Excuse the Intermission

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1305349/open_sms] Ever wondered what happens when film critics turn their analytical gaze toward television? In this captivating episode, Alex and Erica connect virtually to dissect the most compelling shows dominating our screens right now, revealing why these series have become cultural touchpoints worthy of deep exploration. The conversation opens with a fascinating look at HBO's "The White Lotus" and how it revitalized appointment television viewing. They explore the double-edged sword of social media fan theories – how they enhance community engagement while potentially diluting major plot surprises. "Rip Chelsea, what a sweet angel" becomes both a spoiler and a moment of shared cultural understanding. When discussing "The Last of Us," Erica brings her extensive knowledge of the source material to highlight the adaptation's bold choices. From controversial casting decisions to significant narrative departures, they examine how the show navigates the delicate balance between honoring its origins and creating something fresh for new audiences. The meticulous recreation of post-apocalyptic Seattle emerges as a particular triumph, blurring the lines between digital and physical worlds. Apple TV+'s "The Studio" receives glowing praise as a sharp industry satire that offers viewers rare insight into Hollywood's absurd inner workings. Seth Rogen's portrayal of a studio head trapped between artistic integrity and commercial demands feels authentic precisely because it walks the line between exaggeration and painful truth. The hosts consider whether the show glamorizes or indicts an industry increasingly driven by algorithms and IP rather than original storytelling. Throughout their conversation, Alex and Erica weave in thoughtful commentary on shows like "Your Friends and Neighbors," "Hacks," and "Black Mirror," demonstrating how television has evolved from a secondary medium to a cultural powerhouse rivaling cinema itself. Their enthusiasm is infectious, making you want to immediately add these recommendations to your watchlist. Ready to discover your next television obsession? Listen now and join the conversation about the shows everyone will be talking about tomorrow. Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/ExcuseTheIntermission?fan_landing=true]

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1305349/open_sms] A stunning achievement in genre filmmaking, "Sinners" transports us to the Mississippi Delta of 1932 where twin brothers find themselves caught between supernatural evil and the harsh realities of Jim Crow America. Ryan Coogler's masterful direction elevates what could have been a standard vampire tale into something truly extraordinary – a rich, textured exploration of brotherhood, community, and survival against impossible odds. Michael B. Jordan delivers what might be his career-best performance, portraying twins Smoke and Stack with such distinct personalities that you'll forget you're watching one actor in dual roles. The brothers return to their hometown with dreams of uplifting their community through music and business, only to face threats both supernatural and all-too-human. When Irish vampire Jack O'Connell arrives with his coven, promising eternal life but demanding blood sacrifice, the brothers must decide what they're willing to sacrifice to protect their people. Shot on breathtaking 70mm IMAX by cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw (the first woman to use this camera format), every frame feels like a painting that deserves to be studied. The film embraces darkness in ways few mainstream movies dare, creating a visual language that enhances both the horror elements and the historical setting. Ludwig Göransson's blues-infused score weaves throughout, becoming as essential to the storytelling as the dialogue itself. What makes "Sinners" truly special is how it refuses to be contained by genre expectations. Coogler seamlessly blends horror, drama, action, and even musical elements without ever losing focus on the emotional core of his story. The supporting cast shines throughout – Haley Steinfeld brings fire and strength, newcomer Miles Catton impresses in his debut, and Delroy Lindo delivers gravitas as Delta Slim. Yuami Masuku's portrayal of a hoodoo practitioner adds another layer to this richly textured world. Don't miss this landmark film that critics are calling the most original and exciting theatrical experience of the year. See it in IMAX if possible – your eyes, ears, and heart will thank you. Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/ExcuseTheIntermission?fan_landing=true]

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1305349/open_sms] In the chaos of combat, what truly matters isn't the mission, but the harrowing moments that forever bind soldiers together. "Warfare," the latest from filmmaking duo Alex Garland and Ray Mendoza, strips away conventional war movie tropes to deliver something far more visceral and authentic. Based on Mendoza's actual experiences as a Navy SEAL during the Iraq War, this relentlessly tense 96-minute thriller drops viewers into the middle of a mission gone catastrophically wrong. When two platoons become trapped in a hostile urban environment, what follows is a masterclass in sustained tension and raw emotional devastation. Unlike traditional war films that provide character backgrounds or political context, "Warfare" deliberately avoids explaining why these soldiers are fighting—it simply shows, with unflinching clarity, what happens when young men face the brutal realities of combat. The film's exceptional sound design, crafted by Garland's longtime collaborator Glenn Freemantle, delivers an audio experience that shifts seamlessly between the chaotic cacophony of gunfire to the muffled, disorienting aftermath of blast trauma. Will Poulter leads a remarkable ensemble cast that includes Michael Galfianakis, Kit Connor, and Charles Melton, each delivering performances that capture not just the physical demands of warfare but the psychological toll of knowing death lurks around every corner. What makes "Warfare" particularly significant is how it represents Garland's artistic resurrection following his controversial 2022 film "Men." By partnering with Mendoza and focusing on craftsmanship rather than heavy-handed metaphors, Garland has rediscovered his filmmaking voice. This transformation mirrors other celebrated director comebacks we've witnessed over the years—from Wes Craven's "Scream" renaissance to Spike Lee's triumphant return with "BlacKkKlansman." Don't miss this opportunity to experience one of the most intense and authentic war films in recent memory. "Warfare" isn't just about combat—it's about bearing witness to the moments that forever change those who serve, and the brotherhood forged in circumstances most of us will never understand. Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/ExcuseTheIntermission?fan_landing=true]

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1305349/open_sms] Jack Black sits at the rare intersection of comedy genius, musical talent, and heartfelt authenticity that few performers ever discover. His journey from bit player in 90s action films to beloved family-friendly superstar reveals one of Hollywood's most unexpected and treasured success stories. What makes Black's career so remarkable is his chameleon-like ability to excel across genres while remaining unmistakably himself. When examining his Hall of Fame filmography—from the rock-fueled inspiration of School of Rock to the surprising dramatic depth of Bernie, from the scene-stealing brilliance of Tropic Thunder to the franchise-carrying charisma of Jumanji—we witness an actor who refuses to be typecast yet brings his singular energy to every role. The heart of Black's appeal lies in his fundamental authenticity. Unlike many Hollywood stars who carefully cultivate a persona, Black's on-screen presence feels like a natural extension of himself. This quality shines especially bright in his work with children, where his infectious enthusiasm and lack of cynicism have made him the center of beloved franchises like Kung Fu Panda and Goosebumps. His recent successes with Super Mario Bros and Minecraft further cement his status as cinema's favorite fun dad—the rare actor who appeals equally to children and their nostalgic parents. Beyond his acting, Black's musical background with Tenacious D adds another dimension to his artistry. This rock sensibility infuses his performances with an energy and physicality unusual for comedy actors, creating memorable moments that transcend traditional acting and become pure entertainment. Whether he's performing high-energy physical comedy or capturing subtle emotional beats, Black brings a musician's sense of timing and presence that elevates every project he touches. His career reminds us that true staying power comes not from following trends but from embracing what makes you unique—a lesson Jack Black has mastered with tenacious dedication and undeniable joy. Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/ExcuseTheIntermission?fan_landing=true]

Send us a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1305349/open_sms] What are the movies we love despite knowing they're not cinematic masterpieces? When the critics pan a film that you can't stop rewatching, should you feel guilty about your enjoyment? In this deeply personal episode, we reunite as a full trio to dive into the concept of "guilty pleasures" in film - those movies we return to time and again despite (or perhaps because of) their perceived flaws. As Erica returns from her travels, she brings with her this question that reveals more about us as viewers than perhaps any other topic could. We each approach this challenge differently - Max analyzes the numerical gaps between his ratings and the critical consensus, Alex passionately defends films no one else seems to appreciate, and Erica embraces the nostalgic comforts of childhood favorites. From the shark-filled waters of Deep Blue Sea to the supernatural scares of Annabelle Comes Home, from the teen angst of Twilight to the ghostly romance of Casper, our selections span genres and decades but share one common thread: they matter deeply to us. The conversation reveals how our most treasured movie experiences often connect to formative moments in our lives. We explore whether a guilty pleasure can transition into legitimate appreciation when critical opinion shifts, whether certain genres are more prone to guilty pleasure status than others, and ultimately, whether we should feel any guilt at all about the films that bring us joy. What movies do you secretly love despite their reputation? Join us for this confession booth of cinematic loves and discover why the films we're hesitant to recommend might actually be the ones that define us most as movie lovers. Support the show [https://www.patreon.com/ExcuseTheIntermission?fan_landing=true]