The Next Reel Film Podcast

“The reason, Mr. Gashade, for the hunt is the kill.” A Low-Budget Western from the Corman-Hellman-Nicholson Trio After impressing producer Roger Corman with their previous work, director Monte Hellman and actor Jack Nicholson presented him with a spec script, but Corman had a different idea. He proposed that they make two Westerns instead, giving them three weeks to shoot each film. Hellman and Nicholson agreed, and the result was a pair of existential Westerns – The Shooting and Ride in the Whirlwind – shot in 1965 in Utah. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our 12-episode, 14th season-long Roger Corman series with a conversation about The Shooting, our second installment and member bonus episode. Unraveling the Mysteries of The Shooting In this episode, we delve into the enigmatic world of The Shooting, discussing the film's unique narrative structure and the questions it raises. We explore the mysterious characters, their motivations, and the shocking revelation at the end. The story follows a former bounty hunter turned miner who is hired by a woman to track down an unknown individual. As they embark on their journey, they are pursued by a menacing gunslinger clad in black. Throughout our conversation, we examine how the film's minimalistic approach and existential themes set it apart from traditional Westerns of the era. The Corman Connection and the Film's Place in Cinema History We discuss how The Shooting fits into the larger context of Roger Corman's productions and its significance in the careers of Monte Hellman and Jack Nicholson. The film's low-budget, experimental nature aligns with Corman's reputation for producing cost-effective, boundary-pushing cinema. We also explore how The Shooting, along with its companion piece, Ride in the Whirlwind, served as a precursor to the independent, counterculture-influenced films of the late 1960s and early 1970s. A Divisive Film: Contrasting Opinions While Andy enjoyed The Shooting, finding its fatalistic and existential themes compelling, Pete struggled to connect with the film. He found the experimental editing choices and the overall pacing to be challenging, making it a difficult watch for him. Despite their differing opinions, both hosts agree that the film's ambiguity and unconventional approach make it a unique entry in the Western genre. Other Topics Covered in the Episode * The film's status as one of the first "acid Westerns" * The symbolic and metaphorical elements woven throughout the narrative * The effective use of the stark Utah landscape to convey isolation and despair * Standout (?) performances from the cast, including Will Hutchins and Millie Perkins A Thought-Provoking and Unconventional Western While Andy appreciated The Shooting's ambiguity and haunting atmosphere, Pete ultimately deemed it a "Casablanca movie," alluding to the exchange between Rick and Ugarte in the classic film: "You despise me, don't you?" "If I gave you any thought, I probably would." Despite their contrasting views, both hosts agree that the film remains a testament to Corman’s passion for cranking out low budget films and giving experimenting filmmakers like Monte Hellman and Jack Nicholson the chance to play. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins! Film Sundries * New Glossary Term: Casablanca Movie [https://trustory.fm/glossary/casablanca-movie/] * Watch this on Apple [https://tv.apple.com/movie/the-shooting/umc.cmc.33lj1emksg5lee4yw9uvsyppt?itscg=30200&itsct=tv_box_link&mttnsubad=umc.cmc.33lj1emksg5lee4yw9uvsyppt&at=11lrTo&ct=tnr-watch] or Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/amzn1.dv.gti.42a9f788-813f-bab3-3f16-66884ecbcdd3/?tag=trustory-tnr-20], or find other places at JustWatch [https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/the-shooting] * Theatrical trailer [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Ts-CRIMJes] * Letterboxd [https://letterboxd.com/film/the-shooting/] This is a member bonus episode. We'd love it if you became a member to support our show, but you’d love it because of everything you get. We have monthly member bonus episodes that only members can access. You also get other monthly member bonus episodes, access to members-only Discord channels, and early releases for every episode. Plus, no ads! And you get to vote on the movies we discuss in our members only episodes! What can we say? It pays to be a member. Learn more about supporting The Next Reel Film Podcast through your own membership — visit TruStory FM [https://trustory.fm/tnr-membership]. [https://feeds.trustory.fm/link/22538/16825959.gif]

“She doesn’t know it yet, but she’s hunting us.” How a Virus Spreads Through Language The 2008 Canadian horror film Pontypool, directed by Bruce McDonald and written by Tony Burgess, was inspired by Orson Welles' famous radio broadcast of War of the Worlds. Originally, Burgess envisioned the entire film as a radio play, with the main character Grant Mazzy reading the script accompanied only by a visual of the blue waveform. While this concept wasn't fully realized, it heavily influenced the confined, constrained storyline of the radio station employees trying to make sense of the outbreak consuming their small town. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the Disease Films series with a conversation about Pontypool. Dissecting the Viral Outbreak in Pontypool One of the most intriguing aspects of Pontypool is how the horror unfolds through the limited perspective of the radio station employees. As Grant Mazzy, Sydney Briar, and Laurel-Ann Drummond receive increasingly disturbing reports from Ken Loney in the "Sunshine Chopper," the tension builds before the true nature of the viral outbreak is revealed. The film's unique approach to storytelling keeps the audience engaged, even when the explanation for the virus itself may seem a bit far-fetched. Throughout our discussion, we explore the metaphorical implications of a virus that spreads through the English language. As a Canadian film, Pontypool seems to comment on the value of traditionalism and the French language in Ontario, while also critiquing the potentially damaging influence of American shock jock radio. The film's central conceit – that language itself can become contagious and dangerous – resonates even more strongly in today's era of social media and misinformation. Other Highlights from Our Conversation * The wordplay and coincidences in Grant Mazzy's opening monologue, foreshadowing the importance of language in the story * The debate over whether Grant Mazzy was infected by the virus at the end of the film * The role of Dr. Mendez as the "book of the vampire," providing exposition and context for the outbreak * The powerful portrayal of Laurel-Ann's deterioration, offering a window into the effects of the virus Pontypool may not be a perfect film, but its clever premise and thought-provoking themes make it a worthwhile entry in the Disease Films series. By confining the action to the radio station and relying on reports from outside, the movie creates a sense of claustrophobia and dread that keeps the audience engaged despite the sometimes flimsy explanation for the virus itself. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins! Film Sundries * Watch this on Apple [https://tv.apple.com/movie/pontypool/umc.cmc.5yp555d47a0buqgy028jsx1nz?itsct=tv_box_link&itscg=30200&at=11lrTo&ct=tnr-watch] or Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Pontypool-Stephen-McHattie/dp/B0CH5YZVT9/?tag=trustory-tnr-20], or find other places at JustWatch [https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/pontypool] * Script Options [https://www.scripts.com/script/pontypool_16073] * Theatrical trailer [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4EoVxwJecM] * Original Material [https://www.amazon.com/Pontypool-Changes-Everything-Tony-Burgess/dp/1550228811/?tag=trustory-tnr-20] * Letterboxd [https://letterboxd.com/film/pontypool/] Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly [https://trustoryfm.memberful.com/checkout?plan=54111] or $55 annually [https://trustoryfm.memberful.com/checkout?plan=54112]. Learn more here. [https://trustory.fm/join/] Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community [https://discord.gg/yW72E6M]! Here’s where you can find us around the internet: * The Web [https://thenextreel.com/] * Letterboxd [https://letterboxd.com/thenextreel/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/TheNextReel] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/thenextreel/] * Threads [https://www.threads.net/@thenextreel] * X [https://twitter.com/thenextreel] * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/c/thenextreelpodcast] * Flickchart [https://www.flickchart.com/thenextreel] * Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/thenextreel/the-next-reels-poster-collection/] * Pete [https://trustory.fm/host/pete-wright/]  * Andy [https://trustory.fm/host/andy-nelson/] What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked! * You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE [https://www.teepublic.com/stores/trustoryfm/albums/46052-the-next-reel-film-podcast]. * Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE [https://coda.io/@trustoryfm/the-next-reel-watch]. * Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE [https://coda.io/@trustoryfm/the-next-reel-watch/the-next-reel-originals-4]. * Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT [https://letterboxd.com/pro/redeem/nextreel/]. * Or sign up for AUDIBLE [https://thenextreel.com/audible]. [https://feeds.trustory.fm/link/22538/16822550.gif]

“I think, therefore I scam.” The Sundance Struggle of Wendell B. Harris Jr.'s Sensational Con Artist Story In 1989, writer-director-actor Wendell B. Harris Jr. crafted a stunning debut feature, Chameleon Street, based on the incredible true story of con artist William Douglas Street Jr. Despite winning the Grand Jury Prize at the 1990 Sundance Film Festival, Harris faced immense difficulties securing distribution for his groundbreaking film. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the One-and-Done series with a conversation about Chameleon Street. Unraveling the Layers of a Chameleon's Tale Throughout our discussion, we dive into the fascinating layers of Chameleon Street, from its energetic and in-your-face production style to the subversive commentary on race and identity. We explore how Harris Jr. taps into the con artist's perspective, using voiceover narration and camera techniques to create a thrilling cinematic experience that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. As part of our One-and-Done series, we also delve into the unfortunate reality of Harris Jr.'s struggle to make more films after this impressive debut. Despite his undeniable talent and the film's critical acclaim, the Hollywood system failed to provide him with the opportunities he deserved. Unpacking the Complexities of Identity and Representation * The film's thought-provoking exploration of race and the challenges faced by a black man navigating various roles in society * Harris Jr.'s masterful performance as William Douglas Street Jr., showcasing the con artist's chameleon-like abilities * The movie's subversive humor and biting social commentary, particularly in scenes where Street Jr. openly insults his unsuspecting targets * The film's propulsive narrative structure, which keeps the audience engaged as the protagonist moves from one audacious scheme to another A One-and-Done Wonder Worth Rediscovering Chameleon Street is a testament to Wendell B. Harris Jr.'s immense talent as a filmmaker and storyteller. Through his deft handling of the subject matter and innovative storytelling techniques, Harris Jr. crafts a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of identity, race, and the art of the con. While it's disheartening that he never had the chance to make another feature film, Chameleon Street remains a powerful and essential piece of cinema that deserves to be celebrated and rediscovered by audiences today. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins! Film Sundries * Watch this on Apple [https://tv.apple.com/movie/chameleon-street/umc.cmc.4rxuuzp5rt1jbadnbpydt24qx?itsct=tv_box_link&itscg=30200&at=11lrTo&ct=tnr-watch] or Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Chameleon-Street-Wendell-Harris-Jr/dp/B0CKWNSV1D/?tag=trustory-tnr-20], or find other places at JustWatch [https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/chameleon-street] * Theatrical trailer [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ad1KSsGhRa8] * Letterboxd [https://letterboxd.com/film/chameleon-street/] Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly [https://trustoryfm.memberful.com/checkout?plan=54111] or $55 annually [https://trustoryfm.memberful.com/checkout?plan=54112]. Learn more here. [https://trustory.fm/join/] Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community [https://discord.gg/yW72E6M]! Here’s where you can find us around the internet: * The Web [https://thenextreel.com/] * Letterboxd [https://letterboxd.com/thenextreel/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/TheNextReel] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/thenextreel/] * Threads [https://www.threads.net/@thenextreel] * X [https://twitter.com/thenextreel] * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/c/thenextreelpodcast] * Flickchart [https://www.flickchart.com/thenextreel] * Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/thenextreel/the-next-reels-poster-collection/] * Pete [https://trustory.fm/host/pete-wright/]  * Andy [https://trustory.fm/host/andy-nelson/] What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked! * You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE [https://www.teepublic.com/stores/trustoryfm/albums/46052-the-next-reel-film-podcast]. * Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE [https://coda.io/@trustoryfm/the-next-reel-watch]. * Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE [https://coda.io/@trustoryfm/the-next-reel-watch/the-next-reel-originals-4]. * Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT [https://letterboxd.com/pro/redeem/nextreel/]. * Or sign up for AUDIBLE [https://thenextreel.com/audible]. [https://feeds.trustory.fm/link/22538/16814249.gif]

“Well I’ll be greased and fried! What’s the circus doing up in these parts?” The Chiodo Brothers and Their Creature Feature Legacy Before Killer Klowns from Outer Space, the Chiodo Brothers – Charles, Edward, and Stephen – had already made a name for themselves in the special effects world of the 1980s. With credits on films like Critters and sequences in RoboCop, they were well-versed in creating practical effects and creature designs. Killer Klowns from Outer Space represented an opportunity for them to showcase their skills in a feature-length film, with Stephen Chiodo taking on the role of director. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the One-and-Done series with a conversation about their 1988 film Killer Klowns from Outer Space. Clowning Around with Horror Tropes and Twisted Expectations In our discussion, we marvel at how Killer Klowns from Outer Space gleefully subverts classic clown tropes, turning seemingly innocent gags into sinister and often grotesque moments. From the balloon animal hunting dog to the shadow puppet T-Rex that devours its victims, the film consistently surprises and delights with its inventive use of clown iconography. However, we question whether the horror-comedy balance always lands, with some scenes leaning more heavily into the absurd than the truly frightening. A Trio of Heroes and the Trope of Incompetent Authority Figures Throughout our conversation, we explore the dynamics between the film's central trio – Mike, Debbie, and Dave – and how their relationships evolve as they face the alien clown threat. We also examine the trope of young heroes pitted against incompetent authority figures, a common theme in 1950s-era B-movies that Killer Klowns from Outer Space both embraces and satirizes. Other topics we cover include: * The memorable performances of the supporting cast, particularly Royal Dano as Farmer Gene Green and John Vernon as the skeptical police officer * The film's vibrant color palette and the effectiveness of the practical effects * The Chiodo Brothers' continued work in the industry, including their involvement in Team America: World Police and Marcel the Shell with Shoes On Why Killer Klowns from Outer Space Endures as a Cult Classic Despite its status as a one-and-done feature for director Stephen Chiodo, Killer Klowns from Outer Space has endured as a beloved cult classic. Its unique blend of horror and comedy, combined with the Chiodo Brothers' imaginative creature designs, has helped it stand the test of time. While it has some soapy acting and feels of its era, we ultimately find Killer Klowns from Outer Space to be a delightful and entertaining entry in the realm of 1980s horror-comedy. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins! Film Sundries * Watch this on Apple [https://tv.apple.com/movie/killer-klowns-from-outer-space/umc.cmc.3ch2gzveela666vmg41yitynt?itsct=tv_box_link&itscg=30200&at=11lrTo&ct=tnr-watch] or Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/0QSR8SFAW0T0B5OPITJA4CXUBI/?tag=trustory-tnr-20], or find other places at JustWatch [https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/killer-klowns-from-outer-space] * Script Options [https://assets.scriptslug.com/live/pdf/scripts/killer-klowns-from-outer-space-1989.pdf] * Theatrical trailer [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ETiSMS4i1as] * Letterboxd [https://letterboxd.com/film/killer-klowns-from-outer-space/] Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly [https://trustoryfm.memberful.com/checkout?plan=54111] or $55 annually [https://trustoryfm.memberful.com/checkout?plan=54112]. Learn more here. [https://trustory.fm/join/] Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community [https://discord.gg/yW72E6M]! Here’s where you can find us around the internet: * The Web [https://thenextreel.com/] * Letterboxd [https://letterboxd.com/thenextreel/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/TheNextReel] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/thenextreel/] * Threads [https://www.threads.net/@thenextreel] * X [https://twitter.com/thenextreel] * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/c/thenextreelpodcast] * Flickchart [https://www.flickchart.com/thenextreel] * Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/thenextreel/the-next-reels-poster-collection/] * Pete [https://trustory.fm/host/pete-wright/]  * Andy [https://trustory.fm/host/andy-nelson/] What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked! * You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE [https://www.teepublic.com/stores/trustoryfm/albums/46052-the-next-reel-film-podcast]. * Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE [https://coda.io/@trustoryfm/the-next-reel-watch]. * Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE [https://coda.io/@trustoryfm/the-next-reel-watch/the-next-reel-originals-4]. * Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT [https://letterboxd.com/pro/redeem/nextreel/]. * Or sign up for AUDIBLE [https://thenextreel.com/audible]. [https://feeds.trustory.fm/link/22538/16806819.gif]

“In this world of guns and knives, wherever Tang Lung may go to, he will always travel on his own.” Bruce Lee's One-and-Done Showcase of Martial Arts Mastery In 1972, Bruce Lee was already a rising star in the martial arts film world, having starred in a handful of successful films. However, he had yet to have the opportunity to fully showcase his unparalleled fighting skills on his own terms. That all changed with The Way of the Dragon, a film that allowed Lee to demonstrate his incredible martial arts prowess while also taking on the roles of writer, director, and producer. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the One-and-Done series with a conversation about The Way of the Dragon. Exploring the Comedic Side of Kung Fu and the Legendary Bruce Lee In our discussion, we delve into the humor infused throughout The Way of the Dragon, from the situational comedy to Bruce Lee's character-driven gags. While the film's comedic elements may not land for everyone, they provide an intriguing glimpse into the lighter side of the kung fu genre. We also examine Bruce Lee's importance to the world of martial arts cinema and how his unique style and charisma helped popularize the genre on a global scale. The Way of the Dragon may not be a perfect film, but it stands as a testament to Bruce Lee's immense talent and enduring legacy. His only directorial effort provides a platform for him to showcase his unrivaled martial arts skills and offers a fascinating glimpse into what could have been had he not tragically passed away at a young age. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins! Film Sundries * Watch this on Apple [https://tv.apple.com/movie/the-way-of-the-dragon/umc.cmc.17xqw1znevea13b9lrr5f1evt?itsct=tv_box_link&itscg=30200&at=11lrTo&ct=tnr-watch] or Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Way-Dragon-Bruce-Lee/dp/B09FF42FBJ/?tag=trustory-tnr-20], or find other places at JustWatch [https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/way-of-the-dragon] * Script Options [https://www.scripts.com/script/the_way_of_the_dragon_13638] * Theatrical trailer [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4lNDLaSWmhY] * Letterboxd [https://letterboxd.com/film/the-way-of-the-dragon/] Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly [https://trustoryfm.memberful.com/checkout?plan=54111] or $55 annually [https://trustoryfm.memberful.com/checkout?plan=54112]. Learn more here. [https://trustory.fm/join/] Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community [https://discord.gg/yW72E6M]! Here’s where you can find us around the internet: * The Web [https://thenextreel.com/] * Letterboxd [https://letterboxd.com/thenextreel/] * Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/TheNextReel] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/thenextreel/] * Threads [https://www.threads.net/@thenextreel] * X [https://twitter.com/thenextreel] * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/c/thenextreelpodcast] * Flickchart [https://www.flickchart.com/thenextreel] * Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/thenextreel/the-next-reels-poster-collection/] * Pete [https://trustory.fm/host/pete-wright/]  * Andy [https://trustory.fm/host/andy-nelson/] What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked! * You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE [https://www.teepublic.com/stores/trustoryfm/albums/46052-the-next-reel-film-podcast]. * Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE [https://coda.io/@trustoryfm/the-next-reel-watch]. * Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE [https://coda.io/@trustoryfm/the-next-reel-watch/the-next-reel-originals-4]. * Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT [https://letterboxd.com/pro/redeem/nextreel/]. * Or sign up for AUDIBLE [https://thenextreel.com/audible]. [https://feeds.trustory.fm/link/22538/16793808.gif]