the rise and fall of a Hollywood Cinderella story. Watch as Troy Duffy turns the chance of a lifetime into a wasted opportunity. If this story wasn’t true, you’d never believe it. “You deserve it, but you won’t get it.”

Direct download: Reel Reviews – Overnight (16:55 min 11.7MB)

Links:

• Overnight DVD at Amazon
• IMDB
• Boondock Saints DVD at Amazon
• New Cinephile Series – Scarface DVD at Amazon

Reel Review #40: “Put an end to it! There’s no more time for praying!” A true classic. Watch as John Ford artfully directs what is probably John Wayne’s best role. Wayne’s portrayal of Ethan Edwards, a flawed man on a quest to find his niece, is arresting. It is time to see the film that is widely credited as being the inspiration for Taxi Driver and Paris, Texas.

Direct download: Reel Reviews – The Searchers (17:40 min 12.2MB)

Links:

• The Searchers DVD at Amazon
• IMDB
• New Cinephile Series – Scarface DVD at Amazon

Reel Review #39: "I have to return some videotapes." Based on Bret Easton Ellis’ 1991 novel, this 2000 film adaption continues the controversial nature of the original work. Patrick Bateman, a wealthy young investment banker is possesed by a nightly bloodlust which has spilled over into his days. Watch as it all spirals out of control. Starring an exciting young cast including Christian Bale, Justin Theroux, Jared Leto and Chloe Sevingy. "I think if you stay, something bad will happen. I think I might hurt you."

Direct download: Reel Reviews – American Psycho (17:05 min 11.7MB)

Links:

• American Psycho DVD at Amazon
• IMDB
• My Odeo Channel

Quick podcast update and new Cinephile Series.
Read more…

Reel Review #38: “Shut up, listen and learn.” This small film, which broke out on video through word of mouth, takes a dark but fun look at life as a Hollywood assistant. Kevin Spacey and Frank Whaley turn in memorable roles for first time Director (and former assistant) George Huang. You’ll never confuse Sweet’N Low with Equal again. “Loud and nasty, that’s the only way it sticks.”

Direct download: Reel Reviews – Swimming With Sharks (17:01 min 11.7MB)

Links:

• Sponsored by – Calco Insurance Brokers & Agents Inc.
• Swimming With Sharks DVD at Amazon
• IMDB
• My Odeo Channel

Reel Review #37: “Vegas, baby! Vegas!” A fun film that broke through and established the careers of many of the young actors who were in it. Swingers is always a good time. Great performances by John Favreau, Vince Vaughn and Heather Graham. Pour yourself a cocktail and enjoy. “You’re so money and you don’t even know it!”

Direct download: Reel Reviews – Swingers (19:11 min 13.3MB)

Links:

• Sponsored by – Calco Insurance Brokers & Agents Inc.
• Swingers DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #36: “This is a fictional life, based on a factual death.” Check out this reconstructional of the 1980 Samuel Fuller film, The Big Red One. Originally butchered by the studio, Richard Schickel attempts to restore the film to the director’s original vision. Lee Marvin, Mark Hamill and Robert Carradine – what more can you ask for? “We don’t murder, we kill.”

Direct download: Reel Reviews – The Big Red One (17:10min 11.9MB)

Links:

• Sponsored by – Calco Insurance Brokers & Agents Inc.
• The Big Red One DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #35: “We had a couple of bimbos with… No. Actually they were, they were very nice girls. They reminded me a lot of you two. ” John Cassavetes can make a movie! Find out about one of Cassavetes best received “independent” films from the 60′s. This is the tragic story of a marriage falling apart. Do infidelity and alcohol fill the void of a loveless life? Find out in this powerful and engaging film – one certainly worth watching.

Direct download: Reel Reviews – Faces (18:29min 12.8MB)

Links:

• Sponsored by – Calco Insurance Brokers & Agents Inc.
• John Cassavetes Five Films DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #34: “I’m not much on rear window ethics.” It is time to take a look at a classic from 1954. Easily one of the greatest films ever committed to celluloid. Rear Window is film where everything goes right. Wonderfully directed by Alfred Hitchcock, great performances by James Stewart and Grace Kelly with a terrific story. “A murderer would never parade his crime in front of an open window. ”

Direct download: Reel Reviews – Rear Window (19:48min 13.7MB)

Links:

• Sponsored by – Calco Insurance Brokers & Agents Inc.
• Rear Window DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review – Sideways Roundtable Discussion. As promised, I got together with the guys from Grape Radio for a great roundtable discussion of the film Sideways. We had a blast discussing the film and its impact on Merlot, Pinot Noir and the beautiful wine country of Santa Barbara, California.

Enter the Sideways DVD give away:
(Entry Period has ended.) Here’s your chance to get in on the action – Fox Searchlight Pictures provided us with 5 copies of the DVD to give away. To enter, click on the “Email entry for Sideways contest” in the right-hand column under Sideways DVD Contest. Note: Double your chance to win by also entering at Grape Radio. The contest expires April 14th, 2005. Thanks again to DVDtalk for all their help. While you are at it, you can help support the podcast by voting here thanks! Update: winners have been announced.

Direct download: Reel Reviews – Sideways (44:06min 20.3MB)

Links:

• Sponsored by – Calco Insurance Brokers & Agents Inc.
• Sideways DVD at Amazon

Links to continue the Sideways experience: Read more…

Reel Review #33: “Quaffable, but uh… far from transcendent. ” Yes, Miles is a bit of a wine snob, but this movie is not one to turn you nose up at. Sideways is one of the best reviewed and most recognized films of 2004, and deserves every bit of attention it received. Great writing and fantastic performances are combined for a “transcendent” movie going experience. It is time to take a look at Sideways. Also, listen for details on our Sideways giveaway courtesy of Fox Searchlight Films.

Direct download: Reel Reviews – Sideways (18:41min 12.9MB)

Links:

• Sponsored by – Calco Insurance Brokers & Agents Inc.
• Sideways DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #32: “I got this plan. It’s called “Save Ass”. And the way it works is this – I slip outta one of these windows and I run like a bastard!” This film can best be summed up as Rio Bravo meets a 1970′s exploitation flick. John Carpenter puts together a fun film worth checking out. “Why would anybody want to shoot at a police station?” Find out.

Direct download: Reel Reviews – Assault On Precinct 13 (17:52min 12.4MB)

Links:

• Sponsored by – Calco Insurance Brokers & Agents Inc.
• Assault On Precinct 13 DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #31: “I love you. Totally… tenderly… tragically.” Today we look at the 1963 Jean-Luc Godard film, Contempt. Staring an international cast: Brigitte Bardot, Michel Piccoli, Jack Palance and Fritz Lang. The film focuses both on a film within a film and the tragic loss of love between the two main characters. This is a film with intense visuals and ground breaking camera work that you will not soon forget. Check it out.

Direct download: Reel Reviews – Contempt (17:59min 12.4MB)

Links:

• Sponsored by – Calco Insurance Brokers & Agents Inc.
• Contempt DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #30: “I do what I do best, I take scores. You do what you do best, try to stop guys like me.” Check out this Michael Mann written and directed film that puts Al Pacino and Robert De Niro on the screen together. A wild ride that blends action and drama. I go a little longer than usual, but can you blame me with so much great stuff to talk about. Check it out.

Direct download: Reel Reviews – Heat (21:14min 14.8MB)

Links:

• Sponsored by – Calco Insurance Brokers & Agents Inc.
• Heat DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #29: “Nobody loses all the time.” Well, actually sometimes they do. This Sam Peckinpah classic is a tough film, a difficult film and one that rewards the viewer. Almost universally panned upon its release, by all but a few critics that saw the greatness hidden behind it tough exterior, today it is recognized as a classic. This is Peckinpah’s most personal film and one in which Warren Oates gives a performance to be remembered. The best synopsis of this film I have seen is: “the story of two losers who challenge destiny”. Time to see Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia.

Direct download: Reel Reviews – Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia (16:22min 11.7MB)

Links:

• Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia – DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #28: “Sometimes you do your best work when you got a gun to your head.” Catch John Travolta on his upswing from Pulp Fiction as he hits on all cylinders in this terrific comedy from 1995. Get Shorty has it all; drug smuggling, loan sharking, the Mob and Hollywood. Filled out with an all-star cast including Danny DeVito, Gene Hackman and Renee Russo this is a film that you can count on for a good time.

Direct download: Reel Reviews – Get Shorty (16:22min 11.7MB)

Links:

• Sponsored by – Bluecat Screenplay Competition
• Get Shorty DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #27: Raging Bull is widely acknowledged as the best film from the Eighties. With expert guidance from Director Martin Scorsese and amazing performances turned in by Robert De Niro, Cathy Moriarty and Joe Pesci – Raging Bull is not one to be missed. A brand new Special Edition DVD release makes now a great time to dive into this spectacular film.

Direct download: Reel Reviews – Raging Bull (16:32min 11.8MB)

Links:

• Sponsored by – Bluecat Screenplay Competition
• Raging Bull DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #26: “He’d kill us if he had the chance.” The Conversation turns on this statement. Where the intonation resides has everything to do with what it means. This is a great film from the seventies written and directed by Francis Ford Coppola. He made this film between productions on the two Godfather films. This is one that should not be missed. I’m not following you. I’m looking for you, there is a big difference.

Direct download: Reel Reviews – The Conversation (16:17min 11.3MB)

Links:

• The Conversation DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #25: “The Sex Pistols should have happened and did.” A fascinating documentary about one of the most notorious rock groups of all time. They lasted for little more than two years and released only one album but changed the face of music forever. Julien Temple takes us through the bands formation, rise to infamy and ultimate implosion on their American Tour. Ever get the feeling you’ve been cheated?

Direct download: Reel Reviews – The Filth And The Fury (17:45min 12.3MB)

Links:

• The Filth And The Fury DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

Reel Review #24: “The life of a Repo Man is always intense.” This cult classic came out in 1984. Brought to us by Alex Cox who would later hit another home run with Sid and Nancy. Punk Rock, Aliens and Repo Men – what more could you ask for? These are always the most difficult, what makes a cult classic great? That is a tough one, but here we are twenty years plus later and people are still talking about this small film that has had a large impact! “Let’s go do some crimes.” Better yet “let’s go get sushi and not pay.”

Direct download: Reel Reviews – Repo Man (17:03min 11.8MB)

Links:

• Repo Man DVD at Amazon
• IMDB
• Breakfast With Hunter

Reel Review #23: “Everyone gets everything he wants, I wanted a mission and for my sins they gave me one.” For the third edition of the Cinephile Series we examine Apocalypse Now. (Please remember, unlike the standard Reel Reviews, the Cinephile Series works on the assumption you have seen the film. Spoilers abound.) Easily one of the greatest films ever made, Apocalypse Now has rightfully maintained its popularity with new movie going audiences over the years. Simply put – a must see film. . (For the observant, you’ll notice I mispronounce Joseph Conrad’s novella as Hearts of Darkness. Sorry about that.) Take a trip up the river with us and journey back into the insanity. The horror, the horror…

Direct download: Apocalypse Now (35:39min 17.1MB)

Links mentioned:

• Apocalypse Now Redux DVD at Amazon
• Apocalypse Now DVD at Amazon
• IMDB

This post has proven extremely popular. If you find it helpful, and would like to support the site please consider voting for Reel Reviews at PodcastAlley. There is a vote submission form at the bottom of this post. Thank you. Link to vote form.

Podcast About The Podcast #2: (Note to regular listeners – this was not sent via podcast because it deals with issues for listeners new to podcasting.) I had such great feedback after doing my first Podcast About The Podcast that I have decided to keep doing them. Over the last few weeks, I have been involved in consulting and production of new podcasts. These podcasts are aimed primarily at listeners who are not already familiar with podcast technology. In doing this, we found many people enjoyed the new shows but struggled with figuring out all the new terms and most importantly, what subscribing meant and how to go about doing it. Today we take a step back and cover – what is a podcast and how to get your computer set up to automatically receive new editions of your favorite shows.

Direct download: Podcast About The Podcast 2 (10:54min 7.5MB)

Read more…

Reel Review #22: “I never killed anyone that didn’t deserve it.” This 2000 Australian film put Eric Bana on the map. Australia has been putting out some great films recently and Chopper is one that is at the top of the list. It is the story of Australia’s most famous criminal as well as one of its best selling authors: Mark Brandon “Chopper” Read. Eric Bana is electrifying on the screen as Chopper. As Chopper always said, “never let the truth get in the way of a good yarn.” Check it out.

Direct download of the podcast: Reel Reviews – Chopper (14:03min 9.8MB)
or subscribe:

Links:

• Chopper DVD at Amazon
• IMDB
• Chopper’s site

Reel Review #21: “I knew these people… These two people. They were in love with each other. The girl was… very young, about seventeen or eighteen, I guess. And the guy was… quite a bit older. He was kind of raggedy and wild. And she was very beautiful, you know?” A great Wim Wenders film and the Palme d’Or winner at Cannes in 1984. I go a bit longer on this one only because of my pure enthusiasm for this great film. Check it out.

Direct download of the podcast: Reel Reviews – Paris, Texas (19:44min 13.6MB)
or subscribe:

Links:

• Paris, Texas – DVD at Amazon
• IMDB
• The Monologue

Reel Review #20: “Wow, 20 Reel Reviews! Here is a film I had not planned on doing, but after watching it I had to share it with you. I am not a surfer but Stacy Peralta, the director, does a fantastic job of making the world of big wave surfers accessible. Yes, they are crazy, but this entertaining and informative documentary allows you to come to appreciate the men and women who are pushing the envelope among these mountainous waves.

Direct download of the podcast: Reel Reviews – Riding Giants (16:30min 11.4MB)
or subscribe:

Links:

• DVD – Riding Giants
• IMDB
• The Kid Stays In The Picture

Reel Review #19: Sic transit gloria – glory fades. I figured we’d start off with a little Latin in honor of the first Reel Review for 2005 – Rushmore. This is another personal favorite that I often recommend. Rushmore is a film that you can always count on for a good time. It is Wes Anderson’s sophomore effort after gaining critical success for his first film Bottle Rocket. Best of all, you get to enjoy a homerun performance by Bill Murray. Check out Rushmore – a film worth watching.

Direct download of the podcast: Reel Reviews – Rushmore (14:07min 9.8MB)
or subscribe:

Links:

• DVD – Rushmore Criterion Edition
• DVD – Rushmore
• IMDB
• Baadassssss!

This post has proven extremely popular. If you find it helpful, and would like to support the site please consider voting for Reel Reviews at PodcastAlley. There is a vote submission form at the bottom of this post. Thank you. Link to vote form.

Something a little different today. Over the last week I have helped four new podcasters with their audio setups. I also received a number of emails asking similar podcast audio questions. Obviously people are looking for some guidance in this area. While I am no expert, I do have experience and I decided to do a podcast about how I have been handling my audio. Podcaster to podcaster if you will. I include lots of pictures and details – so if you’re interested, give it a listen and let me know what you think.

Direct download of the podcast: Podcast About The Podcast (24:22min 16.3MB)
or subscribe:

Read more…

Reel Review #18: “Remember no man is a failure who has friends.” What is the holiday season without this classic film. You’ve seen it on TV a thousand times – in this podcast we look at the film and the facinating story surrounding it. Happy holidays from Reel Reviews.

Direct download of the podcast: Reel Reviews – It’s A Wonderful Life (15:42min 7.3MB)
or subscribe:

Links:

• DVD – It’s A Wonderful Life
• IMDB

Reel Review #17: “Better to be King for a night than schmuck for a lifetime.” This film is a favorite of mine, and one that surprisingly few people have seen. A terrific film that was way ahead of its time in its examination of the cult of celebrity. Once you meet Rupert Pupkin you won’t soon forget him. Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro team up again in The King of Comedy.

Direct download of the podcast: Reel Reviews – The King of Comedy (17min 7.9MB)
or subscribe:

Links:

• DVD – The King of Comedy
• IMDB

Reel Review #16: This is terrific movie that should be a “must see” for everyone. Gregory Peck puts in a career highlight performance as Atticus Finch, the small town attorney who is defending a black man accused of raping a white woman in the depression era South. Not only did Peck take home the Oscar for his performance, but also Atticus Finch is rated as the number 1 movie hero in American film by AFI. Get ready, it is time for a classic: To Kill a Mockingbird.

Direct download of the podcast: Reel Reviews -To Kill a Mockingbird (11min 5.2MB)
or subscribe:

Links mentioned:

• To Kill a Mockingbird
• Gregory Peck
• AFI’s 100 Hereos and Villains.

Reel Review #15: “You work your side of the street and I’ll work mine.” Time to go back to 1968 for a terrific cop drama. Yeah, it is a little slow for the MTV generation – but real life moves along at an ordinary pace. Cops don’t really get in shootouts every ten minutes. This film is driven forward by Steve McQueen’s portrayal of Lt. Frank Bullitt. Better yet, Bullitt has what many consider to be the best car chase scene ever to be put on film. I also announce the winner of the Bullitt DVD giveaway. Buckle up – it is time for Bullitt!

Direct download of the podcast: Reel Reviews – Bullitt (15min 7MB)
or subscribe:

Links mentioned:

• DVD
• IMDB
• Steve McQueen

Reel Review #14: For the second in the Cinephile Series we examine Mulholland Drive, David Lynch’s 2001 masterpiece. The film actually started as an open-ended TV pilot and through Lynch’s dedication was finally finished and presented as a feature film. I don’t have all the answers, but using Reel Reviews’ listeners audio comments and questions we examine some of the key elements of the film including a rundown what I think is really going on. Remember, the Cinephile Series assumes you have already seen the film. Put your thinking cap on and enjoy. “So, let’s just say I’m driving this buggy.”

Direct download of the podcast: Mulholland Drive (43min 19.9MB)
or subscribe:

Links mentioned:

• DVD
• Mulholland Drive
• Lost on Mulholland Drive
• Mulholland Drive Commentary

My “quick” update ends up lasting ten minutes. All kinds of great stuff and I finally have listener calls with audio quality that we can play! Lots of plugs and links. Check it out.

Read more…

Reel Review #13: Time to catch up with one of England’s loudest bands! This is a hilarious “rockumentary” that actually spawned the “mockumentary” as a sub-genre in film. Not only is this film a comedy classic, but also the music is pretty catchy. This film’s impact on pop culture has been astounding. If you don’t know why all your friends laugh when emphasizing that something goes to eleven, this the film that will solve the puzzle. Remember: “There is such a fine line between stupid and clever.”

Direct download of the podcast: Reel Reviews – This Is Spinal Tap
or subscribe:

Links mentioned:

• DVD
• This Is Spinal Tap
• Brad Sucks – A One Man Band With No Fans

Reel Review #12: This is a documentary that came out in 2003 about Rodney Bingenheimer who is better know as Rodney on the ROQ. Rodney is a Los Angeles radio DJ on KROQ, best know for breaking some of the biggest bands first – often before they even had a record deal. His ability to spot music is amazing. More amazing is the interesting life he has carved out for himself among the celebrity culture of Los Angeles. He is a Zelig like figure, whom celebrities have embraced. This film is a fascinating look at a man who was at the center of it all and never tried to cash in, he did it all for the love of the music.

Direct download of the podcast: Reel Reviews – Mayor of the Sunset Strip
or subscribe:

Links mentioned:

• Mayor of the Sunset Strip
• Rodney’s Homepage
• Film’s Homepage

Reel Review #11: Here is a good film from 1999. The Limey was directed by Steven Soderbergh. Watch for the inventive use of his visual style, particularly the way the film is edited. The film also has a great cast including Terence Stamp, Peter Fonda, Lesley Ann Warren, Luiz Guzman, Barry Newman and Nicky Katt. Check it out.

Direct download of the podcast: Reel Reviews – The Limey
or subscribe:

Links mentioned:

• The Limey
• Steven Soderbergh
• Terence Stamp

Listen to the audio update for details on our movie choice for the second Cinephile Series. The film for Cinephile Series #2 is Mulholland Dr. The podcast will be posted in approximately 14 days. So go out, get the film – watch it!

Direct download of the podcast: Update.
or subscribe to the feed:

Links:

• Mulholland Dr.

Reel Review #10: In our first Cinephile Series podcast we examine Memento. This is one of those films that seems to stick with people, leaving them with more questions than answers. How does someone whose memory is comprised of Polaroids and tattoos survive? What is the meaning of memory? The biggest question – what the heck is going on in this film? Memento is a classic puzzle film meshed with a Neo Noir sensibility. Remember, the Cinephile Series assumes you have already seen the film. You have been warned.

Direct download of the podcast: Memento (28min 12.9MB)
or subscribe:

Links mentioned:

• Memento – DVD navigation instructions.
• Official Memento site -lots of clues!
• Memento Fan site with lots of links and info.
• Memento plot FAQ.

Reel Review #9: Watch as Mario Van Peebles pays tribute to his father, Melvin Van Peebles, in BAADASSSS! A film version of the making of Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song. This is a great film about the making of a film. In fact, Sweetback, ushered in the Blaxploitation genre. Remember: You bled my Momma – you bled my Poppa – but you won’t bleed me.

Direct download of the podcast: Reel Reviews – Baadasssss!
or subscribe:

Links mentioned:

• Baadasssss!
• Sweet Swetback’s Baadasssss song

Reel Review #8: Here is another fun film. No work involved, just a good time. Today we discuss Dazed and Confused, the 1993 film by independant film director Richard Linklater hot off his success with Slacker. This film has a cast of young actors just about to hit, including Matthew McConaughey’s breakout role. That plus a great soundtrack makes for a great Friday night film.

Direct download of the podcast: Reel Reviews – Dazed and Confused
or subscribe:

Links:

• Dazed and Confused

Audio update on my new header graphic, BloggerCon, Podcasting 101 and the Cinephile Series. The number for Cinephile Series comments and feedback or any other audio you wish to send by phone is (267) 224-2339. Just leave a message after the beep and it will automatically get sent to me.

Direct download here.
or subscribe to the Reel Reviews podcast feed:

Reel Review #7: Gentleman! You can’t fight in here – this is the War Room! Dr. Strangelove – what can I say? This is a must see picture. Yes, it is in black & white – get over it! Watch Peter Sellers, George C. Scott, Sterling Hayden and Slim Pickens under the guidance of one of the greatest directors to have ever lived – Stanley Kubrick, entertain you in a film that has stood the test of time. Find out why you must preserve the purity and essence of our precious bodily fluids. Dr. Strangelove consistently ranks as one of the top comedies ever made as well as one of the best films of all time!

Direct download of the podcast: Reel Reviews – Dr. Strangelove
or subscribe:

Links mentioned:

• Roger Ebert’s Review
• Dr. Strangelove
• Stanley Kubrick