Explore every episode of the podcast That 70s Movie Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | 10 Nov 2025 | 01:25:18 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael had a worry-free conversation about the 1975 Robert Altman classic, "Nashville." We were joined by Northwestern University Communications Studies professor Heather Hendershot, who is the author of a recent BFI book on the movie. While Jonathan and Heather had nothing but praise for a film widely considered Altman's masterpiece, Michael took issue with "Nashville's" slow pacing and languid plotting. Where we did agree is on the brilliance of Lily Tomlin's performance, our appreciation for Haven Hamilton, and how effectively the film captures America at a crossroads as the country prepared to celebrate its bicentennial. So for the sake of the children, give this episode a listen, because, after all, you can never get enough of That '70s Movie Podcast! | |||
| The Friends of Eddie Coyle | 30 Oct 2025 | 01:10:36 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Michael and Jonathan go to the bank on the 1973 classic "The Friends of Eddie Coyle." We had nothing but praise for this film's naturalistic feel, top-tier location work, razor-sharp pacing, and outstanding acting performances. In particular, we loved Robert Mitchum's lead role, but also went to bat for Richard Jordan and Peter Boyle. We talked about the enduring influence of Eddie Coyle on other filmmakers and wondered whether the reason this movie didn't get as much attention when it came out was that, in an era of great filmmaking, it didn't necessarily stand out! So watch out for pigeons, don't get your hand slammed in the desk drawer, and join us for our conversation about a true New Hollywood classic! | |||
| The Taking of Pelham 1-2-3 | 13 Aug 2025 | 01:09:11 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and I get on board with the 1974 classic "The Taking of Pelham 1-2-3." Is this a great film, a terrific film, or is it a miracle? Is it the best New York City movie ever? We also talk about the 2009 remake and ask, "Should great movies ever get remade?" So bring your Kleenex, set your watches, and stand clear of the closing doors! | |||
| Five Easy Pieces | 08 Aug 2025 | 01:02:53 | |
In our latest episode, Jonathan and I discuss "Five Easy Pieces" and ask: Is this the prototypical 70s movie? Is Bobby Dupea a loner or just a fraidy cat? Is this Jack Nicholson's best performance? Come join us, and please bring your own toast because we don't have any here! | |||
| Taxi Driver | 08 Aug 2025 | 01:35:18 | |
Michael and Jonathon dig deep on one of the classics of American cinema, 'Taxi Driver," and ask how much of what we see in the movie is real ... or is happening in the mind of Travis Bickle. | |||
| All The President's Men | 01 Aug 2025 | 01:07:50 | |
Check out the inaugural episode of That '70s Movie Podcast as we dig into one of the great movies of the decade -- "All The President's Men." | |||
| Looking For Mr. Goodbar | 24 Oct 2025 | 01:12:00 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Michael and Jonathan put on their platform shoes, don their favorite sequined shirts, and turn on the strobe lights for a spirited conversation about the 1977 film "Looking For Mr. Goodbar," starring Diane Keaton (RIP). In this episode, we heap praise on Keaton, not only for her bravura performance in this film but also for her courageous artistic choices and growth as an actor. We reached less consensus on Looking For Mr. Goodbar's occasionally muddled social and political messages. We disagreed on whether Goodbar has a pro-feminist slant or is a regressive film that ducks hard questions -- especially in its choice of villains. But give it a listen and tell us what you think! | |||
| The Conversation | 16 Oct 2025 | 01:24:36 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael are joined by Tom Schaller, political scientist and movie nerd, for a conversation about the 1974 mystery thriller "The Conversation." We talked about why this movie is perhaps the prototypical 1970s New Hollywood film. We discussed Francis Ford Coppola's A+ directing, but also his uneven movie career. We touched on Gene Hackman's GOAT-level filmography, the extraordinary sound design of this movie, and the metaphor that is Harry Caul's Transparent Raincoat. So put on your headphones, pull up the floorboards, and give this one a listen! | |||
| Young Frankenstein | 07 Oct 2025 | 01:02:09 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael bring to life the 1974 comedy classic "Young Frankenstein." In this episode, we discussed our favorite film comedies and why, in general, comedy often doesn't receive the same critical respect as other genres of film. We praised the performances of Cloris Leachman, Madeline Kahn, Peter Boyle, Marty Feldman, and, above all, Gene Wilder. We also talked about the sometimes uneven movie output of director Mel Brooks - and why this might be his most beautiful film. Of course, we picked our favorite scenes from the movie, such as "Could be worse. It could be raining," and "I was going to make espresso," to "Sedagive," "Abby Normal," and "He was my boyfriend." So take a roll in the hay and watch out for werewolves as we go deep on "Young Frankenstein." | |||
| The Parallax View | 29 Sep 2025 | 01:19:14 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Michael and Jonathan take the plunge on the 1974 paranoid thriller, "The Parallax View." We discussed the brilliance of the movie's look and feel, its expert direction and cinematography, but also its occasionally glaring plot holes. We critiqued Warren Beatty's performance in the lead role, talked about whether we're more unsettled by the Parallax Corporation's personality test or its film montages, and asked if the film's hired killers are trying to get caught. So come down from the catwalks (though don't run to the light) ... and join us! | |||
| Three Days Of The Condor | 24 Sep 2025 | 01:20:39 | |
In this week's episode, Michael and Jonathan dived into the 1975 paranoid spy thriller "Three Days of the Condor." We talked about Robert Redford's extraordinary legacy as an actor and movie star, lavished more praise on Faye Dunaway, discussed the often cryptic dialogue in this movie, asked if Max Van Sydow's "Joubert" is a GOAT-level bad guy, and explored the decline in national trust that forms the backdrop for Condor. So open the door and get in the car for "Three Days of the Condor." What could go wrong? | |||
| Network | 12 Sep 2025 | 01:21:21 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathon and Michael get mad as hell about the 1976 classic "Network." We discuss whether this is the best-acted movie of all time, Sidney Lumet's place in the pantheon of great American directors, and Faye Dunaway's ranking among the best actresses of her generation. In addition, we explore Network's continued cultural relevance and how a movie with too many words and too many themes seems to work so well. So get up out of your chair and give it a listen. But whatever you do, "don't touch our distribution rights!!" | |||
| All That Jazz | 04 Sep 2025 | 01:13:32 | |
This week, Michael and Jonathan go all-in with the 1979 Bob Fosse-directed classic "All That Jazz." We discuss whether this semi-autobiographical film is an act of self-flagellation by Fosse or a cry of defiance. We also talked about the brilliance of Roy Scheider's performance, the burden of perfectionism, and whether "All That Jazz" is the best movie ever made about the artistic process. So put on your dancing shoes and pull up those leg warmers because ... "It's Showtime." | |||
| Charley Varrick | 27 Aug 2025 | 00:55:40 | |
This week, Jonathon and Michael land the plane on the 1973 neo-noir classic "Charley Varrick." We discuss whether this is the prototypical 70s film. We ask if Walter Matthau is an underrated sex symbol, and we unpack the meaning of the movie's tag line, "the last of the independents." So get on board and join us as we burn this film to the ground! | |||
| The Towering Inferno | 03 Dec 2025 | 01:10:56 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael turn the firehose on the 1974 disaster movie "The Towering Inferno." We praised the movie's stellar special effects and stunt work, as well as its suspenseful set pieces, while acknowledging that the acting and dialogue were perhaps not the best. We also talked about our favorite disaster movies, explored why people flock to theaters to see terrible things happen, and discussed how nostalgia plays such a fundamental role in what movies we love. So put some wet towels under the front door, tie yourself down, and join us this week for another fiery episode of That '70s Movie Podcast! | |||
| Pat Garrett and Billy The Kid | 20 Nov 2025 | 01:16:31 | |
This week on "That '70s Movie Podcast," Jonathan and Michael knocked on the door of the 1973 revisionist Western, "Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid." We talked at length about James Coburn's astonishing performance as Pat Garrett and why this film is Sam Peckinpah's definitive statement on the Old West (we weren't shy, however, about addressing Peckinpah's problematic legacy). We explored the themes of generational change and the haunting specter of death in the frontier West, evident in nearly every frame of the movie. Finally, we talked about the bleakness of Peckinpah's vision, but why it makes this film so compelling. We even had a few kind words for Bob Dylan's performance (and his music)! So put on your cowboy hat, strap on your six-gun, and don't forget your badge as we explore one of the great, underrated movies of the 1970s. If you're enjoying "That '70s Movie Podcast," please leave a comment or review and tell us what you think ... and give us suggestions about what movies we should talk about next! | |||
| Chinatown | 09 Dec 2025 | 01:17:03 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael were joined by Ron Brownstein as we opened up the floodgates on the 1974 neo-noir thriller, "Chinatown." Ron has written extensively about Los Angeles in the 70s, and he regaled us with stories about the making of the film and, in particular, the drafting of Robert Towne's screenplay, which we all agreed is one of the greatest ever written. We also talked at length about Faye Dunaway's otherworldly performance as Evelyn Mulwray, John Huston's enigmatic (and metaphorical) Noah Cross, Jake Gittes' motivation (and crucial error), and, above all, how Chinatown subverts the noir films of the '40s and '50s with a New Hollywood sensibility. When it comes to 70s cinema, it doesn't get much better than Chinatown, and while you may think you know what you're dealing with when it comes to this film... believe me, you don't (that is it until you listen to this episode)! | |||
| One Battle After Another | 17 Dec 2025 | 01:16:50 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael decided to go in a different direction -- and turned on the green light to discuss the 2025 blockbuster "One Battle After Another." We talked about Paul Thomas Anderson's legacy as a director, the influence of '70s cinema on his filmmaking, and how this film was a departure in form from his previous movies. We praised the performances of Leonardo DiCaprio, Teyana Taylor, and Benicio del Toro, and also marveled at the movie's combination of emotional depth and riveting action and chase sequences. We poked a few holes in "One Battle After Another's" occasionally cartoonish bad guys while discussing the film's larger themes. Is PT Anderson mocking self-described revolutionaries, or instead offering a roadmap for those intent on producing political change? Is the film, at its core, a contrast between political workhorses and showhorses? So jump on the phone, don't forget what time it is, and give the latest episode of That '70s Movie Podcast a listen! Reminder: if you're enjoying the podcast, take a moment to leave a review and tell us what you think! | |||
| Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice | 23 Dec 2025 | 01:16:19 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael climb into bed for the 1969 Paul Mazursky-directed satire, "Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice." We both agreed that even though it was released in late 1969, the film qualifies as a '70s movie, both in terms of structure and content. We loved all four leading actors, notably Dyan Cannon and Robert Culp, especially for his funky wardrobe. While we disagreed about the film's uncertain ending and the consistency of Mazursky's vision, we loved the movie and what it says about America in the late 60s/early 1970s -- and still tells us today. We also spent a few minutes reflecting on the extraordinary career of Rob Reiner, who was taken from us last week ... far too soon. So take off your clothes, jump in the pool, and join us for this week's episode. As always, if you're enjoying the podcast, please leave a review or send us a note and let us know how we're doing! | |||
| Point Blank | 05 Jan 2026 | 01:19:51 | |
This week on that '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael are on a mission ... to talk about the 1967 neo-noir classic "Point Blank." Yes, we know this is not officially a '70s film, but in its structure, themes, and vibe, it fits very much with the New Hollywood of the 1970s. In fact, as we discuss in this episode, "Point Blank" laid the foundation for the cinematic renaissance to come. We also traversed familiar terrain as we discussed how much of the film is real, how much is a dream, and whether it really matters. We had nothing but praise for the stars of the film, Lee Marvin and Angie Dickinson, as well as for director John Boorman, in what was his first major motion picture. "Point Blank" is today a cult classic and for good reason. It's simply a phenomenal film, so join us as we make footsteps in discussing this gem of a movie! As always, please leave a review and let us know what you think of the episode! | |||
| Shampoo | 15 Jan 2026 | 01:13:13 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael get lathered up for the 1975 classic "Shampoo." In this episode, we went deep on "Shampoo's" uniquely political frame; why the backdrop of the 1968 presidential election is its own character in the movie, and whether the film's critique of liberal apathy about the election of Richard Nixon is correct, We heaped praise on Warren Beatty's gutsy and compelling performance, as well as Goldie Hawn's tour de force acting as she goes toe-to-toe with Beatty in the movie's pivotal scene. We had kind words for all the actors in this film, from the ubiquitous '70s character actor, Jack Warden, to the magnetic Julie Christie. So put your hair dryer in your waistband, jump on your motorcycle, and give this episode a listen! | |||
| The Long Goodbye | 26 Jan 2026 | 01:19:53 | |
This week, Jonathan and Michael jumped into the ocean to discuss the Robert Altman neo-noir classic, "The Long Goodbye." We agreed that this is one of Altman's best-directed movies and a fantastic example of revisionist noir. We talked at length about Philip Marlowe's steadfast moral and ethical code, and how it ran headfirst into the changing social mores of the 1970s. We loved the acting performances in this movie, from Elliott Gould as Philip Marlowe and Nina van Pallandt to Sterling Hayden and Mark Rydell -- and the production design that beautifully captured the look of Los Angeles in the 1970s. So break out the cat food, take the Aquavit out of the freezer, and join us for our latest episode! As always, please leave a review and let us know what you think! | |||
| The French Connection | 08 Feb 2026 | 01:12:24 | |
This week, Jonathan and Michael go high-speed on the 1971 classic "The French Connection." We talked at length about the film's multiple, bravura chase scenes and asked if the famous car-train sequence is even the best one in the movie! We debated whether Popeye Doyle, played by Gene Hackman, is a good cop, and questioned whether his character was too one-dimensional and, even more importantly, too amoral. We poked a few holes in the film's plot, but agreed that this is peak '70s action filmmaking and the high point of New Hollywood! So buckle up your seat belts, break out your walking stick, and check out this week's episode. But whatever you do ... don't pick your feet! ** If you're enjoying "That '70s Movie Podcast," please leave a review or send us a note and tell us how we're doing! | |||
| North Dallas Forty | 03 Feb 2026 | 01:09:24 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael tackle the 1979 sports drama, North Dallas Forty. We talked at length about the evolution of sports movies and how the '70s were a golden age for gridiron warriors, punching pugilists, and biking Italians. We heaped praise on Nick Nolte's performance as well as G.D. Spradlin, Charles Durning, and Mac Davis in his first acting performance. Though we agreed North Dallas Forty is far from perfect, it's a great example of how the New Hollywood of the 1970s tackled the sports movie and raised it to another level! So put on your helmet, strap on your shoulder pads, and get in the huddle for this week's episode. | |||
| The Last Picture Show | 23 Feb 2026 | 01:21:36 | |
This week, Jonathan and Michael grabbed some popcorn and headed to the local movie theater to check out the 1971 coming-of-age story "The Last Picture Show." We talked at length about the uniformly extraordinary acting performances in this movie, from Cloris Leachman and Ben Johnson to Cybil Shepherd and Ellen Burstyn; praised Peter Bogdanovich's fantastic direction (but uneven filmography); debated who is the main character in the movie; and discussed how The Last Picture Show is, in many ways, an archetype of the New Hollywood filmmaking of the 1970s, while also an homage to an earlier golden age of movies. So jump on the diving board, chalk up your pool cue, and meet us at the Royal for another episode of That '70s Movie Podcast! If you're enjoying the podcast, please take a moment to leave a review and let us know which film you'd like us to discuss next. | |||
| Days of Heaven & Remembering Robert Duvall | 02 Mar 2026 | 01:16:11 | |
This week on That 70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael separated the wheat from the chaff on the 1978 film "Days of Heaven" ... and we also remembered the career of Robert Duvall, who passed away last month. Both of us praised Duvall's extraordinary career and his roles in some of the greatest films of the 1970s. But we focused most of our discussion on his stellar performance in 1983's "Tender Mercies," for which he won the Oscar for Best Actor. We had a bit less acclaim for "Days of Heaven" and Terence Malick, in general. We found this movie, like many of Malick's films, visually gorgeous but emotionally detached. We agreed that Malick's directorial eye is second to none, but feel his commitment to storytelling is wanting. But we'd love to hear what you think and why we're wrong (or right) about Malick and "Days of Heaven." So crank up the "Flight of the Valkyries," jump on the train, and give a listen to the latest episode of "That '70s Movie Podcast!" | |||
| Klute | 10 Mar 2026 | 01:36:39 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael press play for the 1971 psychological thriller, "Klute." We loved everything about this movie -- from Jane Fonda's unflinching portrayal of Bree Daniels, a Manhattan call girl caught up in a murder investigation led by Detective John Klute (played by Donald Sutherland), to Alan J. Pakula's inspired direction and Gordon Willis's magnificent cinematography. We discussed whether Klute is a feminist movie or if it's even much of a thriller. But overall, we had nothing but praise for a film that is truly a landmark of the New Hollywood cinema of the 1970s. So grab yourself a nice ripe peach, leave your inhibitions at the door, and join us for the latest episode of That '70s Movie Podcast! | |||
| Duel | 20 Mar 2026 | 01:14:00 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael hit the gas for Steven Spielberg's 1971 chase movie, "Duel." We talked at length about Steven Spielberg's legacy as a director and how "Duel" showcases his abundant skills but also shows a very un-Spielbergian edge. We praised the masterful ways Spielberg creates tension and suspense in the film, the numerous bad choices made by the main character, played by Dennis Weaver, and why the movie works best as an allegory. So fix yourself a cheese sandwich (on rye), make sure your radiator hose is working, and give this week's episode a listen. If you're enjoying the podcast, show your support by buying us a cup of coffee! Or just leave a review and tell us what you think! https://buymeacoffee.com/70smovies | |||
| Straight Time | 27 Mar 2026 | 01:20:55 | |
This week on "That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael go up the river for the 1978 crime drama "Straight Time." We loved this nuanced and thematically rich late '70s cult classic, particularly for Dustin Hoffman's grounded and bravura =performance as Max Dembo, an ex-convict trying to follow the straight and narrow ... and failing miserably. But we also had tons of praise for the supporting cast, including Gary Busey, Theresa Russell, and Mr. M. Emmet Walsh, as well as Ulu Grossbard's efficient and effective direction. So pull up your pants, don't dawdle, and give this episode a listen! If you're enjoying the podcast, please consider buying us a cup of coffee, and don't forget to subscribe and leave a comment. We love to hear from you! | |||
| Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? | 06 Apr 2026 | 01:21:42 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael pour a tall one for the 1966 classic "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" In this episode, we marveled at the GOAT-level performances from Elizabeth Taylor (Martha) and Richard Burton (George), praised Mike Nichols' highly cinematic take on a classic American play, and debated what this layered movie is trying to tell us. We also delved into the mystery of George and Martha's marriage, questioned the motives of George Segal (Nick) and Sandy Dennis (Honey), and explained why a movie made in 1966 is featured in a podcast devoted to '70s cinema. So take the fried chicken out of the fridge, grab the bergin from the bar, and settle in for the latest episode of That '70s Movie Podcast! If you're enjoying the podcast, please subscribe and also take a moment to leave a review and let us know which film you'd like us to discuss next. Also, support the podcast by buying us a cup of coffee! | |||
| Marathon Man | 20 Apr 2026 | 01:35:35 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael go the extra mile for the 1976 thriller "Marathon Man." While we enjoyed many of the stylistic elements of this film, we had a blast discussing the many glaring plot holes (we came up with 12), including poorly placed carriage bombs, bad tonsorial choices, inexplicable post-stabbing decision-making, strangely bouncing soccer balls, and oddly timed baths. This was a fun one with laughs aplenty, so stick your stopwatch in your pants, chew down a few carats, and let us know if the latest episode of That '70s Movie Podcast is safe! As always, leave a review and let us know what you think. And, if you're enjoying the show, please buy us a cup of coffee! https://buymeacoffee.com/70smovies | |||
| Dog Day Afternoon | 10 May 2026 | 01:21:50 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael wave the white flag for the 1975 classic "Dog Day Afternoon." This is 70s, New York filmmaking at its absolute peak. Phenomenal acting performances from Al Pacino, John Cazale, Charles Durning, and Chris Sarandon, inspired direction from the underappreciated master Sidney Lumet, Dede Allen's brilliantly paced editing, a razor-sharp screenplay by Frank Pierson, and wonderful cinematography from Victor Kemper. It doesn't get much better than this stone-cold classic. So grab your guns, book your flight to Wyoming, and step out on the sidewalk for the latest episode of "That '70s Movie Podcast." If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe and also buy us a cup of coffee! https://buymeacoffee.com/70smovies | |||
| Sex, Lies and Videotape | 21 May 2026 | 01:24:43 | |
This week on that '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael get brutally honest about the 1989 indie classic, "Sex, Lies and Videotape." One of the credos of the podcast is that not every '70s film was made in the 1970s, and "Sex, Lies and Videotape," written and directed by Steven Soderbergh, is the kind of small, personal, character-driven film that reflects the ethos of the New Hollywood. Plus, it's a fantastic movie and in a storied filmmaking career, Soderbergh's masterpiece. We loved all the acting performances, particularly Andie McDowell, who is simply astonishing. We talked at length about the naturalistic dialogue, Soderbergh's subtle yet effective directorial and editing choices that belie his inexperience as a filmmaker, and the deeper themes of intimacy and sexuality at the heart of this movie. So turn on the camera, pour yourself a glass of iced tea (no lemon), cancel all your meetings, and join us for this week's episode of That '70s Movie Podcast. If you haven't already, please take a moment to subscribe to the podcast and if you're enjoying it, consider buying us a cup of coffee! https://buymeacoffee.com/70smovies | |||
| Two Lane Blacktop | 02 Jun 2026 | 01:21:07 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael check under the hood for the 1971 cult classic "Two Lane Blacktop." We were joined this week by film critic extraordinaire and author of "Sofia Coppola: The Complete Unofficial Guide," Christina Newland. We talked with Christina about director Monte Hellman's existential approach to filmmaking, Mr. Warren Oates' wonderful performance, the more "wooden" acting from James Taylor and Dennis Wilson, and, most of all, the film's exploration of masculinity, aimlessness, searching for the next high, and the uniquely American phenomenon of the road movie. This was a great discussion with a fantastic guest! So peel some hard-boiled eggs, grab your mechanic, and come join us for the latest episode of That '70s Movie Podcast. If you're enjoying the show, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, or even buy us a cup of coffee! https://buymeacoffee.com/70smovies | |||
| Mikey and Nicky | 09 Jun 2026 | 01:20:07 | |
This week on That '70s Movie Podcast, Jonathan and Michael climb the gate for the 1976 classic "Mikey and Nicky." We were thrilled to finally discuss a film directed by the legendary Elaine May -- one of the few female directors who cracked this glass ceiling in the male-dominated New Hollywood. We loved May's directorial choices and her razor-sharp script. We were wowed by the astonishing, emotionally wrought performances from co-leads John Cassavetes and Peter Falk, the beautiful night-time filming, and the thematic richness of this movie. There's so much to discuss with "Mikey and Nicky," and Jonathan and I did our best to hit it all! So grab 15 bottles of cream, listen to the latest news on Indochina, recite the Kaddish, and check out this week's edition of "That '70s Movie Podcast." If you can, please take a moment to subscribe, leave a comment, or buy us a cup of coffee! | |||