Movies We Like – Details, episodes & analysis

Talking About Jacques Audiard’s The Beat That My Heart Skipped with our guest, director John Patton Ford

In this delightful episode of Movies We Like, we have the pleasure of welcoming director John Patton Ford to join us – Andy Nelson and Pete Wright – for an engaging discussion about his career journey and one of his all-time favorite films, Jacques Audiard's The Beat That My Heart Skipped. The conversation kicks off with John sharing a fascinating anecdote about how his appearance on our podcast The Next Reel a decade ago unexpectedly played a role in a legal situation involving one of his scripts. The discussion then shifts to John's experiences as a writer trying to break into the industry and his bold decision to transition into directing, which ultimately led to the creation of his critically acclaimed debut feature, Emily the Criminal.

John shares the challenges he faced as a first-time director, from his successful short film playing well at Sundance to getting his script for Emily the Criminal into the hands of the talented Aubrey Plaza. He shares how their mutual desire to showcase their talents in a gritty, compelling thriller helped bring the project to life. The conversation then takes a passionate turn as John reminisces about discovering The Beat That My Heart Skipped during his early days of filmmaking and how the film left an indelible mark on his creative journey. He effusively praises the movie's raw authenticity, captivating storytelling, and unforgettable ending.

The Beat That My Heart Skipped is a film that beautifully captures the complexity of the human experience, as the protagonist navigates the gritty world of the underground real estate market while rediscovering his long-lost passion for piano performance. We explore with John the parallels between this film and Emily the Criminal, noting how both movies brilliantly capture the idea of characters pushing their boundaries and expanding their sense of self. While The Beat That My Heart Skipped may be a lesser-known work in Audiard's impressive filmography, it remains a powerful and influential piece of cinema that continues to resonate with aspiring filmmakers and audiences alike. John's infectious enthusiasm for the film makes for a great conversation, leading to a truly captivating episode that is sure to inspire listeners to seek out this hidden gem and experience its magic for themselves. So sit back, relax, and join us on this delightful journey as we celebrate the enduring power of great storytelling and the films that shape our lives.

Film Sundries

• Watch our conversation on YouTube
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• Listen to our conversation with John on The Next Reel where we discuss his script Rothchild that was on the 2014 Black List, part of our Sir Alec Guinness series in which we discuss the film Kind Hearts and Coronets
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• Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and Movements
• The Film Board
• The Next Reel Film Podcast
• Sitting in the Dark

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

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JAPANESE VERSION
溝口健二監督の『雨月物語』について、ゲストの美術監督・種田陽平氏と語ります 

「Movies We Like」今回のエピソードでは、美術監督の種田陽平氏にご参加いただき、彼 の魅力的な経歴と、彼のお気に入りの映画の 1 つである溝口健二監督の 1953 年の名作 『雨月物語』についてお話しいただきます。種田氏は、美術学生だったころから、キル・ ビル Vol. 1、ヘイトフル・エイト、モンスター・ハント シリーズ、金陵十三釵、思い出の マーニーなど、日本とアメリカの両方の映画で働いた経験まで、プロダクション・デザイ ンの世界への道のりを語ります。

エピソード全体を通して、種田氏はプロダクション・デザインの世界について独自の洞察 を提供し、実写とアニメーションの両方の映画で没入感のある世界を作り出す複雑さにつ いて語ります。監督のビジョンと自身の芸術的感性とのバランスを取る難しさ、そして一 貫性のある視覚体験を生み出すために他の部門と協力することの重要性について掘り下げ ます。 

会話が『雨月物語』に移ると、種田氏は映画の忘れがたい美学と、溝口監督の空間とデザ イン要素の使い方が幽霊のような雰囲気にどのように貢献しているかを探ります。彼は 『雨月物語』と当時の他の日本映画を比較し、水の象徴的な意味と映画のビジュアルスタ イルに対する能の影響を強調します。 

『雨月物語』は時代を超えた傑作であり、溝口監督の芸術的ビジョンと観客を異世界に運 ぶ映画の力の証です。種田氏のこの映画への情熱とその作りに対する深い理解は、聴取者 のみなさんがこの忘れがたい古典をもう一度見たくなる魅力的な議論を生み出します。私 たちは『雨月物語』の芸術性を掘り下げ、種田氏の素晴らしい美術監督としてのキャリア を探る素晴らしい時間を過ごしました。 

このエピソードの翻訳を担当してくれた冨永宏に心から感謝します！ 

関連リンク 

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種田陽平（たねだ・ようへい）について 

過去 20 年間、種田陽平は世界中の映画製作者とコラボレーションし、クエンティン・タ ランティーノ監督との「キル・ビル Vol. I」、チャン・イーモウ監督との「金陵十三釵」、 押井守監督とのアニメ「イノセンス」など、数々の賞賛とクレジットを獲得してきまし た。南京大虐殺を描いた壮大な映画「金陵十三釵」では、種田は南京において映画の時代 背景をセットで再現しました。70 か国で公開されたこの映画は、当時、中国映画史上最 高額の予算で最も成功した作品の 1 つでした。種田のその他の海外作品には、キアヌ・ リーブス監督の『ファイティング・タイガー』、ラマン・ホイ監督の『モンスター・ハン ト』、タランティーノ監督の西部劇『ヘイトフル・エイト』、ジョン・ウー監督の『マン ハント』、ウォッシュ・ウェストモアランド監督のNetflix作品『アースクエイク バード』 などがある。 

種田の多くの注目すべき非英語作品には、岩井俊二監督の『スワロウテイル』、リー・チー ガイ監督の『不夜城』、三谷幸喜監督の『THE 有頂天ホテル』と『ザ・マジックア ワー』、李相日監督の『フラガール』と『悪人』などがある。種田の仕事は、三谷幸喜監 督の『ステキな金縛り』と、台湾金馬奨で最優秀作品賞を受賞したウェイ・ダーション監 督の台湾映画『セディック・バレ』の驚異的な成功に貢献した。 

種田はスタジオジブリともコラボレーションをしており、アカデミー賞最優秀アニメ映画 賞ノミネートなど多くの賞やノミネートで高く評価された『思い出のマーニー』などのア ニメ映画を制作。また、スタジオジブリと共同で「借りぐらしのアリエッティ×種田陽平 展」を監修。東京都現代美術館が主催したこのイベントは「映画美術」を独立したプレゼ ンテーションとして鑑賞する機会を一般の人々に提供し、巡回中に70万人以上を動員し た。 

『キル・ビル Vol.1』で米国美術監督協会・最優秀美術賞にノミネートされたほか、日本 では名誉ある紫綬褒章を受章、文化庁からは芸術選奨文部科学大臣賞を受賞。 

種田の芸術活動は、膨大な数の映画作品に代表されるだけでなく、アート インスタレー ション、舞台美術、特殊映像、CD や DVD のジャケット デザイン、そして自らが執筆し た数冊の本など多岐にわたります。 

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

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

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

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

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

Film Sundries

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

Talking About Chinatown with our guest, Cinematographer Erik Messerschmidt

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

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

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

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

Film Sundries

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

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“This is something that happens.”

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

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

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

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

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

Film Sundries

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Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.

Follow the other podcasts in The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Film Sundries

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

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“If might is right, then love has no place in the world.”

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

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

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

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

Deborah’s Legendary Career in Costume Design

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

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

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Film Sundries

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“Any vampires around these parts, Pa?”

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

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

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

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Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.

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“We're living in a world that's blowing itself to hell as fast as everybody can arrange it.”

Talking About Terrence Malick’s 1998 film The Thin Red Line with our guest, cinematographer Ross Riege

While Terrence Malick’s war film came out five months after Steven Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan, it couldn’t be more different. They’re both exceptional films, but Malick’s takes a more pensive, thoughtful, esoteric approach with his. At its basest level, the story follows a military unit on the Melanesian island of Guadalcanal as they work to take it from Japanese troops. While that story’s there, in Malick’s hands, the film is more about the balance between man and nature and how the war machine destroys men’s souls. 

Not only is the way Malick crafts the story haunting, it’s also done in a way that fits perfectly with his themes and views. Cinematographer Ross Riege is a big fan, having first seen this and a number of other Malick films when prepping Redland, an early film he worked on, as well as his big break as cinematographer for The Kings of Summer. It’s fitting then that that film’s look was described as feeling Malickian. 

We talk more with Riege about his career, starting with smaller films and moving up to films like Weird: The Al Yankovic Story and the TV series The Afterparty. We also get some impressions from him on the switch from film to digital, working with his crews, and more. It’s a fantastic conversation about a great movie with a great cinematographer. 

Film Sundries

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• Script Options
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Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.

Follow the other podcasts in The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts:

• Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and Movements
• The Film Board
• The Next Reel Film Podcast
• Sitting in the Dark

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Film Sundries

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

Learn how to support our show and The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts by becoming a member. It's just $5 monthly or $55 annually. Learn more here.

Follow the other podcasts in The Next Reel’s family of film podcasts:

• Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, and Movements
• The Film Board
• The Next Reel Film Podcast
• Sitting in the Dark

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

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

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

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

• You can buy our movie-related apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.
• Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.
• Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.
• Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.
• Or sign up for AUDIBLE.