Cinematographer Lyn Moncrief on Magnolia

Talking About Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s Amélie with our guest, Costume Designer Antoinette Messam

On this episode of Movies We Like, we speak with costume designer Antoinette Messam about her incredible career in film and one of her favorite movies, Jean-Pierre Jeunet's magical 2001 film Amélie.

We have a fascinating conversation with Antoinette about her journey into costume design, including rebelling against family expectations, finding her way from fashion to film, and learning on the job. She shares amazing stories about her experience collaborating with directors like Ryan Coogler (Creed), F. Gary Gray (Lift), and Jeymes Samuel (The Harder They Fall, The Book of Clarence), and dressing icons like Sylvester Stallone and Michael B. Jordan.

When it comes to Amélie, we dive deep into the stunning use of color and how it brings the whimsical world to life. Antoinette explains how the color palette was meticulously constructed through collaboration between the director, production design, costume, and more - truly effortless worldbuilding. We also discuss the joyful spirit of the film, Audrey Tautou’s masterful performance, and how the music perfectly complements the visuals.

Our chat with Antoinette gives rare insight into the art of costume design and the magic of movies. Amélie is a vibrant, feel-good film with incredible attention to detail that we highly recommend. We have an amazing time learning from Antoinette's experiences and perspectives on this delightful movie.

Film Sundries

• Find Antoinette on the web or Instagram
• Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
• Script Options
• Theatrical trailer
• Letterboxd

Visit our ORIGINALS PAGE to find source material that movies we've talked about on the shows that are part of The Next Reel’s family of podcasts were based on. Books, plays, video games, even other movies and TV series! By doing so, you can find a great read or something to watch, and help us out in the process as a portion comes back our way. Enjoy!

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We spend hours every week putting this show together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?

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“Life isn't like in the movies. Life... is much harder.”
Talking About Cinema Paradiso with our guest, Special Effects Supervisor Chris Reynolds

In this magical episode, we chat with veteran special effects artist and supervisor Chris Reynolds about his storied career bringing movies to life through innovative engineering and technology. Our focus is the classic Cinema Paradiso, a nostalgic ode to the glory days of cinema that inspired Chris from an early age.

Chris has built an impressive 40-year career in special effects, rising from technician to supervisor. He regales us with tales of his early days at the BBC, where he cut his teeth on classics like Blackadder. From blowing up haggis to sculpting giant lips, Chris learned to create imaginative practical effects on the fly across every genre. His passion for storytelling shines through as he discusses favorite projects, including some he worked on like Philip K. Dick’s Electric Dreams, and others he didn't, like Battle of Britain.

Turning to Cinema Paradiso, we unpack the magic of this film that celebrates the power of cinema to transport us. We all agree the performances are fantastic, especially Salvatore Cascio as the young Toto. And Ennio Morricone’s iconic score ties it all together. The ending montage of kisses cut by the priest is pure movie magic. Chris gives the inside scoop on the fire sequence, rating its mixed effectiveness from a special effects supervisor's perspective. He also shares which version he prefers between the Director’s Cut and the international release.

Overall, Cinema Paradiso captures a sense of childlike wonder and nostalgia for the romanticism of old Hollywood. Chris gives us an insider’s view into the art and craft of moviemaking. For any cinema lover, this is a must-listen episode.

Film Sundries

• Visit Chris’ Website
• Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
• Script Options
• Theatrical trailer
• Letterboxd

Visit our ORIGINALS PAGE to find source material that movies we've talked about on the shows that are part of The Next Reel’s family of podcasts were based on. Books, plays, video games, even other movies and TV series! By doing so, you can find a great read or something to watch, and help us out in the process as a portion comes back our way. Enjoy!

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Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s DISCORD channel!

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• Check out poster artwork for movies we’ve discussed on our Pinterest page
• Pete
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We spend hours every week putting this show together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?

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What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!

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“You may think you know what you’re dealing with, but you don’t. Believe me.”

Talking About Chinatown with our guest, Cinematographer Erik Messerschmidt

Roman Polanski's 1974 neo-noir Chinatown is regarded as one of the greatest films of all time. In this episode, we're joined by Academy Award-winning cinematographer Erik Messerschmidt to discuss this masterpiece of cinema.

We start by talking to Erik about his passion for filmmaking and what led him to a career in cinematography. He shares how he was drawn to the camaraderie and creative collaboration of working on set. Over time he realized the cinematographer role allowed him to blend his interests in art, science, and technology.

When it comes to Chinatown, Erik praises the elegant camerawork and seamless visual storytelling. Polanski uses the camera deliberately, guiding the audience through clues and reveals without excessive dialogue. The mystery unfolds through precise editing and minimalist framing. We also discuss the phenomenal performances and how Polanski pulls back at key moments to ground the major plot turns.

Chatting with Erik gave us a new appreciation for the nuance and artistry of Chinatown. It's a masterclass in subtle visual storytelling that inspired generations of filmmakers. Roman Polanski's direction and Robert Towne's script form a potent combination. We highly recommend revisiting this neo-noir gem.

Film Sundries

• Erik on Instagram
• Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
• Script Options
• Theatrical trailer
• Letterboxd

Visit our ORIGINALS PAGE to find source material that movies we've talked about on the shows that are part of The Next Reel’s family of podcasts were based on. Books, plays, video games, even other movies and TV series! By doing so, you can find a great read or something to watch, and help us out in the process as a portion comes back our way. Enjoy!

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Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s DISCORD channel!

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We spend hours every week putting this show together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?

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What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!

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“This is something that happens.”

Talking About Paul Thomas Anderson’s 1999 film Magnolia with our guest, cinematographer Lyn Moncrief

On this episode of Movies We Like, hosts Andy Nelson and Pete Wright invite cinematographer Lyn Moncrief to discuss his career and one of his favorite films, Paul Thomas Anderson’s sprawling 1999 drama Magnolia.

We talk with Lyn about how he first got interested in cinematography and making the move to Los Angeles to pursue his passion. He discusses some of his early work in independent films and horror movies, explaining that the genre can allow for creative freedom visually. Lyn also touches on his collaborations with director Emma Tammi, including the recent Five Nights at Freddy's adaptation.

When we dive into Magnolia, we analyze the film's unique visual style, editing, and how the different storylines weave together. We highlight standout emotional performances, especially from Tom Cruise and Julianne Moore. We also praise the film's musical interludes featuring songs written for the movie by Aimee Mann. Lyn explains how Magnolia inspired him as a young cinematographer and made him want to be part of ambitious filmmaking.

With its sprawling stories, raw performances, and stunning cinematography, Magnolia is truly a modern classic. This was a fascinating discussion about both Lyn's career and one of his favorite films. We clearly had an excellent time geeking out over this towering achievement. Be sure to check out Magnolia if you haven't seen it and listen to Lyn's insights from working in the industry.

Film Sundries

• Find Lyn on His Website or Instagram
• Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
• Script Options
• Theatrical trailer
• Letterboxd

Visit our ORIGINALS PAGE to find source material that movies we've talked about on the shows that are part of The Next Reel’s family of podcasts were based on. Books, plays, video games, even other movies and TV series! By doing so, you can find a great read or something to watch, and help us out in the process as a portion comes back our way. Enjoy!

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Here’s where you can find us around the internet:

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We spend hours every week putting this show together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?

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“I think I could turn into you if I really tried.”

Talking About Persona with our guest, writer/director Sophie Barthes

On this episode of Movies We Like, we speak with writer/director Sophie Barthes about one of her favorite films, Ingmar Bergman’s 1966 psychological drama Persona. We also discussed Barthes' own directing career and thoughts on filmmaking.

We have an in-depth discussion about Bergman's avant-garde masterpiece Persona, analyzing its dreamlike atmosphere, innovative editing and cinematography, complex characters and themes of identity and psychology. We talk about how the film's shocking opening montage and sparse narrative puts the viewer in an unsettled state of mind. Overall, we find Persona to be an endlessly discussable classic that still feels fresh and boundary-pushing today.

We also speak with Barthes about her three feature films - Cold Souls, Madame Bovary, and The Pod Generation. Barthes explains how she often explores themes of consumerism, psychology and identity through different genres and time periods. She shared insights into her creative process, from conceptualizing stories based on her dreams to her highly-stylized production design. Barthes also discussed the challenges of portraying human truths and darkness as a director today versus Bergman's time.

Barthes gives thoughtful perspective as both a director and film lover. Her pick certainly leads to a rich discussion about cinematic art today as Persona proves to be a multilayered classic ripe for analysis.

Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!

Film Sundries

Learn more about supporting The Next Reel’s Movies We Like through your own membership with The Next Reel.

• Check out Sophie’s films
  • Cold Souls
  • Madame Bovary
  • The Pod Generation on Amazon or Apple
• Watch Persona on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
• Script Options
• Theatrical trailer
• Poster artwork
• Flickchart
• Letterboxd

Visit our ORIGINALS PAGE to find source material that movies we've talked about on the shows that are part of The Next Reel’s family of podcasts were based on. Books, plays, video games, even other movies and TV series! By doing so, you can find a great read or something to watch, and help us out in the process as a portion comes back our way. Enjoy!

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Want to upgrade your LETTERBOXD account? Use our PROMO CODE to get a DISCOUNT and help us out in the process!

Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s DISCORD channel!

Here’s where you can find us around the internet:

• The Web
• Letterboxd
• Check out poster artwork for movies we’ve discussed on our Pinterest page
• Pete
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We spend hours every week putting this show together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?

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What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!

• You can buy TNR apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.
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“If might is right, then love has no place in the world.”

Talking About The Mission with our guest, Academy Award-winning costume designer Deborah L. Scott

Andy and legendary costume designer Deborah L. Scott dive deep into Roland Joffé’s 1986 masterpiece The Mission, an intense and emotional story of faith, colonialism, and redemption. Set in 18th century South America, this Best Picture Oscar nominee boasts an incredible cast and a stunning visual style.

Jeremy Irons delivers an incredible performance as Father Gabriel, a Jesuit priest trying to build a mission in the jungle and protect the indigenous Guarani people. Robert De Niro is unforgettable as Rodrigo Mendoza, a mercenary and slaver who murdered his own brother and seeks forgiveness and redemption by becoming a Jesuit priest. The complex story deftly explores the intersection of religion, politics, and colonialism during this volatile historical period. 

From the lush South American jungles to the thundering Iguaçu Falls, the movie is a visual feast, thanks in large part to Chris Menges' Oscar-winning cinematography. Ennio Morricone’s haunting, Golden Globe-winning score adds an emotional weight that permeates each scene. Though Deborah did not work on this film, she provides an insider's appreciation for Enrico Sabbatini’s period costumes which also help transport viewers to 18th century South America.

Deborah’s Legendary Career in Costume Design

Deborah also discusses highlights from her amazing career in costume design, including unforgettable films like Titanic, Back to the Future, Avatar, Heat, and yes, even Armed and Dangerous. She shares fascinating stories about how iconic costumes were created and working with visionary directors like James Cameron, Robert Zemeckis, and Michael Mann.

The Mission is a powerful and unforgettable film that stays with you long after the credits roll. Deborah and Andy's insightful conversation highlights why the movie remains so impactful decades later. Plus, hearing Deborah's stories provides a fascinating look behind-the-scenes at her legendary costume design career. 

Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world in our Discord community!

Film Sundries

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• Script Options
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• Poster artwork
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Visit our ORIGINALS PAGE to find source material that movies we've talked about on the shows that are part of The Next Reel’s family of podcasts were based on. Books, plays, video games, even other movies and TV series! By doing so, you can find a great read or something to watch, and help us out in the process as a portion comes back our way. Enjoy!

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• Check out poster artwork for movies we’ve discussed on our Pinterest page
• Pete
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We spend hours every week putting this show together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?

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“Any vampires around these parts, Pa?”

Talking About The Reflecting Skin with our guest, storyboard and concept artist Anson Jew

There’s a lot going on in this story of childhood. It’s a story about vampirism and nuclear devastation. It’s about a town’s secrets and the perspective of children. Homosexuality in a time when it was far from being accepted. Dealing with loss. Growing old. Finding love. Writer/director Philip Ridley not only crafted a gorgeous film that’s alive from start to finish, but he crafted a story about childhood that captures all the strangeness and complexity we should expect and want in a story about a kid making his way in the world.

Storyboard and concept artist Anson Jew joins us to talk about this film, which has stuck with him since he first saw it. It’s a fantastic film and one certainly worth discussing. We have a great time talking with Anson about it, so check it out then tune in. 

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Film Sundries

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• Find Anson on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, IMDb, and his website
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• Transcript
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Visit our ORIGINALS PAGE to find source material that movies we've talked about on the shows that are part of The Next Reel’s family of podcasts were based on. Books, plays, video games, even other movies and TV series! By doing so, you can find a great read or something to watch, and help us out in the process as a portion comes back our way. Enjoy!

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Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s DISCORD channel!

Here’s where you can find us around the internet:

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• Check out poster artwork for movies we’ve discussed on our Pinterest page
• Pete
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We spend hours every week putting this show together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?

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What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!

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“You don’t get anywhere in this world by waiting for what you want to come to you. You make it happen.”

Talking About Working Girl with our guest, writer/producer Rachel Lewis

Mike Nichols’ film has been in all of our lives for decades now, and there are reasons it stands out as a classic. It’s a Cinderella story dealing with the sexism in the 80s workplace, and how one woman proves she has the stuff to break out of the secretary role in which she’d been stuck. It’s full of laughs, but also full of heart. And lest we forget the magnificent big 80s hair. It’s a sight to behold. 

Sure, the movie has some dated elements that don’t work quite as well, but that’s looking through today’s eyes. For its place in the late 80s, it works perfectly and delivers a solid film. Writer/producer Rachel Lewis is a big fan, and we have a great conversation with her about the movie. We chat through the cast and the themes. And then there’s Carly Simon’s fantastic and anthemic song that’s as inspiring as the movie is itself. 

Rachel tells us about her career and how she got started in the world of improv comedy before moving to LA and working her way into pitch meetings. As a writer, WGA team captain, and lot coordinator for the current strike, she also breaks down some of the reasons for it and what the writers are collectively working toward.

It’s a fantastic conversation about a great movie and the importance of this current strike. Check it out! 

Film Sundries

• Learn more about how you can support the WGA during their strike
• Learn more about supporting The Next Reel’s Movies We Like through your own membership with The Next Reel.
• Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!
• Rachel on the web, Instagram, Twitter, and IMDb
• Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
• Script Options
• Theatrical trailer
• “Let the River Run” by Carly Simon music video
• Poster artwork
• Flickchart
• Letterboxd

Visit our ORIGINALS PAGE to find source material that movies we've talked about on the shows that are part of The Next Reel’s family of podcasts were based on. Books, plays, video games, even other movies and TV series! By doing so, you can find a great read or something to watch, and help us out in the process as a portion comes back our way. Enjoy!

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Want to upgrade your LETTERBOXD account? Use our PROMO CODE to get a DISCOUNT and help us out in the process!

Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s DISCORD channel!

Here’s where you can find us around the internet:

• The Web
• Letterboxd
• Check out poster artwork for movies we’ve discussed on our Pinterest page
• Pete
• Andy

We spend hours every week putting this show together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?

Become a Member here: $5 monthly or $55 annually

What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!

• You can buy TNR apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.
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“I have a competition in me. I want no one else to succeed. I hate most people.”

Talking About Paul Thomas Anderson’s 2007 film There Will Be Blood with our guest, filmmaker Uwe Boll

There are many films filmmaker Uwe Boll could’ve picked to discuss with us on the show, but the most recent film that’s affected him as much as some of his all-time favorites is Paul Thomas Anderson’s 2007 film There Will Be Blood. 

Before we dig into the film, we talk a bit about Boll’s career. Sure, he’s made some cinematic video game adaptations that weren’t received well by critics, but he’s also made some films that satirize modern society, whether in a comedic vein like Postal or a more serious tone like his Rampage films. There’s a change in society as to how people react to their buttons being pushed. That’s certainly reflected in films of the time. Who knows – some of that may come from the rise of the streaming services. Regardless, it all makes for a fascinating discussion.

From there, we jump into Anderson’s film. Boll has had some fairly unlikeable protagonists in his films, so we use that as a starting point with Daniel Plainview, the greedy, hateful protagonist of this film. Why is he still likable in some capacity? The film explores greed, capitalism, religion, family, and more. Everything stands out with the film as exemplary, from the performances (Daniel Day-Lewis and Paul Dano are in top form) to Johnny Greenwood’s score to Robert Elswit’s cinematography. We look at the complex story and ponder that the film got made in the first place. A film that doesn’t have dialogue until nearly 15 minutes have passed? How did Anderson sneak it past the studio heads? 

It’s a wonderful conversation with an insightful filmmaker. Tune in!

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Film Sundries

Learn more about supporting The Next Reel’s Movies We Like through your own membership with The Next Reel.

• Uwe Boll RAW podcast
• Variety: ‘Uwe Boll Returns With New York City Crime Drama ‘First Shift’ (EXCLUSIVE)’
• Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
• Script Options
• Theatrical trailer
• Poster artwork
• Flickchart
• Letterboxd

Visit our ORIGINALS PAGE to find source material that movies we've talked about on the shows that are part of The Next Reel’s family of podcasts were based on. Books, plays, video games, even other movies and TV series! By doing so, you can find a great read or something to watch, and help us out in the process as a portion comes back our way. Enjoy!

Start your own podcast journey with the best host in the business. Try TRANSISTOR today!

Want to upgrade your LETTERBOXD account? Use our PROMO CODE to get a DISCOUNT and help us out in the process!

Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s DISCORD channel!

Here’s where you can find us around the internet:

• The Web
• Letterboxd
• Check out poster artwork for movies we’ve discussed on our Pinterest page
• Pete
• Andy

We spend hours every week putting this show together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?

Become a Member here: $5 monthly or $55 annually

What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!

• You can buy TNR apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.
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“Your mother can’t be with you anymore.”

Talking About Bambi with our Guest Todd Alcott, Screenwriter

When released in 1942 during WWII, Walt Disney’s Bambi struggled to find its audience. It still did well enough for itself, but it wasn’t until its subsequent releases over the decades when Disney would bring its classics back to theatres where it really found its audience. Since that time, it’s often cited as one of the best animated films out there. Why does this simple film about a young deer learning about life in the forest work so well?

Screenwriter and graphic artist Todd Alcott joins us to talk about Bambi, one of his favorites. But as he says, even that didn’t happen over night. It took decades and multiple viewings to realize what the story was really about and why it clicked so suddenly. And for a film from 1942, there are elements within that make it feel somewhat subversive. It’s a story with little plot about a passive protagonist that doesn’t have any clearly established goal, after all. What screenwriting handbook said that was okay? 

The film is about life, the mistakes we make, and how we try learning from them. It’s also a reminder that there’s no clear path for life. Just when things make sense, life changes the rules. It’s quite a lot to absorb from what seems like a simple little film. But that’s why we like it, and are thrilled that Todd brought it for us to talk about on Movies We Like. 

Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!

Film Sundries

Learn more about supporting The Next Reel’s Movies We Like through your own membership with The Next Reel.

• Todd’s site
• Todd on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and IMDbPro or IMDb
• Watch Bambi on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
• Original 1942 Theatrical trailer
• Poster artwork
• Letterboxd

Visit our ORIGINALS PAGE to find source material that movies we've talked about on the shows that are part of The Next Reel’s family of podcasts were based on. Books, plays, video games, even other movies and TV series! By doing so, you can find a great read or something to watch, and help us out in the process as a portion comes back our way. Enjoy!

Start your own podcast journey with the best host in the business. Try TRANSISTOR today!

Want to upgrade your LETTERBOXD account? Use our PROMO CODE to get a DISCOUNT and help us out in the process!

Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s DISCORD channel!

Here’s where you can find us around the internet:

• The Web
• Letterboxd
• Check out poster artwork for movies we’ve discussed on our Pinterest page
• Pete
• Andy

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