Philosophy In Film

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, the gang at Philosophy in Film explores love and the afterlife in 1990’s surprise Box Office smash, Ghost, starring Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, Tony Goldwyn, and Whoopi Goldberg. Tag along this journey of treachery and self-discovery beginning with Producer’s Notes (5:40), then Alain gives his patented Beauclair Synopsis (13:46). Next, Craig takes us down the winding turns of Philosopher’s Corner (24:00), then the gang dukes it out over the Round Table (33:16), with Reviews (1:40:15) and Mailbag (1:49:58) lighting the way to the end. As always, we discuss the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie that caught our attention, and even some deep diving takes on a classic film. 

Featured Beer: My Best Friend’s Girl - The Establishment Brewing Company (Calgary, Alberta)

Philosophy in Film brings in the new year with Netflix’s 2023 thriller Leave the World Behind. Directed by Mr. Robot's Sam Esmail and based on the 2020 novel by Rumaan Alam, the gang prepares for cataclysmic crisis by cracking this week’s featured beer, starting with Producer’s Notes (8:40) and the Beauclair Synopsis (21:09), heading down the Philosopher’s Corner (37:08), diving deep into the film with the Round Table (50:37), with Reviews (1:24:52) & Mailbag (1:45:01) bringing it all crumbling down. As always, we discuss the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie that caught our attention, and maybe even discuss the F.R.I.E.N.D.S. finale a little. 

Featured Beer: Irish Red - from The Red Hart Brewing Company (Red Deer, Alberta)

In this heartwarming episode, we unravel the magic of "Love, Actually" (2003), a romantic masterpiece directed by Richard Curtis. Producer's Notes (7:05) set the scene, with insights into the Bonnie Doon moments that shape the Christmas narrative. The Beauclair Synopsis (19:45) delicately weaves the intertwined lives, creating a tapestry of romance and holiday spirit that even the Grinch would find enchanting. Philosopher's Corner (36:45) takes a phenomenological dive into the concept that love actually is, exploring the always-already nature of affection and invoking Meno by Plato. At the Round Table (46:30), we shoehorn ourselves into discussions, digging into the movie's bromantic elements and navigating the terrain of spirited arguments. Reviews (1:45:22) measure the film's warmth in squirts of butter, a delightful metric of its heartwarming appeal. The Mailbag (1:55:30) celebrates your feedback, a Christmas gift of sorts, adding to the magic of this enchanting cinematic journey. Join us as we celebrate the holidays, love, and the sheer magic that is "Love, Actually."

Beer: Santa's Private Reserve Toffee Chocolate Stout by Rogue Ales brewery. 

In this introspective episode, we delve into "Into the Wild" (2007), a cinematic journey directed by Sean Penn. Producer's Notes (6:30) kick off our exploration, providing unique insights into local interests and the film's creation. The Beauclair Synopsis (21:15) paints a vivid picture of the transcendental experience, where simplicity and a return to nature shape the narrative. Philosopher's Corner (37:20) we navigate the film's philosophical landscape, where the pursuit of a simpler life takes center stage. At the Round Table (44:30), we delve into the film's profound exploration of a "wild" existence, contemplating whether happiness is shared when one goes back to basics or if it depends on human knowledge and interaction. Reviews (1:34:20) capture the essence of this transcendental journey, while the Mailbag (1:49:11) brings forth engaging discussions on the meaning of happiness and the allure of a life immersed in nature. Join us as we explore the philosophical depths of "Into the Wild" and the profound simplicity it offers.

Featured Beer: Rushing Waters Bohemian Pilsner - Apex Brewing (Edson, Alberta)

In this riveting episode, we dissect "Final Destination" (2000), a mind-bending creation by director James Wong. Producer's Notes (8:40) kick off our exploration, revealing Rube Goldberg-like behind-the-scenes details. The Beauclair Synopsis (20:50) paints a thrilling narrative, entwining fate, and the enigmatic concept of living forever vs. death's malevolent designs. Philosopher's Corner (37:51) delves deep into Stoic philosophy, pondering life's 180-degree turns and the intricacies of destiny. At the Round Table (45:19), we unravel the film's intriguing intricacies, where every event feels meticulously designed. Reviews (1:25:08) capture the film's MackDaddy moments, while the Mailbag (1:39:48) invites profound questions about mortality and the human spirit. Join us on this philosophical journey, where questions of fate, free will, and the pursuit of eternity are explored with thought-provoking depth.

Featured Beer: Reaper of Death 4.0 Double New England IPA - by Valley Brewing (Drumheller, Alberta)

Episode 73 of Philosphy in Film marks the start of Season 4! In this episode, we explore Straight Story (1999), a cinematic gem by director David Lynch. We start with intriguing insights behind the scenes with Producer's Notes (8:15). Next, we meander and weave through the Beauclair Synopsis (19:15) from start to finish. Philosopher's Corner (23:55) delves into profound themes, inviting contemplation and paints a vivid, enigmatic picture. The Round Table (36:18) navigates the film's emotional depth, evoking introspection yet misunderstanding humour. Listen to the diverse Reviews (1:15:07) as we measure the film's subtle brilliance alongside its regrets. Lastly, the Mailbag (1:26:46) sparks engaging discussions and legal theories. Join us on this cinematic journey, where every moment is a revelation.

Featured Beer: Nowhere Fast - by Town Square Brewing Co. (Edmonton, Alberta)

Philosophy in Film wraps up our 3rd season in style with this very special episode featuring the summer smash hit: Barbie! In this episode, the gang dives into their old toy chest to delve into the decades-popular toy as she hits the big screen. Driven by an all-star cast, Barbie brings with her a passionate discourse amongst film-goers, as well as an unexpectedly meaningful philosophical glimpse at gender dialogue. Wetting their whistles with an appropriately paired beverage, Producer’s Notes leads the charge (8:19), followed by the Beauclair Synopsis (23:04), The Philosopher's Corner (29:46), with the Round Table taking a voyage (40:04) between Barbieland and the real world. Next up hitting the stage is Beauclair’s cover of Aqua’s 1997 hit Barbie Girl (72:08), with Reviews (87:10) and Mailbag (99:02) bringing us back home. As always and with pleasure, we engage in a discussion of all the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the film that push you a-round.

Featured Beer: Eye Candy Cherry Sour by SYC Brewing Company (Edmonton, Alberta)

What…we’ve got here is…Episode 71 of Philosophy in Film!

Returning with 1967’s touchstone classic: ‘Cool Hand Luke’, guided by the Oscar-winning performances of Paul Newman and George Kennedy, the gang digs away at the highly decorated prison film for philosophical discussion. With the help of special guest Megan Craig (Associate Professor of Philosophy and Art, Stony Brook University), the gang goes off the rails starting with Producer’s Notes (5:53), the Beauclair Synopsis (13:01), Philosopher's Corner (24:07), paving the way for the Round Table Discussion (31:33), briefly escaping back to Reviews (87:09), and changing the game with #Mailbag (99:16). Join us as we take on this monumental film that sets the standard for prison movies, which Alain believes to be rivaled only by Shawshank Redemption. As always, we engage in a discussion of philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie communicated without failure.

Featured beverage: Kool Hand Luke Cocktail

The 70th installment of Philosophy in Film features our heroes traveling back to 1936, with Steven Speilberg’s blockbuster 1981 film: Indiana Jones & The Raiders of the Lost Ark! With the beloved archeologist at their side, the gang embarks on a quest to find philosophical meaning behind one of the most storied franchises in cinema history, driven by segments like Producer’s Notes (5:45), the Beauclair Synopsis (15:26), Philosopher's Corner (26:21), the Round Table Discussion (31:54), narrowly escaping back to Reviews (71:31), and topping it all off with the face-melting #Mailbag (78:45). As always, we engage in a discussion of all the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie that belong in a museum!

Featured Beer: The Great Daylight Spectrum Pale Ale by Snake Lake Brewing Company (Sylvan Lake, Alberta)

For the 69th episode of Philosophy In Film Podcast, the gang takes a swing at M. Night Shyamalan's 2002 sci-fi horror, 'Signs'. This week, we explore the dark phenomenons of the podcast, including Producers' Notes (10:39), the Beauclair Synopsis (25:19), Philosopher's Corner (36:35), the Round Table Discussion (45:32), crop-circling back to Reviews (91:12), and heading down the stretch with #Mailbag (103:07). As always, we engage in a discussion of all the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie that cropped up.

Featured Beer: Scona Gold - from Alley Kat Brewing Company (Edmonton, Alberta)

Episode 67 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast looks at the titular Pixar classic, 'Wall-E'. Once again, we work our way through all your favorite and less favorite segments of the podcast, including Producers' Notes (7:58), the Beauclair Synopsis (17:48), Philosopher's Corner (29:31), the Round Table Discussion (39:23), and, of course, the #Mailbag (92:51).  As always, we engage in a  discussion of all the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie that caught our attention.

Featured Beer: Easy Living - from Cabin Brewing Company (Calgary, Alberta)

Episode 66 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast looks at the satire-drama 'Triangle of Sadness'. As always, we work through all the familiar aspects of the show, including Producers' Notes (6:15), the Beauclair Synopsis (20:16), Philosopher's Corner (34:36), the Round Table Discussion (42:54), and, of course, the #Mailbag (1:35:44).  As always, we try to fit in a discussion of all the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie that caught our attention.

Featured Beer: Uncharted Citra Ale - from Blind Enthusiasm (Edmonton, Alberta)

Episode 65 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast looks at the highly anticipated Avatar 2, and also hockey cards. As is our way, we work through all the familiar aspects of the show, including Producers' Notes (6:14), the Beauclair Synopsis (19:00), Philosopher's Corner (38:42), the Round Table Discussion (48:20), and, of course, the #Mailbag (1:46:33).  As always, we try to fit in a discussion of all the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie that caught our attention.

Featured Beer: Death Wave Light Lager - from Sea Change Brewing Co. (Edmonton, Alberta)

Our annual Christmas special, episode 64 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast is a look at "A Charlie Brown Christmas".  We cover all the old familiar aspects of the show, including Producers' Notes (7:09), the Beauclair Synopsis (16:03), Philosopher's Corner (27:14), the Round Table Discussion (36:14), and a bulkier than normal edition of the yuletide #Mailbag (97:05).  As always, we try to fit in a discussion of all the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie that caught our attention.

Featured Beer: Brown Christmas, Spiced Brown Belgium  Winter Ale - from Bent Stick Brewing (Edmonton, Alberta)

Episode 63 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast features esteemed guest Philosopher, Joe Saunders, as we look back at Paul Thomas Anderson's "Inherent Vice)".  While Craig embraces the spirit of the movie and slowly retreats into his own mind, we cover all the familiar segments, including Producers' Notes (7:59), the Beauclair Synopsis (16:42), Philosopher's Corner (25:59), and a Round Table Discussion (31:39), where as always, we discuss the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie that caught our attention.

Featured Beer: Hazy Morning New England Pale Ale from Familia Brewing (Pigeon Lake, Alberta)

Episode 62 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast features the German film "All Quiet on the Western Front (2022)" based on the 1929 novel of the same name.  As is always the case, we make our way through Producers' Notes (5:47), the Beauclair Synopsis (16:36), Philosopher's Corner (36:15), and a Round Table Discussion (49:11), where as always, we discuss the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie that caught our attention.

Featured Beer: Foedered Lager - Munich Dunkel from Blindman Brewing (Lacombe, Alberta)

Episode 61 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast features the blockbuster 2022 sequel "Top Gun: Maverick".  With the Producer doing his best impersonation of an old man yelling at the clouds throughout, this episode follows the familiar itinerary with Producers' Notes, the Beauclair Synopsis, Philosopher's Corner, and a Round Table Discussion, where as always, we discuss the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie that caught our attention.

Featured Beer: Linton Stephenson Tailgunner Czeck Pilsner from Tailgunner Brewing Company (Calgary, Alberta)

2022 Halloween Special: Episode 60 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast features the 2021 sequel to the classic horror-thriller "Candyman" directed by Nia DaCosta.  After a relentless campaign by some of our most dedicated listeners, we finally take on the Candyman franchise...  This episode includes Producers' Notes (6:08), the Beauclair Synopsis (22:14), Philosopher's Corner (aka: The Corner) (40:22) and the Round Table Discussion, where as always, we discuss the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie that caught our attention.

Featured Beer: Hub and Spoke Vienna Lager from Inner City Brewing (Calgary, Alberta)

Episode 59 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast features the 1993 American Western "Tombstone".  While we struggle to keep things on the tracks for this one, all of the regular segments somehow make it into the episode, including Producers' Notes (7:21), the Beauclair Synopsis (18:48), Philosopher's Corner (46:41) and the Round Table Discussion (53:25), where we, as always, discuss the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie that caught our attention.

Featured Beer: Dos Almas Mexican Lager from Dog Island Brewing (Slave Lake, Alberta)