Explore every episode of the podcast Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paul Verhoeven - The Fourth Man (100%) | 27 Aug 2024 | 01:04:15 | |
Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten Takes on "The Fourth Man" In the latest episode of "Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten," Wes and Clay dive into the dark, psychological world of Paul Verhoeven's "The Fourth Man." This 1983 Dutch thriller is a fascinating blend of horror, eroticism, and surrealism that showcases Verhoeven’s talent for pushing boundaries. If you’re intrigued by films that blur the lines between reality and nightmare, this episode is right up your alley. Unveiling the Dark Mystery"The Fourth Man" follows the story of a bisexual writer who becomes entangled in a dangerous affair with a mysterious woman, leading him down a path filled with ominous visions and chilling premonitions. The film is a masterclass in tension and atmosphere, with Verhoeven pulling out all the stops to keep the audience on edge. It’s a movie that lingers long after the credits roll, thanks to its haunting imagery and unsettling narrative. Wes and Clay’s TakeWes and Clay delve into the layers of "The Fourth Man," exploring its themes of obsession, deception, and the blurred lines between fantasy and reality. They discuss how Verhoeven uses vivid, almost dream-like visuals to create a sense of unease and how the film fits into the broader context of his career. However, the hosts also touch on the film’s "too many themes" problem, where the narrative sometimes feels overburdened by its attempts to juggle multiple ideas without fully exploring any of them. They critique its somewhat hollow criticism of Catholicism, which feels more like a superficial jab than a meaningful commentary. Additionally, Wes and Clay express concerns about the film’s ending, questioning whether it delivers a satisfying resolution or leaves too many threads dangling. Their conversation balances thoughtful analysis with a touch of humor, making it perfect for dissecting a film that’s as enigmatic as it is provocative. Fun Facts and TriviaOne of the most interesting aspects of "The Fourth Man" is how it foreshadows elements of Verhoeven’s later work, particularly "Basic Instinct." The film’s exploration of sexuality, danger, and the unreliable nature of perception would become recurring themes in Verhoeven’s career. Additionally, "The Fourth Man" was one of the last films Verhoeven made in the Netherlands before moving to Hollywood, making it a significant turning point in his filmography. Join the ConversationListeners are encouraged to share their thoughts on "The Fourth Man" in the Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten Discord server. Whether you see it as a masterpiece of psychological horror or a challenging, surreal experience, there’s plenty to discuss. Supporting the podcast on Patreon also grants access to exclusive "B-Roll" episodes, where Wes and Clay delve into more of Verhoeven’s work and other cinematic curiosities. Conclusion: A Dark and Twisted JourneyThis episode of "Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten" is a must-listen for fans of psychological thrillers and anyone interested in exploring the darker corners of cinema. Wes and Clay’s discussion of "The Fourth Man" offers a deep dive into a film that’s as disturbing as it is captivating. Tune in at The Pensky File or your preferred podcast platform, and check out the Patreon for more exclusive content. | |||
| Arnold Schwarzenegger - End of Days (11%) | 23 Jul 2024 | 01:10:03 | |
Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten Dives into "End of Days" In the latest episode of "Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten," hosts Wes and Clay take on Arnold Schwarzenegger's "End of Days," the 1999 supernatural action thriller that earned a mixed reception from critics and audiences alike. Known for exploring the best and worst films of notable actors and directors, Wes and Clay bring their insightful commentary and humor to this dark and ambitious film. A Different Role for Schwarzenegger"End of Days" features Schwarzenegger as an ex-cop battling to prevent Satan from initiating the apocalypse as the millennium turns. This film, blending action with supernatural horror, offers a departure from Schwarzenegger’s typical roles. Despite its intriguing premise, it struggled to make a strong impact at the box office and with critics. Wes and Clay’s PerspectiveWes and Clay delve into the film's attempt to merge genres and how Schwarzenegger's performance fits into his broader career. They discuss the movie’s production, its reception, and its place within the context of late-90s cinema. With their signature mix of serious analysis and light-hearted banter, the hosts provide a comprehensive look at why "End of Days" is considered a misstep in Schwarzenegger's filmography. Interesting Facts About "End of Days"One notable fact about "End of Days" is its significant use of digital effects, which were cutting-edge for the time but are often seen as dated today. The film's climactic battle between Schwarzenegger’s character and Satan involved extensive CGI, which was ambitious but received mixed reviews for its execution. Another intriguing aspect is that the role of Satan was initially offered to several other actors, including Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt, before Gabriel Byrne was cast. Byrne's portrayal brought a unique blend of charm and menace to the character, adding depth to the supernatural antagonist. Engaging with the AudienceListeners are encouraged to join the Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten community on Discord to share their thoughts on "End of Days" and other episodes. Supporting the podcast on Patreon unlocks exclusive content, including special "B-Roll" episodes that explore additional films from the featured artist's career. ConclusionThis episode of "Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten" is a must-listen for fans of Schwarzenegger and those interested in the highs and lows of Hollywood cinema. Wes and Clay’s engaging discussion of "End of Days" offers both entertainment and insight, making it clear why their podcast is a favorite among film enthusiasts. Tune in to this episode and explore more cinematic discussions at The Pensky File or on your favorite podcast platform. Support us on Patreon to get access to our exclusive "B-Roll" episodes and more bonus content! | |||
| Kathryn Bigelow – The Weight of Water (35%) | 01 Oct 2019 | 01:04:53 | |
In “The Weight of Water“, journalist Jean Janes (Catherine McCormack) begins researching the 1873 axe-murder of two sisters and discovers new information in the case. Meanwhile, her marriage to writer Thomas (Sean Penn) begins to fall apart. The show has […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Kathryn Bigelow – The Hurt Locker (97%) | 17 Sep 2019 | 01:06:57 | |
The show has moved onto Kathryn Bigelow because Clay “deparately wanted to do her” and that means we’re starting off with the critically acclaimed “The Hurt Locker“. Directed by Bigelow and scripted by Mark Boal, The Hurt Locker is regarded […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| B-Roll: Amy Adams – Nocturnal Animals (73%) | 03 Sep 2019 | 00:58:28 | |
The B-Roll selection for Amy Adams has Wes and Clay watching a film that both of them are unfamiliar with, 2016’s Nocturnal Animals. Directed and written by Tom Ford, Nocturnal Animals is the story of an art gallery owner named […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Amy Adams – Arrival (94%) | 10 Apr 2019 | 01:11:09 | |
For our coverage of the “best” Amy Adams film, we discuss the intellectual science fiction of Arrival! It’s currently at 94% on Rotten Tomatoes and it secured several Academy Award nominations in 2016. Amy Adams stars as a linguist who […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Amy Adams – Leap Year (23%) | 25 Mar 2019 | 01:09:33 | |
Amy Adams stars in a truly horrible romantic-comedy where the jokes fall flat, the Irish are maligned, and Adam Scott is mis-used! “Leap Year” is a film from 2010 and is currently at 23% on Rotten Tomatoes. Adams stars as […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| B-Roll: 2019 Oscars: A Star Is Born (90%) | 23 Feb 2019 | 01:18:56 | |
To complete our coverage of the 2019 Best Picture nominees, we have selected “A Star Is Born” as our B-Roll. It’s Bradley Cooper’s directorial debut, and he also stars as the talented but troubled rock star Jackson Maine. When Jackson […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| 2019 Oscars: Black Panther (97%) | 14 Feb 2019 | 01:02:17 | |
This episode of the podcast covers the highest rated Best Picture nominee from 2018, Ryan Coogler’s MCU entry: Black Panther! The crown jewel of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (so far), Black Panther follows the adventures of T’Challa, the newly crowned […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| 2019 Oscars: Bohemian Rhapsody (62%) | 11 Feb 2019 | 01:05:51 | |
As a special event, we’re going to cover the “ripe” and “rotten” films nominated for the 2019 Best Picture Oscar! For the low end of the spectrum, we start with Bohemian Rhapsody, a biopic about the rock band Queen, and […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| B-Roll: Edgar Wright – The World’s End (89%) | 09 Jan 2019 | 00:55:42 | |
We say farewell to Edgar Wright with the final film in his Three Flavors Cornetto trilogy, The World’s End. At 89% on Rotten Tomatoes, it is critically adored but audiences generally see it in a different light. Starring Simon Pegg […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Edgar Wright – Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (81%) | 05 Dec 2018 | 00:51:26 | |
This week, we take a look at the lowest rated film on Edgar Wright’s Rotten Tomatoes listing: 2010’s Scott Pilgrim vs the World. Currently at 81%(!), Scott Pilgrim stars Michael Cera as the titular “hero”, a young twenty-something who falls […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Arnold Schwarzenegger - The Terminator (100%) | 06 Jul 2024 | 01:03:43 | |
Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten is Back: The Return with "The Terminator" After a three-year hiatus, the "Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten" podcast has made a triumphant return, much like the unstoppable T-800 in "The Terminator." Hosts Wes and Clay have dusted off their microphones and recharged their film critique circuits to bring fans another season of deep dives into the cinematic spectrum. And what better way to reboot their show than by tackling Arnold Schwarzenegger’s highest-rated film on Rotten Tomatoes, the timeless classic, "The Terminator." The Resurrection of Reel Ripe & Reel RottenListeners have been eagerly awaiting the return of "Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten," and Wes and Clay deliver with a bang. Just like Sarah Connor’s resilient fight against the machines, the podcast has come back stronger and more determined to explore the highs and lows of Hollywood cinema. Their unique format of reviewing the best and worst films of notable actors and directors promises a new season filled with engaging content and insightful commentary. Each episode delves into the highest-rated ("ripe") and lowest-rated ("rotten") movies of a selected actor or director, offering a balanced view of their cinematic contributions. Hasta La Vista, Hiatus!"The Terminator" is a fitting choice for their comeback episode. This 1984 sci-fi thriller directed by James Cameron isn’t just a movie; it’s a cultural landmark. The film's portrayal of a dystopian future where machines have taken over the world feels eerily prescient and relevant, making it an ideal topic for Wes and Clay’s return. Using a mix of sharp analysis and light-hearted humor, the hosts dissect what makes "The Terminator" a film that has stood the test of time. They explore how its innovative special effects, gripping narrative, and Schwarzenegger’s iconic performance combine to create a movie that is both critically acclaimed and beloved by fans worldwide. "I’ll Be Back" with More InsightsTrue to their form, Wes and Clay sprinkle their discussion with plenty of Terminator puns and references. From discussing how the film’s action sequences “terminate” the competition to marveling at Schwarzenegger’s performance as “the apex of robotic acting,” the episode is peppered with the kind of witty banter that fans have missed. Engage with the New SeasonAs "Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten" powers up for a new season, listeners are invited to join the conversation on their Discord server, where they can share their thoughts on "The Terminator" and other films covered in future episodes. The hosts also encourage fans to support the podcast on Patreon, unlocking access to exclusive "B-Roll" episodes that delve into lesser-known but equally intriguing films from the featured artists’ careers. ConclusionThe return of "Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten" is more than just a revival; it’s a celebration of cinema's highs and lows through the lens of two passionate film enthusiasts. Their comeback episode on "The Terminator" promises to be a thrilling journey through one of Hollywood’s most iconic films, filled with the detailed analysis and humorous insights that fans have come to love. So gear up, because the podcast is back, and this time, it’s here to stay. Catch the latest episode and explore the cinematic world through Wes and Clay’s expertly tuned lenses by visiting The Pensky File or your favorite podcast platform. As the T-800 would say, “Come with us if you want to learn!” | |||
| Edgar Wright – Baby Driver (93%) | 07 Nov 2018 | 01:01:13 | |
We kick off our Edgar Wright coverage with his highest rated film, 2017’s Baby Driver! Currently at 93% on Rotten Tomatoes, Baby Driver tells the story of a getaway driver (the best in the biz!) who yearns for both a […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| B-Roll: Denzel Washington – Man on Fire | 15 Aug 2018 | 01:10:20 | |
Denzel Washington’s “B-Roll” selection is Man on Fire, which is currently at 39% on Rotten Tomatoes. Highly stylized in the way that only early 2000s action films are, Washington takes the role of John Creasy, an alcoholic bodyguard. When his […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Denzel Washington – Heart Condition (0%) | 17 Jul 2018 | 00:43:02 | |
When a racist cop inherits the heart of a black lawyer, the end result is a fun-filled comedy romp that ends in shotgun murder! Denzel Washington’s worst film (according to Rotten Tomatoes) is the 0% rated “Heart Condition“. It’s a […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Denzel Washington – Fences (94%) | 18 Apr 2018 | 01:12:44 | |
Denzel Washington has been acting in Hollywood since early in the 1980’s but his highest rated film is 2016’s Fences, which stands at 94% on RottenTomatoes. Originally a theatrical play, the film is a showcase of writing and acting (Washington […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| B-Roll: Spielberg & Cruise – Minority Report | 30 Mar 2018 | 01:21:49 | |
In our first “B-Roll” episode (where we discuss a film of our choosing from the topics filmography), we discuss the 2002 neo-noir sci-fi thriller, Minority Report! Featuring a plot that examines the battle of free will and determinism, Minority Report […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Steven Spielberg – E.T. (98%) | 16 Mar 2018 | 00:54:59 | |
Hook might have been excessive and over the top, but it also might have been an attempt to recapture the feeling of E.T.? We discuss the 98% film and try to figure out where the love comes from, and if […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Steven Spielberg – Hook (29%) | 28 Feb 2018 | 01:02:00 | |
Steven Spielberg is the highest grossing Hollywood director of all time, and is considered to be one of the greatest filmmakers that the world has ever seen. But even still, he did make “Hook” which is at 29% on Rotten […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Tom Cruise – Risky Business (96%) | 14 Feb 2018 | 00:48:51 | |
Risky Business launched Cruise’s career, and it also ended its directors! A 96% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Risky Business features Cruise as a high school senior who learns some hard lessons about life and prostitution while trying to get […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Tom Cruise – Cocktail (5%) | 24 Jan 2018 | 01:09:12 | |
The power running, intensely emoting, Xenu worshipping Tom Cruise is the next subject of Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten! In this episode we start at the bottom with Cocktail, a 1988 film that currently sits at 5% on Rotten Tomatoes. […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Ridley Scott – A Good Year (25%) | 17 Jan 2018 | 00:55:18 | |
A Good Year is a perfect example of a director taking on a genre that they are ill suited to handle. A romantic comedy that features very little romance and almost no comedy, A Good Year has Russell Crowe playing […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| 2020 Oscars – Marriage Story (95%) | 24 Mar 2020 | 00:54:00 | |
Wes and Clay wrap up their coverage of the 2020 Academy Awards by watching their B-Roll selection of the Best Picture nominees, “Marriage Story”. Directed and written by Noah Baumbach, “Marriage Story” stars Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson as a […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Ridley Scott – Alien (97%) | 13 Dec 2017 | 01:14:22 | |
Famed director Ridley Scott is this month’s focus, and we kick things off with the modern classic, “Alien”, which is currently at 97% on RottenTomatoes! When the crew of a towing spaceship intercepts a message from a nearby planetoid, their […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| December 2017 | 06 Dec 2017 | 00:01:48 | |
After covering Patrick Stewart last month, it’s time for Clay and Wes to discuss a director! We put the selection up to a vote on Patreon.com, and this short episode will let you know which director we’ll be covering, and […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Patrick Stewart – Christmas Eve (0%) | 29 Nov 2017 | 01:06:06 | |
After discussing Stewart’s nuanced performance in “Logan”, Clay and I discuss a holiday movie that has no nuance whatsoever. It’s 2015’s “Christmas Eve“! The film may list Patrick Stewart as the lead role, but it’s actually an ensemble piece that […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Patrick Stewart – Logan (93%) | 22 Nov 2017 | 01:13:35 | |
“Logan” is a 2017 superhero film that features Patrick Stewart as Charles Xavier (the 7th time he’s played that character), the leader of the mutant group called the X-Men. Set in the near future, “Logan” is a genre defying story […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten: Introduction | 12 Nov 2017 | 00:05:20 | |
This podcast takes a look at the highs and lows of your favorite Hollywood artists! Each month, Wes and Clay will use Rotten Tomatoes to determine the best and worst film in one individuals filmography. Then you can listen along […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| 2020 Oscars – Joker (68%) | 08 Feb 2020 | 01:07:54 | |
The lowest rated Best Picture nominee at the 2020 Academy Awards is Todd Phillips’ “Joker”. Currently at 68% with 543 reviews, the film stars Joaquin Phoenix as the eponymous villain. Based on the Joker character from DC Batman comics, Phoenix […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| 2020 Oscars – Parasite (99%) | 27 Jan 2020 | 01:04:35 | |
Who would you say is the “Parasite” in this film? Bong Joon Ho brings his work home to Korea in this pitch-black modern fairytale. Meet the Park Family: the picture of aspirational wealth. And the Kim Family, rich in street […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| B-Roll: Wes Craven – Scream (79%) | 12 Nov 2019 | 01:19:34 | |
We are continuing our coverage of the “master of horror”, Wes Craven. We have already discussed “Vampire in Brooklyn” and “A Nightmare on Elm Street“. With our “B-Roll” selection, we chose to watch 1996’s “Scream”! Scream is a metatextual homage […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Wes Craven – A Nightmare on Elm Street (94%) | 31 Oct 2019 | 01:29:48 | |
Happy Halloween! Our “Wes Craven” themed coverage continues with the director’s highest-rated film (according to Rotten Tomatoes), “A Nightmare on Elm Street”! It’s the film that gave the world one of the most iconic villains of all time: Fred “Freddy” […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| Wes Craven – Vampire in Brooklyn (10%) | 29 Oct 2019 | 01:11:48 | |
Happy Halloween! As is customary in podcast culture, Reel Ripe & Reel Rotten are covering something horror-themed: the “Master of Horror” himself, Wes Craven, and his critical low-point, “Vampire in Brooklyn”. Starting off with Craven’s lowest-rated film, Wes, Clay and […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||
| B-Roll: Kathryn Bigelow – Near Dark (88%) | 15 Oct 2019 | 01:11:26 | |
For the B-Roll selection of our coverage of Kathryn Bigelow, we are turning out the lights, pouring ourselves a tall glass of blood, and watching “Near Dark”! “Near Dark” is Bigelow’s 1987 attempt to meld the vampire and western genres. […] Find all of our content at The Pensky File Links! • https://thepenskyfile.com/links | |||