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Explore every episode of the podcast Our Hero De Niro
Dive into the complete episode list for Our Hero De Niro. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glengarry Glen Ross (1992) [90th Episode Spectacular] | 22 sept. 2026 | 01:43:10 | |
This week, the Mikes celebrate their 90th episode by crossing into an alternate universe for The Pacino Pals and digging into Glengarry Glen Ross, David Mamet's pressure-cooker drama about desperate salesmen, terrible leads, and the corrosive pursuit of the close. We break down Al Pacino's magnetic turn as Ricky Roma, Jack Lemmon's tragic performance as Shelley "The Machine" Levene, and whether the film's stage-bound structure enhances or limits its incredible dialogue. Plus: our worst sales bosses, the invention of Mikethefab Syndrome, and Alec Baldwin launching an impromptu Car Talk. Wikipedia page for Glengarry Glen Ross. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Meet the Fockers | |||
| All Mike'd Up – The Beginner's Guide to Our Hero De Niro | 18 sept. 2026 | 00:26:13 | |
In this special episode of All Mike'd Up, the Mikes put together a beginner's guide to Our Hero De Niro for anyone wondering where the hell to start. We revisit the origins of the podcast, explain why we're watching De Niro's filmography in random order, and spotlight five regular episodes that show off different sides of the show—from The King of Comedy and Goodfellas to The War with Grandpa, What Just Happened, and Heat. Plus: favorite clips, serious film criticism colliding with dick-and-poop humor, and a wildcard return to the legendary Pizza Takes. Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Supplemental link: | |||
| The King of Comedy (1982) | 15 sept. 2026 | 01:11:06 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into The King of Comedy, Martin Scorsese's darkly funny and deeply unsettling satire about fame, obsession, and the desperate need to be seen. We break down Robert De Niro's incredible performance as Rupert Pupkin, Jerry Lewis's underrated turn as a late-night television icon, and why a film that bombed in 1982 feels more relevant than ever in the age of influencers and viral celebrity. Plus: anti-comedy before anti-comedy existed, the fine line between ambition and delusion, and whether Rupert's big break is a triumph or a tragedy. Wikipedia page for The King of Comedy. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: 90th Episode Spectacular | |||
| The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006) [MikeBackAtYou Birthday Pick] | 08 sept. 2026 | 01:35:21 | |
This week, the Mikes celebrate MikeBackAtYou's birthday by breaking the randomizer and digging into The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, Justin Lin's cult-favorite detour into JDM car culture, drifting, and high-school exile in Japan. We break down the film's incredible soundtrack, practical racing sequences, and why this once-dismissed sequel now feels like one of the most distinctive entries in the entire franchise. Plus: Christopher Nolan knowing ball, vacation-posting etiquette, and the eternal truth that Han rules. Wikipedia page for The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: The King of Comedy | |||
| The Whisper Man (2026) | 01 sept. 2026 | 01:38:25 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into The Whisper Man, a brand-new Netflix thriller about grief, generational trauma, child abductions, and yet another very large De Niro-adjacent house full of bad vibes. We break down De Niro's subdued performance, the film's rushed father-son drama, and why its serial-killer mystery, supernatural flourishes, and prestige-streaming aesthetic never quite come together. Plus: acceptable child combat moves, comparisons to other De Niro horror films, and the Mikes' Family Guy doppelgängers. Wikipedia page for The Whisper Man. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift | |||
| Being Flynn (2012) | 25 août 2026 | 01:13:47 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into Being Flynn, a bleak father-son drama about homelessness, addiction, writing, and the damage left behind by an absent parent. We break down De Niro's committed turn as a grandiose, self-mythologizing writer, Paul Dano's haunted performance as his estranged son, and why the film's heavy subject matter never quite hits as hard as it should. Plus: memoir title discourse, narration as a crutch, and the correct pronunciation of Paul Dano. Wikipedia page for Being Flynn. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: The Whisper Man | |||
| Silver Linings Playbook (2012) | 18 août 2026 | 01:50:21 | |
This week, the Mikes finally dig into Silver Linings Playbook, David O. Russell's acclaimed romantic dramedy about mental health, family dysfunction, Eagles superstition, and finding connection in the aftermath of crisis. We break down De Niro's Oscar-nominated turn as Pat Sr., Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence's volatile chemistry, and whether the film's crowd-pleasing rom-com shape softens the darker, messier story underneath. Plus: book adaptation outrage, David O. Russell skepticism, and the emotional stakes of a five-out-of-ten dance routine. Wikipedia page for Silver Linings Playbook. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Being Flynn | |||
| Jennifer on My Mind (1971) | 11 août 2026 | 00:46:11 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into Jennifer on My Mind, a strange early-70s counterculture drama about a wealthy drifter, a self-destructive heroin addict, and a romance that seems doomed from the very beginning. We break down the film's bizarre tonal swings, Robert De Niro's blink-and-you'll-miss-it appearance, and why this forgotten curiosity never finds anything meaningful to say about addiction, grief, or alienation. Plus: disgusting Venetian canal water, the return of Manic Pixie Dream Girl discourse, and the world's worst body disposal plan. Wikipedia page for Jennifer on My Mind. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Silver Linings Playbook Supplemental link: | |||
| Flawless (1999) | 04 août 2026 | 01:19:56 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into Flawless, a late-90s dramedy about a stroke-stricken former security guard and a drag performer who form an unlikely bond through singing lessons in a crumbling Hell's Kitchen apartment building. We break down Philip Seymour Hoffman's electrifying performance, De Niro's surprisingly nuanced portrayal of recovery and prejudice, and why the film's heartfelt message gets buried beneath a baffling mix of crime thriller, social commentary, and campy melodrama. Plus: self-defense discourse, pickleball slander, and the ethics of euthanasia. Wikipedia page for Flawless. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Jennifer on My Mind | |||
| Mistress (1992) | 28 juil. 2026 | 01:33:34 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into Mistress, a little-seen Hollywood satire about a struggling filmmaker trying to get his passion project off the ground while a parade of producers, financiers, and romantic entanglements threaten to derail it. We break down the film's surprisingly stacked cast, De Niro's scene-stealing supporting turn, and why a movie about artistic compromise ends up feeling far more compromised than its characters realize. Plus: HBO's Arliss, the return of Car Talk, and an unexpectedly passionate conversation about the worst day of the week. Wikipedia page for Mistress. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Flawless | |||
| Machete (2010) | 21 juil. 2026 | 01:31:15 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into Machete, Robert Rodriguez's gleefully grimy exploitation throwback about corrupt politicians, border vigilantism, and one very angry Danny Trejo. We break down Robert De Niro's cartoonishly evil senator, the film's surprisingly pointed immigration politics, and whether Rodriguez's grindhouse style is lovingly committed or just plain messy. Plus: hybrid car propaganda, the ethics of intestines-as-grappling-hooks, and why this movie accidentally became more relevant with time. Wikipedia page for Machete. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Mistress | |||
| Superlative Summit [80th Episode Spectacular] | 14 juil. 2026 | 01:29:28 | |
This week, the Mikes celebrate their 80th episode with Superlative Summit, a special awards-style detour through the De Niro characters they've covered so far. We break down the biggest weirdos, saddest men, most fragile egos, and most barbecue-advice-coded performances in the greater De Niro cinematic universe. Plus: reflecting on 80 episodes of De Niro scholarship, fragile masculinity discourse, and listener mail from the citizens of De Niro Nation. Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Machete | |||
| Land Shark (2017) [Shark Week Spectacular] | 07 juil. 2026 | 01:38:31 | |
This week, the Mikes return to shark-infested waters for Land Shark, a special Shark Week act of penance after their infamous Shark Tale episode. We break down Mark Polonia's ultra-low-budget schlockfest, the paper-mache majesty of the land shark itself, and whether a movie this cheap can still have enough personality to justify its existence. Plus: the philosophy of bad-movie nights, surprisingly educational shark facts, and what driving a black BMW says about a person. Letterboxd page for Land Shark. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: 80th Episode Spectacular Supplemental link: | |||
| Hands of Stone (2016) | 30 juin 2026 | 01:24:34 | |
This week, the Mikes step into the ring with Hands of Stone, a biopic that tries to capture the rise of boxing legend Roberto Durán—and maybe a few too many other things along the way. We break down the film's rushed pacing, strong-but-underdeveloped performances, and how its "highlight reel" structure both helps and hurts the story. Plus: awkward editing choices, the challenge of covering an entire life in two hours, and whether the movie ever really lands its emotional punches. Wikipedia page for Hands of Stone. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Land Shark Supplemental link: | |||
| Bang the Drum Slowly (1973), with Philip (a.k.a. "Lips") | 23 juin 2026 | 01:13:24 | |
This week, the Mikes are joined by returning guest Philip (a.k.a. Lips) to dig into Bang the Drum Slowly, a melancholy baseball drama about friendship, mortality, and the quiet bonds formed inside a clubhouse. We break down Robert De Niro's early-career performance as doomed catcher Bruce Pearson, Michael Moriarty's understated narration, and why the film works better as a character study than a traditional sports movie. Along the way, we debate De Niro's Southern accent, unpack the film's surprisingly restrained approach to tragedy, and reflect on what makes baseball such fertile ground for stories about masculinity and loss. Plus: boomerang discourse, Nicorette sponsorship dreams, and how often to replace your toilet brush. Wikipedia page for Bang the Drum Slowly. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Hands of Stone | |||
| Last Vegas (2013) | 16 juin 2026 | 01:24:24 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into Last Vegas, a glossy, late-career comedy about aging, friendship, and one last shot at feeling young again. We break down Robert De Niro's grieving widower, Michael Douglas's midlife (late-life?) crisis engagement, and how the film juggles four leads while never quite giving any of them enough to do. Along the way, we debate whether the Vegas setting is totally wasted, unpack the film's surprisingly conservative take on aging and relationships, and question why any casino would comp that penthouse. Plus: LMFAO nostalgia, terrifying Stratosphere rides, and one of the strangest celebrity cameos you'll ever see. Wikipedia page for Last Vegas. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Bang the Drum Slowly Supplemental links: | |||
| The Mission (1986) | 09 juin 2026 | 00:58:16 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into The Mission, a sweeping historical drama about faith, colonialism, and the moral cost of compromise. We break down Robert De Niro's redemption arc from slave trader to reluctant Jesuit, Jeremy Irons's quietly resolute Father Gabriel, and how the film's stunning cinematography and Ennio Morricone score elevate a story that sometimes struggles with character depth. Plus: waterfall death hypotheticals, oboe appreciation, and a surprisingly deep dive into 18th-century church politics. Wikipedia page for The Mission. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Last Vegas | |||
| Hi, Mom! (1970) | 02 juin 2026 | 00:55:07 | |
This week, the Mikes discuss Hi, Mom!, a chaotic, satirical follow-up to De Niro's debut Greetings that leans hard into voyeurism, counterculture absurdity, and some truly wild tonal swings. We break down De Niro's performance as the deeply unhinged Jon Rubin, the film's "peep art" premise, and how its first half blends dark comedy with experimental filmmaking before veering into something much stranger. Plus: early De Palma style, morally repugnant protagonists, and debating just how much of this movie is intentionally incoherent. Wikipedia page for Hi, Mom!. Films recommended this episode:
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| Freelancers (2012) | 26 mai 2026 | 01:38:50 | |
This week, the Mikes tackle Freelancers, a grimy, low-rent crime drama that somehow assembles a stacked cast—including 50 Cent and Forest Whitaker—for a story that never quite comes together. We break down Robert De Niro's late-career corrupt cop energy, the film's muddled tone, and how its revenge-driven plot spirals into something both overly serious and unintentionally absurd. Along the way, we dig into the movie's straight-to-video feel, questionable character motivations, and whether there's anything here worth salvaging. Plus: extra-long COVID, remembering TRON: Legacy, and things you shouldn't do behind a dumpster. Wikipedia page for Freelancers. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Hi, Mom! | |||
| All Mike'd Up – Graduation Special | 22 mai 2026 | 00:31:41 | |
In this special graduation episode of All Mike'd Up, the Mikes commemorate MikeBackAtYou officially earning his Master of Social Work degree with a sprawling conversation about academia, ambition, burnout, and the weird passage of time. We recap the hooding ceremony, the endless commencement, and the unexpectedly emotional experience of closing out two intense academic years—while also reflecting on work ethic, adulthood, creativity, and why it actually matters to care deeply about the things you do. Plus: uncomfortable folding chairs, why people should stop half-assing their email jobs, and a heartfelt appreciation for the citizens of De Niro Nation. Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. | |||
| Analyze That (2002), with Philip (a.k.a. "Lips") | 19 mai 2026 | 01:21:43 | |
This week, the Mikes are joined by returning guest Philip (a.k.a. "Lips") to unpack Analyze That, the oddball sequel that sends mob boss Paul Vitti back from prison to the therapist's couch. We break down De Niro's comedic performance, Billy Crystal's increasingly frazzled psychiatrist, and why the movie leans harder into sitcom-style chaos than its predecessor. Along the way, we talk about the sequel's strange tonal shifts, its parade of mob-movie clichés, and whether the concept still works the second time around. Plus: Musical Talk, Ice Cream Talk, and the return of Car Talk. Wikipedia page for Analyze That. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Freelancers | |||
| Listener Mail 2: The Ballad of Bo Chilla | 12 mai 2026 | 00:55:33 | |
This week, the Mikes open the mailbag for a chaotic, wide-ranging special dedicated entirely to the citizens of De Niro Nation. We respond to your questions, defend our takes, revisit past episodes, and engage (perhaps too earnestly) with both praise and criticism—including a certain infamous review that inspires the episode's title. Plus: podcast scope vs. De Niro's politics, generational locker room etiquette, backlog debates and workflow philosophy, incredible podcast artwork breakdowns, and entering "I see you trying to fuck on me" into the lexicon. Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Supplemental link: | |||
| Recommendation Station [70th Episode Spectacular] | 05 mai 2026 | 01:43:41 | |
This week, the Mikes celebrate their 70th episode spectacular by stepping away from De Niro's filmography and diving into the weird, wonderful, and wildly inconsistent world of their own recommendations. We reflect on 100+ hours of podcasting, break down what our picks say about our tastes, and hand out awards for everything from best recommendation to biggest swing and miss—all while debating who's really been carrying the segment. Plus: hidden gems, questionable cocktails, and rapid-fire reviews. Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at mike@ourherodeniro.com, check out their website ourherodeniro.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Supplemental links: Next week: Listener Mail 2 | |||
| Sam's Song (1969) | 28 avr. 2026 | 01:01:06 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into Sam's Song, an early De Niro curio that feels less like a movie and more like a meandering time capsule. We unpack the film's loose, post-college drift, its hazy late-'60s energy, and De Niro's glimpse of charisma before the legend fully formed. Along the way, we debate whether the movie is quietly introspective or simply a "big fat nothing burger," and where it lands on our rating scales. Plus: horoscope detours, existential wandering, and the philosophical difference between a bad movie and a boring one. Wikipedia page for Sam's Song. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: 70th Episode Spectacular Supplemental Links: | |||
| This Boy's Life (1993) | 21 avr. 2026 | 01:28:38 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into This Boy's Life, a coming-of-age drama about survival, identity, and the quiet brutality of growing up in an abusive household. We break down De Niro's chilling turn as a small, insecure tyrant, Leonardo DiCaprio's breakout performance, and why the film's restrained, workmanlike direction both strengthens and limits its emotional impact. Plus: where this ranks among De Niro's most unsettling roles, age-gap discourse, and introducing The New Pussy Posse™. Wikipedia page for This Boy's Life. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Sam's Song | |||
| Jacknife (1989) | 14 avr. 2026 | 01:21:08 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into Jacknife, a small-scale character drama about friendship, trauma, and the lingering wounds of Vietnam. We break down De Niro's volatile performance as a haunted veteran, Ed Harris's quiet restraint, and how the film navigates survivor's guilt without tipping fully into melodrama. We debate whether its made-for-TV aesthetics undercut the emotional weight, and talk through the uneasy love triangle at the heart of the story. Plus: Vietnam War nicknames, coffee talk, and an unusual discussion about soups. Wikipedia page for Jacknife. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: This Boy's Life | |||
| Red Lights (2012) | 07 avr. 2026 | 01:20:18 | |
This week, the Mikes turn their attention to Red Lights, a twisty supernatural thriller where skeptics and believers collide. We dig into De Niro's enigmatic performance, the stacked cast (including Sigourney Weaver and Cillian Murphy), and why the film's over-the-top seriousness makes it both ridiculous and weirdly watchable. Plus: seance chaos, melodrama on a mythic scale, and why sometimes a movie is more fun when it doesn't make sense. Wikipedia page for Red Lights. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MikeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Jacknife | |||
| Amsterdam (2022) | 31 mars 2026 | 01:06:57 | |
This week, the Mikes wade into Amsterdam, David O. Russell's star-studded, genre-bending mystery that's equal parts screwball caper and political thriller. We try to untangle the plot, size up a loaded cast that ranges from Margot Robbie to Mike Myers, and dig into the film's muddled tone. Along the way, we debate the effectiveness of the film's fascism satire, get sidetracked by our love of walkable cities, and try to make sense of John David Washington's charisma vacuum. Wikipedia page for Amsterdam. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MIkeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Red Lights | |||
| Goodfellas (1990) | 24 mars 2026 | 01:46:05 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into Goodfellas, Scorsese's breakneck mob classic about ambition, betrayal, and the price of chasing the American Dream. We break down Ray Liotta's wild ride as Henry Hill, De Niro's effortless menace, and Pesci's unhinged volatility, all wrapped in the film's propulsive style. Plus: unforgettable needle drops, paranoid montages, and a debate about method acting. Wikipedia page for Goodfellas. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MIkeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Amsterdam | |||
| Mad Dog and Glory (1993) | 17 mars 2026 | 01:06:23 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into Mad Dog and Glory, a tonal Frankenstein that tries to mash together a gangster movie and a romantic comedy, with mixed results. We break down De Niro's awkwardly gentle performance, Bill Murray's scene‑hijacking mob boss, and why the movie never quite figures out what it wants to be. Plus: the risks of casting against type, why quirk can't save weak character work, and how this movie ends up feeling stranger than it probably intended. Wikipedia page for Mad Dog and Glory. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @MIkeBackAtYou and @mikethefab, email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com, and find them on social media at allmylinks.com/ourherodeniro. Next week: Goodfellas | |||
| Oscars 2026: Ranking All 10 Best Picture Nominees | 10 mars 2026 | 01:33:19 | |
This week, the Mikes rank all ten Best Picture nominees from the 98th Academy Awards, breaking down what worked, what baffled us, and what absolutely does not deserve the gold statue. We debate surprise favorites, aggressively fine middle-of-the-pack picks, and the films that sparked the most heated disagreement. From intimate character studies to bloated prestige epics, we talk performances, endings, rewatchability, and whether the Academy actually got it right this year. Plus: bold predictions, shifting rankings in real time, and a few takes that may age very poorly by Oscar night. Films reviewed this episode:
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| The War with Grandpa (2020), with Caroline Lamarque | 03 mars 2026 | 01:36:49 | |
This week, the Mikes welcome Caroline back to the pod for a deep dive into The War with Grandpa, De Niro's foray into kid-friendly slapstick. We break down the intergenerational prank war, assess De Niro's comedic chops, and debate whether the film's hijinks and heart really work for adults. Plus: a spirited debate between the Mikes over episode format, and an interview with Caroline exploring how the movie stacks up against the original novel. Wikipedia page for The War with Grandpa. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab and email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com. Next week: Mad Dog and Glory | |||
| De Niro on Saturday Night Live [60th Episode Spectacular] | 24 févr. 2026 | 01:31:24 | |
This week, the Mikes celebrate their 60th episode by diving into De Niro's three turns as Saturday Night Live host. We break down De Niro's evolving approach to sketch comedy, the highs and lows of his monologues, and what happens when a legendary dramatic actor steps into the chaos of live TV. Plus: a nostalgic look back at the 2000s, more lore about the Mikes, and a spirited debate about the best (and most awkward) sketches across the years. Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab and email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com. Next week: The War with Grandpa | |||
| Heat (1995) | 17 févr. 2026 | 01:40:47 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into Heat, Michael Mann's legendary crime epic about obsession, professionalism, and the thin line between cop and criminal. We break down De Niro's icy cool, Pacino's volcanic energy, and the iconic heist sequence that changed action movies forever. Plus: the film's electric LA atmosphere, why every supporting character feels essential, and and the secret art of never getting attached to anything you can't walk out on in thirty seconds flat. Wikipedia page for Heat. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab and email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com. Next week: 60th Episode Spectacular Supplemental links: | |||
| Hide and Seek (2005) | 10 févr. 2026 | 00:58:22 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into Hide and Seek, a 2005 psychological thriller with De Niro as a therapist dad who moves upstate with his daughter, only to get lost in a parade of creepy neighbors, endless red herrings, and Dakota Fanning's unsettling imaginary friend. We break down the film's weird small-town energy, De Niro's unusually sleepy performance, and why every supporting character seems suspicious for no reason. Plus: therapist mansion economics, a heated bath vs. shower debate, and why even a solid twist can't save a movie where so little actually happens. Wikipedia page for Hide and Seek. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab and email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com. Next week: Heat Supplemental link: | |||
| Ronin (1998) | 03 févr. 2026 | 01:45:35 | |
The Mikes tackle Ronin, John Frankenheimer's slick Euro-thriller about mercenaries, double-crosses, and the ultimate briefcase MacGuffin. We get into De Niro's icy calm, the pulse-pounding car chases, and what makes this one of the tightest action films of the '90s. Plus: international intrigue, the art of the ambiguous ending, and why Sean Bean should never be trusted with a mission. Wikipedia page for Ronin. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab and email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com. Next week: Hide and Seek Supplemental link: | |||
| A Bronx Tale (1993) | 27 janv. 2026 | 01:35:08 | |
This week, the Mikes head to the Bronx for De Niro's directorial debut—a coming-of-age tale about loyalty, family, and the tough choices that shape a young man's life. We break down Chazz Palminteri's scene-stealing turn as Sonny, De Niro's restrained performance as Lorenzo, and how the film balances neighborhood grit with nostalgia. Plus: father-son dynamics, the art of the door test, and the enduring question—should you trust the wiseguys at your corner bar? Wikipedia page for A Bronx Tale. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab and email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com. Next week: Ronin | |||
| All Mike'd Up – Pizza Takes | 23 janv. 2026 | 00:19:49 | |
This week on All Mike'd Up, the Mikes are joined by friend of the pod Philip (a.k.a. "Lips") for a chaotic new segment—Pizza Takes. What started as a throwaway bit about controversial pizza opinions spirals into an all-out debate over whether "all pizza is the same," the ethics of pink sauce, and the fine art of choosing the right size pie. We break down Philip's notorious take, argue about toppings, and end up with free pizza thanks to a classic podcast bickering session. Email us your own pizza opinions at ourherodeniro@gmail.com and help settle the score. | |||
| Analyze This (1999), with Philip (a.k.a. "Lips") | 20 janv. 2026 | 01:18:27 | |
This week, the Mikes are joined by their friend (and real-life therapist) Philip, aka "Lips," for a spirited dive into Analyze This, Harold Ramis's oddball 1999 mob comedy. We break down De Niro's sendup of his tough-guy persona, Billy Crystal's exasperated straight man, and why this mafia-meets-therapy premise feels both inspired and a little uneven. Plus: the real-life therapist verdict on cinematic therapy, boner talk, and omertà versus HIPAA. Wikipedia page for Analyze This. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab and email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com. Next week: A Bronx Tale | |||
| City by the Sea (2002) | 13 janv. 2026 | 01:47:28 | |
This week, the Mikes dive into City by the Sea, a somber crime drama that finds De Niro playing a haunted detective wrestling with the sins of both his past and his present. We unpack the film's gritty Long Beach setting, its exploration of fractured father-son relationships, and De Niro's layered performance as a man caught between duty and regret. Along the way, we debate the film's true-crime roots, discuss why the third act goes full melodrama, and wonder if this forgotten early-2000s thriller deserves a second look. Plus: discussions about cancel culture, child abandonment, and local malls. Wikipedia page for City by the Sea. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab and email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com. Next week: Analyze This Supplemental link: | |||
| 2025: A Year in Movies | 06 janv. 2026 | 01:38:39 | |
In this special episode, we take a look back at the films that shaped our 2025 movie year—not just the new releases, but everything we watched, discovered, and debated over the past twelve months. From first-time viewings of classics like Chinatown and Back to the Future to rewatches, hidden gems, and the movies that had us completely divided, we walk through our personal superlatives: Best Ending, Most Overrated, and the "aggressively fine" entries that defined the middle of the pack. Along the way, we spotlight standout performances, dissect memorable moments, and reminisce about the films that lingered in our minds. We also crunch the numbers on our viewing stats, reveal just how many movies we tackled for the first time, and talk about the trends that emerged in our watchlists. Whether we're reflecting on unexpected favorites, revisiting movies that didn't quite live up to their hype, or planning what we want to explore in 2026, this episode is both a celebration and an honest reckoning with our year in film. If you're looking for recommendations, hot takes, or simply want to relive the highs and lows of a true cinephile's year, you'll find it all here. Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab and email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com. Next week: City by the Sea | |||
| All Mike'd Up – Reviewing 'Avatar: Fire and Ash' and 'Marty Supreme' | 02 janv. 2026 | 00:47:44 | |
In this episode of All Mike'd Up, the Mikes share their mostly spoiler-free thoughts on Avatar: Fire and Ash and Marty Supreme. The first half is a therapy session about the Avatar franchise's endless spectacle—commiserating over 3D glasses, video game visuals, and the unique fatigue that comes with three-hour blockbusters. The guys discuss whether any of these films offer more than three-and-a-half stars, debate the design choices behind the Na'vi, and reflect on the strange evolution of event filmmaking in 2025. Then it's on to Marty Supreme, with comparisons to Uncut Gems, a ranking of Safdie favorites, and a deep dive into what makes the ending so memorable—without giving too much away. There's talk of needle drops, long-lens cinematography, and character actors, plus a surprisingly heartfelt look at aging, nostalgia, and what it means to be a main character. Expect plenty of takes, tangents, and enough existential reflection to get you through your next three-hour movie. | |||
| New Year's Eve (2011) | 30 déc. 2025 | 01:38:16 | |
This week, the Mikes tackle New Year's Eve, the star-studded holiday ensemble that crams a dizzying number of plotlines into one glitzy Times Square countdown. We break down De Niro's limited but heartfelt role, compare the chaos of intertwining stories, and debate the film's place among other holiday rom-coms. Plus: reflections on overstuffed casts, manufactured sentiment, and the strange appeal of annual event movies. Plus: ranking all eight plot lines, and reminiscing about the music of Bon Jovi. Wikipedia page for New Year's Eve. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab and email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com. Next week: City by the Sea | |||
| Falling In Love (1984) | 23 déc. 2025 | 01:08:39 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into Falling In Love, a restrained romantic drama about two married New Yorkers whose chance encounter sparks a slow-burn affair. We break down De Niro's everyman turn, Streep's reserved vulnerability, and how the movie's winter-in-the-city melancholy is both its biggest strength and its most frustrating weakness. Plus: Christmas nostalgia, department store meet-cutes, and debating whether emotional restraint is romantic or just cold. Wikipedia page for Falling In Love. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab and email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com. Next week: New Year's Eve | |||
| The Roberts 🏆 [50th Episode Spectacular] | 16 déc. 2025 | 01:12:27 | |
This week, the Mikes roll out the red carpet for The Roberts, our first annual award show dedicated to the highs, lows, and wildest moments of De Niro's filmography. We reflect on a year of weekly deep dives, debating our favorite films, biggest disappointments, and the performance that left us in awe. The ceremony is packed with categories like Best Co-Star Chemistry, Weirdest Plot Twist, and Most Quotable Line—plus, plenty of lovingly petty arguments, inside jokes, and a few touching moments as we look back on what the podcast means to us. Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab and email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com. Next week: Falling in Love | |||
| One Hundred and One Nights (1995) | 09 déc. 2025 | 01:13:49 | |
This week, the Mikes dig into One Hundred and One Nights, Agnès Varda's kaleidoscopic tribute to cinema history, where film references, cameos, and absurdist humor collide in a French countryside mansion. We break down the movie's campy love letter approach, the visual pleasures of its dreamy vignettes, and De Niro's blink-and-you-miss-him French cameo. Plus: grappling with foreign film blind spots, Letterboxd country stats, and the eternal question—does anyone actually know how to pronounce Marcello Mastroianni? Wikipedia page for One Hundred and One Nights. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab and email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com. Next week: 50th Episode Spectacular Supplemental link: | |||
| What Just Happened (2008) | 02 déc. 2025 | 01:18:40 | |
This week, the Mikes take on What Just Happened, Barry Levinson's sharp-edged Hollywood satire about a producer (De Niro) whose life is unraveling faster than his latest movie. We break down De Niro's world-weary performance, the movie's real-life cameos, and the absurdities of test screenings, bad scripts, and on-set meltdowns. We also introduce "Car Talk," our brand-new segment on the cars of De Niro Nation. From the symbolism of De Niro's Porsche to our own misadventures in used car shopping, we examine why car choice is the ultimate window into midlife, masculinity, and social aspiration. If you've ever tried to manifest an outdoorsy lifestyle by buying the wrong car, this one's for you. Wikipedia page for What Just Happened. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab, email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com, and follow them on Instagram @ourherodeniro. Next week: One Hundred and One Nights | |||
| Born to Win (1971) | 25 nov. 2025 | 01:01:33 | |
This week, the Mikes trudge through Born to Win, a 1971 New York "crime thriller" that can't decide if it's a gritty character study, a screwball comedy, or just a parade of bad decisions. We break down George Segal's wandering antihero, Karen Black's chaotic love interest, and a very young Robert De Niro as a cop with great hair and about three scenes. We debate whether the movie's jumbled tone ever really works, and swap war stories about watching it on Pluto TV versus public domain rips. Plus: our shared hatred of turkey, the existential misery of subtitles, and why every 70s movie feels like a cautionary tale about audio quality. Wikipedia page for Born to Win. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab, email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com, and follow them on Instagram @ourherodeniro. Next week: What Just Happened | |||
| Great Expectations (1998), w/ Caroline Lamarque | 18 nov. 2025 | 01:42:29 | |
We're joined by special guest Caroline to unpack Alfonso Cuarón's visually lush, wildly stylized take on Dickens. Ethan Hawke broods, Gwyneth Paltrow floats, and De Niro lurks in the shadows of 90s Florida—while we debate whether any of it actually works as a story. We break down the film's hypnotic direction, discuss why the character motivations are so confusing, and argue over whether this is a bold reinvention or a beautiful mess. By the end, we're not sure if we watched a coming-of-age romance or just a two-hour fever dream with great art direction. Wikipedia page for Great Expectations. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab, email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com, and follow them on Instagram @ourherodeniro. Next week: Born to Win | |||
| Ponyo (2008) [Mikethefab Birthday Pick] | 11 nov. 2025 | 01:59:00 | |
We dive under the sea for Mikethefab's birthday with Hayao Miyazaki's Ponyo—an enchanting, aquatic fairy tale about childhood wonder, magical chaos, and the world's bravest little goldfish. We explore what makes Ponyo such a singular Studio Ghibli experience, debate whether its dream logic delights or frustrates, and revisit the question of how children's animation speaks to grown-ups. Along the way, we interview Mike's daughter Nora for her expert take on the film, and answer listener mail from the citizens of De Niro Nation, making this our most wholesome episode yet. Wikipedia page for Ponyo. Films recommended this episode: Follow Mike and Mike on Letterboxd @mikebackatyou and @mikethefab, email them at ourherodeniro@gmail.com, and follow them on Instagram @ourherodeniro. Next week: Great Expectations Supplemental links: | |||
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