Video Podcasts

 

Review: Shoplifters

Episode 18

This week John and Josiah brave the perils of wifi and video streaming to watch the 2018 film SHOPLIFTERS by respected Japanese director, Hirokazu Koreeda. We loved this movie but found it challenging to watch, both because of technical issues and the deep dive into common day Japanese culture. There is much to talk about this one, available on HULU as we publish. It received the Palme D'or at Cannes and was nominated for an Academy Award. It raises the question of what is a family and how does one proceed ethically when living in an economically difficult position. This is a puzzle box of love, relationship and theft.

 

Review: The Fast & Furious Present: Hobbs & Shaw

Episode 14

Another spoiler filled episode of the Racking Focus Podcast where we put the pedal to the metal and drive head on into Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw starring Jason Statham and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Does this "Spinoff" begin to develop the Fast and Furious Extended Cinematic Universe (FFECU)? Are we watching characters or celebrities, is there a story, How old are these characters and does any of this matter in a film like this? 

Review: Blinded by the Light

Episode 17

Although neither John nor Josiah are die hard Springsteen fans, they are both fans of Gurinder Chadha's love letter to the lyrics of the Boss (event though they can be difficult to parse) and this charming film about England in the 1980s. The movie deals with racism, fascism, love and family with some beautiful camera work and some well designed musical set pieces. There is much to discuss. 

We hope you enjoy our new format for part two. 

After seeing the movie, John and Josiah give a hot take on the movie and then break down references and context for the film in the second half of the podcast.

Review: The Farewell

Episode 15

Josiah and John took a trip to see Lulu Wang's masterstroke, The Farewell. They both rated this one pretty high and had a rich discussion about culture, language, story, composition and character. This was one of their best experiences doing the podcast and we hope you will join them in their discussion.

Review: The Kitchen

Episode 16

This week we sit down for a cinematic meal in The Kitchen. Does this movies recipe of Vertigo graphic novel and talented female actors produce a delightful dish or have some ingredients spoiled its flavor? John and Josiah had a rough time with this film. How does the adaption falter?

 

Review: Once Upon a Time in Hollywood

Episode 13

Another spoiler filled episode of the Racking Focus Podcast where we dive into Quentin Tarantino's 9th feature, Once Upon A Time In Hollywood starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt. We're going to talk about our initial thoughts minutes after seeing the film as we sit in the comfort of the car in the theater parking lot.

Review: Spider-Man: Far from Home

Episode 12

We are back with a spoiler filled discussion of Spiderman: Far From Home on the Racking Focus Podcast. We're going to talk about our initial thoughts minutes after seeing the film as we sit in the comfort of the car in the theater parking lot, well maybe not this time, we are in a heat wave on the North East. The second half of the show will take place in the studio and we have a special surprise two minute review of the LION KING with Lisa and Steph.

Review: Midsommar

Episode 11

Another spoiler filled episode of the Racking Focus Podcast where we stare in shock at Ari Aster's Midsommar. We're going to talk about our thoughts minutes after seeing the film as we sit in the comfort of the car in the theater parking lot in broad horrifying daylight in a sweltering car. "The Horror!" Pardoners the hum of the AC to keep us alive.