Explore every episode of the podcast Thank God For Movies
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primetime | 30 Sep 2026 | 00:50:43 | |
This week on the podcast, Jon Negroni and Will Ashton have a seat with Primetime, Lance Oppenheim’s unsettling narrative feature debut about To Catch a Predator's Chris Hansen. Robert Pattinson stars as a heavily fictionalized Hansen alongside Merritt Wever, Skyler Gisondo, Phoebe Bridgers, Anna Faris, and an impressive ensemble. We discuss our own thoughts on the film and get into some of the critical and audience consensus building since its release this past weekend. And we finish off the show with a look ahead at some movies we hope to cover next. LINKS:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| The Odyssey | 27 Jul 2026 | 01:14:20 | |
This week, Jon Negroni and Will Ashton dive headfirst into Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey! We unpack why it's so quickly become the theatrical event of the year and what its massive box office success says about the future of blockbuster filmmaking. Then we discuss Nolan’s evolution from The Dark Knight through Oppenheimer and why audiences continue to show up for original event movies. Plus, does The Odyssey represent a turning point for studios chasing spectacle instead of disposable content? We also kick things off by examining the summer box office so far. Including Toy Story 5, Backrooms, Obsession, Supergirl, The Mandalorian & Grogu, and more. And longtime listeners will certainly hear a couple of familiar voices at the very beginning of the episode... SHOW NOTES:
LINKS:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Toy Story 5, The Furious, Disclosure Day | 13 Jul 2026 | 01:32:48 | |
This week on Thank God for Movies, Jon Negroni and Will Ashton catch up on a packed stretch of the 2026 summer movie season with reviews of Toy Story 5, The Furious, and Disclosure Day. But first, we run through the state of the box office, from the live-action Moana stumbling out of the gate to Evil Dead Burn, The Invite, Minions and Monsters, Supergirl, Jackass: Best and Last, Girls Like Girls, The Death of Robin Hood, and Leviticus. SHOW NOTES:
LINKS:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Scary Movie (2026) | 09 Jun 2026 | 00:48:29 | |
For this bonus episode of Thank God for Movies, Jon Negroni and Will Ashton reunite to review the new Scary Movie! It's the long-awaited return of the spoof franchise that helped define early-2000s parody comedy, of course. With the Wayans brothers back, Anna Faris returning as Cindy Campbell, Regina Hall back as Brenda Meeks, and a whole new batch of horror movies to reference, the question is simple. Does Scary Movie (2026) revive the franchise, or just remind us why this kind of comedy disappeared? Jon and Will dig into why the movie’s “no safe spaces” marketing feels more like a hollow grift than an actual comic philosophy, how its jokes stack up against the earlier Scary Movie films, and why Scary Movie 3 might still be the franchise’s high point. We also talk about the difference between real parody and simply naming recent movies, from Scream (2022), Halloween, M3GAN, Longlegs, The Substance, Get Out, Weapons, Sinners, Nosferatu, and KPop Demon Hunters to the missed opportunity of satirizing elevated horror, A24 dread, and modern “requel” culture. SHOW NOTES:
LINKS:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Masters of the Universe (2026) | 07 Jun 2026 | 01:01:14 | |
This week on Thank God for Movies, special guest Brogan Luke Bouwhuis joins the show with Jon Negroni! Brogan is an InBetweenDrafts film writer, film programmer, and co-host of Franchise Fiends. And he's here to talk about Masters of the Universe, the 2026 live-action He-Man reboot starring Nicholas Galitzine, Camila Mendes, Idris Elba, Alison Brie, and Jared Leto as Skeletor. With Will Ashton sitting this one out due to what can only be described as a dark personal history with Eternia, we dig into why this long-delayed Mattel blockbuster feels stranded between decades. In fact, we discuss the movie’s troubled development history, Travis Knight’s role as director, the odd timing of He-Man nostalgia, and why a film based on such a knowingly silly toy-line mythology keeps apologizing for being a Masters of the Universe movie. Lastly, check out Jon's review of Masters of the Universe here, Brogan's review here, and Brogan's piece about Mattel blockbusters here. SHOW NOTES:
LINKS:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Backrooms | 02 Jun 2026 | 01:10:11 | |
This week on Thank God for Movies, Jon Negroni and Will Ashton dive into Backrooms, the surprise A24 horror sensation from 20-year-old filmmaker Kane Parsons. But first, we unpack the bigger story around the movie... How have Backrooms and Obsession, two low-budget horror films from extremely young directors, been outpacing Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu? Are they signaling a possible shift in what younger moviegoers actually want from theaters? SHOW NOTES:
LINKS:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu | 27 May 2026 | 01:07:20 | |
For this bonus episode of Thank God for Movies, Jon Negroni welcomes back longtime friend of the show Cory Woodroof, writer for For the Win/USA Today. And yes, this is Cory's first appearance since our TGFM rebrand! The mission: unpack Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu, Disney’s big-screen continuation of the Disney+ series and the first theatrical Star Wars movie in seven years. SHOW NOTES:
LINKS:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Obsession, Blue Heron | 26 May 2026 | 01:29:02 | |
This week, Jon Negroni and Will Ashton review two new films: Curry Barker's 'Obsession' and Sophy Romvari's 'Blue Heron.' SHOW NOTES:
LINKS:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| The Devil Wears Prada 2 | 05 May 2026 | 01:22:23 | |
After a longer-than-usual break, Jon and Will return with a catch-up episode on The Devil Wears Prada 2, plus a wide-ranging conversation about the strange state of the summer movie season and what we've missed lately, from studio blockbusters and horror releases to indie films that may have slipped through the cracks. SHOW NOTES:
LINKS:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Hoppers | 10 Mar 2026 | 01:09:41 | |
Jon and Will dive into Pixar’s Hoppers, a funny, weird, surprisingly dark original that feels like a real test case for the studio’s future beyond sequels. They talk Bobby Moynihan stealing the movie, Jon Hamm’s silly-guy energy, Pixar’s recent slump, and whether Hoppers is a true return to form or just a charming anomaly. Also in this episode: Film Roulette, the naming of the new show logo mascot, and a brief but inevitable detour into Pixar Theory. Show Notes:
LINKS:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Send Help, Tribute to Catherine O'Hara | 11 Feb 2026 | 01:05:36 | |
SHOW NOTES:
This week on Thank God for Movies, Jon Negroni and Will Ash review Send Help, the newest film directed by Sam Raimi. Starring Rachel McAdams and Dylan O'Brien, critics have been vomiting their praise for this one. But will we be thanking god for this movie? Guess you'll have to tune in to find out. We also kick off the show with a tribute to the life and career of the legendary Catherine O'Hara, who sadly passed away on January 30 of this year. Also. The other week, we asked all you listeners to name our new logo of the “reel on fire.” We narrowed it down a bit, and we want you all to help us make the final decision. Email us (cinemaholicspodcast@gmail.com) with your ranking of the names, or find our poll on our Facebook page to see the contenders. THE CONTENDERS:
LINKS:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| The Rip, The Testament of Ann Lee | 31 Jan 2026 | 01:24:22 | |
SHOW NOTES:
This week on Thank God for Movies, Jon Negroni and Will Ash discuss the Netflix film The Rip, starring Matt Damon and Ben Affleck. Joe Carnahan directed and wrote the film. Next, we tackle The Testament of Ann Lee starring Amanda Seyfried. Directed by Mona Fastvold and co-written by Brady Corbet, it's a quasi-musical about the founding of the Shakers movement. Why didn't this movie get any Oscar attention? Let's discuss! Also. Last week, we asked all you listeners to name our new logo of the "reel on fire." We narrowed it down a bit, and we want you all to help us make the final decision. Email us (cinemaholicspodcast@gmail.com) with your ranking of the names, or find our poll on our Facebook page to see the contenders. THE CONTENDERS:
LINKS:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Dead Man's Wire, No Other Choice | 20 Jan 2026 | 01:29:34 | |
This week on Thank God For Movies, Jon and Will review Dead Man's Wire (directed by Gus Van Sant) and No Other Choice (directed by Park Chan-wook). We also kick things off with a game of Film Roulette, covering the highest-grossing films of 2025 at the domestic box office. We also begin the show discussing the transition to our new name. And we put a big question to all you listeners. What should we name our new flaming film reel character? Email your suggestions for a possible prize(?) to cinemaholicspodcast@gmail.com. And special thanks to listener Jason Leopard for creating our new theme music! Show Notes:
Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Is This Thing On, The Plague | 13 Jan 2026 | 01:30:56 | |
This week on Cinemaholics, Jon and Will review Is This Thing On? This is the third film directed by Bradley Cooper, starring Will Arnett and Laura Dern. They also discuss The Plague, an intriguing feature debut from writer-director Charlie Polinger that is one of Jon's favorite movies of the year. In addition to a game of Film Roulette, the show opens with a big announcement about the name "Cinemaholics" changing moving forward, so definitely don't miss out on that. Show Notes:
Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Marty Supreme | 06 Jan 2026 | 01:12:35 | |
This week on Cinemaholics, Jon and Will review Marty Supreme, starring Timothée Chalamet and directed and co-written by Josh Safdie. They also play a game of Film Roulette, doing a rapid lightning round of reviews for some other recent (and not-so-recent) movies this past year. Show Notes:
Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Hamnet, Rental Family, Tribute to Rob Reiner | 17 Dec 2025 | 01:29:42 | |
Show Notes:
This week on Cinemaholics, Jon and Will review Hamnet, the new drama from Chloé Zhao, adapting Maggie O’Farrell’s novel of the same name and starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal. We then discuss Rental Family from director HIKARI, which stars Brendan Fraser and Akira Emoto. And we open the show with a tribute to Rob Reiner where we discuss his filmmaking career and specific contributions to cinema as both a director and actor over the decades. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| The Voice of Hind Rajab, Jay Kelly, It Was Just an Accident | 08 Dec 2025 | 01:41:11 | |
Show Notes:
This week on Cinemaholics, Jon and Will review The Voice of Hind Rajab, a harrowing new drama from Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania (Four Daughters). Afterward, we take a look at Jay Kelly, the latest comedy-drama from Noah Baumbach and starring a huge star-lit cast featuring George Clooney, Adam Sandler, and plenty more. And our last review is of It Was Just an Accident, the remarkable new thriller from Jafar Panahi that won the Palme d'Or at this years Cannes Film Festival and is topping plenty "best of the year" lists. We open up the show with a quick discussion of some of the Critics Choice Association nominations for Best Picture then swing right into Film Roulette. That's the game where we do a lightning round of new and old films for the other person to react to with only a sentence (or paragraph). Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Wake Up Dead Man, Train Dreams, Sentimental Value | 03 Dec 2025 | 01:31:29 | |
Show Notes:
This week, Jon and Will review Wake Up Dead Man, the newest "Knives Out" mystery from Rian Johnson. They also take a look at Train Dreams, directed by Cliff Bentley and starring Joel Edgerton and Felicity Jones. And then they finish out the show with a review of Sentimental Value, the latest from Joachim Trier and starring Renate Reinsve and Stellan Skarsgård. And that's not all. Because it's been quite some time since the Cinemaholics had a chance to talk film (sorry for the hiatus!) Jon introduced a brand new game called Film Roulette. Essentially we do a rapid-fire set of reactions to a whole bunch of movies that have either come out recently or are in the awards conversation more broadly.
Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Weapons | 20 Aug 2025 | 01:10:05 | |
Is film criticism dead? On this week’s episode of Cinemaholics, Jon Negroni and Will Ashton kick things off with a timely conversation about the state of movie reviews in a post-Twitter world. With major papers shedding critics and platforms like Substack taking their place, what does the future hold for film discourse? Then, the guys dig into Weapons, the sophomore horror feature from Barbarian director Zach Cregger. Starring Julia Garner, Josh Brolin, and Benedict Wong, Weapons is an ambitious suburban nightmare told in fragmented perspectives and genre-defying set pieces. Jon and Will unpack the film’s surprising themes, multi-chapter structure, and incredible practical effects. Is Weapons a worthy follow-up to Barbarian? Or does it get lost in its own metaphorical maze? Plus, we read some Letterboxd reviews, play the Rotten Tomatoes game, and share which August films we’re most excited to see next. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| The Fantastic Four: First Steps | 01 Aug 2025 | 01:10:27 | |
Marvel’s First Family is back for a fourth time. On this week’s episode of Cinemaholics, Jon Negroni and Will Ashton unpack The Fantastic Four: First Steps, the latest attempt to reboot Marvel’s unluckiest franchise. With Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach suiting up for a 60s-inspired, retro-futurist take, director Matt Shakman (WandaVision) brings serious style to a film that’s long on vibes but maybe short on soul. We break down the film’s visual direction, ensemble performances, and the Galactus-sized question at its core: what is the point of another reboot? Plus, we debate the movie’s oddly hollow emotional arc, its meta-commentary on Marvel fatigue, and how it stacks up against the previous iterations of the Fantastic Four. Is this a first step in the right direction or another cosmic trip into irrelevance? Tune in to find out! Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Superman (2025) | 16 Jul 2025 | 01:01:20 | |
Jon Negroni and Will Ashton break down Superman, the bold new reboot from DC Studios and director James Gunn. Starring David Corenswet as the Man of Steel and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane, the film launches the first chapter of Gunn’s DCU with a surprising blend of warmth, wit, and world-building. Jon and Will unpack the movie’s heartfelt tone, its standout performances, and whether Gunn’s vision successfully updates Superman for a new generation. They debate the film’s commentary, its ambitious ensemble of DC characters, and how Superman balances sincerity with satire in a cinematic landscape that’s maybe forgotten how to hope. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning Is…Complicated | Cinemaholics Review | 31 May 2025 | 00:57:51 | |
Special guest Mike Overhulse of the Mad Men Men podcast joins Jon Negroni and Will Ashton to break down Mission: Impossible – Final Reckoning, the latest (and possibly final?) installment in the long-running spy franchise starring Tom Cruise as the ever-unbreakable Ethan Hunt. Directed once again by Christopher McQuarrie, the film sends the IMF team on a high-octane collision course with a rogue AI known as The Entity, in what may be the most self-aware entry in the series to date. Jon, Will, and Mike unpack the film’s jaw-dropping action sequences, its tangled narrative web, and how Final Reckoning reflects a growing anxiety in Hollywood around digital threats both on and off the screen. They debate the movie’s emotional stakes, its increasingly meta commentary on Cruise’s career, and whether this half of the story sticks the landing as a standalone film.
Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Another Simple Favor – Spoiler-Free Instant Take | 06 May 2025 | 00:10:17 | |
Will Ashton returns with a solo Instant Take on Another Simple Favor, the Amazon Prime sequel to Paul Feig’s 2018 suburban noir comedy-thriller A Simple Favor. With Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively reprising their roles, this follow-up heads to Italy for a destination wedding filled with secrets, frenemy tension, and stylish intrigue. Will breaks down what works—and what fizzles—in this second helping. Despite a few fun twists and an appealing setting in Capri, the film struggles to recapture the charm of the original. Kendrick’s character lacks clear evolution, while Lively’s return, though enjoyable, can’t quite carry the film through its sillier and more uneven second half. With vibes that feel more White Lotus than Gone Girl, Another Simple Favor tries to balance camp, crime, and couture. Will questions whether this sequel really needed to exist at all, comparing it to other lackluster follow-ups (The Whole Ten Yards, anyone?) that get the gang back together but forget the plot. If you were a fan of the first film, there are still some moments of cheeky fun—like a memorable truth serum scene—but overall, this one might leave you regretting asking for more. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| The Amateur – Spoiler-Free Instant Take | 21 Apr 2025 | 00:13:06 | |
Will Ashton returns with another Instant Take, this time tackling The Amateur, a new action-thriller starring Rami Malek (Mr. Robot, Bohemian Rhapsody) as a surveillance tech expert turned reluctant vigilante. With a vibe that borrows from Death Wish and Jason Bourne, the film delivers slick set pieces, familiar genre beats, and a central performance that’s more restrained than revolutionary. Will explores how The Amateur flirts with deeper character nuance, particularly in its depiction of Malek’s potentially autistic-coded lead. Though the film never explicitly confirms it, the character’s traits raise questions about representation in action movies and whether the film embraces or falls back on tired tropes. Alongside Malek, the film features a solid supporting cast: Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel), Laurence Fishburne, John Bernthal, Holt McCallany (Mindhunter), and Julianne Nicholson. Some standout moments include inventive “trap-like” set pieces and moody, high-rise shootouts that pop in premium formats. But Will questions if that’s enough to elevate an otherwise middle-of-the-road revenge thriller. Will Ashton returns with another Instant Take, this time tackling The Amateur, a new action-thriller starring Rami Malek (Mr. Robot, Bohemian Rhapsody) as a surveillance tech expert turned reluctant vigilante. With a vibe that borrows from Death Wish and Jason Bourne, the film delivers slick set pieces, familiar genre beats, and a central performance that’s more restrained than revolutionary. Will explores how The Amateur flirts with deeper character nuance, particularly in its depiction of Malek’s potentially autistic-coded lead. Though the film never explicitly confirms it, the character’s traits raise questions about representation in action movies and whether the film embraces or falls back on tired tropes. Alongside Malek, the film features a solid supporting cast: Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel), Laurence Fishburne, John Bernthal, Holt McCallany (Mindhunter), and Julianne Nicholson. Some standout moments include inventive “trap-like” set pieces and moody, high-rise shootouts that pop in premium formats. But Will questions if that’s enough to elevate an otherwise middle-of-the-road revenge thriller. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Novocaine – Spoiler-free Instant Take | 13 Mar 2025 | 00:12:14 | |
Will Ashton is back with a solo Instant Take on Novocaine, the action-comedy-romance hybrid starring Jack Quaid (The Boys) as a pain-insensitive bank employee who becomes an unlikely action hero. Directed by Dan Berk and Robert Olsen (Villains), this film surprised Will with its surprising charm. But also its creative premise, and solid central performances, too. Based on the real-life condition CIP (congenital insensitivity to pain), Novocaine walks a tonal tightrope between over-the-top violence and sincere character development. Will shares why Jack Quaid’s “young Tom Hanks” energy works so well here. Especially alongside Amber Midthunder (Prey), and how the film balances disability representation with fun genre thrills. Will also unpacks some of the film’s weaknesses, including uneven comedy, some clunky reveals, and a few undercooked side characters. But overall, this one came in above expectations and might just be Jack Quaid’s best leading role to date. Also starring Ray Nicholson, Betty Gabriel (Get Out), and Matt Walsh, Novocaine delivers quirky action, gory visuals, and a lot of heart…even if it sometimes plays it too safe. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Black Bag – Spoiler-free Instant Take | 11 Mar 2025 | 00:09:50 | |
In this spoiler-free instant take, Will Ashton jumps on the mic solo to give you his first impressions of Black Bag, the sleek and sizzling new spy thriller from director Steven Soderbergh. With a star-studded cast led by Cate Blanchett and Michael Fassbender, Black Bag is a taut, high-style espionage caper that calls back to the classy, grown-up thrillers of yesteryear. Will dives into what makes this film click.Iits sophisticated style, whip-smart screenplay (co-written by Soderbergh collaborator David Koepp), and a third act that actually sticks the landing. He compares it to classics like Mr. & Mrs. Smith and Out of Sight, highlighting how Soderbergh leans into his signature charm, sexiness, and cinematic craftsmanship. Other stars include Naomi Harris, Pierce Brosnan, Tom Burke, Regé-Jean Page, and Marisa Abela. All of whom get their moment to shine. Will also touches on Fassbender’s continued hot streak post-The Killer. Plus, why Blanchett is perfectly matched for this kind of layered, stylish fare. Clocking in at a brisk 95 minutes, Black Bag is a sharp and satisfying return to form. It's equally suited for a theater outing or a high-quality night in. Listen in for Will’s take on where Black Bag ranks among Soderbergh’s post-retirement filmography. And why this might be one of his most entertaining efforts in years. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Nickel Boys – Film Review | 25 Feb 2025 | 00:36:09 | |
In this week’s episode, Jon Negroni and Will Ashton take a deep dive into Nickel Boys, the latest film from director RaMell Ross (Hale County This Morning, This Evening). An adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, the film follows two Black teenagers trapped in the harrowing realities of Nickel Academy, a reform school in 1960s Florida that crushes hope as efficiently as it enforces silence. With Ethan Herisse and Brandon Wilson leading the cast and a uniquely immersive first-person perspective, Nickel Boys has drawn a lot of critical acclaim, but does it earn its accolades? Jon and Will unpack the film’s daring cinematography, its unconventional narrative structure, and Ross’s refusal to hold the audience’s hand. They debate the film’s Oscar prospects, its underwhelming box office reception, and why its use of silence might be its most powerful weapon. Plus, how does Nickel Boys fit into the tradition of documentary filmmakers transitioning into narrative storytelling? And yes, Will finds a way to compare it to The Tree of Life, because of course he does. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Interview – Harrison Xu and Ivan Leung talk 'Extremely Unique Dynamic' | 23 Jan 2025 | 00:55:35 | |
Today on Cinemaholics, we’re joined by two hilarious and incredibly talented filmmakers/actors, Harrison Xu and Ivan Leung, to talk about their new indie film, Extremely Unique Dynamic. This queer Asian meta stoner coming-of-age dramedy takes storytelling to a whole new level—it’s a movie about two guys making a movie about two guys making a movie. Yes, it’s as wonderfully chaotic as it sounds. Extremely Unique Dynamic has been making waves, playing at over 25 film festivals and breaking box office records during its LA theatrical run. In this episode, Harrison and Ivan share the wild journey of creating a deeply personal, yet entirely universal story that subverts stoner comedy tropes while addressing themes of representation, identity, and authenticity. We dive into everything—how they infused the film with their real-life personalities, their unexpected success at festivals, and even a bit of party bus pole-dancing backstory. Along the way, we also discuss pop-punk soundtracks, karaoke go-tos, and what they hope this movie will mean 50 years from now. Plus, we get into some lighter moments, including their favorite reality TV shows, nostalgic movie picks, and the unexpected challenges of doing Q&As. Whether you’re a fan of stoner comedies, indie filmmaking, or unique dynamics (see what we did there?), this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Catch Extremely Unique Dynamics at upcoming screenings in LA, San Francisco, New York, and even Vancouver, with VOD release just around the corner. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Interview – John Magaro and Tim Fehlbaum Discuss 'September 5' | 18 Jan 2025 | 00:11:03 | |
Today on Cinemaholics, we’re sitting down with director Tim Fehlbaum and actor John Magaro to talk about their new film, September 5. This gripping drama takes us behind the scenes of the 1972 Munich Olympics, where the ABC newsroom was thrust into the chaos of broadcasting one of the first live terrorist attacks. It’s a high-stakes story about media ethics, personal decisions, and the power of storytelling that feels just as relevant today as it was back then. With Tim’s sharp direction and John’s striking performance, September 5 premiered at Venice to rave reviews and has already sparked some big conversations about how we navigate the intersection of truth, accountability, and media. We’re diving into all of it—how they approached such a delicate story, the challenges they faced, and why this film resonates so deeply right now. You can also read or listen to our podcast review of the film with special guest Ema Sasic right here. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Sonic The Hedgehog 3 – Spoiler-free Instant Take | 14 Jan 2025 | 00:13:57 | |
In this special spoiler-free instant take, host Will Ashton delves into Sonic the Hedgehog 3, the latest installment in the high-speed franchise. He explores the film's dynamic action sequences, the evolving camaraderie among Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles, and the introduction of Shadow the Hedgehog. Will also examines the performances of returning cast members Ben Schwartz and Idris Elba, as well as the film's vibrant visual effects and engaging storyline. Additionally, he reflects on how Sonic the Hedgehog 3 contributes to the expanding Sonic cinematic universe and what fans and skeptics alike might expect. Sonic the Hedgehog 3 premiered in theaters on December 20, 2024, distributed by Paramount Pictures, with a runtime of 110 minutes. The film features a star-studded cast, including Jim Carrey, Ben Schwartz, Krysten Ritter, Natasha Rothwell, Shemar Moore, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Idris Elba, and Keanu Reeves. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| A Complete Unknown – Film Review | 08 Jan 2025 | 00:58:24 | |
In this week's episode, Jon Negroni and Will Ashton dive deep into A Complete Unknown, the latest biopic from director James Mangold (Logan, Walk the Line). The film, starring Timothée Chalamet as the iconic Bob Dylan, chronicles the enigmatic artist’s rise to fame during the transformative folk scene of the 1960s. With Edward Norton and Monica Barbaro rounding out the cast, and a runtime of 140 minutes, the movie captures Dylan’s transition from a folk music darling to a rock 'n' roll revolutionary. Jon and Will discuss Mangold’s directorial approach, Chalamet’s performance as the elusive Dylan, and the narrative’s attempt to balance the artist’s enigmatic persona with a traditional biopic structure. They also highlight the supporting cast, including Norton’s standout role and Boyd Holbrook’s intriguing portrayal of Johnny Cash. Is A Complete Unknowna respectful ode to Dylan’s artistry, or does it play it too safe? Tune in as the hosts break it all down, from the film’s subtle nods to Dylan’s legacy to its reception among fans and critics alike. Searchlight Pictures released A Complete Unknown in U.S. theaters on December 25, 2024. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Nosferatu – Spoiler-free Instant Take | 02 Jan 2025 | 00:14:18 | |
In this special instant take, Will Ashton dives into Robert Eggers' latest film, Nosferatu, unpacking its deep ties to the 1922 horror classic and its fresh take on the Dracula mythos. He breaks down Eggers' distinct artistic style, highlights standout performances from Willem Dafoe and Bill Skarsgård, and praises the film's jaw-dropping production design and cinematography. Will also reflects on how Nosferatu fits into the modern horror landscape, sharing why it’s such an exciting year-end release that horror fans won’t want to miss. Nosferatu opened in theaters on December 25 through Focus Features and has a runtime of 132 minutes. The rest of the cast includes Nicholas Hoult, Lily-Rose Depp, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Emma Corrin, Ralph Ineson, and Simon McBurney. More about Nosferatu: Set in 19th-century Europe, Nosferatu follows Thomas Hutter, a real estate agent who heads to the eerie, isolated estate of Count Orlok to close a business deal. Sounds straightforward, right? Not quite. Things take a dark and sinister turn when Hutter realizes Orlok is no ordinary recluse: he’s a full-on vampire with a thirst for blood and an unsettling interest in Hutter’s wife, Ellen. As the danger escalates and Orlok’s shadow creeps closer to the village, the story unfolds into a chilling mix of gothic horror, psychological tension, and devastating stakes. Robert Eggers brings his trademark grit and authenticity to this retelling, delivering a film that feels both classic and refreshingly new. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| A Complete Unknown – Spoiler-Free Instant Take | 10 Dec 2024 | 00:16:47 | |
Today on Cinemaholics, Will Ashton gives his spoiler-free instant take of A Complete Unknown, the latest biographical drama from director James Mangold. Starring Timothée Chalamet as a young Bob Dylan, the film chronicles Dylan's rise in the New York folk scene of the early 1960s, culminating in his revolutionary performance at the Newport Folk Festival in 1965. With a screenplay co-written by Mangold and Jay Cocks, and a stellar supporting cast including Edward Norton, Elle Fanning, and Monica Barbaro, A Complete Unknown is already earning high praise as one of the best films of 2024. Tune in for Will’s thoughts on Chalamet’s portrayal of Dylan, the film’s nostalgic vibe, and if it'll be a must-watch this holiday season. Searchlight Pictures will release A Complete Unknown in select U.S. theaters on December 25, 2024. More about A Complete Unknown: New York, 1961. Against the backdrop of a vibrant music scene and tumultuous cultural upheaval, an enigmatic 19-year-old from Minnesota named Bob Dylan arrives with his guitar and revolutionary talent, destined to change the course of American music. He forges intimate relationships with music icons of Greenwich Village on his meteoric rise, culminating in a groundbreaking and controversial performance that reverberates worldwide. Timothée Chalamet stars and sings as Bob Dylan in James Mangold’s A COMPLETE UNKNOWN, the electric true story behind the rise of one of the most iconic singer-songwriters in history. The film also stars Edward Norton as Pete Seeger, Elle Fanning as Sylvie Russo, Monica Barbaro as Joan Baez, Boyd Holbrook as Johnny Cash and Scoot McNairy as Woody Guthrie. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 'September 5' is a newsworthy thriller | 09 Dec 2024 | 00:36:11 | |
Breaking news! This week on Cinemaholics, Special guest Ema Sasic joins me (Jon Negroni) to dissect September 5, a gripping new thriller from director Tim Fehlbaum (The Colony). The film takes us back to the 1972 Munich Summer Olympics, where sports coverage took an unprecedented turn into live, global news reporting during one of the most tragic and pivotal events in history. Together, we break down the film’s high-tension pacing and commentary on media ethics. Plus, we talk awards potential and about the standout performances from John Magaro, Peter Sarsgaard, Leonie Benesch, and more. You can also read an edited transcript of our conversation right here. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| 'Conclave' is a heavenly whodunnit | 07 Dec 2024 | 00:29:37 | |
Holy smokes! This week on Cinemaholics, Jon Negroni and Will Ashton enter the sacred halls of Conclave, the latest thriller from Edward Berger (All Quiet on the Western Front). Set against the backdrop of a Vatican papal election, the film dives into the labyrinth of faith, power, and political intrigue. We discuss Ralph Fiennes’ captivating performance as Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, the high-stakes drama of electing a new pope, and the surprising humor that keeps the tension from boiling over. Plus, we unpack the film’s visual grandeur, that audacious ending twist, and where it fits in the awards season race…You can read an edited transcript of our conversation right here. Conclave was directed by Edward Berger and is based on the 2016 novel by Robert Harris. The cast includes Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, and Isabella Rossellini, with cinematography by Stéphane Fontaine (Jackie). Premiering in limited release on October 25, 2024 through Focus Features and has a runtime of 120 minutes. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Maria | 06 Dec 2024 | 00:10:34 | |
Today on Cinemaholics, Will Ashton delivers a short, spoiler-free review of Maria, Angelina Jolie's latest lead performance in a new biographical drama from director Pablo Larraín about legendary opera singer Maria Callas in 1970s Paris. More information about Maria: Angelina Jolie stars as Maria Callas, the iconic soprano, in Pablo Larraín’s Maria. This moving drama reimagines the legendary singer’s final days in Paris as she reflects on her dazzling but turbulent life in the spotlight. Directed by the acclaimed Pablo Larraín (Jackie, Spencer), with a screenplay by Steven Knight, the film offers an intimate look at the diva’s identity, struggles, and overall legacy. The film also features Pierfrancesco Favino, Alba Rohrwacher, Haluk Bilginer, and Kodi Smit-McPhee and is the final entry in Larraín's trilogy about iconic 20th-century women, following Jackie and Spencer. Premiering at the Venice Film Festival, where Jolie's performance earned acclaim, Maria debuted in select U.S. theaters on November 27, 2024, and will stream on Netflix from December 11, with theatrical releases in Italy and Germany to follow in early 2025. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| A Real Pain | 04 Dec 2024 | 00:39:02 | |
This week on Cinemaholics, Jon Negroni and Will Ashton take a real hard look at Jesse Eisenberg's A Real Pain, a film tackling generational trauma, identity crises, and the age-old question: are we in a Kieran Culkin Kierannaissance? We chat about its awards buzz, a Holocaust scene that's somehow pivotal and memorable, and the performances that make all the pain worth it. Plus, we break down the movie's balancing act between humor and heavy themes. A Real Pain was directed, written, and produced by Jesse Eisenberg. The cast includes Eisenberg himself, alongside Kieran Culkin, Will Sharpe, Jennifer Grey, and others, with Emma Stone and Dave McCary serving as producers under their Fruit Tree banner. Premiering at the Sundance Film Festival on January 20, 2024, the film later saw a limited theatrical release in the United States on November 1 through Searchlight Pictures. It has a 90-minute runtime. Links:
Synopsis for A Real Pain: Mismatched cousins David (Jesse Eisenberg) and Benji (Kieran Culkin) reunite for a tour through Poland to honor their beloved See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Moana 2 has splashy visuals but lacks the heart of the original | 26 Nov 2024 | 00:21:13 | |
Welcome to Cinemaholics. I'm Jon Negroni, and I've just seen Moana 2. Now, this isn't going to be an instant take review right out of the theater, mainly because I'm recording this the next day. So, this is going to be a little bit different. But I did want to put something out there before the movie comes out. It is Thanksgiving week, so I know a lot of you are maybe having some busier weeks, finding some time with family and everything, and maybe you're considering going to see Moana 2 in the theater. And if that's the case, you might be curious—what is the movie all about? Is it worth checking out and all of that? Read the full transcript for this episode here. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Gladiator II | 25 Nov 2024 | 00:52:57 | |
This week on the Cinemaholics podcast, we enter the arena to discuss Gladiator II, the long-awaited sequel that brings back Ridley Scott as director along with some fresh talent. Including Paul Mescal in the lead role alongside Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, and Connie Nielsen. We kick off the show with some preamble about Wicked and Scott's filmography before clashing swords on the film itself. We discuss the overall themes of the film and how the action pays off the messaging. Plus we dig into the critical reception thus far and what might come next in the Gladiator franchise. Gladiator II opened in UK theaters on November 15 with a U.S. release through Paramount Pictures a week after on November 22. The film has a 148-minute runtime and the rest of the cast includes Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, Lior Raz, and Derek Jacobi. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Red One – Instant Take | 14 Nov 2024 | 00:17:46 | |
Will Ashton gives his instant take review of Red One, directed by Jake Kasdan and starring Dwayne Johnson, Chris Evans, Lucy Liu, Kiernan Shipka, Bonnie Hunt, Kristofer Hivju, Nick Kroll, Wesley Kimmel, and J.K. Simmons. Synopsis: After Santa Claus – Code Name: RED ONE – is kidnapped, the North Pole's Head of Security (Dwayne Johnson) must team up with the world’s most infamous bounty hunter (Chris Evans) in a globe-trotting, action-packed mission to save Christmas.
Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| The new Star Wars trilogy: What we know so far | 07 Nov 2024 | 00:18:02 | |
Disney and Lucasfilm have finally confirmed a deal to release a new Star Wars trilogy that continues(?) the saga with Episodes 10-12. Simon Kinberg will apparently develop the trilogy with Kathleen Kennedy, so let's get into everything we know so far about what's next for a galaxy far, far, you get the point. Articles mentioned in this podcast:
Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| The Piano Lesson – Instant Take | 06 Nov 2024 | 00:14:37 | |
Will Ashton gives his instant take review of The Piano Lesson, directed and co-written by Malcolm Washington and starring Samuel L. Jackson, John David Washington, Ray Fisher, Michael Potts, Erykah Badu, Skylar Aleece Smith, Danielle Deadwyler, and Corey Hawkins. Synopsis: A battle is brewing in the Charles Household. At the center stands a prized heirloom piano tearing two siblings apart. On one side, a brother (John David Washington) plans to build the family fortune by selling it. On the other, a sister (Danielle Deadwyler) will go to any lengths to hold onto the sole vestige of the family’s heritage. Their uncle (Samuel L. Jackson) tries to mediate, but even he can’t hold back the ghosts of the past. Adapted from August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning masterwork, THE PIANO LESSON explores the intergenerational dynamics of identity, resilience and transcendence - revealing startling truths about how we perceive the past and who gets to define our legacy. The film is directed and co-written by Malcolm Washington in his feature directorial debut. From Oscar nominated producers Denzel Washington and Todd Black, and featuring an all-star cast including Samuel L. Jackson, John David Washington, Ray Fisher, Michael Potts, Erykah Badu, Skylar Aleece Smith with Danielle Deadwyler and Corey Hawkins. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Emilia Pérez – Instant Take | 31 Oct 2024 | 00:16:58 | |
Will Ashton gives his instant take review of Emilia Pérez, directed and written by Jacques Audiard and starring Karla Sofîa Gascón, Zoe Saldaña, and Selena Gomez. Synopsis: From renegade auteur Jacques Audiard comes Emilia Pérez, an audacious fever dream that defies genres and expectations. Through liberating song and dance and bold visuals, this odyssey follows the journey of four remarkable women in Mexico, each pursuing their own happiness. The fearsome cartel leader Emilia (Karla Sofía Gascón) enlists Rita (Zoe Saldaña), an unappreciated lawyer stuck in a dead-end job, to help fake her death so that Emiliacan finally live authentically as her true self. Written and directed by Audiard (Rust and Bone, A Prophet), the double Cannes-winning film also stars Selena Gomez, Adriana Paz, and Edgar Ramírez. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| The Substance | 24 Oct 2024 | 00:51:07 | |
This week on the Cinemaholics podcast, we dive deep into The Substance, Coralie Fargeat's follow-up to Revenge. We discuss the film's blending of body horror and Hollywood satire as performed by Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley with Dennis Quaid. This is a more contentious episode than usual as we have somewhat diverse interpretations of the film based on our own personal reactions to its cultural commentary. The Substance released theatrically last month through Mubi and has a 141-minute runtime. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Anora – Instant Take | 22 Oct 2024 | 00:11:09 | |
Jon Negroni gives his instant take review of Anora, the newest film written and directed by Sean Baker. Mikey Madison stars in this genre-spinning, Palme d'Or winning drama-comedy about a young stripper swept up in a tumultuous romance with the son of a Russian oligarch. The cast also includes Mark Eydelshteyn, Yura Borisov, Karren Karagulian, Vache Tovmasyan, and Aleksei Serebryakov. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Saturday Night | 07 Oct 2024 | 00:41:11 | |
This week on Cinemaholics, we review Saturday Night, a new awards-season comedy depicting the 90 minutes leading up to the airing of SNL's momentous first episode. Jason Reitman directs and co-writes with Gil Kenan, and we discuss the highs and lows of what is ultimately a fantastical, yet uneven origin story with plenty to laugh at. Saturday Night opened in limited release on September 27 and opens wide on October 11 through Sony Pictures Releasing. It has a 109-minute runtime and the (massive) cast includes Gabriel LaBelle, Rachel Sennott, Cory Michael Smith, Ella Hunt, Dylan O'Brien, Emily Fairn, Matt Wood, Lamorne Morris, Kim Matula, Finn Wolfhard, Nicholas Braun, Cooper Hoffman, Andrew Barth Feldman, Kaia Gerber, Tommy Dewey, Willem Dafoe, Matthew Rhys, and J. K. Simmons. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Joker: Folie à Deux has to be some kind of sick, practical joke | 03 Oct 2024 | 00:10:47 | |
Joker: Folie à Deux rolls out into theaters this weekend, and not everyone is smiling about that. Stay tuned for our in-depth review of the film on our main show, but for now here's a spoiler-free reaction. Todd Phillips directed and co-wrote Joker: Folie à Deux with Scott Silver. The film stars Joaquin Phoenix, Lady Gaga, Brendan Gleeson, and Catherine Keener. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Saturday Night – Instant Take | 02 Oct 2024 | 00:14:31 | |
We’ll be doing an in-depth review of Saturday Night on the main show soon, but here is a quick instant take of the film coming right out of the theater. Directed by Jason Reitman and featuring a star-studded cast, Saturday Night chronicles the chaotic 90 minutes leading up to the fateful airing of the first episode of what would eventually become Saturday Night Live, with some of the most iconic actors of the 70s and 80s played by plenty of lesser known actors and comedians in 2024. Fitting, right? Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Pixar's Future Looks Incredibly Bleak Right Now | 19 Sep 2024 | 00:22:38 | |
On this latest edition of Cinemaholics Headlines, Jon Negroni jumps on the mic to share his thoughts on a few big news stories in the world of film and entertainment. Our main story at the end covers some seriously damaging revelations about the working conditions at Pixar in the wake of Inside Out 2's unprecedented success. Headlines:
Extra Credits:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||
| Transformers One – Instant Take | 18 Sep 2024 | 00:13:49 | |
Will Ashton just watched Transformers One, and so we're transforming the "instant take" review this time around into the Will Ashton Instant Take. That's right, Will talks about the new film directed by Josh Cooley without getting into spoilers and shares his reaction coming right out of the theater. Transformers One opens in theaters on September 20 through Paramount Pictures. Links:
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. | |||