How many of the gadgets do you remember from Pierce Brosnan's first two James Bond movies, GOLDENEYE and TOMORROW NEVER DIES? In this episode, Dan and Tom decode about 30 of them.  We also let you know if we think a gadget is believable! 

So, how many different pitons do we talk about in these two movies?  Do we think they are believable? Do you? 

Tom calls out a favorite weapons/gadgets in any movie and how TOMORROW NEVER DIES enhances that! 

How realistic is an exploding pen?  How about digital scopes with the ability to transmit data?  Would either of those things have worked in 1995 when GOLDENEYE was released or in 1997 with the release of TOMORROW NEVER DIES? 

And, what was that thing in Wai Lin's lab that took the one thug out? 

How many different uses did we point out for the remote controlled BMW and it's remote control? 

So have a listen, getting a better understanding of these gadgets will enhance your viewing experience next time you watch GOLDENEYE or TOMORROW NEVER DIES. 

In this episode, we mentioned an article about a guy who made a laser watch.  Here's the link to that article: https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/home-made-laser-watch-is-real 

So, did we miss any gadgets?   Which are your favorite gadgets?  Did any gadgets strike you as believable?  If so, which ones? 

Please let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!   

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.   

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/4dBH705 

Click here to watch the video version of this episode

George Lazenby has announced his retirement from public life.  This is a well-earned retirement and we wish him nothing but the best.

In this episode, Dan and Tom bring Mike Reyes back for a salute to the second Eon Productions actor to play James Bond.  George had huge shoes to fill in following Sean Connery.  We think he filled them very well.

Some of the topics we decode include:

• How George Lazenby landed the role of James Bond
• The Hulu show "Becoming Bond"
• How his James Bond was introduced in the movie and his "This never happened to the other fella" line in the ON HER MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE pre-title sequence.
• The pressure of taking over for Sean Connery who emblazoned his version of James Bond in the moviegoers' minds.
• Lazenby's upbringing
• How his work on ON HER MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE shaped the role of James Bond for the rest of the series
• What they think the next James Bond movie George Lazenby should have done.  Hint, it isn't DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER, which was the successor to ON HER MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE

So, once again, we wish George Lazenby well in his retirement.  And we thank him for his work on ON HER MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE.

You can read Mike Reyes' articles on CinemaBlend.com.

Let us hear from you about George Lazenby.  What did you think of his performance as James Bond in ON HER MAJESTY'S SECRET SERVICE.  Do you wish he'd done another Bond movie?

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!  

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.  

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/3X8RO4j

SPIONE And Its Influence On Spy Movies is a look at this 1928 Fritz Lang spy movie. And, Dan and Tom fill you in on just how big an influence SPIONE is in the spy movie genre.   

Significantly, SPIONE is the first spy movie we've been able to find that isn't based on a war. Not surprisingly, this movie laid out the blueprint for most non-war-based spy movies to come. 

Even if you don't watch the movie, this episode will fill you in on how SPIONE blazed the trail and influenced spy movies to come, which all spy movie fans should know. You'll certainly recognize some tropes you've seen in more modern spy movies.  Tropes such as: how did that guy not die when he was shot at close range? What was that pill that guy bit down on?  What is a spy movie villain supposed to look like?  A train in a spy movie? What things in this movie did we then see Alfred Hitchcock do? How was that guy dressed? And more! 

What are the positives and the negatives of SPIONE? 

We should warn you that SPIONE is a 2 ½ hour black and white silent movie. Watching a silent movie is a different experience from what we get when watching modern 
movies.  Although the movie was filmed in Germany, there are many versions with English subtitles available.  You can certainly find different releases of SPIONE on YouTube. The English title of the movie is SPIES. 

So, have you seen SPIONE?  Will you watch it after you listen to this episode? 

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!   

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.   

Webpage: https://bit.ly/3xjW0US

SPECTRE – can this James Bond movie be defended? Dan and Tom bring Vicky back to answer this question.

While SPECTRE is not often in a James Bond fan's top 5 list, it is often in a Bond fan's bottom 10 list.  Why is that?  What about this movie turns fans off?

Dan, Tom, and Vicky uncover both the positives and the negatives of SPECTRE to try to figure out if it can be defended.

They start with a look at some of the negatives of SPECTRE.

• Dan, Tom, and Vicky think one of the problems is the reason Blofeld hates James Bond.  At least the reason Blofeld tells Bond.  Dan says that this plot point irks him.
• Or maybe it is the character of Madeleine Swann.  Vicky says she thinks the character is too flat.
• Or maybe it is the writing of Purvis and Wade.  You know Tom will chime in on that one.
• And more.

To be sure, there are some positives in SPECTRE.  Such as:

• The production quality is top-notch, a signature of Eon Productions' James Bond movies.
• The spectacular pre-title sequence.
• The supporting cast.
• And more.

This is a lively discussion as the three of them aren't in agreement on all the positives and negatives.

So, what are your reasons for liking or disliking SPECTRE?  Can you defend it?

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!  

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Additionally, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.  

Webpage: https://bit.ly/3XlnXpN

We welcome back Vicky for this episode. You can visit her channel THE BOND ROOM UNLOCKED on YouTube and on Facebook. You can also catch her at the 007GB Fan Club website.

Before you go on to this episode, "You Only Live Thrice, Mr. Bond," if you haven't seen NO TIME TO DIE, there are some spoilers here so you probably should skip this one – NOW!  

James Bond is dead!  Dead as a door nail.   Dead! 

Your field operatives Dan and Tom decode the fundamental meaning of James Bond dying in NO TIME TO DIE and detail the HOW of what Eon Productions can do to move on! 

From James Bond returning to the Daniel Craig "arc" – nothing is left to chance in this lively debate.  So, how does Eon deal with the fact that the Daniel Craig arc took OO7 from obtaining his OO status up to his death? The end credits told us "James Bond Will Return".     Is it problematic?  Surprisingly, Eon is in a very tough position.  What were they thinking in clarifying for us that JAMES BOND IS DEAD? 

Dan and Tom examine realistic ways the Bond series can continue after NO TIME TO DIE's ending. Also, they have some future advice and warnings to tell Bond: "You Only Live Thrice, Mr. Bond!" 

So, take a listen.  What do you think Eon Productions' next move must be?   

In a previous episode "Come On Bond, Where The Hell Are You – How James Bond Can Survive" we took a sarcastic look at some crazy ways Bond could survive after the ending of NO TIME TO DIE.  

Also, let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!  

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Additionally, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.  

Webpage: https://bit.ly/3V0b1mk

Dan and Tom decode the 1952 classic spy movie, 5 FINGERS.  This excellent movie starring James Mason is a fantastic espionage thriller, but not an action thriller.  And we think it works quite well that way.

5 FINGERS is based on the true story of Albanian-born Elyesa Bazna, who worked as a valet for the British ambassador to Turkey during World War II and became a Nazi spy. Also, it is based on the L.C. Moyzisch novel "Operation Cicero".  If you are a fan of our podcast, undoubtedly noticed that we generally like spy movies based on reality.   Emphatically, 5 FINGERS is no exception.

We look at James Mason's character's codename which is Cicero, and discuss the significance of that name. As well as the significance of the title. Specifically, beyond the "5-finger discount's" obvious significance.

Dan and Tom also look at what they think are the positive aspects of 5 FINGERS. These include an intriguing plot, strong acting performances, a suspenseful atmosphere, and more.  

Tom is a huge fan of this movie.  And without a doubt, the last 90 seconds of this movie are a big reason.  The build-up, stress, and apparent relief throughout make this ending spectacular. James Mason's performance at the end takes it significantly to great heights.

Dan and Tom also look at some of the negative comments they've read about 5 FINGERS and share their thoughts on those.

We should highlight that this episode is about the 1952 movie 5 FINGERS with the numeral 5 at the beginning.  There is a completely different movie from 2006 that has nothing to do with this one.

Did you see 5 FINGERS? If so, do Dan and Tom have the right perspective? What did you think of this episode? Please let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and if you want to be notified of our next event. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage: https://bit.ly/3WSdt11

Dan and Tom held their first Chicago 007 Fans Meetup on May 9, 2024, at Ma O'Brien's Irish Pub in Chicago.

Part of the event was a James Bond trivia quiz and people from all over the world played, including those in the pub. The questions ranged from fairly easy to "nobody got this one". The winning score was 18 out of 25.  Congratulations to William Kanas for the win.

This episode highlights the interviews they streamed of some of the 007 fans in attendance. In fact, one of the fans we talked with, stuntman Ross Scharphorn, placed second in the trivia quiz.  He answered the same number of questions as William Kanas, but Kanas answered faster for the win.

In addition to Ross, we interviewed Scott Winterroth and Brandon about their favorite Bond movies, actors, and the direction they would like Eon Productions to take the franchise.

Finally, we talked with Leonard Johnson and Chris MacGregor from the Ian Fleming Foundation.  They talked about the foundation, its charity focus, and how they obtain and refurbish James Bond movie vehicles. 

We also held a drawing with James Bond tchotchkes awarded to the winners.

A big Thank You goes out to all who attended our Chicago 007 Fans May 2024 Meetup and those who agreed to be interviewed. 

What did you think of this episode? Also, please let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and if you want to be notified of our next event. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage: https://bit.ly/4avMfR0

Dan and Tom interview Maestro John Morris Russell (JMR) about his Chicago Symphony Orchestra concert, "Shaken Not Stirred," musical scores, and James Bond music.  As you might have guessed, the concert's focus is the music of James Bond.   You may know JMR from his work as the conductor of the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra for the past 13 years. 

Joining JMR in the concert is the amazing vocalist Capathia Jenkins. She possesses the wide vocal range needed to cover the various styles of singers from the James Bond catalog.

We will be attending the concert and we're sure James Bond fans will enjoy this one.  

In this episode, JMR talks about what to expect in this concert and how they put it together.  He also talks about his career, why he decided to conduct instead of play an instrument, some influential composers, and film scoring in general.  If you've ever wanted to know what a composer has to deal with in scoring a movie, JMR gives you a good idea.  It is really amazing how they do it.

One other area we discuss is how technology has made composition more efficient.  Much is the same as it's been for hundreds of years.  But, some of it is streamlined today.

Dan and Tom wanted some expertise for this interview, so they asked Raymond Benson for an assist.  Of course, Raymond graciously agreed. Raymond helped us delve into other composers' works and JMR's experiences with them.  Plus, Raymond tells of a very scary experience he had with composer John Barry.

So, we're excited to be going to this concert and see John Morris Russell put what he told us into action.  We think this will be a good one.  Do you have plans to go to this concert?   If so, let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage: https://bit.ly/3UxXUJ2

Credit: John Morris Russell pictures courtesy of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.

Dan and Tom decode SPY HUNT, a 1950 espionage B movie.  And they don't agree on this one.

SPY HUNT was based on the book "Panther's Moon" by Victor Canning. It has espionage, a MacGuffin, a train, a dead drop, escaped black panthers, a budding romance, and quite a few interesting characters.

Dan and Tom call out some interesting plot points that may have been influenced by earlier movies such as THE LADY VANISHES, THE 39 STEPS, and others. 

In addition, you'll find out what a black panther really is.  We're sure you've lost sleep trying to figure that out.

Above all, they look at some places where SPY HUNT may have influenced spy movies that followed, including one very interesting piece of dialogue.  How much influence did this movie have on the James Bond franchise?

So, if you've seen SPY HUNT, do you agree with Dan or Tom on one? What did you think of this episode, SPY HUNT – 1950 Cold War Espionage Classic Decoded?

Overall, if you hadn't seen SPY HUNT did this episode encourage you to watch it? If so, let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage: https://bit.ly/3JMn8OO

Dan and Tom talk with Matt Sherman about the DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER Las Vegas and OCTOPUSSY Utah filming locations.

Besides being a James Bond expert, Matt Sherman leads tours to many different James Bond filming locations – check his website https://bondfanevents.com/.

In this episode, we discuss what we experienced on Matt's tour of two relatively close filming location areas for two movies, DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER (DAF) and OCTOPUSSY. 

Much of DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER was filmed in and around Las Vegas, Nevada in the U.S. For instance, the casinos, the desert, the mortuary, the car chase and more are all there.

Surprisingly, if you take a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas into southwestern Utah, you'll end up in some key locations from OCTOPUSSY. Much of the OCTOPUSSY pre-title sequence was filmed in this stunningly beautiful part of the U.S. Some of the scenes toward the end of the movie were filmed here as well.

Some of the filming location questions we answer are:

• What airport did James Bond arrive in when he came to Las Vegas?

• How many locations were used when Plenty O'Toole was tossed from the hotel window?

• Where is the location of the parking lot from the car chase?

• Why is visiting the Palm Boulder Highway Mortuary & Cemetary not enough to experience the mortuary scenes? 

• What game can you still play at the Circus Circus arcade area?

• Where was the gas station that James Bond's jet pulled up to when Bond said "fill 'er up"?

• How did they film the take-off and landing of Bond's jet?

• Where is the bridge the plane flies under?

• Where did James Bond jump from his horse onto Kamal Khan's plane?

• When standing near the bridge, you can see places portraying what countries from what movies?

This is a fun discussion.  The next time you are in Las Vegas, go visit these sites.  You'll be glad you did.

So, have you been to any of these sites? If so, let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage: https://bit.ly/3wdPJt9

SPY x FAMILY CODE: White Review - No Spoilers!

Here's our NO-SPOILER review of the new spy movie, SPY x FAMILY CODE: White.

This anime movie is the first movie in the SPY x FAMILY franchise.  If you are familiar with the Manga or anime series versions of SPY x FAMILY, you will feel right at home with the movie.

1. Provide you with our no-spoiler opinion of the movie

2. Enhance your viewing experience of the movie
   • We look at your viewing options (subtitles or dubbing)
   • Why it has a PG-13 rating here in the US
   • We fill in some of the details from the anime series that aren't included in the movie.  These are designed to give you more detail if you haven't seen the Manga or anime series.  We still keep this a no-spoiler review
   • We talk with a Japanese Culture and Language college student who is part Japanese.  He helps fill in some of the nuances in the language and culture of this movie.
   • We discuss some of the movie tropes in this movie that we have seen in earlier movies.  We love pointing out the relationships of scenes in movies.

In a nutshell, we like SPY x FAMILY CODE: White.   We think you might too, so take a listen to hear why.

So, had you seen SPY x FAMILY CODE: White before listening to this review? When you see the movie, please let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!

Check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage: https://bit.ly/49QWTkK

Here's the full NO-SPOILER review of the new spy movie, THE MINISTRY OF UNGENTLEMANLY WARFARE. This movie opens in theaters on April 19, 2024.

Guy Ritchie's THE MINISTRY OF UNGENTLEMANLY WARFARE is a dramatization of real-world events that helped shape the outcome of World War II.   Of course, it has an excellent cast starring Henry Cavill, Alan Ritchson, Eiza González, Til Schweiger, and many more. 

This review will enhance your viewing experience of the movie.  We keep the spoilers out but give you nuggets of background information. And, given this movie's historical background there is much to know: real-world characters, places, and vessels behind the movie, and, there is an Ian Fleming tie-in as well. 

What other movies come to mind while watching THE MINISTRY OF UNGENTLEMANLY WARFARE?    

We liked this movie a lot and think you will too.  Listen to find out why. 

So, had you heard of Operation Postmaster prior to our discussion? When you see THE MINISTRY OF UNGENTLEMANLY WARFARE, let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode! 
 
Check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Check out our YouTube channel as well. 

Webpage: https://bit.ly/3TYeYaS 

What makes a spy movie great?  Are they built with common elements? Dan and Tom decode the blueprint that most spy movies use in creating their story.  From the protagonist, the villain and a variety of other essential elements we look at how to build a spy movie.

Some of the things decoded include:

• Obviously a spy movie needs a protagonist or spy.  But, what characteristics does that, or those spies have? What does he or she look like? Importantly, do they have different characteristics if the spy movie is gritty, an action spy movie, or a comedy?

• Next, what are the characteristics of the mission?  We look at some examples of different spy movies to highlight some of these.

• And of course, every spy mission's protagonist needs a villain. And these villains aren't all carbon copies. They each seem to have their own physical traits. Again, we look at some examples of successful spy movie villains.

• If you have a male spy, do you need a femme fatale?  What about allies? And what are some examples of how locations influence spy movies?  What are some successful locations that we've seen in spy movies.

• One area of contention is around how much of the movie needs to be action sequences and what are some of the ways a studio can blow these for the audience?

• As we often talk about, there is a moral ambiguity in most spy movies.  We look at this ambiguity and how it has two sides.

Of course, there is more that we discuss, but this list gives you some good reasons to listen to this episode: How to Build a Spy Movie.

Are you ready to build your own spy movie?  Are there things Dan and Tom missed?

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!  

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.  

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/3AiYKCR

Dan and Tom head out to find the DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER Amsterdam filming locations.   There aren't many and they are easy to find. But it is very cool to see these sites over 50 years after the movie was filmed.

So, join them as they visit Tiffany Case's house.    Was she home? The Skinny Bridge?   Was that a figment of screenwriters Richard Maibaum and Tom Mankiewicz?  Listen to find out.

What famous drink from Ian Fleming's novels has an Amsterdam bar named after it? What literarily-named hotel has another bar they mention?  And what tour do they tell you is a must see when visiting Amsterdam? Amsterdam intelligence is on the menu! 

So, have you been to these DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER Amsterdam filming locations?  Have you seen any of these other sites? If so, let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage: https://bit.ly/4cIFWvL

The 2018 Indian movie RAAZI is a spy movie worth watching. It is one of Tom's all-time favorite spy movies. Have you heard of RAAZI?

RAAZI is a fictionalized drama about a real spy in the 1971 India-Pakistan war.  This is an espionage movie, not an action movie, which we think is a good thing.

The central theme of this movie is "What are you prepared to do for your country?"

Why is this a spy movie worth watching?   Dan and Tom detail the reasons why, and also talk about some of the criticisms of RAAZI. Listening to this episode will enhance your understanding and viewing experience of the movie!

Alia Bhatt fans will not want to miss RAAZI. She is excellent in it, as is the rest of the cast.

As of this posting (April 2, 2024), RAAZI is available on Amazon Prime in the US. RAAZI is released in the Hindi language with English subtitles. 

So, have you seen RAAZI? If so, do you think RAAZI is a spy movie worth watching? Did Dan and Tom miss anything?  Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage: https://bit.ly/4cEKQcT

FOR YOUR EYES ONLY, the movie, was not the story from Ian Fleming's short story with the same title.   In this episode, Dan and Tom decode the movie to see how the story came to be.

Some of the characters from the movie, and some of the plot points were adapted from Ian Fleming's 1960 short stories "For Your Eyes Only" and "Risico".  Plus, the locations of the 2 stories and the movie are all different. People's names have changed.  The reason that people have wanted revenge has changed.  The MacGuffin has changed.

Yet, even with all of that, the movie, FOR YOUR EYES ONLY turned into one of Roger Moore's best movies playing James Bond.

And the 1968 movie ICE STATION ZEBRA definitely influenced the final version of the movie FOR YOUR EYES ONLY.  Dan and Tom lay it out in this episode!

So, take a listen. 

We assume you've seen the movie FOR YOUR EYES ONLY. Have you read Fleming's short stories "For Your Eyes Only" and "Risico"?  If so, did Dan and Tom miss anything?  Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage: https://bit.ly/4au95sm

Chris Corbould OBE has worked on 15 James Bond movies, THE DARK KNIGHT Trilogy, 2 Superman movies, and he won an Acadamy Award for his work on the movie INCEPTION.  Chiefly, his specialty has been visual effects, leading the team on many of these movies.

Dan and Tom had a chance to chat with Chris in Chicago at the press event prior to the opening of the "007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond" exhibit.  This fantastic exhibit is at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago.

During this interview, Chris talks about visual effects in several of his James Bond movies and THE DARK KNIGHT.  

So, listen to hear how they did the explosion in SPECTRE, which involved about 300 explosions in succession! Chris tells us how that worked.  Additionally, Chris mentions the warning he gave to Daniel Craig about this scene.

Undoubtedly, you remember the doughnut scene in NO TIME TO DIE.  You know, the scene where the Aston Martin spins in the square in Matera, Italy. Chris talks us through that scene and how they coordinated the "bullets" hitting the side of the buildings with the spinning of the car.

The tank scenes in GOLDENEYE! Chris also tells us the origin and some of the challenges of these tank scenes. What are the challenges of buying real tanks for a movie? Listen to find out!

One of Tom's favorite Bond gadgets is the cello case in THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS. Chris Corbould was involved with this gadget's development. And he gives us insight into the creation of the device.  Oh, and he lets us know what actress Maryam d'Abo, who played Kara Milovy, certainly thought about this sled.

SKYFALL train crash in the subway! Chris discusses the challenges in designing this spectacular train crash.  Lots of details had to be worked out simultaneously for that one.

Finally, since we were having this discussion in Chicago, Chris talked about the semi-trailer scene in THE DARK KNIGHT.   This is the scene where the truck flips over, backend over the front end.   They filmed this scene in Chicago, on LaSalle street.  Chris lets us know how they got that to work.

So, take a listen. Chris Corbould is not only a visual effects master, he's a great guy and a fun interview.  Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Check out our YouTube channel as well.

As we mentioned, we met with Chris at the "007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond" exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. This exhibit has vehicles, gadgets, screen-used props, and educational materials based on the James Bond movies. You can find out more about the exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry's website.

Webpage: https://bit.ly/3x9Zngo

"007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond" is a new exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, Illinois, USA.

Dan and Tom became big fans of this exhibit while attending the Press Day viewing.   They take you inside and highlight many of the items displayed. And they let you know why you will want to attend this exhibit.

We won't give everything away. But there are screen-used gadgets from the James Bond movies. These are some of the most well-known gadgets in the James Bond history.  Plus, there are James Bond movie vehicles. Vehicles like the Aston Martin DB5 used in GOLDENEYE, and the Lotus Espirit which was used in THE SPY WHO LOVED ME.   And, there are real-world spy gadgets that the CIA has used to showcase how the Bond gadgets may have had some real-world background.

Includes a quick interview with Meg Simmonds, Archive Director for Eon Productions, and Eric Andersen, Project Manager of Featured Experiences and Special Projects at the Museum.  They help us understand what is in the exhibit and why.  Meg talks about one gadget that was from a very early James Bond movie. She had never seen it before but was able to track down. And, that gadget is on display in this exhibit!  Which one?!

Eric focuses on is the fact that this is the Museum of Science and Industry. So, they want to make sure the exhibit highlights Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) throughout.  There are interactive activities and Eric helps us understand what is there, and why kids will like this too.

Finally, Chris Corbould, who was the Special Effects Supervisor on all of the James Bond movies from GOLDENEYE through NO TIME TO DIE was there. A separate episode will come out with that interview! 

So, take a listen.  Dan and Tom think the "007 Science: Inside the World of James Bond" exhibition is extremely well done. It is a must for any James Bond fan!  Have you gone to see it yet? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!

The Museum of Science and Industry is located at 5700 DuSable Lake Shore Drive in Chicago.  Check out their website to find out more details.   The exhibit runs from March 007, 2024, to October 27, 2024.

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage: https://bit.ly/3ISOnXL

Are you a James Bond memorabilia collector or interested in James Bond items? How big is your collection?   Well, in this episode, Dan and Tom talk with Steve Oxenrider, whose name you have  seen -  as he is credited on some of the "Making of" James Bond documentaries and has contributed images for numerous books and articles.

In case you didn't know, Steve is auctioning off his over 30,000-item collection of James Bond memorabilia.

Take a listen to find out where the auctions are being held, what is being auctioned off, and why he is auctioning his collection.  Steve, who is obviously a big James Bond fan, also explains how he got started collecting and the tremendous connections he has made.

Oh, and his story about talking to Rosa Klebb (twice) is very funny.  Would you have the guts to do what Steve did?  He's done it more than once and even talked with Harold Sakata using the same technique.

So, take a listen to Steve Oxenrider's fascinating story!   It might get you started collecting if you don't already!  Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage: https://bit.ly/49Vdg0j

Ian Fleming published the short story "The Hildebrand Rarity" in 1960.  In it, he created the character of Milton Krest.  James Bond movie fans will recognize Milton Krest from 1989 movie LICENCE TO KILL.  

In this episode, Dan and Tom decode how this character from the short story landed in this movie.  They also talk about how his character from the novel changed in the movie. And how some of his traits were split between the characters Milton Krest and Franz Sanchez in the movie. 

And what about Krest's wife?  Parts of her character morphed into Lupe.

Remember that stingray tail that Franz Sanchez uses on Lupe in LICENCE TO KILL?   It had its origin in the novel as well. But it wasn't someone named Sanchez who used it.

And of course, there is a Playboy tie-in here as well that we discuss.

So, take a listen.  Have you read "The Hildebrand Rarity"?  If so, did Dan and Tom miss anything?  Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage: https://bit.ly/3uLOH78

In Defense of Quantum of Solace 

Dan and Tom provide a defense of the James Bond movie QUANTUM OF SOLACE, looking at the pros and cons of this oft-maligned movie.   Revealed: What does Quantum of Solace even means!   
QUANTUM OF SOLACE was not the critical success of its successor, CASINO ROYALE. That's even with it being a direct continuation of the CASINO ROYALE story. 

There were numerous problems, many stemming from the writer's strike at the time. But, there were also some positives in QUANTUM OF SOLACE. 

So, take a listen – Do you agree with Dan and Tom's defense of QUANTUM OF SOLACE?  Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be! 

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Additionally, you can check out our YouTube channel as well. 

Webpage: https://bit.ly/48lubIg

Here are the links to the podcast episodes we mentioned in this episode: 
Audio Podcasts: 

James Bond's QUANTUM OF SOLACE Pre-Title Sequence Decoded! - Spy Movie Navigator 

A Talk with QUANTUM OF SOLACE Director of Photography, Roberto Schaefer, ASC, AIC - Part 1 - Spy Movie Navigator 

Part 2: A Talk with QUANTUM OF SOLACE Director of Photography, Roberto Schaefer, ASC, AIC - Spy Movie Navigator

YouTube Video: 

James Bond is Not Likeable - https://youtu.be/vVFyn9w1dcc 

Gadgets in THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS and LICENCE TO KILL

Dan and Tom break down the gadgets in THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS and LICENCE TO KILL – the two Dalton James Bond movies.

Are these gadgets believable?  Flashy?  Dalton changed the tone of the character of Bond and to some extent the gadgets in the movies.

For instance, could the milk bottles really do that?  What about the remote keychain?  And there is also the X-Ray camera, Broomstick Radio, night-vision binoculars, the rocket engine, Dentonite toothpaste, the manta ray costume, and more.

And we get two looks at the use of lasers, one from each movie.  Were they believable?

Well, we take apart these and all the other key gadgets in these two movies. 

So, take a listen – did we miss any key gadgets from these two Bond movies? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Additionally, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage:  https://bit.ly/3wgZR4b

Dan and Tom bring back author Tony Lee Moral to discuss his latest book Alfred Hitchcock's Storyboards. We focus on Hitchcock's spy movies in today's discussion. Unquestionably, Hitchcock was notorious for his use of storyboards and his practice has been emulated by many directors. 

We read an advance copy of the book prior to its February 6, 2024, release.  Tony's book is an excellent look at why Hitchcock used storyboards. He also discusses how Hitchcock used them to set up the filming of the scenes in his movies. He drills into many of Hitchcock's movies.  In addition, one great aspect of the book is the sheer number of storyboards he includes in the book that Hitchcock used. And the industry tricks of the trade including how those have changed over time with the use of technology.

Another thing we love about this book is that Tony teaches us about making movies. He does this by showing us how Hitchcock did it.  For example, in his discussion on THE 39 STEPS, Tony talks about how TikTok users can use a similar approach to what Hitchcock did to string together a bunch of shorts. We drill into this with Tony in this episode.  It's a great and fun way to learn.

You can order Alfred Hitchcock's Storyboards at the following links (These are non-affiliate links, SpyMovieNavigator receives no compensation if you use them):

• tonyleemoralbooks.com – A site of mystery and suspense

• Alfred Hitchcock Storyboards @ Titan Books

• Alfred Hitchcock Storyboards: Moral, Tony Lee: 9781789099546: Amazon.com: Books

• Alfred Hitchcock Storyboards by Tony Lee Moral: 9781789099546 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

• Alfred Hitchcock Storyboards by Tony Lee Moral, Hardcover | Barnes & Noble® (barnesandnoble.com)

So, take a listen – did this discussion help you decide to buy Tony Lee Moral's book Alfred Hitchcock's Storyboards? We highly recommend it if you are a movie fan.  Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Additionally, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage:  https://bit.ly/hitchcock-storyboards

"Hogan's Heroes" was a comedy series in the US from 1965 to 1971. But it was a spy, espionage and sabotage show as well – with plenty of violence.   It was based on a group of prisoners of war in World War II who were assigned to Stalag 13.  On this show, spy missions rule!  Decoding this show, we will show you why!

Dan and Tom tunnel their way into this series by looking at the characters, the actors who played them, and many of their missions.
And yes, "Hogan's Heroes" is a bit dated with some of its portrayal of Germans and women, but we still think it holds up today.  We talk about the German roots of some of the key people involved with the series and what Werner Klemperer required of the show for him to take on the role of Colonel Klink.  Klemperer was born in Germany and he had a specific demand.

We also include clips from the show to highlight our points and bring fun to it as well.

With the lunatics running the asylum, there are some classic lines in the series.

Some of the episodes we decode have ties to real-world events or other movies. For instance, did you listen to our episode THE HEROES OF TELEMARK-DECODED? Well, one of the "Hogan's Heroes" episodes had roots in the underlying mission portrayed in the movie THE HEROES OF TELEMARK.  We tell you which one.

Another episode of Hogan's Heroes had similarities to the 1946 Sherlock Holmes movie, DRESSED TO KILL.

Other episodes paid homage to TV game shows that were popular at the time.

And what did synthetic fuel have to do with the war and this series?

So, take a listen to hear about these and many more fun facts about this comedy spy series.

Have you watched "Hogan's Heroes"?  What did you think? Is it a spy series?

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!  

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.  

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/4dzxDSG

ARGYLLE– A No-Spoiler Review

In this episode, Tom gives you his no-spoiler look at the latest Matthew Vaughan movie, ARGYLLE.  As with all of our no-spoiler reviews, our goal is to give you our thoughts as to whether or not this latest spy movie is worth your time and money.

We don't cover the plot because our goal is to not give it away. But, we will say that the plot is pretty complex. You need to pay close attention.

There are a lot of twists and turns in ARGYLLE. And it has a fantastic cast led by Bryce Dallas Howard, Sam Rockwell, and Henry Cavill.

So, take a listen to this ARGYLLE – A No-Spoiler Review. Is ARGYLLE worth your time and money?  Let us know your thoughts if you go and see it, ideas for future episodes, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website.  Check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage:  https://bit.ly/3ulWYOY

Hitchcock's TOPAZ – is it a gem?

Hitchcock's movie TOPAZ received mixed reviews when it was released.  Some people love it while others don't like it at all.  Why is that?

Dan and Tom mine what works and what doesn't in this Hitchcock spy movie.  And there is a bit of both here.

That said, TOPAZ is a spy movie with a lot of espionage.  It isn't an action movie with some spy elements as we often get in today's spy movies.

The setting for TOPAZ is 1962 at the height of the Cuban Missile Crisis which brought the US and the Soviet Union to the brink of nuclear war.  So, there is some historical background for this movie. 

Dan and Tom look for the hidden gems in this one.  What works best?  And what doesn't?

So, take a listen – Hitchcock's TOPAZ  - is it a gem?  Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website.   Check out our YouTube channel as well.  Subscribe!

Webpage:  https://bit.ly/hitchcocks-topaz

In 2035 we will see James Bond in the public domain.  What does this mean for the franchise?  Not just for the movies, but the novels, and marketing. 

George Simpson, Senior Film Reporter at the Daily Express joins us to discuss the article he wrote about this impact on the franchise. He explains what public domain means and why it is so important for James Bond but not for other franchises like Sherlock Holmes and The Marx Brothers.  Their material is already in the public domain. Eon Productions is in a tough spot here and they have 11 years to get it right. What do they need to do? 

And, George Simpson gives Eon Productions some advice. 

So, take a listen - do you agree with us and this episode? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be! 

Thank you, George, for providing a lively discussion on a tough topic. 

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website and our YouTube channel as well. 

Webpage:  https://bit.ly/james-bond-in-the-public-domain

Character Spotlight: Rosa Klebb played by Lotte Lenya in FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE!

In a continuation of our Character Spotlight series of episodes, Dan and Tom look at the evil character Rosa Klebb in FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE.  She may be small in stature, but she knows how to take control of almost any situation.

Lotte Lenya gives an amazing performance bringing this character from the Ian Fleming novel to the big screen.

Here we examine Rosa Klebb's character in each scene and how Lotte Lenya just nails this character with her acting prowess.  Her facial expressions let us into her emotional state, often without saying a word. She's just brilliant. Quick, who would you have hired that could have been better?  We can't think of another actress for this role.

So, take a listen – Does Rosa Klebb deserve to have a Character Spotlight episode?  Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!

You can check out all of our podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Our channel name is CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES.   Check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage:  https://bit.ly/3O6rZNn

Why Are Spy Movies Still Popular?

Dan and Tom look at the popularity of spy movies and shows, with a focus on James Bond.  They give you their reasons for why they believe the spy genre is so popular.

They also look at influences on spy movies.  Superheroes is one big influencer for spy movies and have helped spy movies' popularity. But superhero movies are also in competition for the viewer's money.  So, what is it about superhero movies that are similar to spy movies?

Also, we look at Netflix customer watch-time data that Netflix recently released.  There is some interesting data about spy movies and shows popularity.

So, take a listen - do you agree with Dan and Tom as to Why Are Spy Movies Still Popular? Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will be!

You can check out all of our podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Our channel name is CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES.   You can check out our YouTube channel as well.

Webpage:  https://bit.ly/3vkqIvx

A spy, a mole, maybe 2 moles, lots of violence, a love story, and a bit of history twisted and thrown in for good measure. These are some of the things you'll see in the just-released spy movie, DEVIL: THE BRITISH SECRET AGENT.

So, is this movie worth your time and money?

Tom gives you a no-spoiler look at what works and what doesn't work.  And much of it does work. The movie is from India so there are some cultural differences for a non-Indian audience that Tom also discusses.

As always, please let us know your thoughts about this review of DEVIL: THE BRITISH SECRET AGENT, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.

You can check out all of our podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Our channel name is CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES.

Webpage: https://bit.ly/48gmwf5

What Makes GOLDENEYE a standout James Bond movie? GOLDENEYE came out after a 6-year hiatus for the Eon Productions James Bond movie franchise.  It followed LICENCE TO KILL and introduced us to the fifth actor to take on the role of James Bond.

In this episode, Dan and Tom decode the success of GOLDENEYE. They do this by diving into the top 8 reasons for its success. They squeeze out why it is so well respected, how it helped revitalize the James Bond franchise along with some franchise firsts.

Many fans consider GOLDENEYE to be one of the best James Bond movies. This is especially true if Pierce Brosnan is their favorite actor who played James Bond. Why is that?

Oh, and how did Eon Productions come up with the title? This is another area we examine.

So, take a listen to see if you agree about what makes GOLDENEYE a standout James Bond movie. Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode by dropping us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.

Finally, you can check out all of our podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Our channel name is CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES. 

Webpage: https://bit.ly/48gzTeA

OBLITERATED – A No-Spoiler Review discusses this hot new Netflix spy comedy series.  We liken it to a 1980s teen comedy.  It is raunchy and touches on a few hot topics.  While it isn't for everyone – is it for you?  It is a spy series at its core!

We'll give you enough information here to help you decide if you want to watch OBLITERATED.  Will it be worth YOUR time?

Given that this movie is raunchy and hits on a few hot topics, we'll dig into the areas that some people might not like.  We are certain that a small portion of the population will not like this series.  Why?  That part of the discussion is a warning!  We'll flag the issues, and if they are a problem for you, move on to the next movie or series.   If not, watch on!

Watch all eight 45-minute episodes.  The series is quite funny and entertaining – maybe!

There is some talent here in the main characters and the actors who play them, and the characters are well developed and work well as a team.

So, while OBLITERATED isn't for everyone, we think many will like it.  "Be in the know" - OBLITERATED is a spy series so you must take a listen!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or on our website.

What did you think of this episode, OBLITERATED – A No-Spoiler Review?  Did you watch the OBLITERATED?  Please send us your thoughts to: Info@spymovienavigator.com

Webpage:  https://bit.ly/3tgJbZl

What makes FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE So Good? And how has it stood up to the test of time?

FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE has a 97% Tomatometer rating on Rotten Tomatoes.  Dan and Tom give you 10 reasons why they think this movie is so good.   See if you agree!

Possible reasons: Is it the story?  This was one of Ian Fleming's novels.  How about the acting? Or is it the characters? Could it be the sets? Maybe it is the action sequences?  Or do they just like the fight in the Gypsy camp? Maybe it is all of these and more.

It is an intriguing question as Dan and Tom don't always agree on the James Bond movies, but this one ... take a listen and see! 

Oh, and how far Trieste is from Venice? And is that ending boat chase viable within the plot?

Take a listen to find out what makes FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE land on so many Top 5 James Bond movie lists. Does it make ours?  "Be in the know" - take a listen now!

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or on our website.

What did you think of this episode?  Please send us your thoughts to: Info@spymovienavigator.com

Webpage:  https://bit.ly/47vaXQT

Rick English talks KINGSMAN stunts with Dan and Tom on their show Cracking the Code of Spy Movies.  Rick is the award-winning stunt performer who doubled Colin Firth in the first two KINGSMAN movies.  He's been doing stunts in movies for over 23 years. 

So, what is it like to double a star? How much of the stunt work did Colin Firth do, versus Rick? Was Rick hurt doing any of the stunts?  What is the role of wirework in his scenes? How many cuts did the church fight scene take? What is it like to jump out a window ahead of an explosion? How did they get the character Whiskey into the meat grinder in KINGSMAN: THE GOLDEN CIRCLE? Finally, what is an antitragus?

Rick talks about these issues while focusing on the church fight and the bar fight (manners maketh man) in KINGSMAN: THE SECRET SERVICE.

We also discuss how new facial recognition and replacement technologies popped up on the market just before this movie was made.  That meant that the way he had to film these scenes was different than he'd experienced in the past.  Listen to find out how. It is fascinating to hear how technology is changing the filming of stunts.

Plus, Tom talks about how watching the church fight scene frame-by-frame helped him to identify some of the places where facial replacement was used.  Don't worry, we don't go through it frame-by-frame here. But, once you listen, if you watch that scene, you may be able to pick up a few of these replacements as well.

This episode helps the moviegoer understand the role of the stunt performer and how they are used. Rick explains some of the techniques they used for some of the specific stunts.

You can check out all of our podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. Our channel name is CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES. 

Ideas/Comments? Info@spymovienavigator.com

Webpage:  https://bit.ly/47vaXQT

In this episode, Dan and Tom decode a movie about some real World War II heroes, namely, the movie THE HEROES OF TELEMARK.  This movie stars Kirk Douglas, Richard Harris, Ulla Jacobson, and Michael Redgrave.  Plus, many supporting actors in this movie have appeared in other spy movies.  We call some of those out for you

THE HEROES OF TELEMARK is a dramatization of some real operations from World War II.  These operations were:

• Operation Grouse
• Operation Freshman
• Operation Gunnerside
• And the sinking of the Norwegian ferry Hydro.

These operations all focused on the Allies' attempts at keeping the Germans from getting "Heavy Water".  Heavy Water was used in the process of creating an atomic bomb.  The Allies had to stop or slow down the Germans so that the Allies could create the bomb first.

We decode this movie against the backdrop of the real missions, while diving into what "Heavy Water" is and where it comes from.

Have you been involved in atomic bomb development? If so, we'd love to hear your thoughts on the accuracy of this movie's scientific information.

Have you watched THE HEROES OF TELEMARK?  What did you think? Was the romance a negative for your enjoyment of the movie?

So take a listen to hear what we think of THE HEROES OF TELEMARK. 

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!  

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.  

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/3A20ikR

Rick English stunt performer talks spy movie stunts with Dan and Tom on their show Cracking the Code of Spy Movies.  If you've seen at least three spy or action movies in the last two decades, you've likely seen Rick's work in at least one of them.  

Rick is an award-winning stunt performer who has been involved with the James Bond, MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE, BATMAN, and KINGSMAN franchises.   He was also in INCEPTION, The 355, FAST AND FURIOUS, and many more movies over his 20+ year career. 

In this episode we discuss some of scenes from some the movies he's worked on (Including CASINO ROYALE, MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - ROGUE NATION, MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - FALLOUT, BOURNE ULTIMATUM, JASON BOURNE, INCEPTION, and more.)  

Among the topics we discuss, Rick tells us how the stunt performer business works, how the motorcycle crash stunt he did in MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - ROGUE NATION was done, and he tells how they did the zero-gravity hallway fight in INCEPTION, what he wants from a stunt coordinator.  Listen to find out how. It is fascinating how they do these things and what can be planned and what can't. His explanation of that motorcycle crash was quite eye-opening.  

This episode helps the moviegoer understand the role of the stunt performer and how they are used. Rick explains some of the techniques they used for some of the specific stunts.  After listening, you'll understand why he's won so many awards. 

Our next episode will also be with Rick English.  He will tell us all about the stunts in the KINGSMAN series, including the church fight scene and the meat grinder. 

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. 

Ideas/Comments? info@spymovienavigator.com

Webpage:  https://bit.ly/3MSue6n

MY SPY: THE ETERNAL CITY is the much-anticipated follow-up to the 2020 action-comedy MY SPY. It reunites a wonderful cast led by Dave Bautista and Chloe Coleman. The movie takes us on a feel-good adventure set in some of Europe's most storied destinations. 

In this episode, Dan and Tom decode this movie, while not revealing any spoilers.  The goal is to enhance your viewing experience when you watch this movie. 

Good or bad or both?  We think this is a good spy movie for some spy movie fans, while some spy movie fans won't like the lighthearted, comedic feel of MY SPY: THE ETERNAL CITY. 

One of our goals is to ensure the right people watch this movie.  

So:  

• If you are a teenager or a young adult, we think you are the target audience for this movie.  Listen to this episode to find out why. 

• If you are sensitive to some language, jokes targeted to the Catholic Church, or some nude statues, listen to find out if this is a movie you won't like. We spell out why this has a PG-13 rating in the US so you can make your own decisions. After all, not all movies are for all people. 

• If you are an adult who isn't sensitive to those things and who wants to watch a comedy spy movie, we think you'll like MY SPY: THE ETERNAL CITY. 

So, in short, this movie has some good laughs, a pseudo-plausible plot, and a chase scene with a vehicle we've never seen in a spy movie before.  We like MY SPY: THE ETERNAL CITY, and this episode should help you figure out if it is worth your time. 

So, have you watched MY SPY: THE ETERENAL CITY? If so, did Dan and Tom hit the mark?  If not, will you watch this movie?  

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!   

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.   

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/3YdhWMl 

Dan and Tom look at how to Build-a-Bond.  In other words, what are the key elements of Bond over the decades that should go into the best Bond?  We will help Eon Productions here as we Build-a-Bond! 

What were the positive qualities of James Bond for each of the previous six actors that Eon Productions has cast for the role? What are the qualities that they each brought that we think must be included in the next hire?

James Bond has had a different personality with each actor to play him.  Yes, we all know that Sean Connery, with Director Terence Young's tutelage set the stage. George Lazenby brought a little more rough and tumble. Roger Moore brought more humor.  Timothy Dalton turned out the lights and made Bond dark.  Pierce Brosnan was cool. And Daniel Craig darkened things up again.

So, we know all that.  But there's much more to it.  Dan and Tom dig deeper to find the personality traits that were common to all of the actor's portrayals.  Take a listen to find out what these are.

Finally, what actors do Tom and Dan think are in their Build-a-Bond box?

So, did we miss any personas for the next actor to play James Bond?  What do you think of our list of persona needs?  And, who do you want to see take up the role of Bond, James Bond?

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!  

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.  

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/4bJFA6l

EYE OF THE NEEDLE is a 1981 spy thriller starring Donald Sutherland. In it, one key plot point exposes one of the acts of deception that we discussed in our episode "OPERATION BODYGUARD - Behind the Spies in Movies and Novels".  

In this episode, Dan and Tom decode EYE OF THE NEEDLE, discussing the high-level plot and 10 good reasons to watch it. The deception which is centerfold in this movie has its roots in the real Operation Fortitude – which frames the discussion.

One big plus for this movie is Donald Sutherland. He gives an excellent performance playing Henry Faber.  He really knows how to play a villain.

This DECODING session answers the questions:

• Is this an engaging espionage plot ?
• What of the atmospheric setting ?
• The character development?
• Does the movie sustain a  tense and suspenseful feeling?
• Strong supporting cast ?
• What's the movie's historical context? 
• What is the moral ambiguity?
• How visually impressive is this movie?
• Spy taxis?
• U-Boats?
• Abide With Me?

This movie is an adaptation from a Ken Follett novel 

Dan and Tom also discuss criticisms of EYE OF THE NEEDLE, weighing in as to whether they agree or disagree with the critiques. 

So have you seen EYE OF THE NEEDLE?  What did you think of it? 

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!   

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.   

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/3S0k2LP 

Your field operatives, Dan and Tom, talk with author and historian Rick Beyer about the deception techniques used in the war.  Operation Bodyguard and its sub-operation, Operation Fortitude, which helped win the war, are highlighted.  

Operation Bodyguard was an overall deception operation to assist the Allied Forces in World War II.  It is one example of how deception was an important part of the Allied success. 

Operation Fortitude was designed to deceive Adolph Hitler as to the location of the Allied invasion of Europe.  You know the landing came at Normandy.  Listen to find out the ruses and locations the Allied Forces used to keep Hitler believing that Normandy was not going to be the landing location. 

We also talk with Rick about a deception unit called Ghost Army of which Rick co-authored the excellent book, "The Ghost Army of World War II".  Ghost Army deployed just after D-Day, so they weren't directly involved in D-Day.  But they are the source of the inflatable tank. Listen to find out what that means 

Finally, we look at some of the spies who were involved in the deceptions, highlighting double agents who Hitler thought was working for him.   Without real spies, we have no spy movies or spy fiction!   

So, prior to listening to this episode, did you know about these deceptions?  Would you like more episodes like this that talk about real-world spies and their techniques? 

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and your thoughts on this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!    

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.    

You can get Rick's book on his website: The Ghost Army of World War II | Rick Beyer. 

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/3W85SuA

The 1975 spy movie, 3 DAYS OF THE CONDOR, is a "reluctant spy" movie starring Robert Redford, Faye Dunaway. Cliff Robertson, and Max von Sydow. 

Dan and Tom take a fresh look at this movie, decoding the plot, characters, direction, and more.  What are the influences on 3 DAYS OF THE CONDOR as well as what movies/TV shows may CONDOR have influenced?  What about Hercules (the myth, not the movie)?   "Seinfeld?" The James Bond series, Mission: Impossible, or the Bourne series?   And then, there's the actor Sterling Hayden, the MCU, and more.

3 DAYS OF THE CONDOR has an intriguing plot that has Robert Redford's character, Turner – codenamed Condor, dealing with a series of murders, with him being a target as well.  Turner works for the CIA in the role of a reader. Significantly, Turner is not an agent.  What other spy movies can you think of where the protagonist wasn't really a spy?  Decoded! 

We take a deep dive into the positives and negatives of 3 DAYS OF THE CONDOR.  The movie generally has positive feedback, but there are some criticisms.  Do you agree with our discussion of these? 

We like 3 DAYS OF THE CONDOR.  But its ending left Dan and Tom divided.  Dan didn't like the ending whereas Tom thought it worked well. Who do you agree with? 

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!   

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.   

Webpage: https://bit.ly/4bxW2GR

Pierce Brosnan's final two James Bond movies, THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH and DIE ANOTHER DAY had some very cool gadgets. How many of the gadgets do you remember from those movies? In this episode, Dan and Tom decode about 30 of them. Are these gadgets believable?  Realistic?  Based on any real science? 

If you are a fan of this show, you probably know that DIE ANOTHER DAY is one of Tom's bottom two James Bond movies. Yet, he liked its pre-title sequence in part due to some of the gadgets we'll call out. 

So, some things we decode are: 

• How much fun would you have firing a flamethrower from a moving hovercraft? 

• The OMEGA Seamaster – ya gotta love Watch gadgets! 

• We also saw a very cutting gadget (yes both puns are intended). Once we see it used for its real function. Then later and again in a more nefarious use. 

• We talk about a gadget that used to be advertised in the back of magazines.  Did any of you ever buy one? 

• And even M gets into gadget development. 

• Um, if Elektra asks you to sit in a chair, be very afraid. 

• A Single Digital Sonic Agitator, really?  

• And sometimes you can't unsee what you can't see. That one was a lame gadget 

So have a listen, getting a better understanding of these gadgets will enhance your viewing experience next time you watch THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH or DIE ANOTHER DAY. 

Tell us what you think about the gadgets in THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH and DIE ANOTHER DAY 

Did we miss any gadgets?   Which are your favorite gadgets?  Did any gadgets strike you as believable?  If so, which ones? 

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!   

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.   

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/4e26Rm0 

In this episode, Dan and Tom decode the 2017 spy movie, UNDERCOVER GRANDPA.  This is one of our episodes that has Dan and Tom disagreeing as to whether they thought it was a good movie or not.  One of them thought it was ok.  The other didn't like it at all.

The basic plot involves a teenager named Jake Bouchard (Dylan Everett) who is smitten by a girl in his high school class.  His Grandpa (James Caan) has a background in special operations and tells Jake about some of his missions. But Jake thought this was just crazy talk until his girlfriend Angie (Greta Onieogou) gets kidnapped.

So, in this episode, we look at:

• The plot
• The cast
• The treatment/positioning of old people
• The plausibility of Grandpa's stories
• Could Grandpa really know Colonel Sanders of Kentucky Fried Chicken fame?
• The Pros and Cons of the Movie
• Aspic
• Other movies starring older actors
• Some tie-ins to other movies

This movie has a star-studded cast of octogenarians, or near octogenarians, including James Caan, Louis Gossett Jr, Jessica Walter, Paul Sorvino, Lawrence Dane, and Kenneth Walsh.  With this cast, and it being a spy movie, you can bet that the theme of the age of the characters is a main plot point.  And, you would win that bet.

Have you seen UNDERCOVER GRANDPA?  If not, has this episode encouraged you to watch it?   If you have seen it, who's opinion do you agree with more: Dan's or Tom's?

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!  

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.  

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/47pe2T5

SPY MOVIE NEWS IS BACK!!! Join Dan for our September 17 2024 edition of Spy Movie News.  We're bringing the news back due to listener demand.  This is the only place to listen to a breakdown of what's happening with spy movies, TV shows, and streaming shows.

We start this episode by looking at some of the TV and streaming spy movie shows that were released in the recent past but are still available.   We also let you know if a new season is forthcoming or even in process, in some cases.

Then we will look at upcoming, yet-to-be-released movies and shows.  Some of the shows we discuss include:

• "The Last Spy"

• THE ORDER

• "Tempest"

• The Joe Ledger Novels streaming decision

• KINGSMAN 3

• THE UNION

• MY SPY: THE ETERNAL CITY

• "Slow Horses"

• "The Old Man"

• HARBIN

• "Lioness"

• OCEANS 14?

• MUTINY

• And more …

Do any of these upcoming shows excite you?   If so, let us know which ones.  Also, if you have any thoughts about the format of Spy Movie News, we'd love to hear those thoughts.

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!  

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.  

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/3zxHZ6S

Here are the URLs we either mentioned in the episode, or used to develop this episode.  These links can provide more background information.

• https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a864035/kingsman-3-cast-release-date-trailer-plot-spoilers/

• https://bgr.com/entertainment/7-must-watch-spy-series-on-netflix-hulu-prime-video-sundance-now-and-apple-tv-plus/

• Chad Stahelski To Develop Jonathan Maberry's Joe Ledger As TV Series (deadline.com)

• Korean Spy Thriller 'Harbin' Picked up for North American Release (variety.com)

• Dogwoof Boards World Sales on CIA Spymaster Documentary 'The Last Spy' (variety.com)

• Jude Law Pic 'The Order' To Open Zurich As Actor Feted With Golden Eye (deadline.com)

• https://whatsondisneyplus.com/disney-announce-new-korean-drama-tempest/

• 'Lioness' Sets Season 2 Premiere Date At Paramount+; First Photos (deadline.com)

• The Diplomat: Alison Janney Is Latest Adversary In Season 2 Teaser (deadline.com)

• 'Oceans 14'? Director Edward Berger Courted To Join Clooney & Pitt (deadline.com)

• 'Peaky Blinders' Star Annabelle Wallis Joins Jason Statham In 'Mutiny' (deadline.com)

• Vijay's 'GOAT' Roars: AGS Entertainment on Its Biggest Venture Yet (variety.com)

• Why Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry Never Kiss in 'The Union' on Netflix (variety.com)

• James Bond Producer Barbara Broccoli Attends Qatari Dinner In Venice (deadline.com)

• Star Wars and Lion King's James Earl Jones receives tributes after death at age 93 (digitalspy.com)

• https://deadline.com/2024/09/j-richard-munro-dead-timewarner-ceo-obituary-1236078291/

• https://deadline.com/2024/09/sergio-mendes-dead-1236080086/

• https://deadline.com/2024/09/james-darren-dead-gidget-actor-singer-1236076023/

• https://deadline.com/2024/08/tony-mcfarr-cause-of-death-chris-pratt-stunt-double-1236046203/

• https://deadline.com/2024/08/robert-weatherwax-dies-second-generation-lassie-trainer-83-1236042834/

Is James Bond a psychopath?   Well, despite the obvious fact that he is a fictional character who has had many authors, actors, and screenwriters involved in defining this character, just . . . maybe!

In this episode, Dan and Tom bring in Dr. Stephen McWilliams, author of the book "Psychopath? Why We Are Charmed by the Anti-Hero" to discuss this topic.

We're getting deep into the mind of James Bond and with Stephen's help, we define what a psychopath really is, then examine the known mind of James Bond to determine if he can be considered a psychopath.  (Hint, Bond doesn't score 100 on the test).  We use the famed professor, Robert D. Hare's psychology checklist as our driver for the analysis.  Hare's checklist includes breakdowns of the following categories: Interpersonal Traits, Affective Traits, Lifestyle Traits, and Anti-Social traits.

How many of those apply to the agent with the OO designation we know as James Bond?  Can you be a spy with a license to kill without some psychopathic traits?  Can you be a great spy and still be a psychopath?  Listen to find out.

Stephen is a Consultant Psychiatrist at Saint John of God Hospital, Dublin, and an Associate Clinical Professor at the School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University College Dublin. 

In addition to talking about James Bond, McWilliams's book talks about other fictional characters such as Hannibal Lecter, Frank Underwood, Amy Elliott Dunne, and more. He has also authored the book "Fiction & Physicians – Medicine through the Eyes of Writers".

So, before listening to this episode, do you think James Bond was a psychopath?  After, listening, did your opinion change?

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!  

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.  

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/3XA1xQe

Dan and Tom decode the answer to this question: Dan and Tom decode the answer to this question: Why the Next James Bond Actor Doesn't Matter?  The debate over who should be the next James Bond and the future of James Bond often stirs up a lot of excitement and opinions.   But, we don't think it matters who the next James Bond is because we think James Bond can go on indefinitely – Listen to find out why!

What really matters?  Is the character consistent? Where does the "brand" stand?  James Bond actors have delivered some fresh perspectives, but could Bond grow stale?

The supporting elements and cultural impact of the franchise have kept it strong. 
Can EON Productions continue to enjoy a very strong franchise following and strength?
As crazy as this may sound, we think who the next James Bond actor doesn't matter!

What do you think?  Do you agree with us that the next James Bond actor doesn't matter?  Why or why not?    

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!  

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.  

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/4eNhbOW

Join Dan and Tom as they decode the Netflix spy movie THE UNION. Is this movie starring Halle Berry and Mark Wahlberg any good? Listen to find out what we think.

THE UNION has an amazing cast, including 2 Oscar winners, 4 Oscar nominations, Tony Award winners, and Primetime Emmy Award nominees and winners. So, with this star-studded cast this has to be a great movie, right?

In this episode, we look at:

• The extremely talented cast
• The writing
• The high kill count
• The action sequences
• How other movies have influenced it
• The initial title for the movie before it was changed to THE UNION and why that matters
• Some of the nods to the actors' earlier works
• What Matilda the Musical has to do with this one
• And more ...

Have you watched THE UNION?  What did you think?  Are Dan and Tom right with their analysis?

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!  

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.  

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/4gXMkkI

What are some of the pet peeves of spy movie fans? Particularly, are there specific things that show up in spy movies that drive fans nuts? 

Dan and Tom are joined by fans from their Facebook group to try to find out.  The members of this group are very devoted spy movie fans, and they don't hold back on their opinions.  And occasionally they don't agree. We're joined by Bill Kanas, Morgan Lisney, Pietro Rossi and Eric Seabury. 

So, listen to what they have to say about: 

• Release Timing
• The Use of Tropes
• The Use of Technology (real and unreal)
• Does the villain matter?
• Dark vs. Light
• Plot Twists
• Romance Subplots
• CGI
• And More … 

Hey spy movie producers: take a listen to find out what spy movie fans REALLY think.  

Now that you've heard from some other spy movie fans, let us know what you think.  Do you agree or disagree with any of the points made by us and our fans?  Did we miss any pet peeves you have about spy movies? 

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!   

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.   

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/3BAIj5C 

ARABESQUE is a 1966 spy movie starring Gregory Peck, Sophia Loren, and Alan Badel. Is it worth a watch?

Dan and Tom decode ARABESQUE to enhance your viewing experience – is it worth a watch? There are some very strong positives as well as some negatives to this movie

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why is this movie titled ARABESQUE?
• Did the cinematography help or hinder the movie?
• Which role might have been miscast?
• Was there chemistry between Sophia Loren and her leading male actors?
• What movies may have influenced ARABESQUE?
• What movies have ARABESQUE influenced?
• Was the shower scene funny enough?
• What did director Stanley Donen think of the script?
• Sophia Loren's wardrobe
• What article of clothing is important to the plot?
• What famous stunt performer/coordinator had his first role in this movie?
• The benefit of disavowing a spy
• And more …

As you can see, there is a lot to decode, so take a listen to find out why this movie gets mixed reviews.  Some people like it and some don't.

So, take a listen and let us know what you think.  Have you seen ARABESQUE?  If so, what did you think of it?  If not, did we give you enough information to help you decide if you want to watch it?

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!  

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.  

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/4dTya1i

Join Dan for our October 29, 2024, edition of Spy Movie News. 

If you prefer to read your news instead of listen, click here to read the article

We start this episode talking about spy entertainment in development, then move on to some industry news, and then wrap with a tip of the hat to some industry workers who have passed in the last month.

Then we will look at upcoming, yet-to-be-released movies and shows.  Some of the shows we discuss include:

• THE TRAITOR
• Two untitled projects, including a Christopher Nolan movie
• GHOST TRAIL
• CLASSIFIED
• SCORPION
• JASON BOURNE DILEMA
• INTO THE LION'S MOUTH
• AGENT 86
• A LINE OF FIRE
• RED ONE
• KINGSMAN: BLUE BLOOD
• "The Agency"
• "Black Doves"
• "The Day of the Jackal"
• "Slow Horses"
• "The Old Man"
• And more …

Do any of these upcoming shows excite you?   If so, let us know which ones.  Also, if you have any thoughts about the format of Spy Movie News, we'd love to hear those thoughts.

Let us know your thoughts, ideas for future episodes, and what you thought of this episode. Just drop us a note at info@spymovienavigator.com.  The more we hear from you, the better the show will surely be!  We'll give you a shout-out in a future episode!  

You can check out all of our CRACKING THE CODE OF SPY MOVIES podcast episodes on your favorite podcast app or our website. In addition, you can check out our YouTube channel as well.  

Episode Webpage: https://bit.ly/3AoMv8c

Here are the URLs we either mentioned in the episode or used to develop this episode.  These links can provide more background information.

• Michael Fassbender Returns to TV With Richard Gere in First Look at The Agency
• Paramount Plus just teased Michael Fassbender's new spy thriller show — this looks tense | Tom's Guide
• https://deadline.com/2024/10/showtime-the-agency-cast-reza-brojerdi-1236110269/
• Michael Krummenacher's 'The Traitor' Recounts World War II Spy Story
• Melissa Barrera, Brian d'Arcy James Cast in Simu Liu Thriller Series
• Cannes' Critics Week Film 'Ghost Trail' Lands U.S. Distribution Deal
• https://movieweb.com/christopher-nolan-next-movie-not-sci-fi-espionage-thriller/
• Classified Review | Another Day, Another Aaron Eckhart CIA Thriller
• Aaron Eckhart To Star In CIA Action Thriller 'Scorpion'
• https://variety.com/2024/tv/global/eddie-redmayne-the-day-of-the-jackal-nbcu-1236188839/
• https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/day-of-the-jackal-trailer-lashana-lynch-eddie-redmayne-1236028488/
• https://movieweb.com/jason-bourne-6-sequel-gets-title-director/
• 'Into The Lion's Mouth' Movie In Works; Harald Zwart Directing
• https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/keira-knightley-black-doves-christmas-spy-thriller-netflix-1236031276/
• 'Agent 86,' China-Tunisia Action Film, Heads for Theatrical Release
• Kathryn Bigelow and Jason Clarke Reunite On Her Next Film At Netflix
• Cuba Gooding Jr., David A.R.White, Katrina Bowden In 'A Line Of Fire'
• New Predator Movie, Alien Romulus Sequel and Speed 3 Updates Revealed
• https://variety.com/2024/tv/global/slow-horses-renewed-season-6-apple-tv-gary-oldman-1236178258/
• https://movieweb.com/slow-horses-season-6-renewal-apple-tv/
• https://variety.com/2024/tv/news/the-diplomat-renewed-season-3-netflix-1236174440/
• The Night Agent Renewed for Season 3 at Netflix Ahead of Season 2
• https://movieweb.com/netflix-the-night-agent-season-3-renewal/
• https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/reacher-renewed-season-4-amazon-1236028247/
• https://deadline.com/2024/10/mr-mrs-smith-season-2-casting-jane-billie-eilish-1236118525/
• https://movieweb.com/mr-mrs-smith-season-2-casting-new-leads-billie-eilish/
• Varun Dhawan, Samantha's 'Citadel: Honey Bunny' Unveils Trailer
• https://movieweb.com/citadel-diana-original-series-connection-explained/
• https://deadline.com/2024/10/citadel-diana-amazon-ratings-record-italy-1236117367/
• https://deadline.com/2024/10/anthony-russo-citadel-diana-honey-bunny-1236107616/
• https://variety.com/2024/tv/news/citadel-india-italy-spinoffs-1236178266/
• https://variety.com/2024/film/news/prince-william-paul-greengrass-jason-bourne-movie-request-1236174148/
• Chris Hemsworth & Sam Rockwell Guest Star In First Stuntnuts Movie
• Alvin Rakoff Dead: 'A Voyage Round My Father' Director Was 97
• https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/alvin-rakoff-dead-voyage-round-my-father-director-1236034059/
• Beverly Hills Cop And Midnight Run Star John Ashton Is Dead At 76 | Cinemablend
• https://variety.com/2024/film/obituaries-people-news/kris-kristofferson-dead-country-music-legend-actor-1236159472/
• https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/john-lasell-dead-dark-shadows-twilight-zone-1236030980/
• John Lasell Dead: 'Dark Shadows,' 'The Twilight Zone' Actor Was 95
• https://variety.com/2024/film/news/nicholas-pryor-dead-risky-business-1236172341/
• https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/nicholas-pryor-dead-risky-business-beverly-hills-90210-1236027800/
• https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/bob-yerkes-dead-stuntman-back-to-the-future-remo-williams-1236023595/
• Robert Watts Dead: 'Star Wars,' 'Indiana Jones' Producer Was 86 –