Episode 17: Maleficent (2014)

This cult film opens the door for the history of Classic Hollywood stunts, the symbolism of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, the power of storytelling and escapism, and the many ways we can fall. 

Let’s talk about the history of LEGO bricks, Batman’s character flaws, mental health issues, his habit of endangering children, and his super powers: white privilege and generational wealth. Plus, our wishlist for future LEGO franchise opportunities!

We’re kicking off Superhero Month with Taika Waititi’s subversive action-comedy: join us as we discuss Ragnarok’s Māori spirit, how the film supports decolonization, its role as a pattern-breaker in the Marvel multi-verse, and Immigrant Song, of course! Featuring guest star Max Marriner.

Yukio Mishima’s controversial legacy as an LGBT icon, queer relationships and identities in Feudal Japan, Eiko Ishioka’s groundbreaking production design, kishōtenketsu narrative structure, and the movie’s unique blend of literature, theater, and film.

A classic for pride month! We talk about Judy Garland and the queer community, the history of anti-LGBT sentiment in the US military, the rise of the modern LGBT rights movement, the lavender scare, and the significance of Dorothy’s fate.

Check Your Threading says trans rights: we’re kicking off pride month with Tangerine, and talking about the current struggles for trans sex workers in the US, the damage of The Danish Girl, subversive cinematography, and the tender value of a buddy film where you least expect it.

How far would you go for your cat? Let’s get into code switching, the curious role of George Michael in black pop culture, the anatomy of a buddy film, male vulnerability, and more.

Cinema’s biggest dog lover! Join us as we chat about minimalism both in setting and in world building, the graceful intensity of gunfu, wuxia folk heroes, and the thrilling spectacle of Hong Kong Blood Opera.

We talk about The Lighthouse as a buddy comedy, plus the real-life Tragedy at Smalls Lighthouse, toxic masculinity, eldritch horror, and the undeniable homoeroticism of EVERYTHING.

We’re back! This unique, absurd cult-classic comedy gives us the history of summer camp, the versatility of the “summer camp” genre, and the interplay of fantasy and reality.