In the first (of four!) episodes planned for Halloween month, we're entering not the King-sized American genre worlds populated by slasher killers, raging alcoholics, and traumatized ghosts but a distinctly Greek one. This, as our guest, Panos Liakos (NYU graduate; freelance writer for The New Herald), tells us, is the "Yorgos Cosmos" -- built on exploring the tragi-comic absurdity of human existence. It's a style of horror/dark comedy that's distinctly Greek -- originating from the "Greek Weird Wave" movement, internationally recognized as a representation of and response to the Greek Financial Crisis in 2010. But its -- and especially its most famous figure, Yorgos Lanthimos' growing international appeal -- also speaks to its universal appeal: for who hasn't felt the Kafkaesque dread of getting crushed by a strictly ordered, almost automaton existence and then tried (and failed to) escape in comically absurd ways?

Dhruv and Panos discuss all this by first talking about the “Greek Weird Wave,” then Yorgos Lanthimos’ eclectic filmography, and then his latest film, “Kinds of Kindness,” in spoiler-filled detail.

TIME CODES

Introduction: [00:00 – 08:48]

Greek Weird Wave 101 - [08:48 – 30:42]

Yorgos Lanthimos’ Cosmos: [30:42 – 49:00]

“Kinds of Kindness”: [49:00 - 01:17:26]

Outro: [01:17:26 - 01:21:24]

-------------------------------------------------------------

You can (and should!) read Panos’ pieces on both Lanthimos and “Poor Things” here:

1. Poor Things: A Traverse into the Cosmos of Yorgos Lanthimos – ⁠https://filmbuff.org.in/2024/07/poor-things-a-traverse-into-the-cosmos-of-yorgos-lanthimos/⁠.

2. Yorgos Lanthimos: A Journey from “Kinetta” to Los Angeles – ⁠https://daysofart.gr/en/news/days-of-art/yorgos-lanthimos-a-journey-from-kinetta-to-los-angeles-by-panos-liakos/⁠.

You can (and should!) follow Panos everywhere:

INSTAGRAM: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/liakos_panos?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==⁠.

ACADEMIA:

⁠https://tisch-nyu.academia.edu/PanosLiakos⁠.

-----------------------------------------------------------

Follow our Instagram page: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

You can follow us on Instagram at:

Amartya: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/amartya25/⁠.

Hemant: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/hemantganti⁠.

Dhruv: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/terminalcinema/⁠.

You can also follow us on Letterboxd at -

Dhruv: ⁠https://letterboxd.com/aterminalcinema/⁠.

Hemant - ⁠https://letterboxd.com/ganti117/⁠.

Amartya: ⁠https://letterboxd.com/amartya/⁠.

CLIPS

1. The Lobster Movie CLIP - Choice (2016) - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYpycAcxEBQ&ab_channel=RottenTomatoesComingSoon⁠.

2. Kinetta Opening - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-fy4ujo2vs&ab_channel=iamtable⁠.

3. Dogtooth Cat Scene - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHhwzV5WV-Y&ab_channel=zoharbarkan⁠.

4. “I Must Go Punch that Baby" | Poor Things (HDR) - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6jHDaheGc1E&ab_channel=HigherQualityUploads⁠.

5. Kinds of Kindness Trailer - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGOL2_mI9Hw&t=4s&ab_channel=SearchlightPictures⁠.

It's no longer Kubrick Month because we're late recording and uploading this and P4, but regardless, we're here to complete our Kubrickian Odysseys!

 

Dhruv, Amartya, and Hemant have spent the entirety of July (and will now spend the last week of August and the first week of September) revisiting and discussing 10 (of 13) Kubrick-directed films (the Horror and Noir films will be discussed in October and November, respectively!) plus one conceptualized and obsessed over by him but eventually directed by his dear friend, Steven Spielberg.

 

In Part 4 (of 4), we focus primarily on the monolith of Kubrick's filmography and hard science fiction itself: "2001: A Space Odyssey." Everything from Ridley Scott's "Alien" to Christopher Nolan's "Interstellar" to Denis Villeneuve's "Arrival" to Werner Herzog's philosophy, and most importantly, Michael Bay's "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" is referenced here, as the three of us try to make sense of Kubrick's enigmatic masterpiece.

We go through the film chapter by chapter, detailing our interpretations of each of its mysterious, short-story-like building blocks before leaping its two "real" offsprings—"2010—The Year We Make Contact" and, more extensively, Steven Spielberg's "A.I. Artificial Intelligence"—to, hopefully, provide some legitimate answers to 2001's enduring, endless mysteries.

TIME CODES

Our Monolith's Disclaimer: [00:00 - 02:06]

“2001: A Space Odyssey” & Its Legacy - [02:06 - 43:14]

"The Dawn of Man": [43:14 - 50:53]

"The Dawn of PanAm": [50:53 - 01:15:47]

"The Dawn of HAL9000": [01:15:47 - 01:49:07]

"The Dawn of the Superchild": [01:49:07 - 02:02:25]

"2010 - The Year We Make Contact": [02:02:25 - 02:13:57]

"A.I. Artificial Intelligence": [02:13:57 - 02:45:22]

-----------------------------------------------------------------

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Follow our Instagram page: ⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast⁠⁠⁠

You can follow us on Instagram at:

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Dhruv: https://letterboxd.com/aterminalcinema/

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Amartya: https://letterboxd.com/amartya/

AUDIO EXCERPTS

1. 2001: A Space Odyssey Trailer - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oR_e9y-bka0⁠.

2. 2001: A Space Odyssey 4K HDR | The Shutdown of Hal - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwCFY6pmaYY⁠.

3. 2001: A Space Odyssey - Overture-Atmospheres - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bSOoM2ih5Is⁠.

4. Requiem for Soprano, Mezzo-Soprano, Two Mixed Choirs& Orchestra (2001: A Space Odyssey) - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rcC6B-i28YE⁠.

5. 2001 A Space Odyssey Opening - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-QFj59PON4⁠.

6. 2001: A Space Odyssey - ‘The Blue Danube’ (waltz) scene - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZoSYsNADtY⁠.

7. Transformers 3 - Sam’s Job Interview with Brazos - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MTWJCgxBQwY⁠.

8. All Spoken Lines of HAL 9000 from 2001 - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9wrjl-H4Hs8⁠.

9. Grizzly Man - Werner Herzog on Nature - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWYaC5YBaJk⁠.

10. 2010: The Year We Make Contact Official Trailer #1 - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dQH_WNvL3Y⁠.

11. The Reunion - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1sDvUPRjwHo⁠.

12. Godzilla 2014 H.A.L.O. Jumping Scene - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmZJiBZtahk⁠.

In another long-overdue episode, Dhruv welcomes Sanket back to discuss two underseen films (both premiered at Cannes but got lost in the mix) that provide a depressing diagnosis of Europe and England's rapidly multiplying racism and xenophobia.

Ken Loach's "The Old Oak" (2023) provides potential solutions to it; Cristian Mungiu's "R.M.N." (2022) leaves the decision up to us.

Listen to the full episode for a spoiler-filled discussion on the uncanny thematic similarities between these two films, the tonal differences that make them unique, and other films of a similar ilk that tackle politically charged subject matter in similarly explosive and nuanced ways.

TIMECODES

Introduction: [00:00 - 05:35]

Ken Loach-Paul Laverty Collaborations: [05:35 - 15:11]

"The Old Oak" (2023): [15:11 - 55:20]

"R.M.N." (2022): [55:20 - 01:34:44]

Closing Thoughts: [01:34:44 - 01:44:20]

Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people!

Follow our Instagram page: https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast

You can subscribe to Sanket's Channel on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@CinephileSanketFilmLover/about

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Sanket: https://www.instagram.com/cinephile_sanket/

Dhruv: https://www.instagram.com/terminalcinema/

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Sanket - https://letterboxd.com/cinephilesanket/

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In this episode, Dhruv, Aryan, and another returning guest, Vashist, discuss the audio-visual triumphs and the (potential) narrative and thematic shortcomings of Edgar Wright's latest release. Positioning Last Night in Soho as a brave departure from Wright's usual style, the three welcome the switch-up in style, tone, and genre while also questioning if the director needs to entirely sacrifice some of his usual tricks to adapt to a different film genre.

*spoiler warning*: 19:20 onwards

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Sponsorships: on for this episode

In this episode, host Dhruv and regular collaborator Aryan gush for the entirety of the episode about Mr. Wright's stellar filmography to celebrate the release of his latest film, Last Night in Soho (which will get an episode of its own!). Unlike the director's trademark precision, this episode is much more rambling, with most attention given to the ingenious Cornetto Trilogy, especially Shaun of the Dead. Yes, the whip pans (not wide pans...Dhruv), the crash zooms, and the smash cuts. But also, much more extensive focus on the wonderful set-ups and payoffs that manage to elicit both belly laughs and the odd tear or two.

Scott Pilgrim and Baby Driver also get their moments, though, with both Dhruv and Aryan concurring that Wright's energetic style is as infectious as ever. But, they question if the migration to Canada and America means that he loses that Brit-specificity that we both love so much in the work he has co-written with the impeccable Simon Pegg.

Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people!  

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https://letterboxd.com/aterminalcinema/  
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https://letterboxd.com/aryantalksfilms/   

Sponsorships: on for this episode

In this episode, podcast host Dhruv and regular collaborator Aryan try to make sense of Marvel's newest extravaganza, "Eternals." Looking at the film as an unsuccessful mishmash of indie filmmaker Chloé Zhao's directorial sensibilities and the Disney offspring's tried and tested formula, both Dhruv and Aryan question the "comfortable" state of modern-day commercial cinema before picking apart the many, many problems they have with this gigantic mess of a film. Also, they briefly speculate the reasons for star host Sanjeet's absence from this episode.

*spoiler warning*: 34:25 onwards

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Sponsorships: on for this episode

In this episode, Dhruv, Sanjeet, and Arijit celebrate the arrival of Halloween 2021 more productively than David Gordon Green and Co. did by cohesively (relatively, ofc) demonstrating their love and admiration for the horror genre and some of their favorites from it.

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Sponsorships: on for this episode

In this episode, podcast hosts Sanjeet and Dhruv invite frequent guest and collaborator Aryan to monologue their way through Mike Flanagan's latest, most personal project, "Midnight Mass." They briefly discuss Flanagan's filmography and his brand of "art-house meets mainstream" horror that sets him apart from his contemporaries. Championing his patient approach to storytelling and his little (to no) reliance on traditional jump-scares, all three applaud the director for pushing these tendencies to new extremes in his latest series that sharply critiques organized religion's dogmatic principles. *spoiler warning*: 16:45 onwards Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people! Follow our Instagram page: https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/queenisdead/support Follow us on Letterboxd at- https://letterboxd.com/aterminalcinema/ https://letterboxd.com/Sanjeet_Singh/ https://letterboxd.com/aryantalksfilms/ Sponsorships: on for this episode

In this episode, Sanjeet, Dhruv, returning (at least for one episode) host Hemant, and returning guest, Amartya, discuss Denis Villeneuve's ambitious science-fiction adaptation of Frank Gerbert's "unadaptable" Dune. The usual discussion about the theatrical experience abounds, with two of the hosts championing the visceral experience that only an IMAX cinema can provide for such a film. The two others (kind of) disagree. Then, the four of them dive into the Dune-verse to briefly discuss the novel and David Lynch's bizzaro 1984 version before having a spoiler-filled discussion about the many merits and failings of the Villeneuve film. *spoiler warning*: 48:50 onwards Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people! Follow our Instagram page: https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/queenisdead/support Follow us on Letterboxd at- https://letterboxd.com/aterminalcinema/ https://letterboxd.com/Sanjeet_Singh/ https://letterboxd.com/amartya/

In this episode, Sanjeet, Dhruv, Karthik & Arijit each recommend three new films/TV shows they watched this month. The diverse selections lead us to specifically discuss the docu-fiction nature of popular Iranian films, the understated stylisations of Ozu’s color-films, and the rocky recent output from Pixar. Most importantly though, Karthik claims that the best way to watch a David Lynch film is on an iPhone. Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people! Follow our Instagram page: https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/queenisdead/support Follow us on Letterboxd at- https://letterboxd.com/nostradamus/ https://letterboxd.com/aterminalcinema/ https://letterboxd.com/Sanjeet_Singh/

In this episode, Sanjeet and Dhruv champion the ambitious (and mostly successful) subversions of Shoojit Sircar’s new Amazon Prime release, “Sardar Udham.” Positioning the film as a response to the stale biopic story template, the hosts applaud the film’s non-linear storytelling structure, its consistently somber tone, and its courage to portray a revolutionary figure as every bit the complicated person he was. Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people! Follow our Instagram page: https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/queenisdead/support Follow us on Letterboxd at- https://letterboxd.com/aterminalcinema/ https://letterboxd.com/Sanjeet_Singh/

In this episode, Sanjeet, Dhruv, and Karthik welcome Hindustan Times’ chief content producer and film critic Rohan Naahar to discuss what it means to be a film critic today. We interview him about his life as one for a major publication before delving into the dwindling state of online criticism that increasingly seeks to propagate fanaticism rather than constructive criticism. Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people! Follow our Instagram page: https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/queenisdead/support Follow us on Letterboxd at- https://letterboxd.com/rohan_naahar/ https://letterboxd.com/aterminalcinema/ https://letterboxd.com/Sanjeet_Singh/

In this episode, hosts Sanjeet and Dhruv welcome die-hard (pun not intended) 007 fan, and film reviewer for High on Films and Popcorn Pixel, Amartya Acharya, to discuss Daniel Craig's latest outing as James Bond. What begins as an articulated, non-spoilery, discussion about the joys and exhaustion of his latest adventure gradually becomes more of a spoiler-y "articulated meandering" on the entirety of Craig's stint as 007. Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people! Follow our Instagram page: https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/queenisdead/support

In this episode, Sanjeet and Amartya welcome Devi (@film.trance) back to talk about two new Malayalam movies recently released on OTT: Jithu Madhavan's high-voltage action-comedy "Aavesham" (on Amazon Prime Video) and Girish AD's tender rom-com-drama "Premalu" (on Hotstar).

Both films serve up narratives that are largely popular in the Indian cinematic landscape but feel unique because their screenplays are shaped by rich characterizations, not elaborate plots. In "Aavesham," Fahadh Faasil's electric performance lights up the screen; "Premalu" is a carefree, almost experiential story of burgeoning youthful love.

Interestingly, both films are produced by Faasil. We discuss how his productions' stamp on contemporary Malayalam cinema makes them feel refreshingly unique.

Listen to the full, spoiler-filled episode to know what we thought about each of these movies and how pale Bollywood films look & feel compared to these films.

TIMECODES

Random baat-cheet - [00:00 - 04:13]

Intro - [04:13 - 05:33]

"Aavesham" - [05:33 - 01:12:00]

"Premalu" - [01:12:00 - 02:14:05]

Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people!

You can also follow our Instagram page:

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Amartya: https://www.instagram.com/amartya25/
Devi: https://www.instagram.com/film.trance
Sanjeet: https://www.instagram.com/pixel_baba/

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Devi: https://letterboxd.com/cinemamadhuram/

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In this episode, hosts Sanjeet and Dhruv welcome professional software engineer and aspiring filmmaker, Vashist Thakwani, to discuss the newly released films in Indian cinemas (yes, they do exist!). The majority of the discussion involves a spoiler-filled discussion of Mr. Shyamalan's latest film, "Old," because it is near impossible to constructively critique it without revealing its many, many, oddities. Then, the two hosts briefly share their thoughts on the newest film starring Ryan Reynolds that Vashisht was fortunate to avoid. Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people! Follow our Instagram page: https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/queenisdead/support --- This episode is sponsored by: Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. anchor.fm/app

In today's episode, podcast hosts Sanjeet and Dhruv invite guest Aryan (once again!) to discuss the new Amazon Prime show Mumbai Diaries 26/11. They talk extensively about its many positives and its equally noticeable negatives. Before, as usual, ending up in another place all together, discussing the cult of RGV…because why not? Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people! Follow our Instagram page: https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/queenisdead/support --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. anchor.fm/app

Joining us on this episode is special guest Arijit Paul, student at Satyajit Ray Film Institute, Kolkata. We talk to him about his experience as a student in an Indian film institute, the perks of film school, and what made him get into filmmaking. We also spend way too much time answering the latest questions sent in by our listeners. BONUS: Some juicy technical difficulties... Watch out for Part 2 where Arijit joins us to talk about films that we recently watched and would recommend.  Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people! Follow our Instagram page: https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast

In this episode of Queen Is Dead, podcast hosts Sanjeet and Dhruv join guest Ashwani Kumar Tiwari, writer for the acclaimed film blog High on Films, to discuss the anomalous filmography of director Anubhav Sinha. While most filmmakers in Hindi cinema have had a downward trajectory in terms of quality of films, Anubhav Sinha's segue into becoming a socially conscious filmmaker over the past decade has given his filmmaking career a new life, along with a reputation that he probably can't get rid off in the near future. Follow our Instagram page: https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people! --- This episode is sponsored by Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/queenisdead/support

In this semi-coherent, semi-rambling episode, Sanjeet and Dhruv briefly critique Amazon prime blockbuster “Shershaah” before delving deep into its discourse that, once again, massively divided fans and detractors. As non-fans, the hosts try to understand the immense love for the film while also bemoaning cultish fans who refuse to accept any form of criticism. You can follow us on Instagram at https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people! --- This episode is sponsored by Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/queenisdead/support show less

In this episode, podcast hosts Sanjeet and Dhruv invite guest Aryan to talk about the best Hindi films this year (up till and including July). More than the individual films themselves, the three discuss the declining quality of Bollywood films, and the sad predictability of the good films only coming from the people we usually associate with quality films. Check out this episode to know more. Follow our Instagram page: https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast You can also follow Aryan: https://www.instagram.com/aryantalksfilm/ Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/queenisdead/support

In this episode of Queen Is Dead, we talk about three movies each that we saw during the past month and would recommend. We also answer the questions we received from the latest Instagram Q&A.  To participate in future Q&As and for contacting us, follow our Instagram page : @queenisdead.filmpodcast.  Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people!

Here are our thoughts on this week's next major release on Amazon Prime, Toofaan, the much-awaited boxing flick starring Farhan Akhtar, directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra.  Please consider supporting the podcast and follow us on Spotify and on Instagram (@queenisdead.filmpodcast) for the latest updates!

In this episode, we discuss the strengths and pitfalls of the new Malayalam film, Malik, an Amazon Prime Video Release, starring Fahadh Faasil and written/directed by Mahesh Narayanan. We are joined by guest host Rohit Satish Nair, a critic and film enthusiast, to talk about this much-hyped release. Please consider supporting the podcast and follow us on Spotify and on Instagram (@queenisdead.filmpodcast) for the latest updates!

In this episode, we talk to a professor of media studies, Nithesh Kalnad, who has an upcoming film release on OTT. We discuss the relatively less talked about Kannada film industry and recommend some good gateway films to get into exploring the same. We also answer some fan questions from our Instagram stories' Q and A. If your question hasn't been answered, please stay tuned as we will get to them in our upcoming episodes! Click on 'Follow' on Spotify so our podcast reaches more people! Follow us on Instagram for episode updates and to DM us your thoughts at @queenisdead.filmpodcast

Looking for your jidaigeki fix after the finale of FX's "Shōgun" (2024)?

Travel back to the 1960s and watch the jidaigeki phase of one of the most celebrated (and yet still somehow not as widely known) Japanese filmmakers, Masaki Kobayashi. All these films -- "Harakiri" (1962), "Kwaidan" (1964), and "Samurai Rebellion" (1967) -- take place in the Edo period (the early 1600s to mid-1800s) -- right after the explosive battles of the FX series.

In this very special episode, Dhruv and Amartya spend the first half-hour contextualizing the timeline for both those aware and unaware of Jidaigeki films. Then, they make their way through the staunchly anti-authoritarian (hence, anti-samurai) films of Kobayashi that, piece by piece, dismantle what they so proudly call their "code of honor."

Listen to the full episode for a detailed appreciation of Kobayashi's formal excellence, screenwriter Shinobu Hashimoto's mazey screenplays, and composer Tōru Takemitsu's violently unnerving scores—all discordant elements that, when played together, manage to shake the towering foundation of the spick-and-span Samurai.

TIME CODES

Masaki Kobayashi: [00:00 - 06:56]

Jidaigeki Films: [06:56 - 12:14]

Samurai History and Terminology: [12:14 - 27:14]

"Harakiri" (1962): [27:14 - 01:07:53]

"Samurai Rebellion" (1967): [01:07:53 - 01:27:42]

"Kwaidan" (1964): [01:27:42 - 02:07:05]

Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify and rate us if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people!

Follow our Instagram page:

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You can also follow us on Instagram at:

Amartya: https://www.instagram.com/amartya25/

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Netflix just released 'Ray', a four-episode adaptation of Bengali writer/director and auteur Satyajit Ray's short stories, on the occasion of his centennial celebrations. We discuss what we liked, disliked and abhorred in this mini-series. The series stars Harshvardhan Kapoor, Manoj Bajpayee, Gajraj Rao, Kay Kay Menon and Ali Fazal in major roles. The segments are directed by Srijit Mukherjee, Abhishek Chaubey and Vasan Bala. Click the 'Follow' button on Spotify so the podcast reaches more people! Follow us on Instagram at @queenisdead.filmpodcast

Sherni, Amit Masurkar's sophomore effort after 2017's Newton, has been streaming on Amazon Prime Video and opened last week to mixed reviews. The film stars Vidya Balan in the lead role, along with Brijendra Kala, Sharat Saxena, Vijay Raaz and Neeraj Kabi among others. Podcast hosts Sanjeet and Dhruv discuss what they liked and didn't like about the film, in this short episode of Queen Is Dead.  Please follow us on Spotify so more people can discover us! Follow us on Instagram : @queenisdead.podcast

In this episode, we talk about the much anticipated 2021 Tamil release Jagame Thandiram. The film, directed by Karthik Subbaraj, starring Dhanush, Aishwarya Lakshmi, James Cosmo and Joju George in major roles, had its online release last week on Netflix India. We discuss its strengths, pitfalls and general impression on us, along with our opinions on its celebrated director. Please hit the 'Follow' button on Spotify to get our latest episodes. Follow us on Instagram : @queenisdead.podcast

Coinciding with the ongoing Euro season, podcast hosts Sanjeet and Dhruv discuss their favourite movies based on football, in this episode of the Queen Is Dead podcast. We also discuss what makes a great football flick, or a sports film in general, why many of them suck, sports movies made in India and much more. Jump in and listen! Follow Queen Is Dead on Spotify for future episodes. Follow Queen Is Dead on Instagram : @queenisdead.podcast

Hi! We are back after a hiatus, with an episode on the 2021 Hindi release Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar, directed by Dibakar Bannerjee, starring Arjun Kapoor and Parineeti Chopra. This episode was recorded a few months back, shortly after Sandeep was released in theatres. The film, following its release on Amazon Prime Video, is receiving rave reviews online for its making, performances, and exploration of class, gender and other social themes. Joining us on this episode is a friend of ours, Dhruv Krishna Goyal, a film writer and cineaste. Follow us on Instagram: @queenisdead.podcast

In this fairly meandering episode, we talk about the current state of OTT for film-watchers, Ram Gopal Varma's crazy streaming platform and discuss the wide range of TV/Web Series that have been made in India. Follow Us On Instagram : @queenisdead.podcast

We talk about the recently released OTT hit Drishyam 2, its relationship with its predecessor, and the film in general. Spoiler-less till we specify. Quick Thoughts is a new segment we are introducing just to encapsulate our views on a newly released feature film. Stay tuned for more. Follow us on Instagram : @queenisdead.podcast

In this episode of Queen Is Dead, we each discuss 3 science fiction movies that we would recommend, our fascination with them and also how sci-fi often works well coupled with other genres such as horror. The episode also begins with a short discussion on Christopher Nolan's Tenet. Follow us on Instagram for Film & TV related posts, recommendations and podcast updates. Instagram : @queenisdead.podcast

On the occasion of completing 17 years since its first release, the Kamal Haasan-starrer Virumandi has been released on Amazon Prime Video in India. We talk about how Kamal crafted the cult hit and how its ingenuity broke down the door for a new wave of filmmakers in the Tamil industry, such as Vetrimaaran and Lokesh Kanagaraj, to make culturally grounded commercial films ever since. 

In this episode, we talk about the new Netflix release AK v/s AK starring Anil Kapoor and Anurag Kashyap, a Hindi black comedy thriller, about a fictional Bollywood feud between a real actor and a director, both playing exaggerated versions of themselves. Lots of inside jokes on the industry and jabs at themselves ensue, as a kidnapping plot unravels in real-time. 

In what is undoubtedly our most publicized episode, we -- Dhruv, Sanjeet (!), Varun, Aryan, and Prithwish -- discuss the three Imtiaz Ali - A.R. Rahman collaborations that make up the most “sufiyana” phase of the director’s filmography. We first discuss the exhilaration and exasperation of glorifying Ruminess in “Rockstar” (2011); then the exhilaration and exhaustion of Indianizing Stockholm Syndrome in “Highway” (2014); then, finally, the exhilaration and excessiveness of stylizing storytelling in “Tamasha” (2015).

Listen to the full episode to learn not only what we like/dislike about these individual films (disagreements and civil arguments aplenty) but also what we think of how Ali uses Rahman’s music in all three of these films to guide us through his soul-searching narratives.

TIME CODES

Matargashtiyan: [00:00 - 07:00]

"Rockstar" (2011): [7:00 - 53:05]

Understanding filmmaking: [53:05 - 57:00]

"Highway" (2014): [57:00 - 01:04:20]

Can an Imtiaz character consume Petrol?: [01:04:20 - 01:05:15]

Back to "Highway": [01:05:15 - 01:35:00]

“Tamasha” (2015): [01:35:00 - 02:21:00]

Khatam kahaani?: [02:21:00 - 02:30:26]

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Dhruv: https://www.instagram.com/terminalcinema/

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Aryan: https://letterboxd.com/aryantalksfilms/

In today's episode, we talk about a seminal director who changed the landscape of Indian Cinema as well as engineering college dorm rooms, the one and only Anurag Kashyap. We delve into his oeuvre filled with stories about flawed personalities and our first experiences with his work.

Note: This recording is from June 3rd 2020. Choked: Paisa Bolta Hai is out now on Netflix. We shall be reviewing stuff we watched online in the next episode, including Choked - HG

\\Social  

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In today's episode, we talk about biopics, the ethics, and the economics of making them, along with some of our friendly, relatable, and bankable banter aimed towards all you millennial friendz.  We come to pop culture with an Indian perspective and want to share it with the world. These are the voyages of the podcast Queen is Dead!  \\Social  https://www.instagram.com/hemantganti https://www.instagram.com/pixel_baba https://www.instagram.com/kaaaarthik https://www.instagram.com/baba_lebowski https://www.facebook.com/707ErrorFilms/

On today's episode we talk about our first and recent theater experiences and compare it with our experiences with cinema on the small screen (which is not TV anymore). \\Social https://www.instagram.com/hemantganti https://www.instagram.com/pixel_baba https://www.instagram.com/kaaaarthik

In what is undoubtedly our most publicized episode, we -- Dhruv, Sanjeet (!), Varun, Aryan, and Prithwish -- discuss half of the peculiar filmography of Imtiaz Ali. The first half of this first part episode on the director is dedicated to "Jab We Met" (2007) and "Jab Harry Met Sejal" (2017) -- two films that share titles and character traits but tap into their respective romantic (and, perhaps, even toxic) impulses in distinctive ways. The exact format follows in the second half of the discussion, which involves the two "Love Aaj Kal" films.

Listen to the full episode to learn not only what we like/dislike about these individual films (disagreements and civil arguments aplenty) but also what we think of Imtiaz's films of "Aaj" (today) in relation to his films from "Kal" (past).

TIME CODES

 

Matargashtiyan: [00:00 - 07:55]

Imtiaz Kal, circa. 2000-2010: [07:56 - 30:29]

"Jab We Met" (2007): [30:29 - 01:09:22]

"Jab Harry Met Sejal" (2017): [01:09:22 - 01:53:27]

"Love Aaj Kal" (2009): [01:53:27 - 02:14:13]

"Love Aaj Kal" (2020): [02:14:13 - 02:31:11]

Imtiaz Aaj (aur Dibakar Banerjee Kal): [02:31:11 - 02:36:47]

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You can follow us on Instagram at:

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In this very special episode, Dhruv and Srilekha celebrate the thoroughly depressing and despairing films of Austrian filmmaker Michael Haneke, who turned 82 a week ago on March 23rd.
We first discuss his exacting style that has inspired several high-profile European filmmakers (Ruben Östlund and Yorgos Lanthimos, the most famously known amongst them) to address themes of colonial guilt, fascism, racism, and class inequality in a similarly discomforting way. We then choose three films from his filmography that most overtly (but still mysteriously) engage with these themes — “Code Unknown,” “Caché,” and "The White Ribbon."

Listen to the full episode for our spoiler-filled thoughts on these three movies and brief discussions of “Funny Games” and “The Piano Teacher," which we use to introduce listeners to the director's chillingly unnerving worlds.

TIME CODES

Michael Haneke's Auteurism - [00:00 - 14:15]

"Funny Games" (1997) - [14:16 - 24:42]

"The Piano Teacher" (2001) - [24:42 - 33:44]

"Code Unknown" (2000) - [33:44 - 01:00:52]

"Caché" (2005) - [01:00:52 - 01:19:52]

"The White Ribbon" (2009) - [01:19:52 - 01:45:54]

Haneke & the Lineage of European Art Cinema - [01:45:54 - 01:53:56]

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In this episode, Dhruv and Amartya welcome Devi (@film.trance) back to talk about two Malayalam movies recently released on OTT: Anand Ekarshi's morally complex drama/thriller "Aattam" (on Amazon Prime Video) and Rahul Sadasivan's folk horror film "Bramayugam" (on Sony Liv).

Both films serve up narratives and, especially, aesthetic styles largely underexplored by contemporary Indian cinema. Reference points range from international—Iranian filmmaker Asghar Farhadi and A24's elevated horror films—to local—legendary Malayalam filmmaker K.C. George and Rahi Anil Barve's "Tumbbad." But these films feel wholly original, either wanting to tackle thorny subject matters in contemporary society in thorny ways ("Aattam") or creating a new Old world whose order -- even in the wilderness -- eerily resembles that of our reality ("Bramayugam").

Listen to the full, spoiler-filled episode to know what we thought about each of these movies and how their superior quality makes Dhruv and Amartya want to tear their hearts out when they see contemporary B'wood movies.

TIMECODES

INTRODUCTION - [00:00 - 03:40]

"AATTAM" - [03:40 - 01:11:10]

"BRAMAYUGAM" - [01:11:10 - 02:21:00]

Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people!

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In our buildup to discussing Homi Adajania's "Murder Mubarak" on Monday (March 18, 2024), we -- Dhruv, Amartya & Varun -- discuss two similarly high-profile Hollywood whodunnits that have influenced Rian Johnson's "Knives Out" movies, which have subsequently become the template for any modern-day whodunnit mysteries. The rules of these game narratives may vary: if Herbert Ross' "The Last of Sheila" emphasizes its cynically overconstructed mystery mechanics, Robert Altman's "Gosford Park" undermines it. But they both use (or underuse) them to expose the rules (or lack thereof) of their respective wealthy societies in a way that goes beyond the fun mocking of the "Knives Out" films: the revelations elicit discomforting laughter that no amount of silliness can underplay.

Do listen to the full spoiler-filled episode to hear us talk about both these films! We also talk about the whodunnit plot mechanics, in general, and how these films, like "Knives Out," play around with them!

TIME CODES

Chit-Chat - [00:00 - 04:12]

Introduction - [04:13 - 09:03]

"The Last of Sheila" (1973) - [09:04 - 58:46]

"Gosford Park" (2001) - [58:47 - 01:47:48]

Previewing Upcoming Episodes - [01:47:49 - 01:53:16]

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Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people!

You can also follow us on Instagram at:

Amartya: https://www.instagram.com/amartya25/ Dhruv: https://www.instagram.com/terminalcinema/

Varun: https://www.instagram.com/cinephilestock/

Follow us on Letterboxd at:

Varun: https://letterboxd.com/varunoakbhakay/ Dhruv: https://letterboxd.com/aterminalcinema/ Amartya: https://letterboxd.com/amartya/

In our latest episode, Dhruv, Amartya, Hemant, and Prithwish talk about Denis Villeneuve's latest science-fiction blockbuster, "Dune: Part Two" -- a film that Dhruv and Amartya were skeptical about because they disliked "Part One," and Hemant and Prithwish were excited for because they loved "Part One." Is there going to be a similar disagreement over "Part Two"?

It seems not! We are unanimously impressed by Villeneuve's second part of Frank Hebert's "unadaptable" book, looking at it through many lenses—auteurism, blockbuster filmmaking, narrative continuation, and adaptation—and finding it hard to fault much about it.

Listen to the full, spoiler-filled episode to hear us talk about "Part Two's" impeccable use of music and sound, its much-improved characterizations from "Part One," and, most importantly, its unexpected Bollywood connections.

TIMECODES

INTRODUCTION - [00:00 - 05:50]

DENIS VILLENEUVE - [05:51 - 19:12]

"DUNE PART ONE" - [19:13 - 27:01]

"DUNE PART TWO" (PI) - [27:02 - 01:30:46]

THE ZIMMER SHIMMER (ft. Hemant) - [01:30:47 - 01:39:21]

"DUNE PART TWO" (PII) - [01:39:22 - 02:15:26]

Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people!

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You can follow us on Instagram at:

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Follow us on Letterboxd at-

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Amartya - https://letterboxd.com/amartya/

In this very special episode, Amartya, Aryan, and Dhruv discuss the different styles of the Hollywood Western from its "birth" in 1939 to its "death" in 1968. We begin by discussing John Ford's 1939 film, "Stagecoach," singlehandedly responsible for resuscitating the A-Movie Western for the talkies in Hollywood's Pre-War Era. It provides us with a broad template for archetypes and narratives that -- through repetition -- became movie conventions for reasons both good and bad. Fast forward to the Golden Era of the Hollywood Westerns, particularly the Post-War period -- and you see filmmakers like Anthony Mann beginning to question these conventions while still largely adhering to them in his 1950 film, "Winchester '73." The fondly remembered Spaghetti Westerns of the '60s push even further in this direction, with Sergio Leone's 1968 film, "Once Upon a Time in the West," simultaneously homaging the West and deflating America's constructed myths. Listen to the full episode for our deep dive into each film and the historical context that defined their varied narratives and aesthetic styles! TIME CODES The Western and its Mythology - Archetypes, Narratives, and Aesthetics: [01:16 - 35:09] "Stagecoach" (1939) : [35:09 - 58:11] "Winchester '73" (1950) : [58:11 - 01:22:40] "Once Upon a Time in the West" (1968) : [01:22:40 - 02:01:04] The Western's Contemporary Manifestations: [02:01:04 - 02:19:40] NOTE: The episode is in no way a complete summation of the countless films and directors whose works continue to influence Westerns today. It's intended as a (hopefully) informative celebration of a genre we love! Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people! Follow our Instagram page: https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast You can also follow us on Instagram at:   Aryan: https://www.instagram.com/aryantalksfilm/ Amartya: https://www.instagram.com/amartya25/ Dhruv: https://www.instagram.com/terminalcinema/ Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people! Follow us on Letterboxd at: Dhruv: https://letterboxd.com/aterminalcinema/ Aryan: https://letterboxd.com/aryantalksfilms/ Amartya: https://letterboxd.com/amartya/

It's no longer Kubrick Month because we're late recording and uploading this and P4, but regardless, we're here to complete our Kubrickian Odysseys!

 

Dhruv, Amartya, and Hemant have spent the entirety of July (and will now spend the last week of August and the first week of September) revisiting and discussing 10 (of 13) Kubrick-directed films (the Horror and Noir films will be discussed in October and November, respectively!) plus one conceptualized and obsessed over by him but eventually directed by his dear friend, Steven Spielberg.

 

In Part 3 (of 4), we focus on three of Kubrick’s most overtly provocative films whose controversial nature and treatment continue to inspire heated discussions.

 

The least of it, perhaps, centers around “Lolita” (1962). Which is a shame, really, because Kubrick’s formal and tonal command – partly necessitated by the still-strong presence of Hollywood’s Production Code – remains masterful in it: he makes the triggering central conceit of hebephilia (strong sexual interest shown by adults in pubescent children who are early in their adolescence) consistently discomforting even when disguising it within the conventions of seemingly charming romantic comedy.

 

The opposite may be true in the case of “A Clockwork Orange” (1971) – undoubtedly the director’s most aggressively controversial and confrontational film both in terms of its content and treatment. Its anger towards the individual’s brand of ultraviolence and sexual deviance is outmatched by its contempt towards forced social conditioning that destroys the individual’s free will without ever actually reforming him. Kubrick – unsurprisingly – places us somewhere in between these two modes – at times, troublingly embodying the individual’s POV and other times distancing us from it, making “A Clockwork Orange” what it is – an irresolvable film of conflict that offers NO solutions.

 

Which is THE problem with “Eyes Wide Shut.” Well, for Amartya and, to an extent, Dhruv. They both find the film incredibly well made but tiresome in its provocative but incredibly prolonged dissection of a marriage, and especially a man’s supposedly certain perception of his wife’s “pure” role within it. Hemant tries to counter that – but much like Tom Cruise in the film itself – retreats, perhaps, because his wife (thank you, Aarti!) also concurs with us.

 

Listen to the full episode to hear talk in detail about all three of these films and end by debating the controversial ranking of our favorite Kubrick films!

 

TIME CODES

 

Intro: [00:00 - 17:02]

“Lolita” (1962): [17:02 - 57:25]

"A Clockwork Orange" (1971) : [57:25 - 01:36:39]

"Eyes Wide Shut" (1999) : [01:36:39 - 02:14:51]

Outro: [02:14:51 - 02:28:16]

AUDIO EXCERPTS

1. Clockwork Orange Please Stop - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhe9kRCySxM

2. Lolita (1962) - Teaser Trailer - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b94tzbyDV9U

3. Kailash Kher - Tauba Tauba - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebceE8_aNoA

4. Lolita (1962) - A New Home - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHqGIe8AZ1g

5. A Clockwork Orange 4kUHD - Rival Gang Fight - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RHK5d5a5HJI&t=45s

6. First Reformed | Official Trailer HD | A24 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCF5Y8dQpR4

7. Eyes Wide Shut (Trailer) | Austin Film Society - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDXSmhOQkk4

8. Eyes Wide Shut - Opening [HD] - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNaNk09usi4

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Hello, Hello Hello,

In this new episode of QID, Dhruv, Sanjeet, Amartya and Srilekha, discuss the new Netflix show Killer Soup starring the very fantastic Konkana Sensharma & Manoj Bajpayee, directed by common favourite Abhishek Chaubey. Uncommonly, though, we came out with polarized views, with two of us loving the show’s darkly delicious tone and the other two bemoaning its unnecessary edginess. Listen to the full episode to hear us discuss the show’s Coen-esque genre playfulness, and how it stacks up next to the slew of mediocre Indian web shows that have released in the past year.

In this annual year-end episode, Dhruv and Sanjeet welcome three returning guests -- Devi (@film.trance), Adithiyan (@curioseradithiyan), and Yadhu (@immersive_cinema) -- to discuss each of thier top 5 favorite Indian films (best is only for the title, it's always subjective!) from the past year. These include films from all Woods - Bolly, Tolly, Kolly, Molly!

The five extensively discuss films that overlap -- a LOT of time is dedicated to lavishing praise on "SSE," "Nanpakal," & "Jigarthanda DoubleX." But they also make sure to pinpoint films that stuck out for them individually -- like "Aachar & Co," "Chittha," "Song of the Scorpions," "Falimy," and plenty more.

Do listen to the full episode to know all the favorites (revealed via time codes also below!)! Let us know what you make of films included/excluded!

TIME CODES

"Ponniyin Selvan II": [02:42 - 10:17] "Viduthalai Part I": [10:17 - 17:08] "Purusha Pretham": [17:08 - 24:00] "Nanpakal Nerathu Mayakkam": [24:00 - 32:53] "Hostel Hudugaru Bekigiddare": [32:53 - 46:03] "Falimy": [46:03 - 47:44] "SSE Side A & B": [47:44 - 01:15:11] "Aachar & Co": [01:15:11 - 01:19:44] "Jigarthanda DoubleX": [01:19:44 - 01:34:48] "2018": [01:34:48 - 01:47:31] "Rekha": [01:47:31 - 01:51:32] "Thankam": [01:51:32 - 01:55:22] "Kathal & Kaathal - The Core": [01:55:22 - 01:57:33] "Chittha": [01:57:33 - 02:04:46] "Mahaaveeran": [02:04:46 - 02:10:02] "Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani": [02:10:02 - 02:17:24] "Three of Us": [02:17:24 - 02:20:29] "12th Fail": [02:20:29 - 02:27:33] "Stolen & Joram": [02:27:33 - 02:41:16] "Aatmapamphlet": [02:41:16 - 02:44:45] "Song of the Scorpions": [02:44:45 - 02:46:54] Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people!

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Adithiyan: https://www.instagram.com/curioseradithiyan/ Devi: https://www.instagram.com/film.trance

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In this very special episode specifically designed to counteract the negativity spread by two QID members on our YouTube Livestream, Dhruv and Aryan — two self-proclaimed Hiranites — talk about the director’s pre-“Dunki” and “Sanju” output to celebrate his contribution to contemporary Indian cinema. Aryan does bring up “Dunki” sadly to begin our discussion. But we swiftly move away from it to discuss the gloriously heartwarming, crowd-pleasing pleasures of the Munnabhai films, “3 Idiots,” and “PK.”

Listen to the full episode to hear us relive some of the film’s glorious moments while also making a case for the value of Hirani’s cinema of sincerity. TIME CODES Introduction - [00:00 - 08:00] "Dunki" thoughts - [08:00 - 23:00] "Munna Bhai M.B.B.S." - [23:00 - 38:30] "Lage Raho Munna Bhai" - [38:30 - 59:45] "3 idiots" - [59:45 - 01:19:00] "PK" - [01:19:00 - 1:36:00] Outro - [1:36:00 - 01:43:25] Follow our Instagram page: https://instagram.com/queenisdead.filmpodcast

Do hit 'Follow' on Spotify if you haven't already to help the podcast reach more people! You can also follow us on Instagram at: Aryan: https://www.instagram.com/aryantalksfilm/

Dhruv: https://www.instagram.com/terminalcinema/ Follow us on Letterboxd at:

Dhruv: https://letterboxd.com/aterminalcinema/

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Taking a cue from recent Bollywood releases, we have decided to leave our latest episode unedited. So get ready for the most extensive discussion on Sandeep Reddy Vanga's hollow provocations in "Animal," the most accurate Sanjeet impression (courtesy Aryan) as we collectively gush about Vidhu Vinod Chopra's uplifting "12th Fail," and the most detailed breakdown of Meghna Gulzar's insipid "Sam Bahadur" by a podcast regular who has a personal connection with the subject matter.

Providing necessary order to this otherwise chaotic discussion between four men about three Bollywood men is another QID regular -- Ahendrila. Extending our discussion beyond the text, she helps us situate the role these films play (and will continue to play) within the broader socio-political Indian context. You can guess which film is talked about most here. But, we promise the "Animal" fans that there is a dedicated attempt to also pick out positives in a film that largely didn't work for any of us.

Do listen to the full, spoiler-filled episode to hear our detailed thoughts on all three films!

TIME CODES

Introduction - [00:00 - 04:30]

"Animal" (2023) - [04:31 - 01:03:55]

"12th Fail" (2023) - [01:03:56 - 01:34:04]

Ahendrila Asks - [01:34:05 - 01:53:03]

"Sam Bahadur" (2023) - [01:53:04 - 02:49:30]

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