Reel Chat

**CLOUD ATLAS (2012) – COMMISSIONED SPECIAL NO. 1 – REEL CHAT 107.0** Oct 10, 2019
Welcome to Episode 107 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This is our very first commissioned special – brought to you by Reel Chat listener and supporter Matt Devanny.

Based on the New York Times best-selling novel of the same name by David Mitchell, 2012’s “Cloud Atlas” is an exploration of how the actions of individual lives impact one another in the past, present and future. The story is a time-shifting weave of six interlinking narratives, with diverse settings from the savagery of a Pacific Island in the 1850s to a dystopian Korea of the near future.

“Cloud Atlas” has been called “ambitious” and “polarising,” and I suppose, those are fair and accurate assessments. Directed by the Wachowskis and Tom Tykwer (of “Run Lola Run” fame), the film is an absorbing and stimulating exploration of various themes concerning the human condition and Cartesian thought. It’s certainly not everyone’s cup of tea. It asks thought-provoking, philosophical questions while managing to entertain and dazzle some, while bamboozling and frustrating others.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is returning regular Penny Jelly, as well as Reel Chat stalwart Michael Hadjion and “Cloud Atlas” appreciator Andy Hazel.

NOTE ON THIS EPISODE

This commissioned episode of Reel Chat will be its last in this current format. It was recorded before this decision was finalised, so it plays as a regular episode would – minus my “Final Word” for the simple reason that I didn’t want the show to go on hiatus on the back of a big negative review. (Spoiler: “Cloud Atlas” wasn’t exactly for me – at least on this viewing.)

There are a number of important factors that have contributed to this decision. As I’m sure most of you know, these creative endeavours are driven by passion. The time, work and money that goes into each and every episode needs to be a worthwhile investment – not just for me, but for my entire team. Unfortunately Reel Chat is no longer meeting these requirements. But this doesn’t mean it never can. Particularly with the right backing and support.

My advice to our loyal listeners who want to see it go on – people power is integral. Share our back catalog with other like minded movie fans. Demand its return!

I’d like to personally thank everyone who has been such an integral part of its life since we released our inaugural episode at the end of 2014.

As Reel Chat contributors Jesse and Damon have rightly pointed out to me directly of late, this is not necessarily the end – just the end of this chapter. Hopefully I can rekindle the spark and bring back Reel Chat (or something similar) with a new coat of paint as well as a clear and exciting new direction. I love film and love sharing my passion with other like minded personalities.

Thank you so much for tuning in. In the words of the Terminator – “I’ll be back!”

*Adam Stolfo*

**THE AVENGERS (2012) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 65 – REEL CHAT 106.0** Sep 05, 2019
Welcome to Episode 106 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Writer/Director Joss Whedon pulled off the impossible with 2012’s “The Avengers”, uniting various superheroes who enjoyed successful standalone features prior to this potentially disastrous effort. Showered in Whedon’s signature off-beat humour and one-liner wit, the plot terrifically balances a somewhat weighty tone inspired by the events and character developments of earlier entries with plenty of eye-catching visuals and thrilling action.

“The Avengers” still holds up as one of the better superhero flicks among a swamp-thick ocean of superhero overexposure. It’s funny looking back and thinking screens felt overflowing with fantastical tales about arrogant millionaires in flying iron suits, ill-tempered green giants sporting some daisy dukes, a god of thunder with daddy issues and a military experiment turned WWII hero. Oh, and we’re going to throw into the mix, just for good measure, a former Russian spy with deadly martial arts skills, a highly-talented master archer and a cycloptic Samuel L. Jackson as the crotchety director of a mysterious super-secret government agency. Thankfully, what could have been a complete disaster actually became a shockingly good time at the movies, terrifically satisfying on every level – at least for comic book movie-loving fans.

Joining your non-fan host Adam Stolfo is returning filmmaker Jesse O’Brien, as well as fellow podcasters (and Marvel super-fans) James Davidson and Tyson Legg. Join the team as they discuss, in detail, the sixth film in the all-conquering Marvel Cinematic Universe, as well as the life and career of writer/director Joss Whedon, the large ensemble cast, it’s Blu-ray and 4K release, Alan Silvestri’s “Avengers Theme” and epic score, it’s layering of the foundation of modern-day Hollywood blockbusters, and much, much more!

So does “The Avengers” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 65 where it belongs?

**RETURN OF THE JEDI (1983) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 66 – REEL CHAT 105.0** Aug 22, 2019
Welcome to Episode 105 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

At this point, George Lucas hardly needs more hullabaloo. 1983’s “Return Of The Jedi” marks a triumph for Lucas and his production family – the third of three movies made over a span of 6 years that stand together as a unit, a mass entertainment coup. And as it turns out – that was just the beginning!

“Jedi” fails to be either as fresh as “A New Hope” or as surprising as “The Empire Strikes Back”. Too much is predictable here (such as the appearance of a second Death Star) and too many compromises were made for the younger audience members (the very presence of the Ewoks, for example) which is especially noticeable after the more adult themes of the previous installment. That said, “Jedi” does manage to adequately complete the story arc of the original trilogy. There’s nice symmetry with the way the character storylines are wrapped up, and there’s enough action to keep the film interesting and just as engaging as its predecessors.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo to tackle “Jedi” for a second time is returning filmmaker Jesse O’Brien, as well as fellow Star Wars super-fans James Davidson and Sam Aftasi. Join the team as they discuss the film’s many versions, its controversial Special Edition, the work of creator George Lucas, the mysterious (and unknown) world of director Richard Marquand, Jesse’s run-in with the son of Kenny Baker (R2-D2)… as well as Adam’s take on how “Jedi” may have ended in an “alternate” universe!

So does “Return Of The Jedi” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 66 where it belongs?

**MEMENTO (2000) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 67 – REEL CHAT 104.0** Aug 09, 2019
Welcome to Episode 104 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Leonard Shelby (Guy Pearce) has a “condition.” He’ll be the first one to tell you. He’ll be the second one to tell you. He’ll even be the third one to tell you. But whether this condition makes sufferers behave the way Leonard does in director Christopher Nolan’s 2000 thriller “Memento” is a question for the experts. It certainly makes for one trippy, challenging movie.

Told in a convoluted, flashback-filled narrative, Leonard witnesses the death of his wife and subsequently develops short-term memory loss. He can remember everything about his life before his wife’s murder, but every memory afterward disappears within moments. Since he can no longer file away the events of his life in his head, he writes notes and sticks them in his pockets. He takes Polaroids and adds captions. He even turns himself into an illustrated man, tattooing upon his every limb “the facts,” immutable truths about the man who raped and murdered his wife. The man he has sworn to find and kill.

But Christopher Nolan isn’t content to merely tell the story of a man with no short-term memory trying to avenge his wife’s murder. In a daring gamble, the story is told backwards. The ending comes first, followed by the scene that, in real time, came before it. Nolan has created a masterful approximation of life the way Leonard experiences it. We don’t just live in Leonard’s world. We live in Leonard’s head.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is returning filmmakers Greg Pakis and Saara Lamberg, as well as fellow podcaster Ryan Kendall. Join the team as they discuss the film’s non-linear structure, it’s cast and “brand” of a director, it’s surprisingly bland mystery, its close to perfect exploration of the neurobiology of memory, the atmospheric score of David Julyan, it’s alternate (and re-sequenced) DVD special edition (hidden on the disc as an Easter Egg) and as always – much, much more!

So does “Memento” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 67 where it belongs?

Host Adam Stolfo with special guest filmmakers Greg Pakis and Saara Lamberg as well as podcaster Ryan Kendall.

**GHOSTBUSTERS (1984) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 68 – REEL CHAT 103.0** Jul 26, 2019
Welcome to Episode 103 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Like most great comedies, 1984’s “Ghostbusters” relies on the interactions and conversations between its characters, but leaves enough headroom for some great visuals that play along with the gags. The rest of the film reveals something greatly lacking in many modern comedies: smart dialogue, full of quips, cynicism, sarcasm, and all-around zaniness that feels spontaneous rather than scripted. From the Columbia Pictures logo, accompanied by Elmer Bernstein’s eerie score, to the moment the iconic theme song is cued, a smile full of fond memories plasters itself to the audience’s faces. Everything that follows is a grandiose spectacle of comedy and special effects, enhanced by an outstanding cast that makes the film feel as fresh and original as it did when it originally premiered in 1984.

The creative team rightly allowed Bill Murray to go all out with Venkman and establish that cynical comic persona for which he is now celebrated. With director Ivan Reitman reining it all together, the spook-fest that is “Ghostbusters” still produces laughs of epic proportions. Demonstrating that big-budget special effects can mesh well with laugh-out-loud comedy, the film also enjoys being one of the most successful comedy franchises ever made and continues to convert a new generation of fans with each viewing.

Joining your host Dr. Adam Stolfo (the mouth of Reel Chat) is Dr. Michael Hadjion (the heart of Reel Chat), Dr. Damon Quah (the brains of Reel Chat) and special guest panelist Tyson Legg of the “Nic, Tys and Videotape” podcast (our token African-American every-man). Join the team as they discuss the film’s ongoing legacy, its origins, the work and career of director Ivan Reitman (he’s a genius), the unforgettable cast, its upcoming 2020 sequel, the decisions on where they used (and did not use) Elmer Bernstein’s score, the current state of the Ghostbusters franchise as a whole, and as always – much, much more!

This is of course a very special episode of Reel Chat, as it marks the third time the show has revisited a film that’s already been covered – all the way back in January 2015 (Episode 1).

So does “Ghostbusters” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 68 where it belongs?

**SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN (1952) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 69 – REEL CHAT 102.0** Jul 10, 2019

Welcome to Episode 102 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Hollywood has produced dozens of dazzling, lively, and artistic musicals over the past eight decades, but if there’s one picture that epitomizes the genre and everything we love about it, it would have to be ‘Singin’ In The Rain.’ Though not as sophisticated as “Gigi”, as groundbreaking or substantive as “West Side Story”, as romantic or inspirational as “The Sound Of Music”, or as edgy and biting as “Chicago”, this beloved, tuneful romp explodes with energy, exuberance, satirical humour, innocence, and whimsy. It doesn’t take itself seriously, yet stands as a serious example of why movies captivate our minds and stoke our senses.

A nostalgic tribute and light-hearted spoof of the early days of talking pictures, “Singin’ In The Rain” honours its industry while savagely lampooning it.
Though the script makes good-natured fun of a host of Hollywood foibles – from splashy premieres, backstage backstabbing, and oversized egos to stuffy elocution experts, creative short-sightedness, and performer stereotypes – at its core, “Singin’ In The Rain” is a sweet, naive love story played with winning earnestness by Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds. The lack of pretension, mystifying talent, and sheer joy that emanate from every frame of “Singin’ In The Rain” are what make this beloved film so memorable and so worthy of repeat viewings. Does it deserve it’s reputation as one of the greatest musicals ever made?

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is returning special guest panelists Andy Hazel and Glen O’Brien. Join the team as they discuss the fascinating work and career of co-director/star Gene Kelly, his partner in crime Stanley Donen, the film’s superb cast, it’s amazing costumes, it’s many memorable songs (including its use of the famous title song), it’s legacy and pop cultural impact, it’s worthy Blu-ray release (outside of Australia anyway), and as always – much, much more!

So does “Singin’ In The Rain” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 69 where it belongs?

**THE LION KING (1994) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 70 – REEL CHAT 101.0** Jun 27, 2019

Welcome back to Episode 101 of the “Reel Chat Podcast” – the premiere episode of our brand new (and fifth) season. After a brief hiatus, we continue with our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Magical and memorable, rip-roaring and heartbreaking, 1994’s “The Lion King” efficiently re-purposes elements of both Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” and their very own “The Jungle Book” (scary, scarred cat seizes control of a pack by killing their leader; orphaned and outcast ‘cub’ is befriended by lovable but goofy animals who sing and dance him around until he’s ready to face the bad guy who killed his dad). Indeed, it was even originally titled “King Of The Jungle.”

These familiar elements are forged into a timeless tale of betrayal, tragedy and revenge, further embellished with some coming-of-age fun and training-for-the-big-fight moments, with maybe a little childhood sweetheart romance thrown in for good measure. Sure, it’s not perfect – the powerful emotional impact of its first and last acts is somewhat undone by an arguably necessary but still diluent middle act filled with slapstick comedy characters and playful merriment montages, and some of the character motivations are questionable – but it’s the “Rocky” of Disney features; a tremendous underdog tale of epic proportions. With it’s stunning animation, “The Lion King” – which was actually expected to be vastly overshadowed by the then-upcoming “Pocahontas” – was a masterclass in simple storytelling and features a fantastic score (who would have ever thought that Elton John meets Hans Zimmer would work!?).

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is the returning Michael Hadjion, as well as special guest Patreon supporter Ben Houghton. Join the team as they discuss the film’s staggering financial and critical success, it’s upcoming 2019 CGI remake, it’s legacy as the most successful 2D animated film of all time, the work and career of co-directors Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff, the film’s iconic voice cast, the well-known controversies, Hans Zimmer’s Academy Award winning score, the memorable songs of Elton John and Tim Rice, it’s plethora of home video releases, as well as touching upon it’s direct-to-video sequels and it’s long-running Broadway musical.

So does “The Lion King” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 70 where it belongs?

**REEL CHAT: 100th EPISODE CELEBRATION – REEL CHAT 100.0** Apr 12, 2019

Welcome to Episode 100 of the “Reel Chat Podcast” – a podcast that has always promised our listeners and fans, whether here or abroad, the “Reel World as we know it”.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo on this special celebratory episode is an extensive rotating team of Reel Chat regulars and special guests. Adam gave them all tasks as well. A “must listen” for all movie fans and podcast fans alike.

First up (in Group 1), Adam is joined by Reel Chat regular Penny Jelly, Adam’s long-term friend James Davidson and special guest co-hosts of the “Nic, Tys and Videotape” podcast – Tyson Legg and Nic Kaschke.

In Group 2, Adam is joined by Reel Chat stalwarts Andrew McCaskill and Damon Quah, as well as special guests – filmmaker Saara Lamberg and Ryan Kendall.

Next up in Group 3, Adam is joined by his regular subs – filmmaker Jesse O’Brien and Adam’s best mate Michael Hadjion, as well as long-term friend Ben Houghton and Adam’s wife Helen Seta Stolfo, who finally makes her debut appearance here after 100 episodes.

And in Group 4 (the final group), Adam is joined by the multi-talented Andy Hazel, long-time listener and super fan Evalin Ling, the “Professor” Glen O’Brien and Adam’s long-term high school mate Sam Aftasi (on short notice).

This is the most jam-packed episode of Reel Chat yet. Audio messages from our special guests, listeners and fans… highlights from the early days… unexpected surprises… it’s all here in Reel Chat 100!

Adam would like to personally thank everyone for being such a big part of such a special evening of celebration. And a special thanks to everyone who has contributed to Reel Chat since it’s inception in 2015. This episode is a quintessential celebration of the milestone achievement.

New Reel Chat theme song is “Monody” by TheFatRat.

**ARROWHEAD (2016) – TEAM FOCUS NO. 1 – REEL CHAT 99.0** Mar 28, 2019

Welcome to Episode 99 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we introduce the first episode of our Team Focus spin-off series – a concept that gives the Reel Chat team a chance to give their retrospective treatment to film projects by our very own team members and special guests, complete with the filmmakers present on the episode. An exclusive insight if you like.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Reel Chat regulars Andrew McCaskill, Penny Jelly and Damon Quah, as well as the writer/director extraordinaire himself Jesse O’Brien. For this first episode, Reel Chat chose Jesse’s ambitious science fiction film “Arrowhead” (2016) which follows Kye (Dan Mor), a prisoner of war in an unspecified future who is tasked with a rescue mission, but is ultimately stranded on a desert moon.

With a background in effects work, O’Brien wrote a script for his feature debut that incorporated impressive CGI that he knew how to achieve himself, plus he had made a 10-minute proof of concept short film, “Arrowhead: Signal” which illustrated that the ambitious filmmaker had an achievable vision.

Made in Australia for a mere $187k, “Arrowhead” really is a remarkable achievement in every sense of the word and we’ve done our best to do Jesse’s feature film debut the justice it so rightly deserves.

We advise you all to please support Jesse and check out his film before listening to our podcast. We have included a number of useful links below to make it as easy as possible.

**THE THEATRICAL TRAILER:**
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UyqJF7WkC-g

**iTUNES:**
https://itunes.apple.com/au/movie/arrowhead/id1117269755

**INSTAGRAM:**
www.instagram.com/arrowheadmovie

**FACEBOOK:** Where you can watch the all encompassing “Into The Desert: The Complete Making Of Arrowhead” documentary
https://www.facebook.com/ArrowheadMovie/

**BLU-RAY & DVD RELEASE:**
https://www.jbhifi.com.au/movies-tv-shows/movies-tv-shows-on-sale/australian-cinema/arrowhead/950748/
https://www.jbhifi.com.au/movies-tv-shows/movies-tv-shows-on-sale/australian-cinema/arrowhead/950752/

A big thank you from the Reel Chat team for your willingness to support Australian independent content.

**OSCARS 2019 & MOVIES 80-71 RECAP SPECIAL – REEL CHAT 98.0** Mar 16, 2019
Welcome to Episode 98 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” Well, we’re flying! We’re officially 3/10 of the way through our “epic” countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo for this special recap episode is Reel Chat regulars Andrew McCaskill and Penny Jelly, as well as the returning Jesse O’Brien. Join the team as they touch upon last month’s 91st Academy Awards before breaking down in more detail the third block of 10 movies in Empire’s prestigious Greatest Movies list. Rankings, tallies, controversy – it’s all here for even the most hardened (or opinionated) of podcast listeners.

**ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY (2016) – LOST FILM NO. 1 – REEL CHAT 97.0** Mar 07, 2019

Welcome to Episode 97 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we introduce the first episode of our Lost Films spin-off series – a concept that has the Reel Chat team revisit some of the franchises they’ve covered in the past, but are, for all intents and purposes, currently incomplete or unfinished on the show.

2016’s “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” takes place between Episode III and Episode IV and tells the tale of how the Rebel Alliance came to be in possession of the plans to the Empire’s ultimate weapon, the Death Star, the destruction of which would drive the original 1977 film. Is it better than the Prequel Trilogy that George Lucas gave us? Most certainly. Does it compare favourably with the Original Trilogy and 2015’s “The Force Awakens”? Not really. That leaves “Rogue One” somewhere in the middle among Star Warsmovies – a title that is neither as good as you’ve heard or as bad as you may have feared. It looks sensational, but ultimately director Gareth Edward’s side story is just kind of well… pointless.

Perhaps the biggest issue with “Rogue One” is its lack of characterisation and its parade of seemingly single-dimension characters. We only learn a little about our lead character, Jyn (Felicity Jones), during the course of the movie and next-to-nothing about the supporting cast – who all give fine performances, but never reveal much beyond their basic personalities. Yes, I realise this is only a slightly over two-hour movie, and yes, I realise the primary focus here is on action – but I felt I learned a whole lot more about Rey, Finn, and Kylo Ren after watching “The Force Awakens” than I did any single one of the characters in “Rogue One”, and that’s a shame because this is the only film we’ll see with these actors playing these parts. It was frustrating that the movie didn’t feel the need to delve further into what makes each one of them tick.

Another problem with the movie is just how much “fan service” takes place. For a movie that wants so hard to be different, there’s a ridiculous number of nods towards other parts of the franchise – starting with five (count ’em, five) major characters that show up from the original film, and a few minor characters from that film as well.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Reel Chat regulars Andrew McCaskill and Penny Jelly, as well as special guest (and long-term friend of Adam’s) James Davidson. Join the team as they discuss the reasons for the film’s financial success, the current state of the Star Wars franchise, the unmemorable cast of characters, the film’s use of Darth Vader (in arguably its best sequence), the terrible CGI recreations of actors from yesteryear, as well as attempting to answer the unanswerable question of exactly which film-going audience this movie is actually made for.

**TOP GUN (1986) – WTF MOVIE NO. 1 – REEL CHAT 96.0** Feb 20, 2019

Welcome to Episode 96 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we introduce the first episode of our WTF (or “What The Film!?”) spin-off series – a concept that has the Reel Chat team explore some of the more glaring omissions from the Empire Top 100 – films that the team feel should be on the list based on popularity, critical acclaim and particularly the tag of “Greatest Movies”.

One of the biggest blockbuster films of the eighties, Tony Scott’s “Top Gun” not only made Tom Cruise one of the most recognisable stars in Hollywood, it also made a nation of young boys yearn for a chance to fly a fighter jet and feel first-hand the “need for speed”. The film embodied everything 1980s and served as a showcase of American aerial might and superiority as the Cold War drew to a close.

Say what you will about Tom Cruise, but he is the right actor for the lead in this film. His grin is annoying, he’s cockier than any one man has any right to be, and at times he’s pretty annoying, but he fits the story and the whole tone of the movie perfectly. He’s the brash and obnoxious icing on a completely superficial, substance free cake! Like Cruise’s performance, the film itself is really all show.

“Top Gun” has got plenty of style and it hits all the requisite notes in terms of the setup, the love interest, the subplots and the payoff to pretty much set it on a pedestal as one of the finest formula movies ever made. It was a huge success and it’s had a pretty massive influence, not only on the movies that followed it, but on pop culture in general – to the point where parts of the film have worked their way into the modern catch phrase vernacular. While it has all the depth of a beer commercial, the film made scads of money and, as hokey as it is, it remains entertaining regardless of its obvious superficiality.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Reel Chat stalwarts Andrew McCaskill, Penny Jelly, as well as returning special guest Ben Highton from The Arniethology / Cruisecast podcast. Join the team as they discuss Tom Cruise in one of his most-cherished performances, the legendary supporting cast, the legacy and work of director Tony Scott, Harold Faltermeyer’s decade-defining score, the popular soundtrack release, as well as the many, many quotable quips and gags. As the Cruise specialist, Ben also gives us a run down of the many “Cruise-isms” present in “Top Gun”.

So does “Top Gun” deserve a spot in the Top 100?

**HOT FUZZ (2007) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 71 – REEL CHAT 95.0** Feb 05, 2019

Welcome to Episode 95 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

A key component shared by many British comedies seems to be their unique ability to derive laughs from watching dry-toned people encountering bizarre circumstances. As situations become more and more ridiculous, it’s endlessly fun to watch characters try to maintain their composure regardless of what’s happening to them. 2007’s “Hot Fuzz” uses this standard of British comedy to great effect and the film works on many different levels – as a buddy-cop comedy, as a parody of the genre, and even as social commentary.

Perhaps best of all, even as it fills its action beats with parody, “Hot Fuzz” manages to maintain a genuine respect for the balls-out intensity of 80s and 90s genre films. As such, the action scenes boast top notch stunts and camera work, drawing as many cheers as it does laughs. The only main drawback I could find in “Hot Fuzz” came from comparing writer/director Edgar Wright and collaborator Simon Pegg’s earlier parody “Shaun Of The Dead”. While the first film clips along with intense focus, “Hot Fuzz” occasionally meanders. The second act, in particular, has a tough time getting to the point and sometimes chases unnecessary subplots. Still, “Hot Fuzz” is a good, fun flick. Chemistry is strong between the actors, and love for film is on display at all times.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Penny Jelly, Damon Quah, the returning Matt O’Neill, as well as special guests Scott Carelli and Nick Jimenez from Dueling Genre Productions in Los Angeles, California. Join the team as they discuss the work and career of writer/director Edgar Wright, the film’s stars and (very British) supporting cast, the many wonderful cameo appearances, the many nods and winks to the genre films it pays homage to, David Arnold’s score, the overloaded feature-laden Blu-ray and DVD release, and much, much more!

So does “Hot Fuzz” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 71 where it belongs?

**REAR WINDOW (1954) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 72 – REEL CHAT 94.0** Jan 24, 2019

Welcome to Episode 94 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

1954’s “Rear Window” might just be a perfect film. If not a perfect film, then perfect Hitchcock. It’s impossible to draw a line between the mystery and the suspense, the story and the setting, or the performances and John Michael Hayes’ dialogue. A melting pot of paranoia, isolation and the very real threat of murder most foul, it teases and toys, accelerates and tiptoes, delights and surprises, shocks and scares. It’s Hitchcock at his peak. Hitchcock at his most playful. Hitchcock at his most devious. Grace Kelly’s search of Raymond Burr’s apartment is torture, even all these years after the fact; torture made all the more unbearable with the knowledge that Jimmy Stewart’s wheelchair-bound L.B. Jeffries is helpless to do much of anything as Burr’s suspected murderer, Lars Thorwald, returns and catches Kelly’s Lisa in the act. Even then, his guilt or innocence is uncertain. Even then, we’re forced to ask if Jeffries has it all wrong. The single, shocking image that follows shortly after – of Thorwald craning his neck and staring directly at Jeffries – is as brilliant a shot and sequence as any Hitchcock committed to film. It’s also a testament to his prowess and punch as a filmmaker, not to mention his keen sense of pacing, plotting and mounting unease. All the distraction, all the pleasantries, all the characters, all the suspicion, all the suspense… all to form an inseparable bond between viewer and voyeur.

Be it drama, horror or comedy, psychological stunner, monster movie or international spy thriller, is it any mystery that filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock was known as the Master of Suspense? Is it any wonder his movies still hold hypnotic sway over film fans all these years later?

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Andrew McCaskill, Penny Jelly and special guest Reel Chat (and Hitchcock) super fan Glen O’Brien. Join the team as they discuss the genius of Hitchcock, the curiosity of voyeurism, the film’s constant permeation into pop culture, the original Cornell Woolrich short story “It Had To Be Murder”, the iconic cast, as well as the film’s legacy and stature as a genuine masterpiece of cinema.

So does “Rear Window” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 72 where it belongs?

**SEVEN SAMURAI (1954) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 73 – REEL CHAT 93.0** Jan 10, 2019
Happy New Year everyone! Welcome to Episode 93 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” As we start this new calendar year, Reel Chat continues the countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

To put Akira Kurosawa’s 1954 epic drama “Seven Samurai” into perspective may be a bit difficult. Instead, to help paint the picture of how highly regarded and loved this film is, I’ll use the facts. Currently standing at number thirteen on IMDb’s Top 250 (while often finding itself in the single digits), “Seven Samurai” has been called the greatest film of all time (regardless of age or country of origin) by Empire magazine (2010), is the top rated action film of all time on Rotten Tomatoes with a full 100%, was nominated for two Academy Award nominations (for Best Art Decorations and Best Costumes, black and white categories), and has been named to more top one hundred (and top ten) all time film lists than I’d care to keep track of. Many have imitated it, though none have equaled or bested it. Running at over 200 minutes in length, “Seven Samurai” is no ordinary cinematic endurance marathon. In fact, the only time it reminds us that it’s any longer than any standard film is during the intermission at around the two hour mark.

Tragic, yet joyous… dead serious, yet amazingly humorous… “Seven Samurai” is a film that defies convention, and is a must-see for fans of the medium of film… but does it hold up in 2019? And is it for everyone?

Joining your host Adam Stolfo for a new calendar year of Reel Chat goodness is Andrew McCaskill and Penny Jelly. Join the team as they discuss the iconic stature of Akira Kurosawa, his crazy set blocking and editing techniques, the film’s cast, the score by composer Fumio Hayasaka, the film’s numerous versions, inspirations and much, much more!

So does “Seven Samurai” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 73 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**MULHOLLAND DRIVE (2001) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 74 – REEL CHAT 92.0** Dec 20, 2018
Welcome to Episode 92 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week, in our swan song episode for 2018, we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

After three successive box office flops, and nearly a decade spent relegated back to the fringes of the film scene, director David Lynch returned to prominence in 2001 with a new movie that netted him a Best Director trophy at Cannes, an Academy Award nomination for the same title (his third), and a level of both critical and popular respect that he hadn’t experienced since the heyday of “Twin Peaks” (1990-1991). The word “masterpiece” gets tossed around a lot in reference to Lynch’s 2001 psychological thriller “Mulholland Drive”… even if we can’t actually grasp what the big mystery is.

The film has been read as a deconstruction of the way that Hollywood eats women alive, turning them on each other and themselves, favouring the men pulling the levers behind-the-scenes, and it certainly is that. Like Betty (Naomi Watts), Lynch is in love with his fantasies, but he recognises many of them, particularly as shaped by corporate Hollywood, to be built on nightmares, complicating the pleasure they bring. With this epic tapestry, one of the richest, finest, and most bottomless of all films, Lynch channeled the elusive and contradictory textures of desire, moving beyond either/or dichotomies of good and evil or black and white. Or brunette and blonde.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Andrew McCaskill, Penny Jelly and returning special guest Andy Hazel. Join the team as they discuss the film’s original form – the TV pilot (that wasn’t meant to be), the work and career of David Lynch, the haunting synth score of Angelo Badalamenti, and, as a special bonus – Andy gives us a detailed (and credible) answer to exactly what is going on… and whether or not this film can actually be decoded.

So does “Mulholland Drive” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 74 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andy 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**FARGO (1996) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 75 – REEL CHAT 91.0** Dec 12, 2018
Welcome to Episode 91 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Edgy. Goofy. Quirky. Intense. All these adjectives describe the work of Joel and Ethan Coen in general and their 1996 award-winner “Fargo” in particular. This wild, wonderfully weird, quasi-comedic thriller transports us to a far-off land filled with perennially cheery, exceedingly polite people who bend over backward to make the world a bright, happy place – when they’re not killing each other of course.

Though there’s plenty of action, the film is really character driven, and the Coens, who picked up an Academy Award for their screenplay, create a gallery of fascinating specimens. The fun of “Fargo” lies in watching all these eccentric creatures interact, and hearing them spout all the regional lingo. From the “Oh, yahs” to the “You betchas,” the Coens perfectly capture the dialect’s rhythm and timbre, and smoothly incorporate it into the dialogue. This searing blend of macabre humour and brutality stands as one of the Coen brothers’ best efforts, and is very much an American original.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Andrew McCaskill, Penny Jelly and Damon Quah. Join the team as they discuss the brilliance of the Cohens, the amazing cast, Roger Deakins’ outstanding cinematography, the underrated work of composer Carter Burwell, the regional accents, as well as the relevance of the Cohens choosing to include the scene in which Marge visits Mike, the Asian man she went to high school with.

So does “Fargo” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 75 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Damon 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**A CLOCKWORK ORANGE (1971) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 76 – REEL CHAT 90.0** Nov 29, 2018
Welcome to Episode 90 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

To call Stanley Kubrick’s “A Clockwork Orange” controversial would be an understatement. When it was originally released in 1971, its graphic depictions of sex and violence caused an uproar around the world. The film was heavily protested, received the most restrictive ratings available (including an X-rating in the US), and was ultimately blamed for a series of copycat crimes that occurred in the UK. Kubrick even barred his film from UK distribution after he began to receive death threats. Through it all, perhaps the most shocking thing about the film is that it still manages to offend and disturb viewers nearly 50 years later.

Kubrick pulls deep performances from his actors and sets them against uniquely unsettling cinematography. Say what you will about his stories or thematic interests, but Kubrick was an amazing filmmaker, and he played every trump card he had in “A Clockwork Orange.” Even people who can’t stand the cynical tone of the film or its disturbing imagery should at least be able to appreciate the art of it all.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Reel Chat stalwart Andrew McCaskill as well as special guests – filmmaker Greg Pakis and host of the The Sixth Dimension podcast, Sebastian Mittleman. Join the team as they discuss the film’s legendary filmmaker, it’s dividing reception, the outstanding performance of Malcolm McDowell, the synthesized tones of Wendy Carlos’ score, the controversy and eventual British withdrawal of the film, as well as the actual meaning of the title – what exactly is A Clockwork Orange?

So does “A Clockwork Orange” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 76 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Greg 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Sebastian 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**TOY STORY (1995) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 77 – REEL CHAT 89.0** Nov 13, 2018
Welcome to Episode 89 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

What “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” (1937) did for hand drawn animation, “Toy Story” (1995) did for CG animation. The first computer generated feature-length animated film was a success. Not only in its astoundingly colourful and fully rendered graphics, the likes of which we had never seen, but in it’s story, and lovable characters. The fact that “Toy Story” has a great story, and wonderful character development makes it a great movie, but factoring in the historical cinematic significance of the film makes it a classic. The story of Woody, Buzz, and the rest of Andy’s toys really captured the imagination. It was something so original and so well put together, that it was bound to echo throughout the annals of cinematic history. But why was the movie so magical?

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Damon Quah and special guest Nick Mason of the acclaimed Hawk Talk Podcast. Join the team as they discuss the film’s groundbreaking legacy, their thoughts on the upcoming “Toy Story 4” (2019), the work and personal downfall of Pixar pioneer (and spearhead) John Lasseter, the “prototype” short films Pixar made in the lead up to the film, the film’s iconic voice cast, it’s numerous home video releases, who the villains in the film actually are, as well as their thoughts on whether Andy’s absent father has any story-driven significance.

This is of course a very special episode of Reel Chat, as it marks the second time the show has revisited a film that’s already been covered – all the way back in April 2015 (Episode 17).

So does “Toy Story” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 77 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Damon 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Nick 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**OLDBOY (2003) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 78 – REEL CHAT 88.0** Nov 01, 2018
Welcome to Episode 88 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Park Chan-wook’s 2003 Korean crime drama “Oldboy” doesn’t just push limits, it embraces entirely new cinematic taboos with twisted inhibition. An ordinary businessman named Oh Dae-su (Choi Min-sik) wakes up from a drunken stupor to discover that he’s been placed inside an impenetrable cell; he has no direct contact with the outside world and has no idea why he’s been imprisoned. For fifteen years, he rots away inside this strange dungeon, honing his body and training his mind until he becomes a grizzled warrior obsessed with revenge. When he’s inexplicably freed, he hits the streets to find whoever was responsible for locking him away.

As the second entry in director Park Chan-wook’s “Revenge Trilogy,” “Oldboy” works independently. The film is probably best viewed as a violent morality tale in which the main characters are at the mercy of their disturbing obsessions. It isn’t a revenge fantasy per se, but rather a warning about the nature of vengeance and its ability to warp a person’s outlook.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Damon Quah, Michael Hadjion and special returning guest Andy Hazel. Join the team as they discuss the work of director Park Chan-wook, the film’s origins in a Manga comic, Choi Min-sik’s outstanding leading man performance, the complexity and joy associated with the classic corridor fight scene, the absurdity of the octopus eating scene, the ambiguous ending, and much much more!

So does “Oldboy” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 78 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Damon 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andy 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR (2016) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 79 – REEL CHAT 87.0** Oct 17, 2018
Welcome to Episode 87 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe seems to be this juggernaut that keeps pumping out successful film after successful film – there is twenty now by the way! Twenty films in 10 years!… with plenty more on the way.

The Russo Brothers’ 2016 entry “Captain America: Civil War” had a lot riding on it. Not only did it have to elevate the ensemble superhero film and try to surpass “The Avengers” but it also had to round out the “Captain America Trilogy”. The Russo’s and their collective crew have managed to do this and break all Marvel fan’s hearts along the way. Themes of friendship, family, loyalty, trust, accountability, revenge, right VS wrong are littered throughout – but in saying that, you as the individual viewer can take as much or as little of that with you when watching. This film is an explosive blockbuster, yet surprisingly steeped in emotion and character drama. But, does everyone in the Reel Chat studio share the love of Marvel? Is there a Captain America / Iron Man-style divide in proceedings!? And does this film works as a stand-alone entry in the series?

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Reel Chat stalwarts Andrew McCaskill and Penny Jelly, as well as the always welcome Jesse O’Brien. Join the team as they discuss the juggernaut that is the Marvel Cinematic Universe, why it appears to be bucking the trend of franchise fatigue, the large (hot or not?) ensemble cast, the work of the Russo’s, the generic score of Henry Jackman, Trent Opaloch’s colourful cinematography, it’s Blu-ray and digital release (complete with digital exclusive), as well as detailed discussion on why movie-goers keep going back again and again.

So does “Captain America: Civil War” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 79 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 2 out of 5

Andrew 2 1/2 out of 5

Penny 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Jesse 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**SPIRITED AWAY (2001) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 80 – REEL CHAT 86.0** Oct 03, 2018
Welcome to Episode 86 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Hayao Miyazaki’s “Spirited Away” is the “other” film many consider to be Miyazaki’s best work, on a par with “Princess Mononoke”. It’s story recalls classic Lewis Carroll tales, in that a young girl is drawn into a magical realm, representing the boundary between childhood and adulthood, and must learn to navigate her way through it. But there are larger issues being depicted here too, not the least of which reflects the generational changes in Japanese society. There’s a kind of yearning for the old ways, as it becomes clear that greed and consumerism are taking a toll on the natural world. This film is very much about the need to find a balance in life. It’s also one of the most gorgeous examples of hand-drawn animation you’ll ever see. 2001’s “Spirited Away” is by turns strange, mysterious, funny, endearing, and thrilling. But is it for everyone? Particularly westerners.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Reel Chat stalwarts Andrew McCaskill, Penny Jelly and Damon Quah. Join the team as they discuss Hayao Miyazaki’s legacy and body of work, the differences between the English dubbed version and the original Japanese version, the 2 separate cast members, the restrained but evocative score by Joe Hisaishi, the gorgeous animation style, it’s high-quality Blu-ray release, as well as detailed discussion on the film’s cultural impact in both Japanese and western cultures.

So does “Spirited Away” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 80 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 2 1/2 out of 5

Andrew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Damon 2 1/2 out of 5

**MOVIES 90-81 RECAP SPECIAL – REEL CHAT 85.0** Sep 19, 2018
Welcome to Episode 85 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” Well, we’re forging on! We’re officially 2/10 of the way through our “epic” countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo for this Movies 90-81 Recap Special is Reel Chat regulars Andrew McCaskill and Penny Jelly, as well as returning guests Damon Quah and Jesse O’Brien. Join the extended team as they break down (in a little more detail) the second block of 10 movies in Empire’s prestigious Greatest Movies list. The team also discuss plans for the future of Reel Chat, including an exciting array of upcoming “spin-off” episodes. Rankings, tallies, controversy – it’s all here for even the most hardened (or opinionated) of podcast listeners.

And please let us know if you’ve been enjoying this ongoing and revamped iteration of Reel Chat since our 2017 return. What have been your overall thoughts as a listener or a fan? Please email us or contact us through our social media channels and let us know what you think of the format.

**THE SOCIAL NETWORK (2010) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 81 – REEL CHAT 84.0** Sep 06, 2018
Welcome to Episode 84 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

David Fincher’s 2010 drama “The Social Network” is the tale of a new breed of cultural insurgent: a punk genius who sparked a revolution and changed the face of human interaction for a generation… and perhaps forever. Shot with emotional brutality and unexpected humour, “The Social Network” chronicles the formation of Facebook and the battles over ownership that followed upon the website’s unfathomable success. With a complex, incisive screenplay by Aaron Sorkin and a cast including (the divisive) Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield and Justin Timberlake, “The Social Network” bears witness to the birth of an idea that rewove the fabric of society, even as it unraveled the friendship of its creators. On the surface, this film appears to be universally loved… but is it as relevant as it was in 2010? And is David Fincher’s talent sugar-coating an otherwise mundane premise? And what does your Reel Chat host have to say on the matter?

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Reel Chat stalwarts Andrew McCaskill and Penny Jelly. Join the team as they discuss the craftsmanship of auteur David Fincher, the Academy Award winning screenplay of Aaron Sorkin, the cast, the ground-breaking music of NIN’s Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, the wonderful cinematography, it’s high-quality DVD and Blu-ray release, as well as a detailed discussion on the film’s “creative decision” to drown out certain dialogue scenes with ambiance and background music.

So does “The Social Network” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 81 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 2 out of 5

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**SOME LIKE IT HOT (1959) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 82 – REEL CHAT 83.0** Aug 23, 2018
Welcome to Episode 83 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Of all the genres motion pictures have to offer, comedies tend to age the worst. Whether from an over reliance on jokes pertaining to current events, constant pop culture references, or just as a result of natural shifts in comedic trends and what society finds funny, even the best comedies have a habit of dating themselves. What was once so gut-bustingly hilarious in 1931 or in some cases just a few years ago, now falls completely flat. Thankfully though, some comedies avoid these pitfalls and somehow find a certain level of timelessness. Billy Wilder’s 1959 classic “Some Like It Hot” is a perfect example of such a film. It’s combination of wonderful performances, comedic timing, and witty dialogue, provide an experience that is still potently funny and entertaining nearly sixty years after it was first released. Though the premise is a bit ludicrous, with a few gags that do fall a little flat, and the climax of the film does rely on some pretty big coincidences, these minor issues never diminish the fun of it all. “Some Like It Hot” proves that in the right hands, humour can be timeless.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Reel Chat regulars Andrew McCaskill, Penny Jelly and Damon Quah. Join the team as they discuss the film’s legendary cast members Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis, the body of work of writer/director Billy Wilder, the “background music” of Adolf Deutsch (yes, that is his real name), the film’s ground-breaking nature of it’s use of cross-dressing and homosexuality, as well as a fascinating discussion on the behind-the-scenes troubles of the one and only – Marilyn Monroe.

So does “Some Like It Hot” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 82 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Damon 2 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**TRUE ROMANCE (1993) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 83 – REEL CHAT 82.0** Aug 08, 2018
Welcome to Episode 82 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Given that it was the second of his scripts to make it to the big screen, following “Reservoir Dogs”, it’s understandable that Quentin Tarantino is indelibly linked with 1993’s “True Romance”, a film that emerged at the midst of his 90s hype. And his fingerprints are all over it: the snappy dialogue, the sheer feeling of “cool” about it all; all factors that time has utterly refused to dilute here. But all that overlooks late director Tony Scott. At the time of the film’s release, Scott was arguably entering his best period to date as a movie director – with mega-hits “Top Gun” and “Beverley Hills Cop 2” under his belt. Scott didn’t mess around too much with Tarantino’s screenplay, save for adjusting the ending, and on the basis of the end product, there’s an argument that he was a better choice to direct the film than QT himself. But has “True Romance” aged well? Could it be argued that it’s a fun but tiresome (and superficial) flick that will either appeal to your deviant sensibilities or send you off in search of a “real” Tarantino film?

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Reel Chat regulars Andrew McCaskill, Penny Jelly and special guest Melbourne-based composer Asher Pope. Join the team as they discuss the film’s legacy, it’s origins as a teenage Quentin Tarantino’s wildest dream come true, it’s big-name cast, the late career of director Tony Scott, Hans Zimmer’s repetitive (and low-budget) score, as well as the difficulty of tracking down the film here in Australia.

So does “True Romance” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 83 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 2 out of 5

Andrew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 2 out of 5

Ash 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**ROCKY (1976) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 84 – REEL CHAT 81.0** Jul 26, 2018
Welcome to Episode 81 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

The story of 1976’s “Rocky” is so well known, that it really doesn’t need a plot synopsis. It is also so fundamental as to be almost mythic. Moviegoers had been used to their heroes coming from the pages of pulp fiction novels, but Rocky Balboa was an every man thrust into extraordinary circumstances – the schlub next door who only wanted to go the distance. And with a grittiness of locale to match, an unpretentious script (also by Stallone) and a non-intrusive, honest direction by John G. Avildsen, the combination was incredibly potent. America fell in love with Rocky Balboa, and in a way, learned to root for themselves all over again, following the soul-crushing years after Vietnam and Watergate. What “Rocky” still possesses in spades – and what its numerous sequels all failed to understand – was verisimilitude. Authentic, rousing and inspirational, “Rocky” remains a sparkling gem of ’70s American cinema.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Reel Chat regulars Andrew McCaskill, Penny Jelly and Damon Quah. Join the team as they discuss the film’s legacy, it’s memorable cast, the work of director John G. Avildsen, it’s racial undertones, Bill Conti’s iconic score and theme song, it’s numerous VHS, DVD and Blu-ray releases and much, much more! Damon also gives us a crash-course on the entire 7-film “Rocky” franchise.

So does “Rocky” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 84 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 2 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Damon 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**LÉON: THE PROFESSIONAL (1994) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 85 – REEL CHAT 80.0** Jul 12, 2018
Welcome to Episode 80 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Director Luc Besson’s taste for wacky plots, extravagant action and grandiose romance reached its climax with 1994’s “Léon: The Professional” – a deeply strange and much-loved crime movie about a 12-year-old girl, Mathilda, (Natalie Portman), who is rescued by a hit man after her family is massacred by a crazed NYPD detective, played with paint-scrapping vigour by Gary Oldman. Jean Reno is Léon, a hired killer with ‘a heart of gold’; innocent and childlike, he dotes on his house plant, drinks milk and loves Gene Kelly movies. Mathilda, of course, falls in love with him. In the extended version there are quite a few scenes included that US preview audiences rejected; like Mathilda getting drunk in a restaurant and another where she suggests she become Leon’s ‘lover’. According to producer Patrice Ledoux, this kind of content… no, this kind of relationship, was in no way mysterious to the French filmmakers of “Léon: The Professional”. Still, the relationship in the film stays ‘innocent’. No matter what uncomfortable undercurrents the film gives rise to, Besson’s skill with action is inventive and creative (and of course over the top).

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Reel Chat regulars Andrew McCaskill, Penny Jelly and Jesse O’Brien. Join the team as they discuss the film’s controversy, it’s legacy, it’s amazing cast, the work of director Luc Besson, it’s two different cuts, eclectic composer Eric Serra’s score, and much, much more!

So does “Léon: The Professional” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 85 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Jesse 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**ADAM’S RUN IN WITH JAMES CAMERON (BONUS) – REEL CHAT 79.5** Jul 03, 2018
Welcome to Episode 79.5 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.”

Short bonus episodes are somewhat of a rarity here on Reel Chat, but this week is definitely an exception!

A couple of weeks back your host Adam Stolfo ventured up to Sydney with his wife Helen to attend the Sydney Vivid Festival’s “Game Changers” discussion and Q & A with the one and only James Cameron.

Cameron, of course, is a polymath — a filmmaker, marine explorer, NASA advisor and leading advocate for the protection of our oceans and environment. You probably know him best as the highest-grossing filmmaker in history with blockbusters “Avatar”, “Titanic”, “The Abyss”, “True Lies”, the GOOD “Terminator” movies and “Aliens” to his credit.

Presented here is your host Adam Stolfo in a short 10 minute discussion with Reel Chat regulars Andrew McCaskill, Penny Jelly and Jesse O’Brien about his experience in attending the talk and somehow managing to ask his filmmaking idol a very personal question.

**INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST CRUSADE (1989) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 86 – REEL CHAT 79.0** Jun 28, 2018
Welcome to Episode 79 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

For the 1989 third installment in the adventures of Indiana Jones – “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”, Steven Spielberg and George Lucas change the mood once more and with far better results than its predecessor. To rinse away the awkward aftertaste left behind by “Temple Of Doom” (frankly, it’s not bad, it’s just… different), the filmmakers revisit many of the ingredients which made the first movie special and add a splash of something new to give the franchise a nice kick. In fact, there are quite a few kicks in “The Last Crusade” which make it almost the equal to “Raiders” — one of them being the return of the Nazis as the central villains and Hitler’s pursuit of occult-related artifacts. Also, audiences get to travel the world with Dr. Jones as he tries to stop one the most evil forces of the planet. And the best kick of all, Sean Connery joins the adventure as Indy’s father and brings a great deal of comedy to the mix.

Joining your Indiana Jones loving host Adam Stolfo is Reel Chat regulars (and fellow Indy fans) Andrew McCaskill and Penny Jelly, as well as returning new semi-regular Jesse O’Brien. Join the team as they discuss their love of the franchise (well… the first 3), the work of legendary director Steven Spielberg, it’s fabulous cast, the film’s origins and screenplay, John Williams’ iconic score, it’s DVD and Blu-ray releases, it’s many humorous moments, as well as why this should of been the final film in the franchise.

So does “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 86 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Jesse 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**PREDATOR (1987) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 87 – REEL CHAT 78.0** Jun 07, 2018
Welcome to Episode 78 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time, with a special extended episode (featuring an expanded team) in Reel Chat’s first official “cross-over”.

At first a seemingly brainless 1987 summer action flick, master of action John McTiernan’s “Predator” is a surprisingly well-structured movie which seamlessly and cleverly melds genre conventions. Even the promotional campaign took part in convincing movie-goers this was a straightforward guns and explosions type of feature, while at the same time keeping the alien’s appearance to a minimum. The sci-fi aspect was not a secret, but no one really anticipated the sudden shift in formula, treading carefully between horror and slasher elements. It was like nothing that had really been seen before. To have a movie unexpectedly change into a thrilling cat and mouse game of human versus extraterrestrial was a bit of a shock to say the least. And somehow, the experience isn’t jarring or irritating at all, but exciting and novel. Today, it remains just as entertaining as ever with one of creature-effects wizard Stan Winston’s most memorable creations.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo, and Reel Chat regulars Andrew McCaskill, Penny Jelly and huge Predator fan Michael Hadjion (returning for yet another one of his favourite movies) is special UK guests Ben Highton and Alex Balerdi from The Arniethology Podcast. Join the expanded team as they discuss one of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s best and most-loved performances, the iconic supporting cast, the legacy of director John McTiernan, the genius and formulation of the screenplay’s act structure, Alan Silvestri’s memorable score, the many quotable quips and – as always – much, much more! As the Arnie specialists, Ben and Alex also give us a run down of the many “Arnie-isms” present in the film.

So does “Predator” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 87 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Ben 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Alex 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**THE EXORCIST (1973) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 88 – REEL CHAT 77.0** May 24, 2018
Welcome to Episode 77 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

1973’s “The Exorcist” has garnered a reputation and is frequently promoted by it’s studio as “the scariest film of all time.” The movie’s staying power over the years would seem to back that up. Based on the novel by William Peter Blatty, and unlike many so-called scary movies that quickly seem dated and cheesy, “The Exorcist” continues to be regarded fondly, even four and a half decades after its release. Familiarity and imitation over the years have unavoidably diluted its visceral impact, and we as a culture have perhaps grown too jaded to feel scared by any movie (or fiction in general) anymore. Nonetheless, it’s clear why “The Exorcist” stands out as an exemplary model of horror filmmaking. Scary or not, it’s an excellent film.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo, and Reel Chat regulars Andrew McCaskill and Matt O’Neill, is filmmaker Jesse O’Brien – back for another taste of Reel Chat action! Join the team as they discuss the “questionable” directorial techniques of legendary director William Friedkin, the differences between the film and William Peter Blatty’s original novel, the alterations made between the 1973 original and “The Version You’ve Never Seen” in 2000, and, as always – the cast, the music, trivia, home releases, marketing and much, much more!

So does “The Exorcist” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 88 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matt 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Jesse 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**SHAUN OF THE DEAD (2004) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 89 – REEL CHAT 76.0** May 10, 2018
Welcome to Episode 76 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Call it the “Blood and Ice Cream trilogy” or the “Three Flavours Cornetto trilogy” or simply the “Cornetto trilogy”. Whatever name you assign, the three films by British director and co-writer Edgar Wright, co-writer and star Simon Pegg, and co-star Nick Frost have developed a cult following, and for good reason. After collaborating on Britain’s Channel 4 television show Spaced (1999 to 2001), the trio of talents went on to make three features together: “Shaun Of The Dead (2004)”, “Hot Fuzz (2007)”, and finally “The World’s End (2013)”. “Shaun Of The Dead” launches the trilogy with a “zombie rom-com”, an ambitious label achieved by its prevailing hilarity, scares, romantic sentiments, and graphic doses of gore. Just as George A. Romero has used zombies as an allegory for racism, consumerism, and sociopolitical apathy, Wright uses zombies as a metaphor. Somehow, Wright and his cast have the audience laughing and gasping and recognizing some obscure reference from start to finish. Our reactions are always multifaceted, shared equally in laughter, terror, and fond affection for lovable characters.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo and Reel Chat regular Andrew McCaskill is new semi-regular Jesse O’Brien as well as special guest “jack-of-all-trades” Andy Hazel. Join the team as they discuss the “outbreak” of the zombie genre in the mid noughties, the impressive body of work of Wright, Pegg and Frost, thoughts on why the dead may have reanimated, as well as touching upon the many, many gags and references the film pays homage to.

So does “Shaun Of The Dead” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 89 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Jesse 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andy 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN (2007) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 90 – REEL CHAT 75.0** Apr 19, 2018
Welcome to Episode 75 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we branch into the second block of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

2007’s “No Country For Old Men” is a post-modern masterpiece. While it takes place in the early ’80s and features a horde of stoic, tight-lipped cowboys, it speaks to both the timeless nature of the human condition and the perils of modern society. Its old men are perplexed by the emerging violence of the times, its young men are overly eager to die in pursuit of an easy dollar, and its killers are as determined and ruthless as nature itself. The film’s slow pace and languid story may not be for everyone, but “No Country For Old Men” is a tense, challenging morality tale that has a lot to say about the prevailing cynicism of our world.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Reel Chat regular Andrew McCaskill and (fairly) newcomer Damon Quah. Join the team as they discuss the film’s impressive cast, the Coen Brother’s carefully paced game of cat and mouse, the effective screenplay adapted from Cormac McCarthy’s novel, the clever choice of using next-to-no musical score, Roger Deakin’s jaw-droppingly impressive cinematography, as well as little known trivia and plenty of discussion on the film’s intentional ambiguity.

So does “No Country For Old Men” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 90 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Damon 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**OSCARS 2018 & MOVIES 100-91 RECAP SPECIAL – REEL CHAT 74.0** Apr 03, 2018
Welcome to Episode 74 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” Well, we’ve made it this far! We’re officially 1/10 of the way through our “epic” countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo for this special recap episode is Reel Chat regulars Andrew McCaskill and Penny Jelly, as well as returning guests Michael Hadjion and Jesse O’Brien. Join the extended team as they touch upon last month’s 90th Academy Awards before breaking down in more detail the first 10 movies in Empire’s prestigious Greatest Movies list. Rankings, tallies, controversy – it’s all here for even the most hardened (or opinionated) of podcast listeners.

And please let us know if you’ve been enjoying this recent iteration of Reel Chat? What have been your overall thoughts as a listener? Please email us or contact us through our social media channels and let us know what you think of the format since our return.

**THE PRESTIGE (2006) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 91 – REEL CHAT 73.0** Mar 15, 2018
Welcome to Episode 73 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

On the surface of it, Christopher Nolan’s 2006 mystery drama “The Prestige” is the tale of rivaling stage magicians played by Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale in late 19th Century Victorian London. At the same time, it’s a deceptively clever and wildly innovative love-letter to the magic of cinema where Nolan essentially suggests the effectiveness of a film and good storytelling is akin to the success of a good magic trick.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Reel Chat regulars Andrew McCaskill and Penny Jelly as well as returning guest Michael Hadjion – who we haven’t heard from since all the way back in November 2015! Join the team as they discuss where “The Prestige” sits in director Christopher Nolan’s body of work, the adapted screenplay Nolan wrote with his brother Jonathan, the underwhelming musical score of David Julyan, Wally Pfister’s amazing cinematography, as well as discussion on the film’s unanswered mysteries.

So does “The Prestige” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 91 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**THE TERMINATOR (1984) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 92 – REEL CHAT 72.0** Feb 28, 2018
Welcome to Episode 72 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Endlessly re-watchable and effortlessly entertaining, James Cameron’s gritty 1984 sleeper-hit “The Terminator” is a true staple of the science fiction genre. Through the story of an emotionless, virtually indestructible cyborg that will literally stop at nothing to destroy its targets, Cameron is able to tap into some of mankind’s most basic fears, creating a visceral and truly frightening “tech noir” that hasn’t lost any of its terrifying luster. Even in Hollywood’s current climate of massive budget, computer-generated summer tent-poles, “The Terminator” continues to remind audiences and would-be filmmakers, that all one really needs to create explosive entertainment, is talent, ingenuity, and courage. Well, all that and a really, really big Austrian bodybuilder.

Joining your Terminator loving host Adam Stolfo is Reel Chat regulars Andrew McCaskill and Penny Jelly as well as returning special guest Jesse O’Brien. Join the team as they discuss their love of director James Cameron’s earlier works, it’s fabulous lead stars, the film’s origins and screenplay, eighties horror movie tropes, composer Brad Fiedel’s electronic synth wales, as well as next year’s currently untitled “Terminator 6” film.

This is of course a very special episode of Reel Chat, as it marks the first time the show has revisited a film that’s already been covered – all the way back in May 2015 (Episode 22.0).

So does “The Terminator” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 92 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Jesse 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**THE PRINCESS BRIDE (1987) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 93 – REEL CHAT 71.0** Feb 14, 2018
Welcome to Episode 71 of the “Reel Chat Podcast.” This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Tales, yarns, chronicles, legends, myths, anecdotes, parables, fables, narratives. Whatever you choose to call them, stories and storytelling have been around since man could… well, since man *could*. It’s just in us. Simple as that, rooted deeply in our DNA. It’s a necessity, a natural and essential function, like breathing or eating. It’s primal. We need to do it. We need to tell stories by firelight. We need to look at the world with eyes full of wonder and possibility. In Rob Reiner’s 1987 classic, “The Princess Bride,” the story in question is told for one very specific purpose, and that so seemingly uncomplicated, pure, and honest motive is for a Grandfather to tell his Grandson, that the most important thing in life… is true love. This tiny morsel of truth sets off a grand adventure, spinning a yarn full of fairy tale magic, storybook charm, and laugh-out-loud wit, cementing this beloved film as a timeless classic for all ages.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Reel Chat regulars Andrew McCaskill and Matt O’Neill. Join the boys as they discuss the film’s iconic cast, the immense size of Andre The Giant, William Goldman’s amazing screenplay (and original novel), the film’s numerous DVD and Blu-ray releases, as well as the musical score of Dire Straits’ frontman Mark Knopfler. Matt also asks the question – is director Rob Reiner actually one of the greatest directors ever!?

So does “The Princess Bride” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 93 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**LOST IN TRANSLATION (2003) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 94 – REEL CHAT 70.0** Jan 31, 2018
Welcome to Episode 70 of the “Reel Chat Podcast” – a podcast that promises even the most hardened of cinephiles – the “Reel World as we know it”. This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

It is tempting to view 2003’s “Lost In Translation” in personal terms, to see Scarlett Johansson as a Sophia Coppola avatar, unsure of how to escape her father’s looming shadow, and Giovanni Ribisi as Coppola’s eccentric ex-husband, Spike Jonze. (And, come on, Anna Faris, as the ditzy blonde starlet doing a press junket at the Hyatt… is clearly Cameron Diaz!) The film stands on its own as a piece of fragile, wryly funny, quietly devastating art. Bill Murray is perfect. He doesn’t simply ape his own persona, but rather, builds a character with real depth and nuance. His Bob is wounded and world-wearied, increasingly aimless and unsatisfied. Johansson’s Charlotte just wants to know if it will get any easier – “That’s hard,” says Bob – and Johannson wonderfully conveys the curiosity, intelligence, and grief of a young woman who has yet to find herself.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is Andrew McCaskill, Penny Jelly, and special guest filmmaker Saara Lamberg – writer, director and star of the Australian independent production – “Innuendo” (www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgpUJXZ) – released in October 2017.

Join the team and their guest as they discuss the two amazing stars of “Lost In Translation”, the life and body of work of writer/director Sofia Coppola, Lance Accord’s outstanding cinematography, the music of Kevin Shields, what on earth happened to the old Australian Blu-ray release (it completely stumped our host), as well as Japanese to English translations on some of the film’s most memorable scenes.

So does “Lost In Translation” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 94 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Saara 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**ARRIVAL (2016) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 95 – REEL CHAT 69.0** Jan 18, 2018
Welcome to Episode 69 of the “Reel Chat Podcast” – a podcast that’s back and in full swing since it’s big return in October 2017. This week we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

2016’s “Arrival” is a rarity in modern cinema; an original idea contained within the oft-examined premise of what happens when beings from another world visit Earth. “Arrival” quickly shifts expectations, grounding the approach with well researched and rational approaches to the potential phenomena, and weaves an intelligent mystery through its story that genuinely surprises and strikes an affecting tone. With a protagonist using science and the bounty of the mind rather than muscular bravery and brute force when facing the remarkable events, we are treated to notable realism. “Arrival” is science fiction sustenance for the brain, but it does not starve the heart, achieving a level of emotional resonance often missing from impressive exercises in sci-fi marvel. But is it too cold? And is it just too damn serious in a world starving for some joyful escapism?

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is long running Reel Chat stalwart Andrew McCaskill, funny man Matt O’Neill and the one and only Penny Jelly. Join the team as they discuss Amy Adams and the film’s cast, the work and career trajectory of director Denis Villeneuve, Ted Chiang’s original short story – “Story Of Your Life”, Jóhann Jóhannsson’s original score, the outstanding cinematography and production design, as well as discussion on the film’s two most popular characters – Abbott and Costello!

So does “Arrival” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 95 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**GOOD WILL HUNTING (1997) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 96 – REEL CHAT 68.0** Jan 08, 2018
Everybody, welcome to Episode 68 of the “Reel Chat Podcast” – a podcast that’s back and in full swing since it’s big return in October 2017. As we begin a brand new calendar year, we continue our countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Something about 1997’s “Good Will Hunting” was golden seemingly from day one, and the film became a perhaps surprising box office smash, cementing Matt Damon and Ben Affleck as two of their generation’s most promising leading men, giving Robin Williams perhaps his best and most memorable role, and making Gus Van Sant one of the most celebrated directors in the world. The triumph of this film is that it has its own good will, a decentness of heart and fullness of emotion that Van Sant never squanders with tricks or flash. In fact, this is an almost oddly understated film virtually every step of the way, and that is how the film is able to create such incredible emotional intensity as it winds toward its denouement.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is the returning Penny Jelly, Damon Quah and special guest filmmaker Jesse O’Brien. Join the team as they discuss the film’s iconic cast, the body of work of director Gus Van Sant, Damon and Affleck’s Academy Award Winning screenplay, Danny Elfman’s score, why it’s time to upgrade those old DVDs, the many memorable scenes, as well as the lasting legacy of the one and only Robin Williams. R.I.P. you talented and beloved genius.

So does “Good Will Hunting” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 96 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Damon 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Jesse 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**TITANIC (1997) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 97 – REEL CHAT 67.0** Dec 14, 2017
Everybody, welcome to Episode 67 of the “Reel Chat Podcast” – a podcast that’s back and in full swing since it’s big return in October. Today we continue our brand new season – the one where we’re counting down Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

On the very day that the multi billion-dollar James Cameron epic (on the verge of its 20th anniversary) has sailed into the National Film Registry, Reel Chat presents to you an extended and very special look at 1997’s “Titanic”. The mammoth film was a juggernaut from the moment it hit theatres, quickly becoming one of the highest grossing film of all time and turning young actors Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet into bona fide movie stars. It’s selection by the Library of Congress is a lovely cherry on top of this year’s whirlwind anniversary celebrations, which was recently re-released in U.S. theaters (again) in a new Dolby Vision format.

Joining your Titanic loving host Adam Stolfo is the returning Andrew McCaskill, Penny Jelly and special guest Damon Quah – who makes his long awaited debut. Be thoroughly enthralled as the team dissect in detail the film’s iconic cast, the ego of writer/director James Cameron, the amazing score of the late James Horner, it’s alternate ending and deleted scenes, the fascinating back story of just how much of a gamble this film was for Fox and Paramount (and why it didn’t sink), as well as the age-old question of why it’s so ridiculed and become so fashionable to dislike it.

So does “Titanic” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 97 where it belongs?

This is the final episode of Reel Chat for 2017, so a big thank you to all our listeners and supporters for welcoming us back into your podcast listening ears. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all. We’ll be back better than ever in early 2018.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 2 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 1 1/2 out of 5

Penny 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Damon 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**AMÉLIE (2001) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 98 – REEL CHAT 66.0** Nov 30, 2017
Everybody, welcome to Episode 66 of the “Reel Chat Podcast” – a podcast that’s back and in full swing since it’s big return in October. Today we continue our brand new season – the one where we’re counting down Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Next up at number 98 is Reel Chat’s first look at a foreign language film – 2001’s quirky French romantic comedy “Amèlie” – the story of an innocent and naive girl in Paris with her own sense of justice, who decides to help those around her and, along the way, discovers love. “Amèlie” was critically and commercially adored at the start of this century, but has time been kind or cruel to it? Is it still the much-loved visual masterpiece it’s always been remembered for?

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is the returning Andrew McCaskill, Matt O’Neill and Penny Jelly. Join the team as they break down the film’s amazing cinematography, it’s cast, it’s filmmakers, it’s music, it’s commercial success, it’s quirkiness, as well as just how far removed from reality this fairy tale version of Paris really is!

So does “Amèlie” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 98 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 2 out of 5

Andrew 2 1/2 out of 5

Matthew 2 out of 5

Penny 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**RAGING BULL (1980) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 99 – REEL CHAT 65.0** Nov 16, 2017
Everybody, welcome to Episode 65 of the “Reel Chat Podcast” – a podcast that’s back and in full swing since it’s big return last month. Today we continue our brand new season – the one where we’re counting down Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Next up at number 99 is Reel Chat’s first look at a Martin Scorsese film – 1980’s biography drama “Raging Bull.” For those unfamiliar with “Raging Bull”, Robert De Niro and Scorsese are at the height of their creative powers, delivering a black-and-white tour-de-force that to this day is their most focused and stark. Former middleweight champion Jake “The Bronx Bull” La Motta’s rise and fall is depicted with rawness and analytical power. But is it really the cherished masterpiece it’s always been remembered for?

Joining your host Adam Stolfo in the Reel Chat squared circle is Andrew McCaskill, Penny Jelly as well as special guest and independent filmmaker Greg Pakis. Join the team and their guest as they discuss “Raging Bull’s” lasting legacy, Scorsese’s career and popularity, De Niro’s Academy Award winning performance as Jake La Motta, the impressive performances of all the supporting cast, as well as whether it deserves it’s title of one of the best edited films of all time.

So does “Raging Bull” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 99 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Greg 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**STAND BY ME (1986) – TOP 100 GREATEST MOVIES NO. 100 – REEL CHAT 64.0** Nov 02, 2017
Everybody, welcome to Episode 64 of the “Reel Chat Podcast” – a podcast that’s been rejigged and rebooted Hollywood style to guarantee cinephiles both at home and abroad – the “Reel World as we know it”. And welcome to a brand new season – the one where we begin our all-important countdown of Empire Magazine’s Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time.

Up first at lucky number 100 is Rob Reiner’s delightful coming-of-age adventure drama – “Stand By Me – based on the novella “The Body” by Steven King.

Joining your host Adam Stolfo is returning Reel Chat stalwarts Andrew McCaskill, Matthew O’Neill and Penny Jelly. Join the team as they discuss Stand By Me’s legacy, it’s cultural impact, it’s 4 amazing young leads, it’s flawless screenplay, it’s DVD and Blu-ray releases, the unforgettable Ben E. King song, as well as how closely the film followed the original book.

So does “Stand By Me” deserve it’s spot in the Top 100? And is position number 100 where it belongs?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**COMEBACK SPECIAL – REEL CHAT 63.0** Oct 19, 2017
Welcome to Episode 63 of “Reel Chat”, a podcast that’s been rejigged and rebooted Hollywood style to promise even the most hardened of cinephiles (yet again)… the “Reel World as we know it.”

On this comeback special, your host Adam Stolfo is joined by his trusty team of “Reel Chat” stalwarts which include the returning Andrew McCaskill, funny man Matthew O’Neill and the one and only Penny Jelly (yes, that is her real name).

Join the team as they discuss their mission statement for this latest iteration of the show – the Top 100 Greatest Movies of all time – the subjectivity of such a prestigious list boggles the mind. You’ll also hear about the exciting plans for “Reel Chat’s” upcoming Patreon campaign, as well as all the exclusive goodies you can grab for your generous pledge and ongoing support.

We hope you enjoy “Reel Chat’s” latest endeavour. Make sure you join in, get involved and contribute to all the banter over the next 100 exciting episodes. Wish us luck and enjoy the show.

**MOON (2009) – REEL CHAT 62.0** Dec 22, 2016
Welcome to Episode 62 of *Reel Chat* – a fun-filled and informative movies podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this new installment of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, *Reel Chat* closes out 2016 with an in-depth look at one of the best films you’ve never seen – Duncan Jones’ 2009 British Science Fiction Drama – *“Moon.”*

Your host Adam Stolfo is joined by Andrew McCaskill, Matthew O’Neill and the returning Penny Jelly to discuss a near future where science and technology have once again revolutionised the world, but where the human species’ morality is questioned under the guise of a tormented soul. *“Moon”* is quite simply one this generation’s – and history’s – finest examples of Science Fiction done absolutely right… and that demanded the “*Reel Chat*” treatment.

As a debut film for director Duncan Jones, this film succeeds admirably, and throughout the course of the episode the guys (and girl) examine Sam Rockwell’s impeccable performance, it’s use of practical special effects, it’s cinema inspirations, it’s impressive DVD and Blu-Ray release, as well as the captivating and emotional underscore of composer Clint Mansell.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Penny 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

GHOSTBUSTERS (2016) – REEL CHAT 61.0 Dec 15, 2016

Who you gonna call!? Welcome back to Episode 61 of the returning (and apparently sorely missed) Reel Chat Podcast – a podcast that’s been rejigged and rebooted Hollywood-style – and makes it’s long anticipated return after a 6 month hiatus. It feels great to be back and the team can’t wait to get stuck into what will be a very exciting year of podcasting and cinema in 2017.

Your host Adam Stolfo is joined by the returning Andrew McCaskill, Reel Chat stalwart Matthew O’Neill and the very welcome newcomer Penny Jelly to tackle one of the most anticipated, yet least wanted reboots / remakes of all time – 2016’s “Ghostbusters” or alternatively “Ghostbusters: Answer The Call” as Sony Pictures has chosen to market it on it’s DVD and Blu-ray release.

Enjoy the return of their banter, as the Reel Chat team breaks down the film’s soul-destroying trailer, it’s underwhelming box office return, the huge Internet backlash and controversy over the all-female cast, whether or not director Paul Feig pulled off the required action, Theodore Shapiro’s choir-filled score, the in-your-face colour palette of the cinematography, all the cameos and nods to the original films… and last but not least, when all the dust has settled… is this film actually as bad as the Internet will lead you to believe?

A huge thank you to everyone who contacted us and willed Reel Chat back into existence. We hope you enjoy the show.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 2 out of 5

Matthew 2 1/2 out of 5

Penny 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**SCREAM (1996) – REEL CHAT 60.0** May 18, 2016
*Scream: The TV Series* begins its second season in a couple of weeks, so now is a great time to look back at the film that started it all: Wes Craven’s 1996 hit feature “*Scream”* – which turns 20 this year.

Equal part comedy and horror, the franchise would never quite hit the heights of the original film again, even if some moments in the sequels come close.

Adam Stolfo, Brose Avard, Stuart Wilson and Matthew O’Neill look back at the film, Kevin Williamson’s writing process, the changes made in post-production and the history behind the infamous Ghostface mask. They look at the iconic – yes, there’s that word again – cast and the best scenes in the film, not to mention looking into the various cuts that were made in order to have the film avoid the dreaded NC-17 rating.

Do you like scary movies? We do. So sit back and listen to us go into geeky detail about one of the best horrors of the 90s!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Evil-Dead-2-Optimum-DVD-Art-2008 — **EVIL DEAD II (1987) – REEL CHAT 59.0** May 12, 2016
Is it a sequel? Is it a remake? And what does that poster have to do with anything? These questions notwithstanding, *Evil Dead II* is a front-runner for best in the series, and so it’s with glee that the *Reel Chat* team dig deep into this film with their usual enthusiasm.

Joining Adam Stolfo, Brose Avard and Matthew O’Neill for this episode is none other than Jason Lei Howden, writer and director of the hit cult film, “*Deathgasm*“. A comedy / horror in its own right, Howden’s film has more than a little in common with the horrifyingly hilarious *Evil Dead II*, so checking out this episode is an actual must.

*Reel Chat* go through the fascinating facts behind Sam Raimi’s hit film, as well as detailing the many home media releases of the film over the years. Alternate versions, soundtrack releases and collectibles are all examined in Reel Chat’s 59^th episode!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Jason 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

ferris — **FERRIS BUELLER’S DAY OFF (1986) – REEL CHAT 58.0** May 05, 2016
From *Deadpool’s* post-credit scene to the fact you can buy ‘Save Ferris’ T-shirts and badges on Etsy in 2016, it’s clear that John Hughes’ 1986 film remains a significant piece of cinema 30 years on.

Adam Stolfo, Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and Trevor Wood come to “*Reel Chat*” prepared to wax lyrical about cinema’s hardest working slacker.

The film that solidified Matthew Broderick’s position in Hollywood and saw director John Hughes at the height of his powers, “*Ferris Bueller’s Day Off*” is the true definition of an eighties classic.

Here the team look at the “*Fight Club*” theory proposed by fans, the home disc releases, why on earth it doesn’t have a soundtrack release, not to mention the all important discussion on whether or not the film was intended to take place in the same universe as *“The Breakfast Club”*.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Trevor 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

resurrectionofjakethesnakeposter-e1460115040591 — **THE RESURRECTION OF JAKE THE SNAKE (2015) – REEL CHAT 57.0** Apr 14, 2016
It’s he… it’s he… it’s D.D.P!

Adam Stolfo and Brose Avard sit down with wrestling superstar Diamond Dallas Page to chat about the release of the incredible 2015 documentary – “*The Resurrection Of Jake The Snake*” – a fascinating and brutally honest account of friendship, wrestling, addiction and sacrifice.

Not just for fans of the squared circle, this film will resonate with any one affected by addiction.

**BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE (2016) – REEL CHAT 56.0** Apr 08, 2016
The “Dawn Of Justice” is upon us! And who could have known it would prove to be even more divisive than “*Man Of Steel*“? Zack Snyder has delivered an explosive, roller-coaster ride of a movie that is either a flawed masterpiece or… just flawed.

Adam Stolfo, Brose Avard, Stuart Wilson and Trevor Wood are still reeling from the cinematic onslaught, but they’re ready to dissect the film here on episode 56. They look at the comic books that influenced Snyder, the incoming collectibles hitting stores, as well as musing on the deleted scenes that are likely to appear on the Ultimate Edition of the upcoming DVD and Blu-ray.

A warning to the wise: make sure you’ve seen “*Batman v Superman: Dawn Of Justice*” before you check out this episode. This is a spoiler-filled discussion of Affleck’s Batman, Eisenberg’s Lex Luthor and GG’s WW. We look at the controversial story decisions made by screenwriters Chris Terrio and David S. Goyer, not to mention the musical contributions of Hans Zimmer and Junkie XL.

If you’re unsure how you feel about this ungainly mishmash of a superhero film, fear not! *Reel Chat* is here to help you debrief after the epic smackdown that was “*Batman v Superman: Dawn Of Justice*“. As a bonus, this episode is much, much shorter than the movie itself.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 1 1/2 out of 5

Brose 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Trevor 1 1/2 out of 5

darkknightposter — **THE DARK KNIGHT RISES (2012) – REEL CHAT 55.0** Mar 31, 2016
Even with all the acclaim heaped on Christopher Nolan’s admirable run at the helm of the franchise, 2012’s “*The Dark Knight Rises*” is easily the least popular of his Batman films. Adam Stolfo, Brose Avard, Stuart Wilson and Jade Goodge are eager to dissect the film here in Episode 55 of *Reel Chat*.

Together they examine every facet of the film, from its writing, cinematography, performances and direction, not to mention the home media releases and Hans Zimmer’s soundtrack. The links to “*Knightfall*” and “*No Man’s Land*” are examined, not to mention the consistent brilliance of Gary Oldman in the role of Commissioner Gordon.

Bane’s voice, Catwoman’s heels and Batman’s broken back all get put under the microscope here. Is “*The Dark Knight Rises*” as flawed as some suggest, or does it merely suffer in comparison to the two superlative prequels? Join us as we “rise” to the occasion, like a part-time billionaire/vigilante who just needs a good poke in the kidneys before he’s back on his feet and ready to fight the good fight.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Jade 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

DarkKnightWallpaper1024 — **THE DARK KNIGHT (2008) – REEL CHAT 53.0** Mar 10, 2016
Comfortably the most successful Batman film to date, 2008’s “*The Dark Knight*” roughly tripled the box office success of its predecessor, “*Batman Begins”*. What was it that drew audiences in such large numbers to Nolan’s second attempt at the caped crusader? Was it the Heat-esque sprawling crime thriller narrative, Heath Ledger’s terrifyingly unhinged performance as the Joker or indeed the actor’s untimely death that had viewers who hadn’t bothered to see the first film lining up to see this one?

Adam Stolfo, Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill, Stuart Wilson and James Hazelden – a cast of characters almost as big as the film’s – have reported for duty in this episode of *Reel Chat*. Listen to them dissect what they like, don’t like and are undecided about when it comes to this incredibly influential piece of filmmaking. Was the character of Rachel Dawes treated fairly by the script, was the film well-served by the surprise origin story of its other villain, and what’s with the subplot about Batman getting attacked by dogs?

If you’re excited, curious or terrified at the prospect of “*Batman v Superman: Dawn Of Justice”*, now is a great time to revisit one heck of an impressive movie sequel. Like the Joker, the *Reel Chat* team try to not keep things too serious, as we work our way through Nolan’s typically complex “*The Dark Knight”*, a film that contains not three but four acts!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

James 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**2016 OSCARS SPECIAL – REEL CHAT 52.0** Mar 05, 2016
DiCaprio wins as *Spotlight* shocks and *Mad Max: Fury Road* scorches the competition! Welcome to Episode 52 of “*Reel Chat*” – the podcast that promises week in / week out, the “Reel World as we know it.”

This week the “*Reel Chat*” team brings you the “*2016 Oscars Post-Show Roundtable Special*.” Your host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Stuart Wilson, Matthew O’Neill and James Hazelden (yes, 5 of us!) to look in detail at every film fan’s night of nights. But do people actually have any interest in it anymore? What did everybody think about the “Big Elephant In The Room” this year (the diversity issue)? Is the magic and celebration of film still present? Did Chris Rock pull it off as host? Does anyone actually care about the Best Original Song category? Did our guests actually like the Best Picture winner – Spotlight? Are the award speeches just a continuing avenue for making hard-hitting or political statements!?

All of these questions and much, much more are answered here in our second Oscars special. There might even be a special bonus addition to the end of the episode, with one of the *Reel Chat* team members recently “tying the knot” and adding some *Reel Chat* flavour to his wedding speech.

Batman_Begins_poster6 — **BATMAN BEGINS (2005) – REEL CHAT 51.0** Feb 25, 2016
The legend begins! Welcome to Episode 51 of *Reel Chat* – a podcast that’s making it’s long anticipated return after a 2 month hiatus. It’s great to be back and the guys can’t wait to get stuck into what will be a very exciting year of podcasting and cinema in 2016.

Your host Adam Stolfo is joined by returning co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and huge Batman fan Roddy Avard to discuss the first entry in Christopher Nolan’s all encompassing Dark Knight Trilogy – 2005’s “*Batman Begins*.”

With a lot of geek love and hot anticipation for the upcoming release of “*Batman V. Superman: Dawn Of Justice*” at the end of March this year, there really is no better time for the *Reel Chat* guys to get stuck into the seemingly ongoing *Batman* and *Superman* franchises.

So, what was it exactly that was so appealing about this particular reboot? “*Batman Begins*” was definitely a game-changer, with many comic book films of the last 11 years following it’s dark, gritty and semi-realistic take on it’s source material. But was that a good thing or a bad thing? Did we really need everything to go down this path? This is one of the many points the guys will cover.

Enjoy the return of their weekly banter, as the *Reel Chat* team breaks down the origin of Batman – such as whether he has longevity, or whether he has a shelf life. They also look in detail at Christian Bale’s portrayal of the title character, the film’s superior cast of supporting superstars, it’s game-changing director, the film’s new Batmobile (The Tumbler), the epic sound (and lasting) legacy of Hans Zimmer and James Newtown Howard’s musical score, it’s surprisingly underwhelming Blu-ray picture quality (and why that is), as well as how this one compares to the Burton or Schumacher *Batman* films of days past.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Roddy 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS (2015) – REEL CHAT 50.0** Dec 23, 2015
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…. Welcome to our milestone Episode 50 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

To celebrate and mark this momentous occasion, your host Adam Stolfo is joined by an extended team of co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill, Stuart Wilson and returning special guests James Hazelden and Jade Goodge (aka: Janis Malicious) to dive head first into their most ambitious and exciting review yet. Today “*Reel Chat*” discusses 2015’s “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” – the newest installment in the all-conquering “*Star Wars*” heptalogy – recorded out in the open air from the relaxing courtyard of Junie Moon’s café in West Melbourne.

A film of this magnitude deserves a deeper look than usual, and this episode of “*Reel Chat*” comes in at an “epic” running time of over 2 hours! But it’s all for a good cause, as the team break down the legendary new chapter of a saga many regard as the most important franchise in movie history.

Learn all about it’s status as one of the most anticipated and overly hyped movies of all time… about it’s iconic cast (both the new and the old)… the genius of director J.J. Abrams… it’s record-breaking pre-sale numbers, as well as it becoming the highest opening in the history of cinema in only it’s first week of release (will it be the first film to crack $3 billion!?)… old man John Williams’ incredible return to form with his musical score… And whether or not the film is too much of a retread of “*Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope*“… And if it is, then does that really even matter?

We also have a special interval mid-recording, where we look back at some of the best top 5’s of *Reel Chat’s* first year on the air. We’ll also give you *Reel Chat’s* 2015 Hall Of Fame inductees.

This is certainly an “epic” podcast for an “epic” movie. *Star Wars* is back in full force!

A very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year to you all. See you all bigger and better in 2016. May the force be with you.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

James 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Jade 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Sith_poster — **STAR WARS EPISODE III – REVENGE OF THE SITH (2005) – REEL CHAT 49.0** Dec 16, 2015
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…. Welcome to Episode 49 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “*Vintage Vault*” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, the returning multi-talented musician and writer James Hazelden, as well as special guest (singer, songwriter and doctor) Jade Goodge (Janis Malicious) to delve deep into the final installment of the much maligned *Star Wars* prequel trilogy – 2005’s *“Star Wars Episode III – Revenge Of The Sith.”*

There seems to be a defense of this film that because it’s the best of the prequel series that it deserves a pass mark. Err, no, it doesn’t. This last brick in George Lucas’s bland and ridiculous prophecy about Anakin being the “Chosen One” is Lucas’s final attempt to imbue *Star Wars* with seriousness and significance, and in a word, it’s once again underwhelming.

Learn all about the film’s disappointing cast… it’s stature as the “least-worst” film in the prequel trilogy… it’s claim to fame as being the second-highest-grossing film of 2005 behind “*Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire”*… the sheer speed and absurdness of Anakin’s turn to the dark side… who or what is General Grievous (and why does he cough??)… little known trivia tidbits… the film’s DVD and Blu-ray releases… John Williams’ underwhelming score… and as always, much, much more!

*Star Wars* fans rejoice. This is certainly an “epic” podcast for what is yet again a poorly written, weakly directed, and abysmally acted finale to the *Star Wars* prequel saga. You will most likely enjoy our banter more than the film itself. “Gear-up” in preparation for “*Star Wars: The Force Awakens*” out this week!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 1 out of 5

Brose 1 out of 5

Andrew 1 1/2 out of 5

Matthew 1/2 out of 5

Stuart 1 out of 5

Michael 1 out of 5

James 1 out of 5

Jade 2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

AttackOfTheClones_poster — **STAR WARS EPISODE II – ATTACK OF THE CLONES (2002) – REEL CHAT 48.0** Dec 10, 2015
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…. Welcome to Episode 48 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “*Vintage Vault*” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, the returning multi-talented musician and writer James Hazelden, as well as special guest (and up and coming stand-up comic) Simon Cumming to delve deep into the single most appalling “love story” to ever be put to celluloid (oh wait… it’s all completely digital this time around). Today *Reel Chat* is retrospectively reviewing the second prequel in the all conquering *“Star Wars”* universe – 2002’s *“Star Wars Episode II – Attack Of The Clones.”*

So sit back, relax, and join in the excitement as your host Adam Stolfo leads the charge in tearing this abysmal effort of a second prequel to hell and back.

Learn all about the film’s clumsy and confusing script, as well as why writer/director George Lucas cast the one and only Hayden Christensen in what is undoubtedly one of the most appalling (and cringe-inducing) acting performances in the history of A-Grade cinema. Learn about the film’s Australian flavour (being shot partially in Sydney, Australia)… the underwhelming score from the master that is John Williams – that again tries in vain to make us feel and care for something that plainly doesn’t exist… the film’s DVD and Blu-ray releases… it’s 3D re-release that never happened… as well as in all seriousness, exactly what went wrong here.

Like Episode 1, our biggest problem is just the lack of any real passion. Where’s the heart? Where’s the magic? Where’s the sense of awe? Why does it all feel so dry and soul less? Isn’t this supposed to be a “*Star Wars”* movie? Not a mash-up of a convoluted 1940’s detective serial thrown in with a stomach-turning mishandled Mills & Boon romance novel.

*Star Wars* fans rejoice. This is certainly an “epic” podcast for what is yet again a poorly written, weakly directed, and abysmally acted joke of a film. You will most likely enjoy our banter more than the film itself. “Gear-up” in preparation for “*Star Wars: The Force Awakens*” next week!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 1/2 out of 5

Brose 2 out of 5

Andrew 1 out of 5

Matthew 0 out of 5

Stuart 1 out of 5

Michael 0 out of 5

James 1 out of 5

Simon 2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Star_Wars_Episode_I_The_Phantom_Menace_movie_poster — **STAR WARS EPISODE I – THE PHANTOM MENACE (1999) – REEL CHAT 47.0** Dec 02, 2015
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…. Welcome to Episode 47 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this very special (and extended) episode of our “*Vintage Vault*” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard and special guests Warwick Holt – writer, web producer and documentary filmmaker, as well as the returning multi-talented musician and writer James Hazelden to break down the single most maligned entry in the all conquering *“Star Wars”* universe – 1999’s *“Star Wars Episode I – The Phantom Menace.”*

A film of this significance (which carries so much expectation and disappointment) deserves a deeper look than usual, so sit back, relax, and join the *Reel Chat* team as we tear this abomination of a first prequel to shreds.

Learn all about this film’s “riveting” story-line (it’s all about taxes after all – exactly what the kids want)… how director George Lucas was able to take a quality cast and get nothing but sub-par and embarrassing performances out of them all… John William’s score that tries in vain to make us care for these characters… the film’s stand as being the first *Star Wars* film released on DVD… it’s 3D re-release… the meaning of the “Machete order”… as well as exactly what is this “phantom menace” of which they speak!?

*Star Wars* fans rejoice. This is certainly an “epic” podcast for a poorly written, weakly directed and uninspired mess of a film. You may just enjoy our banter more than the film itself. “Gear-up” in preparation for “*Star Wars: The Force Awakens*” this month!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 1 out of 5

Brose 2 out of 5

Andrew 2 1/2 out of 5

Matthew 0 out of 5

Stuart 1 1/2 out of 5

Michael 1 out of 5

James 0 out of 5

Warwick 2 out of 5

bugs_life_ver5_xlg — **A BUG’S LIFE (1998) – REEL CHAT 46.0** Nov 19, 2015
An epic of miniature proportions! Welcome to Episode 46 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this second episode of our “Pixar” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined as usual by co-host (and animation fan) Brose Avard, regular guest Stuart Wilson, and special guest writer / musician / performer James Hazelden, to look at Pixar’s second feature-length computer generated film – 1998’s “A Bug’s Life.”

After the critically and commercially successful *“Toy Story”* in 1995 – the film that proved without doubt that high quality computer animation can be produced at full feature-film running time, leading American film animation studio Pixar produced a second animated feature that not only raised the scope, the scale and story-line of the first, but also their stand in the world of animation production.

With Pixar rediscovering the form it’s known for with this year’s “*Inside Out*“, the “*Reel Chat*” team delve deep into this film’s placing among the rest of the Pixar catalog, as well as informative and entertaining discussion on it’s quality voice cast, why it was released in direct competition with Dreamworks’ “*Antz*“, the underwhelming (but serviceable) score of composer Randy Newman, the film’s DVD and Blu-Ray releases, as well as trivia tidbits and factoids such as exactly what is “The Pixar Theory!?”

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 3 out of 5

Andrew Not Yet Seen

Matthew Not Yet Seen

Stuart 3 out of 5

Michael 3 out of 5

James 2 out of 5

**STAR WARS EPISODE VI – RETURN OF THE JEDI (1983) – REEL CHAT 45.0** Nov 14, 2015
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…. Welcome to Episode 45 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this very special (and extended) episode of our “*Vintage Vault*” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and special guest Gerard McCullough (the head writer for *The Weekly with Charlie Pickering,* and who’s also written for *Rove, The Project, Before The Game, Full Frontal* and Dirty Laundry Live)to dive head first into their most ambitious and most intimidating review yet. Today “*Reel Chat*” discusses 1983’s “Star Wars Episode VI – Return Of The Jedi” – the final installment (at least until *Episode VII*) in the all-conquering “*Star Wars*” hexology.

A film of this magnitude deserves a deeper look than usual, and this episode of “*Reel Chat*” comes in at an “epic” running time of over 2 hours! But it’s all for a good cause, as the boys break down the legendary third (or sixth!?) chapter of a saga many regard as the most important franchise in movie history.

Learn all about it’s iconic cast, the billionaire filmmaker who handed over his directing reigns to a relatively unknown (Richard Marquand), the universal hatred of the alterations made to it’s 1997 Special Edition re-release, the underwhelming death of Boba Fett, whether or not Princess Leia is a Jedi Knight, what side of The Force (good or evil) is the strongest, John Williams’ incredible sweeping score and it’s numerous releases, differences between the 1983, 1997, 2004 and 2011 versions, as well as the ongoing dilemma of having to wait for Disney to release the original theatrical version on Blu-ray in the best possible quality.

This is certainly an “epic” podcast for an “epic” movie. Gear-up in preparation for “*Star Wars Episode VII – The Force Awakens*” on December 18th.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Gerard 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**THE EVIL DEAD (1981) – REEL CHAT 44.0** Nov 06, 2015
The ultimate experience in grueling terror! Welcome to Episode 44 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, horror expert Matthew O’Neill and eighties love-child Michael Hadjion to dissect 1981’s low-budget cult horror classic – *“The Evil Dead” –* the satisfying first chapter in the awesomely gruesome (and equally hilarious) *Evil Dead* saga that’s currently being re-explored and expanded upon in the all-new 2015 television series “*Ash VS Evil Dead.*“

Not only did this original installment go on to spawn a number of popular comedic sequels, it was also the project that launched the careers of both director Sam Raimi and B-Movie legend (and star) Bruce Campbell. One of the scariest, goriest, and (oddly enough) funniest horror movies of it’s time, *The Evil Dead* is every bit deserving of it’s tag as a cult genre classic.

Join the *Reel Chat* boys as we explore the film’s origins, it’s impact on the genre, it’s most famous and controversial scene, it’s original (and probably more appropriate) title, the passion and drive of it’s young filmmakers, it’s cast, it’s music, it’s endless DVD and Blu-ray releases, it’s full-screen and widescreen versions, as well as the answer to the all encompassing question – what the hell is a Fake Shemp!?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**BACK TO THE FUTURE 30TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION – REEL CHAT 43.0** Oct 30, 2015
Great Scott! It’s October 2015! It’s time to go back… back to the future… one last time! Welcome to Episode 43 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel World as we know it.”

On this very special new episode, self confessed *Back To The Future* super fan (and host) Adam Stolfo is joined by fellow fans Brose Avard and Michael Hadjion to discuss and celebrate the big 30th anniversary of one of the most celebrated movie trilogies of all time in *Reel Chat’s* special *“Back To The Future 30th Anniversary Celebration!”*

And what better time for the guys to get stuck into the hit franchise with the entire Internet currently abuzz with *Back To The Future* fandom. Not only is the original film celebrating it’s 30th anniversary this year, but it’s October 2015 – the very month and year the “future” portion of the second film in the saga takes place. And with “*Future Day*” (Wednesday, October 21st, 2015) come and gone you’d think that the “*Reel Chat*” boys would be all *Back To The Future*‘d out. You’d think that they’d said all that needed to be said. You’d think that close to 6 hours of conversation about 3 films would just about cover it. You’d think that with all the Internet coverage and TV chatter that we would literally be exhausted. You would think that we would have no more to add… but we’ve saved a special fourth week to do just that.

What more can we say about these films!? Well… that’s a question that we can answer just as soon as you hit the download or play button on your browser. Join us as we break down *Back To The Future’s* 21 timelines (well at least the first 3 of them), look at what technologies shown to us in *Back To The Future Part II* the filmmakers predicted admirably (and which ones we’re still waiting impatiently for), what fan celebrations are currently taking place across the globe, as well as *Back To The Future: The Ride*, *Back To The Future: The Animated Series, Back To The Future: The Game, Back To The Future: Live In Concert,* the new 30th anniversary Blu-ray release, the soundtrack re-issues on CD and Vinyl, the new “*Back In Time*” documentary, the new book and comic releases…. arrrgghh!!! There’s too much material – even for a bonus fourth podcast!

bttf3 — **BACK TO THE FUTURE PART III (1990) – REEL CHAT 42.0** Oct 22, 2015
They’ve saved the best trip for last… but this time they may have gone too far! Welcome to Episode 42 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “*Vintage Vault*” retrospective series, host (and self confessed “*Back To The Future*” super fan) Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and Matthew O’Neill to discuss 1990’s “Back To The Future Part III” – the satisfying conclusion to one of the most universally loved sci fi / comedy franchises of all time!

And what better time for the guys to get stuck into the hit franchise with the entire Internet currently abuzz with “*Back To The Future*” fandom. Not only is the original film celebrating it’s 30th anniversary this year, but it’s October 2015 – the very month and year the “future” portion of the second film in the saga takes place. And with “*Future Day*” (Wednesday, October 21st, 2015) come and gone, “*Reel Chat*” delves deep into this final installment – undoubtedly the least favourable among a large number of movie fans.

So what is it about this third one that people didn’t warm to? Was it it’s Western setting? It’s love story? It’s crowd-pleasing (but somewhat unappealing) conclusion? Or is Part III exactly what the series requires after the frenetic pace and energy of it’s predecessor? Especially once it’s compared to a limitless amount of poor quality number 3’s!

Hear the *“Reel Chat”* guys talk about the film’s superb cast, it’s filmmakers, it’s numerous DVD and Blu-ray releases, little known trivia tidbits (for the Eagle-eyed among you), Alan Silvestri’s sweeping score – it’s all here… and much, much more!

Join “*Reel Chat*” as we break down this concluding chapter of a trilogy many regard as one of the most complete (and still intact) trilogies of ALL TIME!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

back-to-the-future-2 — **BACK TO THE FUTURE PART II (1989) – REEL CHAT 41.0** Oct 15, 2015
Getting back was only the beginning! Welcome to Episode 41 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this “iconic” episode of our “*Vintage Vault*” retrospective series, host (and self confessed “*Back To The Future*” super fan) Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and Matthew O’Neill to discuss 1989’s “Back To The Future Part II” – the insanely popular follow-up to one of the most beloved sci fi comedies of all time!

And what better time for the guys to get stuck into the hit franchise with the entire Internet currently abuzz with “*Back To The Future*” fandom. Not only is the original film celebrating it’s 30th anniversary this year, but it’s October 2015 – the very month and year the “future” portion of this film takes place. And with “*Future Day*” (Wednesday, October 21st, 2015) upon us, “*Reel Chat*” delves deep into this remarkable second film – undoubtedly the darkest and most ambitious of the three films.

Learn all about the original “Number Two” script that featured the final third of the film taking place in 1967 instead of 1955 (with George and Lorraine – much like the first film) and how this had to be changed (our guys think for the better) once actor Crispin Glover declined to return. Hear the *“Reel Chat”* guys talk about the film’s superb cast (with special note to the incredible Thomas F. Wilson in what can only be described as “Biff’s film”), it’s filmmakers, it’s numerous DVD and Blu-ray releases, little known trivia tidbits (for the Eagle-eyed among you), Alan Silvestri’s score, the astounding Vista-Glide camera system… Great Scott! We could go on and on… And we will… Jaws 19, the “Cubbies” in the World Series, Hoverboards, self-lacing Nikes, Pepsi Perfect, Adam’s gripe with Universal Home Video – it’s all here… and much, much more!

Join “*Reel Chat*” as we break down this incredible second chapter of a trilogy many regard as one of the most complete (and still intact) trilogies of ALL TIME!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Back-To-The-Future-Movie-Poster — **BACK TO THE FUTURE (1985) – REEL CHAT 40.0** Oct 08, 2015
He was never in time for his classes… he wasn’t in time for his dinner… then one day he wasn’t in his time at all! Welcome to Episode 40 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this very special (and extended) episode of our “*Vintage Vault*” retrospective series, host (and super fan) Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and Matthew O’Neill to dive head first into *“Reel Chat’s”* most epic and exciting retrospective review yet. Today “*Reel Chat*” discusses 1985’s “Back To The Future” – a sci fi / adventure masterpiece that spans 30 years, interferes with the space-time continuum, and hints at a little incest… but of course… that’s all just for fun!

A film of this legendary stature deserves a deeper look than usual, and this episode of “*Reel Chat*” comes in at an “epic” running time of over 2 hours! But it’s all for a good cause, as the boys break down this iconic first chapter of a trilogy many regard as one of the most complete (and still intact) trilogies of ALL TIME!

In celebration of the film’s 30th anniversary, hear the *“Reel Chat”* guys talk about the film’s superb cast, it’s outstanding script, Robert Zemeckis’ expert direction, the star car power of the one and only DeLorean time machine, as well as Alan Silvestri’s big and powerfully magical score… all bound together like the very fabric of time itself! Hear also about how no Hollywood studio wanted to make it (too risque or too tame!?), what the purpose was for firing Eric Stoltz as Marty McFly (before Michael J. Fox took over), as well as the never revealed back-story of how Marty and the Doc actually met.

Adam is relentless here – keen to spread the love of a film he obviously regards as the greatest of ALL TIME! This is certainly an outstanding episode for an outstanding movie.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

wescraven — **WES CRAVEN: A SPECIAL TRIBUTE – REEL CHAT 39.0** Oct 01, 2015
Welcome to Episode 39 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel World as we know it.”

On this very special new episode, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Stuart Wilson and our horror film expert Matthew O’Neill to discuss and celebrate the life and career of the man who revolutionised modern, meta horror. Today we immortalise slasher film director, Wes Craven, who died of brain cancer on August 30, 2015, at the age of 76, at his home in Los Angeles.

Even for those of you who aren’t overly familiar with him by name, you’ll no doubt be familiar with his work. He was best known for creating the “A Nightmare On Elm Street” franchise featuring the Freddy Krueger character, directing the first installment and Wes Craven’s New Nightmare, and co-writing A Nightmare On Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors. Craven also directed all four films in the “Scream” series, and co-created the legendary Ghostface character. Some of his other films include The Hills Have Eyes, The Last House On The Left, The People Under The Stairs, *Red Eye*, The Serpent And The Rainbow and *Shocker.*

Hear the “*Reel Chat”* guys discuss Craven’s extraordinary career, his strict upbringing, his constant reinventing of the horror genre, some of his directorial trademarks, and much, much more! Tune in as “*Reel Chat*” pays respect to the legendary man in the best way they know how.

R.I.P. Wes. May your movies live on for generations to come!

**STAR WARS EPISODE V – THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK (1980) – REEL CHAT 38.0** Sep 25, 2015
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…. Welcome to Episode 38 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this very special (and extended) episode of our “*Vintage Vault*” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and special guest (and well-established Australian television director) Mark Horpinitch to dive head first into their most ambitious and most intimidating review yet. Today “*Reel Chat*” discusses 1980’s “Star Wars Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back” – the darkest and most universally beloved film in the all-conquering “*Star Wars*” franchise.

A film of this magnitude deserves a deeper look than usual, and this episode of “*Reel Chat*” comes in at an “epic” running time of over 2 hours! But it’s all for a good cause, as the boys break down the legendary second (or fifth!?) chapter of a saga many regard as the most important franchise in movie history.

Learn all about it’s iconic cast, the billionaire filmmaker who handed over his directing reigns (stroke of genius) to a relatively unknown (Irwin Kershner), the legend and origins of the one know only as – “Boba Fett”, John Williams’ incredible score and it’s numerous releases, differences between the 1980, 1997, 2004 and 2011 versions, as well as the ongoing dilemma of having to wait for Disney to release the original theatrical version on Blu-ray in the best possible quality.

This is certainly an “epic” podcast for an “epic” movie. Enjoy our show and “gear-up” in preparation for “*Star Wars Episode VII – The Force Awakens.*“

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Mark 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

breakfast club — **THE BREAKFAST CLUB (1985) – REEL CHAT 37.0** Sep 17, 2015
Five strangers with nothing in common except each other! Welcome to Episode 37 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard and special guests Adeline Soh and Trevor Wood to discuss 1985’s – “The Breakfast Club” – John Hughes’ quintessential eighties classic, that explores the pressure put on teenagers to fit into their own realms of high school social constructs, as well as the lofty expectations of their parents, teachers, and other authority figures. Once the obvious stereotypes are broken down, the characters empathise with each other’s struggles, dismiss some of the inaccuracies of their first impressions, and discover that they are more similar than different.

Hear the “*Reel Chat*” guys get stuck into the film’s iconic cast, the outstanding career and legacy of it’s writer and director John Hughes, the proposed follow-ups (as well as why they didn’t happen), it’s numerous DVD and Blu-ray releases, Simple Minds’ memorable theme song (“Don’t You Forget About Me”), as well as discussion of the long-lost 2 1/2 hour version that none of us will sadly ever see.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Adeline 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Trevor 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

high-fidelity-poster — **HIGH FIDELITY (2000) – REEL CHAT 36.0** Sep 10, 2015
A comedy about fear of commitment, hating your job, falling in love and other pop favourites! Welcome to Episode 36 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard and guests Andrew McCaskill and Stuart Wilson to discuss 2000’s romantic comedy – “High Fidelity” – based on the best-selling British novel of the same name by Nick Hornby.

This popular John Cusack vehicle follows Rob, a record store owner and compulsive list maker, who recounts his top five breakups, including the one currently in progress.

Hear the “*Reel Chat*” guys get stuck into the film’s cast, it’s filmmakers, the many featured songs (70 of them in fact), the interesting decision to “break the fourth wall” Ferris Bueller style, it’s DVD and Blu-ray releases, deleted scenes, it’s high critical acclaim, as well as how many movies John and Joan Cusack have actually worked on together.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael Not Yet Seen

Total-Recall-Poster — **TOTAL RECALL (1990) – REEL CHAT 35.0** Sep 03, 2015
Get ready for the ride of your life! Welcome to Episode 35 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard and guest Michael Hadjion to discuss 1990’s science fiction/action classic – “Total Recall” – Yes! 1990’s “Total Recall.” Not… I repeat… Not 2012’s “Total Recall” remake!

The guys get their teeth stuck into this personal favourite, retrospectively looking back at it’s amazing legacy in light of it’s 25 year anniversary. Hear the guys discuss the career of Dutch director Paul Verhoeven and his unequivocal love of extreme sex, violence and social satire in all of his projects.

Learn about Philip K. Dick’s original story that the film was based on (“*We Can Remember It For You Wholesale*“) and how closely the film follows the book in context (but not in tone). Also, discover how Arnold Schwarzenegger was able to not only land himself the role, but also a hell of a lot of creative control of the project, as well as discussion on the film’s outstanding cast, it’s filmmakers, it’s numerous DVD and Blu-Ray releases, Jerry Goldsmith’s outstanding musical score (Adam regards it as one of the best film scores of all time), as well as the never ending debate on whether this film is real… or a dream…

The popular segment “*The Assignment*” also makes it’s overdue return, with Michael given one whole minute to talk about nothing but positive things about 2012’s “*Battleship.*“

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

MMFR_TeaserPoster — **MAD MAX: FURY ROAD (2015) – REEL CHAT 34.0** Aug 27, 2015
What a lovely day! Welcome to Episode 34 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this ‘New Release’ episode (our third), host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Stuart Wilson and Michael Hadjion to discuss one of the most popular and critically received Australian movies of recent times, George Miller’s 2015 post-apocalyptic re-imagining – “*Mad Max: Fury Road.”*

And what better time for the guys to get stuck into the most recent film in the franchise, with the series’ fourth entry racking up impressive numbers at the domestic and international box office. The film also gets it’s much anticipated release on Blu-Ray and DVD next week.

So without further ado, join the “*Reel Chat*” team as we bring you entertaining discussion on the film’s cast (can Charlize Theron do no wrong at present?), it’s filmmakers, amazing behind-the-scenes trivia (such as how long it actually took for this film to come to fruition), it’s use of CGI and the many visual effects shots, Junkie XL’s amazing musical score, Miller’s long lost music-only (silent film) version, the upcoming “*Mad Max*” video game, and of course much, much more!

This is without a doubt – “Ozploitation” at it’s very best!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**TERMINATOR GENISYS (2015) – REEL CHAT 33.0** Aug 21, 2015
The rules have been reset! Welcome to Episode 33 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

Well, we’re finally there! We’ve finally come to the end of this once mighty *Terminator* franchise. On this episode, huge Terminator fan (and host) Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard and Stuart Wilson to discuss 2015’s “*Terminator Genisys*” – chapter 5 in the hugely successful science-fiction franchise.

Adam holds his anger back here again… appearing more disappointed than anything else with this latest re-imagining of a once great concept. Brose and Stuart, on the other hand, are more forgiving, attempting to share their pleasant surprise at how much enjoyment they actually got out of it. As usual, discussion and debate on a flawed sequel is a specialty of “*Reel Chat*” and the guys get their teeth into the excitement and expectation of the film’s returning star Arnold Schwarzenegger, the direction of Alan Taylor, the Hans Zimmer-esque musical score of Lorne Balfe, debate on whether this film is a prequel, sequel or remake (or soft reboot), as well as why the film didn’t do too well at the Box Office (particularly in America).

With the guys wrapping up the series, the segment – “*The Franchise Cut Off Point*” also makes it’s return. Don’t miss this latest “*Reel Chat*” offering guys and gals! These films that split the opinions of audiences can sometimes make for quality “cream of the crop” podcasting!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 1 1/2 out of 5

Brose 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew Not Yet Seen

Matthew Not Yet Seen

Stuart 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael Not Yet Seen

clue-the-movie-blu-ray-cover-44 — **CLUE (1985) – REEL CHAT 32.0** Aug 13, 2015
It’s not just a game anymore! Welcome to Episode 32 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and special guest Roddy Avard (Brose’s brother) to discuss 1985’s cult favourite – “*Clue*” – the first film based on a popular board game (known widely as “*Cluedo*” among Europeans and Australians).

The board game experience hasn’t really made much of an impact in the world of cinema, particularly in comparison to the video game, comic book, and literature-based pictures – three categories which absolutely (and currently) define the movie landscape. “Clue”is the most successful and recognisable of the few board game movie adaptations, and being it’s 30th anniversary, we felt it was a good a time as ever to revisit it. It’s a fun and faithful screen telling of the favourite party game, a blast to watch, a breeze to sit through, and smarter and more mysterious than audiences might very well expect.

Join the “*Reel Chat*” boys as they discuss the board game, the film’s iconic and memorable cast, the filmmakers (including the contributions of legendary filmmaker John Landis), the film’s mood setting comedic musical score, the film’s multiple (and unique) alternate endings (including it’s long lost 4th alternate ending), and of course, much, much more!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael Not Yet Seen

Roddy 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

madmaxbt — **MAD MAX BEYOND THUNDERDOME (1985) – REEL CHAT 31.0** Aug 06, 2015
Two men enter, one man leaves! Welcome to Episode 31 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and Matthew O’Neill to discuss the third entry to one of the most popular and influential Australian franchises of all time – George Miller’s post-apocalyptic sequel – “*Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome”*. And what better time for the guys to get stuck into this popular franchise, with the series’ fourth entry “*Mad Max: Fury Road*” (2015) racking up amazing numbers at the domestic and international box office throughout 2015.

Join the “*Reel Chat*” team as we bring you entertaining debate and discussion on the film’s cast (including 80’s pop icon Tina Turner), it’s filmmakers, amazing behind-the-scenes trivia (such as why this film has 2 directors), why this entry is considered by many fans to be the weakest of the series, and of course much, much more!

We’ll also be bringing you the much anticipated look at the popular fourth entry in the franchise (“*Mad Max: Fury Road*”) in the coming weeks. So strap yourselves in to The Interceptor and enjoy this brand new episode (although the iconic vehicle doesn’t even get a brief appearance in this installment… the *Reel Chat* team is not happy with this glaring omission!)

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 2 1/2 out of 5

Brose 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart Not Yet Seen

Michael Not Yet Seen

terminatorsalvation — **TERMINATOR SALVATION (2009) – REEL CHAT 30.0** Jul 30, 2015
The end begins! Welcome to Episode 30 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, huge Terminator fan (and host) Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard and Stuart Wilson to discuss what is probably regarded as one of the most disappointing sequels (to a promising concept) in franchise history. Today “*Reel Chat*” is looking at 2009’s “*Terminator Salvation*” – chapter 4 in the hugely successful science-fiction franchise that spawned a further big-budget sequel (or is it a prequel… or is it a remake?), “*Terminator Genisys*“, and a short-lived, slightly underrated, two season television series (“*Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles*.”)

Host Adam Stolfo holds his anger back here… albeit temporarily, as Brose and Stuart attempt (often in vain) to make sense of this muddled mess of a Terminator film. Why is it so bad? What goes so wrong with a concept with such promise and intrigue?

Discussion and debate on a flawed sequel is a specialty of “*Reel Chat*” and the guys get their teeth into the excitement and expectation on star Christian Bale (and how it’s regarded as the poorest performance of his career), the sub-par direction (and lack of professionalism) of director McG, whether a Terminator film can exist without Arnold Schwarzenegger, Christian Bale’s famous on-set outburst at cinematographer Shane Hurlbut, Adam’s concept of how Terminators became “Super Terminators”, as well as how Helena Bonham Carter found her way into the picture.

Don’t miss this one guys and gals! Poor films can sometimes make for quality podcasting!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 1/2 out of 5

Brose 1 1/2 out of 5

Andrew Not Yet Seen

Matthew Not Yet Seen

Stuart 2 1/2 out of 5

Michael 1/2 out of 5

Terminator-3-1 — **TERMINATOR 3: RISE OF THE MACHINES (2003) – REEL CHAT 29.0** Jul 23, 2015
The machines will rise! Welcome to Episode 29 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, huge Terminator fan (and host) Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard and Stuart Wilson to discuss what is probably regarded as one of the biggest let-downs in sequel history. Today “*Reel Chat*” is looking at “*Terminator 3: Rise Of The Machines*” – chapter 3 in the hugely successful science-fiction franchise that spawned a further 2 big-budget sequels, and a short-lived, slightly underrated, two season television series (“*Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles*.”)

It’s always simple to look at the extreme negatives of a film Terminator fans regard as a sloppy mess that ignores the central tenants of both originals (whilst remaining patently intimidated by their cultural impact), but the guys try to break down exactly what goes wrong here, as well as why a franchise can derail so dramatically once the studios completely lose sight (or a care factor) of what made it’s predecessors so great in the first place.

Discussion and debate on this very subject is a specialty of “*Reel Chat*” and the guys get their teeth into Arnold Schwarzenegger’s “pay-or-play” $29 million dollar contract, why Linda Hamilton didn’t want to return, how much the 2 writers really cared about the franchise, the film’s awful attempts at humour, the lameness and over sexualisation of the female T-X, the film’s poignant and impressive ending, how similar in story structure it is to “*Terminator 2: Judgment Day*” and much, much more!

Even if you disliked this film as much as host Adam Stolfo (and feel like skipping this episode), then you’ll be doing yourself a huge injustice.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 1 1/2 out of 5

Brose 1 1/2 out of 5

Andrew Not Yet Seen

Matthew Not Yet Seen

Stuart 2 1/2 out of 5

Michael 1 out of 5

james-horner — **JAMES HORNER: A SPECIAL TRIBUTE – REEL CHAT 28.0** Jul 16, 2015
Welcome to Episode 28 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel World as we know it.”

On this very special new episode, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, big fan Andrew McCaskill and Stuart Wilson to discuss and celebrate the life and career of one of the most talented and universally loved film composers of all time – the one and only James Horner.

Even for those of you who aren’t overly familiar with him by name, you’ll no doubt be familiar with his work. An avid pilot, Horner was killed in a tragic plane crash near Santa Barbara, California on June 22 this year, leaving behind a wife and two daughters and devastating the film music community. He was only 61 years old.

Horner composed the scores to over 150 films, including the two most successful films of all time – 1997’s “*Titanic*” and 2009’s “*Avatar*“. Other career highlights included (but were certainly not limited to) *Brainstorm, Cocoon, Commando, Aliens, Willow, Honey I Shrunk The Kids, Glory, The Rocketeer, Patriot Games, Legends Of The Fall, Braveheart, Apollo 13, Ransom* and *Troy*.

Hear the guys discuss Horner’s extraordinary life and career, his amazing heart and talent, his character traits (or “Hornerisms”), his legendary “self-plagiarism” criticisms, and much, much more – all accompanied by an underscore of musical highlights from Horner’s large (and outstanding) body of work – presented here for your listening pleasure. “*Reel Chat*” pays respect to the great man in the best way they know how.

R.I.P. James. Your music will live on for generations to come!

JURASSIC WORLD (2015) – REEL CHAT 27.0 Jul 08, 2015

The park is open! Welcome to Episode 27 of “Reel Chat” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel World as we know it.”

On this brand new and exciting episode, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, regular guest Stuart Wilson, and Australian Film and Television Production Designer (and special guest) Otello Stolfo, to discuss their very first 2015 New Release – “Jurassic World” – the money-making box office juggernaut, and fourth film in the ever popular “Jurassic Park” franchise.

With the film already on track to be one of the most successful motion pictures of all time, the guys get their Raptor claws stuck into the film’s plot, how it satisfies both new and old fans, it’s cast, it’s filmmakers, it’s music, it’s toys and collectibles, and most importantly – it’s satisfying ‘Dinosaur Smackdown’ climax.

Adam and Brose are pumped, excited and back on board here, while Stuart laments his dissatisfaction with what he believes to be an uneventful and lackluster direction for the series. As usual, this is where “Reel Chat” shines brightest, with a debate on a sequel with a strong difference of opinion always being infinitely more entertaining than round-the-board praise or unwavering negative critique.

Their new segment – “The Franchise Cut-Off Point” makes it’s reappearance here as well, with the guys all giving their opinions on when to tap out and walk away from an established (and popular) franchise. Otello might also give you all a quick crash course in the huge and important role a Production Designer plays in the success of a popular film.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew Not Yet Seen

Matthew Not Yet Seen

Stuart 2 1/2 out of 5

Michael 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Otello 3.86 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Terminator_2_Judgment_Day_artwork — **TERMINATOR 2: JUDGMENT DAY (1991) – REEL CHAT 26.0** Jun 25, 2015
He said he’d be back, he meant it, it’s nothing personal! Welcome to Episode 26 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, huge Terminator fan (and host) Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and Michael Hadjion to discuss what is probably regarded as one of the best (if not the best) sci-fi action films (and sequels) of all time. Today “*Reel Chat*” is going all fan boy, and delving deep into James Cameron’s incredible “*Terminator 2: Judgment Day*” or “T2” – chapter 2 in the hugely successful franchise that spawned a further 2 big-budget sequels (with another reboot/sequel/prequel “*Terminator Genisys*” out next week), and a short-lived, slightly underrated, two season television series (“*Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles*.”)

With the new film on it’s way, there really was no better time for the guys to get stuck into this masterpiece. Adam and Michael are in their element here, showing plenty of love to a film they obviously hold in extremely high regard. This “*Reel Chat*” episode also matches “*Star Wars*” and “*The Terminator*” in it’s epic-ness, clocking in at just under a mammoth 2 hours! But the Terminator franchise is massive, and the guys get stuck into this groundbreaking film’s origins, it’s legacy, it’s supremely talented filmmakers, it’s iconic cast, Brad Fiedel’s electronic score, it’s numerous DVD and Blu-Ray releases (which, like the original, we’re all still waiting for a definitive version), it’s legendary use of CGI special effects, as well as strong debate on which version of the film is the one to watch.

Film fans and Terminator fans take note – you definitely don’t want to miss this episode! Use it as the perfect gearing up for “*Terminator Genisys.*” And as a special bonus, tune in to hear James Cameron’s recent thoughts on this latest take and exploration of the universe he created. This episode is huge – as unstoppable as the T-1000 itself!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

**MAD MAX 2 (1981) – REEL CHAT 25.0** Jun 18, 2015
Just one man can make a difference! Welcome to Episode 25 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and Matthew O’Neill to discuss one of the most popular and influential Australian movies of all time, George Miller’s 1981 post-apocalyptic sequel – “*Mad Max 2*” (or “*The Road Warrior*“).

And what better time for the guys to get stuck into the most popular film in the franchise, with the series’ fourth entry “*Mad Max: Fury Road*” (2015) currently in general release and racking up amazing numbers at the domestic and international box office.

Join the “*Reel Chat*” team as we bring you entertaining discussion on the film’s iconic cast, it’s filmmakers, amazing behind-the-scenes trivia (such as stories on the dangerous stunts and driving scenes), it’s many different versions, the film’s visual resurgence on Blu-Ray, it’s props and memorabilia museum in Silverton New South Wales, as well as a discussion on the huge inconvenience of wearing arse-less chaps in a sandy post apocalyptic world! And of course much, much more!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael Not Yet Seen

sixth sense — **THE SIXTH SENSE (1999) – REEL CHAT 24.0** Jun 10, 2015
“I see dead people!” Welcome to Episode 24 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “*Vintage Vault*” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard and regular guests Andrew McCaskill and Matthew O’Neill to discuss 1999’s incredibly successful thriller – “The Sixth Sense” – the unofficial debut film of writer/director M.Night Shyamalan.

A disclaimer right off the bat – for a film that’s become so famous for it’s twist ending, we’re going to assume that anyone who listens to this episode has already seen the film. If you haven’t, then go watch it and then come back to us! We can’t stress this enough! The “*Reel Chat*” team get into lengthy conversations of not only the twist ending, but also the film’s legacy and how it holds up on repeat viewings – which is where things get interesting here, with Adam pleasantly surprised at his ongoing admiration for it, and Matt getting more and more disillusioned as to how on earth this film can be one of only four horror movies nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards.

As always, we look at the film’s impressive cast, highlighted by Australia’s own Toni Collette, and an 11 year old Haley Joel Osment (in his Academy Award nominated performance), it’s writer/director M.Night Shyamalan (before he was regarded as a one-trick pony), it’s Blu-ray release, James Newton Howard’s mood setting musical score, and much, much more!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Jp3logo — **JURASSIC PARK III (2001) – REEL CHAT 23.0** Jun 04, 2015
This time it’s not just a walk in the park! Welcome to Episode 23 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “*Vintage Vault*” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard and regular guest Stuart Wilson to discuss 2001’s “*Jurassic Park III*” – the much maligned (and often overlooked) second sequel in the ever popular “*Jurassic Park*” franchise.

Adam has tapped out, Brose appears in neutral gear, and Stuart enlightens us all with his positive thoughts on what he believes to be an extremely underrated (satire comedy) sequel. As usual, this is where “*Reel Chat*” shines brightest, with it’s ongoing debates on a flawed sequel always being infinitely more entertaining than round-the-board praise.

With the franchise’s latest entry (“*Jurassic World”*) coming out in mid June, there really is no better time to look back at the series in detail, and right here you’ll hear the guys discuss this third film’s cast, it’s filmmakers, it’s new horror/comedy tone and direction, Don Davis’s underwhelming (but serviceable) score, the film’s Blu-Ray release, as well as the overwhelmingly exciting news about the anticipated return of “*Jurassic Park*” favourite – BD Wong in “*Jurassic World*“!

A new segment – “*The Franchise Cut-Off Point*” makes it’s debut here as well, with the guys all giving their opinions on when to tap out and walk away from an established (and popular) franchise.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 1 1/2 out of 5

Brose 2 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew Not Yet Seen

Matthew 1 out of 5

Stuart 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael Not Yet Seen

**THE TERMINATOR (1984) – REEL CHAT 22.0** May 28, 2015
Your future is in his hands! Welcome to Episode 22 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, huge Terminator fan (and host) Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Stuart Wilson and Michael Hadjion to discuss James Cameron’s low-budget, gritty 1984 sleeper-hit “*The Terminator*” – chapter 1 in a hugely successful science fiction franchise that’s spawned 3 big-budget sequels (with a fourthsequel “*Terminator Genisys*” out in July), and a short-lived, slightly underrated, two season television series (“*Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles*.”)

This is the film that began the rise of Arnold Schwarzenegger, hurtling him towards international action-hero super-stardom. With the new film on it’s way, there really was no better time for the guys to get stuck into the original – and arguably the best… against the consensus!

Adam is in his element here, showing plenty of love to a film he obviously holds in very high regard. This “*Reel Chat*” episode also matches “*Star Wars*” in it’s epic-ness, clocking in at nearly 2 hours! But the Terminator franchise is massive, and the guys get stuck into this first film’s origins, it’s legacy, it’s supremely talented filmmakers, it’s iconic cast, Brad Fiedel’s electronic score, it’s numerous DVD and Blu-Ray releases (which we’re all still waiting for a definitive version), it’s dated special effects, what the classic line “I’ll Be Back” was going to be originally, as well as share their thoughts on the little-known lawsuit that science fiction author Harlan Ellison filed against James Cameron shortly after the film’s release.

The guys also have a new installment of “*The Assignment*” for you here, with Adam set the task of watching the film version of the hit Broadway musical “*Annie*.” But doesn’t Adam hate musicals? Can he possibly last a whole minute speaking of nothing but the film’s positives?

Film fans and Terminator fans take note – you definitely don’t want to miss this episode. This one’s epic!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

madmax7252368.3 — **MAD MAX (1979) – REEL CHAT 21.0** May 21, 2015
The maximum force of the future! Welcome to Episode 21 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and Matthew O’Neill to discuss George Miller’s 1979 post-apocalyptic Australian classic – “*Mad Max*.”

This is the film that set Mel Gibson speeding off toward international action-hero super-stardom. And what better time for the guys to get stuck into the original, with the popular franchise’s fourth entry “*Mad Max: Fury Road*” (2015) currently in general release.

Join the “*Reel Chat*” team as we bring you the film’s amazing legacy in Australia (and the rest of the world), it’s minuscule production budget, how the the film had the highest profit-to-cost ratio of any motion picture for 20 years, it’s many A.F.I. awards and nominations, Brian May’s musical score (no, not THAT Brian May), the dubbed American-accent version of the film, it’s new Blu-Ray release, as well as touching on the many wonderful Victorian filming locations (many of which still exist today).

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 3 out of 5

Michael Not Yet Seen

**THE LOST WORLD: JURASSIC PARK (1997) – REEL CHAT 20.0** May 14, 2015
Something has survived! Welcome to Episode 20 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this episode of our “*Vintage Vault*” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard and regular guest Stuart Wilson to discuss Steven Spielberg’s much maligned sequel to “*Jurassic Park*” – 1997’s “*The Lost World: Jurassic Park.*“

Adam unleashes the Raptor claws on this episode, obviously angry at the creative (or lack of) direction of the franchise, while Brose and Stuart attempt to salvage the positives in what can only be described as a let down sequel. Of course this is where “*Reel Chat*” shines, as debate on a flawed sequel is infinitely always more entertaining than round-the-board praise.

Here, the guys discuss what went right (2 key action scenes), what went wrong (and there’s a lot), the film’s DVD and Blu-Ray releases, John Williams’ interesting new direction for the score, the franchise’s successful merchandise tie-ins, as well as trying to make sense of why author Michael Crichton felt compelled to write his one and only sequel.

With the franchise’s latest entry (“*Jurassic World*“) coming out in June, there really is no better time to look back at the series in detail. “*Jurassic Park*” fans rejoice – we’ll be looking at the third film as well as the new film in the coming months… right here on “*Reel Chat*.”

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 2 out of 5

Brose 2 1/2 out of 5

Andrew 2 out of 5

Matthew 1 out of 5

Stuart 2 out of 5

Michael Not Yet Seen

**SPECIAL DISCLAIMER EPISODE – REEL CHAT 19.0** May 07, 2015
Welcome to Episode 19 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

We were originally meant to bring you the “*Jurassic Park*” sequels this week, but illness to “*Reel Chat*” host Adam Stolfo unfortunately delayed the scheduled recordings. But in order to provide you all with some material for this week, Adam (complete with husky voice) briefly got together with co-host Brose Avard to record a Special Disclaimer episode, where the guys reach out to you guys and gals – the loyal listeners – and ask for your assistance and support in helping the podcast grow and mature.

And as a special bonus, they’ve tacked on a short discussion that Adam, Brose, Andrew McCaskill and Matthew O’Neill had while recording “*Ghostbusters II*” in November last year, where the guys have a brief discussion on the upcoming Paul Feig directed “*Ghostbusters*” reboot.

We’ll be back to our regular format next week, but in the meantime, listen to our disclaimer special, and please do your part in helping “*Reel Chat*” find it’s audience. Cheers everyone. We all thoroughly appreciate your ongoing support.

dr_no-5 — **DR. NO (1962) – REEL CHAT 18.0** Apr 30, 2015
His name is Bond; James Bond! Welcome to Episode 18 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this first episode of our “*50+ Years Of Bond*” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and the returning Matthew O’Neill to discuss the very first cinematic outing of the legendary super-spy. Today “*Reel Chat*” is retrospectively reviewing 1962’s “Dr.No” – the first chapter of what is probably the longest continually-running film series in history.

Join us as we discuss Bond’s origins, the perfectly charismatic performance of Sean Connery (the best Bond), the historical significance of the famous “Introduction to Bond” scene, the amazing production design of Ken Adam, the pristine-looking Blu-Ray release, the character-defining music of Monty Norman (how good is that name!?), as well as… *coughs*… that famous Ursula Andres bikini shot.

Only 23 films left to go guys! Let’s be honest… they’ll probably be more by the time we get there! Enjoy 007 fans!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael Not Yet Seen

toy-story-1-1024x640 — **TOY STORY (1995) – REEL CHAT 17.0** Apr 23, 2015
To infinity and beyond! Welcome to Episode 17 of “*Reel Chat*” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this first episode of our “Pixar” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined as usual by co-host Brose Avard, regular guest Andrew McCaskill, and special celebrity guest and actress Natasha Leigh to look at the very first feature-length computer generated film – 1995’s “*Toy Story*” – a film that invaded thousands of theatres, took international audiences by storm, and inspired an artistic revolution that continues to rage some twenty years after it’s first battle was forged.

More than just the first of it’s kind, “*Toy Story*” remains one of Pixar’s finest, and the first of a thriving breed of new Disney classics. With the popular franchise having it’s 20th Anniversary in 2015, and “*Toy Story 4*” recently announced to be in the works, the “*Reel Chat*” team delve deep into the film’s ground-breaking legacy, it’s amazing voice cast, the incredible musical talents of composer Randy Newman, the film’s (numerous) DVD and Blu-Ray release overload, trivia tidbits, the must-hear story of why there weren’t many “*Toy Story*” toys released during the film’s release, as well as the age- old question of why the toys in “*Toy Story*” freeze when in the vicinity of humans!

It’s also time for another dose of “*The Assignment*” – with Brose set the task of watching and reviewing his nightmare – the David Lynch 3-hour epic – “*Inland Empire.*“

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Natasha 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

JURASSIC PARK (1993) – REEL CHAT 16.0 Apr 16, 2015

An adventure 65 million years in the making! Welcome to Episode 16 of “Reel Chat” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this fourteenth episode of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard and regular guest Andrew McCaskill to discuss one of the most important and influential motion pictures of all time. A monumental achievement in every sense of the word, it pioneered the way visual effects are seen in movies to this day, spawning a successful franchise that’s getting a new entry in 2015 – 22 years after it all began. Today “Reel Chat” is tackling Steven Spielberg’s 1993 mega-blockbuster – “Jurassic Park.”

With the franchise’s latest entry (“Jurassic World“) coming out in June, there really is no better time to look back at the series in detail. On this episode, the guys talk about the original film’s legacy, it’s ground-breaking use of CGI and animatronics, it’s cast, it’s legendary director Steven Spielberg, John Williams’ amazing score, it’s numerous DVD and Blu-ray releases, it’s 3D re-release, as well as the possibility of whether we could actually clone dinosaurs with modern 2015 technology.

“Jurassic Park” fans rejoice – we’ll be looking at the sequels as well as the new film in the coming months… right here on “Reel Chat.”

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

STAR WARS EPISODE IV – A NEW HOPE (1977) – REEL CHAT 15.0 Apr 09, 2015

Welcome to Episode 15 of “Reel Chat” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this very special (and extended) thirteenth episode of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and special celebrity guest (and well-established Australian actor) Toby Truslove to dive head first into their most ambitious and most intimidating review yet. Today “Reel Chat” discusses 1977’s “Star Wars Episode IV – A New Hope.” – one of the most beloved and important movies in the history of cinema!

How on earth do you do justice to a film with 38 years of fandom and legacy!? A film like this deserves a deeper look than usual, and this episode of “Reel Chat” comes in at an “epic” running time of just over 2 hours (about the same length as the damn film itself)! But it’s all for a good cause, as the boys break down the legendary first chapter of a saga many regard as the most important franchise in movie history.

Learn all about it’s iconic cast, the billionaire filmmaker (love him or hate him?) that wrote and directed it, it’s amazingly talented crew, it’s incredible score and all it’s releases, it’s many, many different versions, the most important business decision in history, as well as why we’re all still waiting to see the original theatrical versions in the best possible quality.

This is certainly an “epic” podcast for an “epic” movie. Enjoy Star Wars fans… and movie fans alike!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Toby 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brides-Maids — **BRIDESMAIDS (2011) – REEL CHAT 14.0** Apr 03, 2015
Chick flicks don’t have to suck! Everybody, welcome to Episode 14 of “Reel Chat” – a podcast that promises week in, week out – the “Reel World as we know it.”

On this twelfth installment of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and Australian Radio and Television Personality Jo Stanley to look at 2011’s “Bridesmaids” – a brilliant comedy completely and utterly disguised and marketed as a “chick flick.” Fellas… whatever you do, do not misinterpret the misleading title… because you’ll all be doing yourself a huge injustice… missing out on one of the great laugh-out-loud fests of recent years.

Hear all about the film’s amazing success, it’s hilarious cast, it’s supremely talented director, it’s gross-out scenes of vulgarity, it’s soundtrack, it’s outstanding DVD and Blu-ray release, as well as what could possibly be “Reel Chat’s” most surprising review score EVER!

We also have another installment of “The Assignment” for you all, with Andrew set the task or watching undoubtedly his worst nightmare – Anna Faris and Emma Stone in “The House Bunny.”

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Jo Stanley 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

EPISODE TRIVIA

No. of “Back To The Future” references: 7

The new segment “The Assignment” makes it’s return here at the end of the episode, with Andrew set the task of watching Anna Faris and Emma Stone in “The House Bunny” (2008).

Australian Television and Radio Personality Jo Stanley’s special guest appearance here makes this a notable early Reel Chat episode. When she accepted the invitation, Jo was given the choice of which film the team would cover. It becomes clear that “Bridesmaids” was a personal favourite of hers.

Andrew’s 5 star review for “Bridesmaids” was so out of the blue that Adam used a short musical cue called the “Shock Sting” to fit the mood of the moment – a piece that Adam still uses for Reel Chat shocks and surprises to this day.

**BRIDESMAIDS (2011) – REEL CHAT 14.0** Apr 03, 2015
Chick flicks don’t have to suck! Everybody, welcome to Episode 14 of “Reel Chat” – a podcast that promises week in, week out – the “Reel World as we know it.”

On this twelfth installment of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and Australian Radio and Television Personality Jo Stanley to look at 2011’s “Bridesmaids” – a brilliant comedy completely and utterly disguised and marketed as a “chick flick.” Fellas… whatever you do, do not misinterpret the misleading title… because you’ll all be doing yourself a huge injustice… missing out on one of the great laugh-out-loud fests of recent years.

Hear all about the film’s amazing success, it’s hilarious cast, it’s supremely talented director, it’s gross-out scenes of vulgarity, it’s soundtrack, it’s outstanding DVD and Blu-ray release, as well as what could possibly be “Reel Chat’s” most surprising review score EVER!

We also have another installment of “The Assignment” for you all, with Andrew set the task or watching undoubtedly his worst nightmare – Anna Faris and Emma Stone in “The House Bunny.”

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Jo Stanley 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

EPISODE TRIVIA

No. of “Back To The Future” references: 7

The new segment “The Assignment” makes it’s return here at the end of the episode, with Andrew set the task of watching Anna Faris and Emma Stone in “The House Bunny” (2008).

Australian Television and Radio Personality Jo Stanley’s special guest appearance here makes this a notable early Reel Chat episode. When she accepted the invitation, Jo was given the choice of which film the team would cover. It becomes clear that “Bridesmaids” was a personal favourite of hers.

Andrew’s 5 star review for “Bridesmaids” was so out of the blue that Adam used a short musical cue called the “Shock Sting” to fit the mood of the moment – a piece that Adam still uses for Reel Chat shocks and surprises to this day.

buried-movie-poster-1020556590 — **BURIED (2010) – REEL CHAT 13.0** Mar 26, 2015
Welcome to Episode 13 of “Reel Chat” – a podcast that guarantees week in, week out – the “Reel world as we know it.”

On this eleventh episode of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and Stuart Wilson to discuss 2010’s “Buried” – a commonly overlooked, under-appreciated and ambitious “confined-space-thriller” that really demanded the “Reel Chat” treatment.

Can we all survive 95 minutes of being stuck inside a wooden box with Ryan Reynolds (Mr. “Van Wilder – Party Liaison” himself)? How did the claustrophobic experience of making the film take its toll on Reynolds both physically and mentally? Was the ending the ending we all wanted, or the ending the film demanded?

As an experiment in filmmaking this film succeeds admirably, and throughout the course of the episode the guys examine Reynold’s impressive (and intense) performance, it’s dynamic (and non-repetitive) cinematography, it’s real world plausibility, it’s DVD and Blu-Ray releases, and much, much more!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael Not Yet Seen

EPISODE TRIVIA

No. of “Back To The Future” references: 3

This episode suffers from some of the same audio issues as the previous few. A number of the microphone levels are unfortunately very low and inconsistent here.

This episode is notable for Brose’s overuse of the Reel Chat sound effects. Instead of cutting this out, Adam decided to play the sounds as they would always appear. This makes for an amusing minute or so of complete over indulgence. (40 min mark)

**EASY A (2010) – REEL CHAT 12.0** Mar 18, 2015
Welcome to Episode 12 of “Reel Chat” – a podcast that promises week in, week out – the “Reel World as we know it.”

On this tenth installment of our vintage vault retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and big fan Stuart Wilson to discuss 2010’s “Easy A” – a vehicle for the very talented Emma Stone, who recently received an Oscar nomination for her supporting role in “Birdman.”

This is another episode to split the team down the middle, creating an interesting dynamic (and ongoing debate) between Team **Adam & Andrew** and Team **Brose & Stuart**. Throughout the course of the episode the guys discuss the film’s themes, it’s critical response, it’s cast, it’s filmmakers, it’s music, it’s DVD and Blu-ray releases, as well as the film’s many, many references to John Hughes gems of the 80s.

Brose’s new segment “The Assignment” also makes it’s debut, with Stuart set the challenge of watching the “pointless” 1998 shot-for-shot remake of “Psycho.”

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 2 out of 5

Brose 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 1 out of 5

Matthew Not Yet Seen

Stuart 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

EPISODE TRIVIA

No. of “Back To The Future” references: 1

A new segment titled “The Assignment” makes it’s official debut here in this episode, with Stuart set the challenge of watching the Gus Van Sant remake of “Psycho” (1998). The team decided to place it at the very end of each episode it was to be featured in.

An interesting episode for a number of reasons. Firstly, this episode (along with the follow-ups “Buried” and “Bridesmaids”) was a little bit of a departure from the genres the team had gotten into a bit of a groove with. This was a little bit of experimentation that unfortunately failed to pay off. Reel Chat’s download numbers dropped significantly from the first 11. The films that followed these 3 episodes (“Star Wars”, “Jurassic Park” and “Toy Story”) were in direct response to this, and got the download numbers back on track.

And secondly, “Easy A” was the next episode to really split the team in half opinion wise (following “Signs”). What listeners may not know is that some of it got a little personal, and not every single verbal rebuttal or clash was included in the final edit due to Adam choosing to keep the podcast as diplomatic as possible. Some of the “tension” is definitely present in the final edit though.

shawshank — **THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION (1994) – REEL CHAT 11.0** Mar 12, 2015
“Get busy livin’, or get busy dyin’!” Welcome to Episode 11 of “Reel Chat” – a podcast that promises week in, week out – the “Reel World as we know it.”

On this ninth installment of our “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and Michael Hadjion to discuss one of the most universally beloved motion pictures of all time – 1994’s “The Shawshank Redemption.”

The question of “why is this film so loved and respected” is equally as intriguing as the film itself, and the Reel Chat team sink their teeth into this specific point; giving their thoughts and opinions on why they love this film, what it does so right, and in Brose’s case, why it’s not that original, or doesn’t deserve to be ranked number 1 on IMDb’s Top 250 list.

Throughout the course of the episode, the guys look at the film’s dismal box office run, it’s discovery in the VHS era, it’s amazingly talented cast and filmmakers, little-known facts and anecdotes, it’s DVD and Blu-ray releases, Thomas Newman’s outstanding score, as well as try to shed their own thoughts on why no one in the world either hasn’t seen, or never seems to dislike, this masterpiece in cinematic storytelling.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

EPISODE TRIVIA

No. of “Back To The Future” references: 2

Recorded on the same day as “North By Northwest”, this episode suffers from some of the same audio issues. Your host Adam’s microphone levels are unfortunately very low here.

North-By-Northwest-Poster — **NORTH BY NORTHWEST (1959) – REEL CHAT 10.0** Mar 05, 2015
Welcome to Episode 10 of “Reel Chat” – a podcast that promises week in, week out – the “Reel World as we know it.”

On this first installment of our new “Alfred Hitchcock Presents…” retrospective series, we look at 1959’s “North By Northwest” – a film considered to be a masterpiece for it’s themes of deception, mistaken identity, and moral relativism in the Cold War era.

Host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and Stuart Wilson to look in great detail at this Hitchcock classic. Self confessed fan Stuart gets quite brutal on a film he feels probably shouldn’t be regarded as one of Hitchcock’s best, even though the rest of the team (and the consensus) wholeheartedly disagree.

But the difference of opinion is where “Reel Chat” shines, so join us for a trip down memory lane as we dissect the film’s amazing cast, it’s legendary director, it’s iconic score, as well as how short the film would of actually been if that annoying Paige didn’t yell out “George Kaplan” at the beginning!

And “Reel Chat’s” new segment “The Assignment” makes it’s long awaited debut.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

EPISODE TRIVIA

No. of “Back To The Future” references: 1

Some of the audio on this episode is very poor. Budgets, audio mixing, microphone levels and quality control weren’t as refined in the early days, and Adam classifies this as one of the worst sounding Reel Chat episodes. Adam and Stuart’s audio levels and clarity seem particularly affected. A huge chunk of the first 20 minutes had to be edited out, and as a result, the Reel Chat structure seems a little all over the place – at least until they start talking about the cast. A discussion on the work and career of Hitchcock was the main casualty of the edit.

Towards the end of the episode, Adam mentions Hitchcock’s “Rear Window” as being an upcoming episode later in 2015. Reel Chat did not cover “Rear Window” until episode 94 in January 2019!

The fun (but short lived) segment “The Assignment” gets its first mention in this episode with Stuart being the first recipient.

**2015 OSCARS SPECIAL – REEL CHAT 9.0** Feb 26, 2015
“Birdman” flies high! Welcome to Episode 9 of “Reel Chat” – the first episode of our second season.

This week we have something a little different for you – our first departure from our regular “film-of-the-week” format. This week the “Reel Chat” team brings you the “2015 Oscars Post-Show Roundtable Special.”

Host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill, Stuart Wilson and Michael Hadjion (yes, 5 of us!) to look in detail at every film fan’s night of nights. But do people actually have any interest in it anymore? Can it be taken seriously? Is the magic and celebration of film still present? Did Neil Patrick Harris pull it off as host? Why did “The Lego Movie” not get nominated for Best Animated Film? Did our guests actually like “Birdman”, the Best Picture winner? Are the award speeches just an avenue for making a hard-hitting or political statement!?

All of these questions and much, much more are answered here in our first special. What are you waiting for!? Let us know your thoughts…

EPISODE TRIVIA

This is the first episode of Reel Chat’s second season.

No. of “Back To The Future” references: 3

The podcast’s tagline – “A podcast that promises week in/week out the Reel World as we know it” – makes it’s debut here.

This was the Reel Chat episode with the shortest turnaround. The Oscars aired on the Monday, the pre-production was done on the Tuesday, the recording was done on the same Tuesday evening and then the episode was released on the Thursday with only minimal editing.

*Some behind-the-scenes photos from the recording of the Oscars Special.*

roger rabbit — **WHO FRAMED ROGER RABBIT (1988) – REEL CHAT 8.0** Feb 19, 2015
Welcome to Episode 8 of “Reel Chat” – a podcast that promises week in, week out – the “Reel World as we know it.”

On this eighth installment of the “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, we look at 1988’s “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” – and what a bloody great gem of a forgotten film this is! Host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and the returning Michael Hadjion to look in depth at what can only be described as a timeless classic. But even if you feel that this film is now beyond you, and feel like skipping it in preparation for our big 2015 Oscars special next week… um… DON’T!

“Reel Chat” gets a little cruder than usual, as we discuss all the film’s hidden sexual innuendo, it’s many jokes and gags, it’s legacy, and it’s overall lasting impression. Andrew goes into the snake pit as the only member of the team who doesn’t hold the film in high regard, which is always great for some banter. But you’ll be surprised how much he actually comes around during the discussion.

As usual, we also look in depth at key scenes, the film’s cast and crew, it’s jazzy and catchy score, and much, much more! Now, is that 13 “Back To The Future” references we count…?

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 2 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 2 1/2 out of 5

Stuart 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

EPISODE TRIVIA

This is the final episode of Reel Chat’s pilot (or first) season.

No. of “Back To The Future” references: 13

No. of “Back To The Future” references in Reel Chat’s first season: 36

The “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” soundtrack was expanded and re-released by Intrada in 2018.

Reel Chat’s first 8 episodes were recorded towards the end of 2014. A discussion on the future and direction of the show, as well as a few disclaimers, was edited out of the end of this episode for time. Even though there was a short hiatus between season 1 and season 2, Adam had already decided that it would continue into a new season in early 2015.

rosemarys-baby-poster — **ROSEMARY’S BABY (1968) – REEL CHAT 7.0** Feb 12, 2015
It’s not what you’re expecting! Welcome to Episode 7 of “Reel Chat”.

On this seventh installment of the “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and first-time guest Michael Hadjion (known among the “Reel Chat” team as “The Effervescent”), to look back at one of the great drama, horror mysteries of the 20th century – 1968’s “Rosemary’s Baby.”

Michael is on fire here in his debut appearance. You can’t help but get swept up in his obvious love and admiration for what can only be described as a “classic.”

Learn all about the incredible life of director Roman Polanski, the infamous “Rosemary’s Baby” curse, as well as why Vodka Blush’s were apparently very popular in Australia in the 1960s. As always we look at the film’s outstanding cast (including Ruth Gordon in her Academy Award winning role), it’s creepy musical score, it’s DVD and Blu-Ray releases, and much, much more!

We hope this episode goes a significant way to making you all experience (or re-experience) this masterpiece.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

EPISODE TRIVIA

No. of “Back To The Future” references: 7

Michael Hadjion makes his debut on this episode.

As part of the initial 8 pilot episodes in Reel Chat’s first season, Adam let his team choose a movie for the show to cover. This episode was Michael’s choice.

This is the first episode to feature an end of episode disclaimer, complete with ending music from the chosen film.

signs_ed89e657_b — **SIGNS (2002) – REEL CHAT 6.0** Feb 05, 2015
It’s happening! Welcome to Episode 6 of “Reel Chat”.

On this sixth installment of the “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and the returning Stuart Wilson to look at the first film to cut itself right through the middle of the “Reel Chat” team – 2002’s “Signs.”

Even if you’re not a huge fan of this film… whatever you do… don’t let this episode discourage you. For the first time on the show, hear the team’s huge difference of opinion, with Adam and Stu on team “yes” and Brose and Andrew on team “no.” Learn about the film’s key emotional points, that go a long way to explaining why it affects some viewers positively, and others so negatively.

As always, we look at the film’s impressive cast, it’s incredibly diverse writer/director M.Night Shyamalan, it’s DVD and Blu-ray release, it’s mood setting musical score, and much, much more! Do yourself a favour. “Signs” is NOT the episode to miss.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 2 1/2 out of 5

Stuart 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

EPISODE TRIVIA

No. of “Back To The Future” references: 1

As part of the initial 8 pilot episodes in Reel Chat’s first season, Adam let his team choose a movie for the show to cover. This episode was Stuart’s choice.

Notable for being the first real divisive episode of the show.

**AN AMERICAN WEREWOLF IN LONDON (1981) – REEL CHAT 5.0** Jan 28, 2015
Beware the moon! Welcome to Episode 5 of “Reel Chat”.

On this fifth installment of the “Vintage Vault” retrospective series, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and a very proud and knowledgeable Matthew O’Neill, to look back at a cult genre classic – 1981’s “An American Werewolf In London.”

Learn how writer/director John Landis came up with the film’s concept 10 years before it’s release, it’s iconic London setting, as well as it’s incredible ability to successfully combine two genres – horror and comedy. As always, we also look at the film’s (then unknown) cast, it’s filmmakers, the incredible work of Academy Award winning make-up artist Rick Baker, the famous wolf transformation scene, as well as it’s numerous DVD and Blu-ray releases.

Film fans take note: This is definitely a film that’s worth a watch (or even a re-watch).

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

EPISODE TRIVIA

No. of “Back To The Future” references: 1

As part of the initial 8 pilot episodes in Reel Chat’s first season, Adam let his team choose a movie for the show to cover. This episode was Matt’s choice.

This episode features a discussion on the sub-par picture quality of the film’s DVD and Blu-ray releases. Since this recording, “An American Werewolf In London” has been re-released on Blu-ray in the U.S. as the “Restored Edition” – which features a much improved video transfer.

Adam classifies this episode as being the one in which Reel Chat finds it’s “groove” – after a lot of experimenting in the first 4 episodes.

**COMMANDO (1985) – REEL CHAT 4.0** Jan 22, 2015

Let’s party! Welcome to Episode 4 of “Reel Chat”, a brand new and exciting movies podcast devoted to the “Reel World as we know it”.

On this fourth Vintage Vault installment, host (and huge Schwarzenegger fan) Adam Stolfo is joined by a pumped up Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and Matthew O’Neill to look at one of the most satisfying guilty pleasures in the history of action cinema – 1985’s “Commando”.

Brose is in fine form here, showing plenty of love to a film he obviously holds in high regard. In what happens to be its 30th anniversary, we look in-depth at the film’s cast, it’s filmmakers, the film’s DVD and Blu-ray release, it’s “manic” musical score (complete with steel drums and plenty of 80s saxophone), the questionable sexuality of “memorable villain” Bennett, as well as Brose’s run in with the Aussie actor himself, Vernon Wells, at San Diego Comic-Con in 2009.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 2 1/2 out of 5

EPISODE TRIVIA

No. of “Back To The Future” references: 3

As part of the initial 8 pilot episodes in Reel Chat’s first season, Adam let his team choose a movie for the show to cover. This episode was Brose’s choice.

This episode has a strange audio “inclusion” that was recorded at a later date. It’s the part where Brose is talking about the newly released Hot Toys “John Matrix” collectible. To this day, Adam is perplexed that he tried to pass off this audio snippet as being recorded with the rest of the episode. #RookieError

**SE7EN (1995) – REEL CHAT 3.0** Jan 15, 2015
It’s time for a change of mood… how about dark and miserable!? Welcome to Episode 3 of “Reel Chat”, an exciting new movies podcast that promises cinephiles whether here or abroad – the “Reel World as we know it”.

On this third installment of the “Vintage Vault”, host Adam Stolfo is once again joined by co-host Brose Avard, a very proud and excitable Andrew McCaskill, as well as the returning Matthew O’Neill, to look in depth at one of the darkest and most respected thrillers of the mid 90s – director David Fincher’s “Seven”… or “Se7en”.

Learn all about the film’s legacy and ongoing failure to claim the respect it so rightly deserves. Learn about it’s huge influence on various horror and thriller movies that followed. And learn about the film’s planned alternate endings, with New Line Cinema getting cold feet and subsequently opting for a compromise ending.

We also look in depth at the film’s iconic cast, it’s talented filmmakers, it’s outstanding Blu-ray and DVD release, as well as which of the 7 deadly sins John Doe would hunt down each one of our team for!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 5 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

EPISODE TRIVIA

No. of “Back To The Future” references: 2

As part of the initial 8 pilot episodes in Reel Chat’s first season, Adam let his team choose a movie for the show to cover. This episode was Andrew’s choice.

This episode is notable for featuring what is probably one of Reel Chat’s most controversial jokes/statements. Some listeners took offence to the joke.

Howard Shore’s score to “Se7en” has been released since the recording of this episode on Howe Records.

GHOSTBUSTERS II (1989) – REEL CHAT 2.0 Jan 08, 2015

We’re back! Welcome to Episode 2 of “Reel Chat”, a new and exciting movies podcast that promises week in, week out – the “Reel World as we know it”.

On this second Vintage Vault installment, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and first-time guest Matthew O’Neill, to delve into a second helping of Ghostbusters lore, with the guy’s getting their teeth into the much maligned 1989 follow-up – “Ghostbusters II”.

Learn all about the film’s inception and luke-warm legacy. Learn how much the hit 80s cartoon series “The Real Ghostbusters” influenced the film’s tone and direction. Hear super fan Brose’s continued frustration with the direction of the franchise, while Adam and Andrew attempt to defend it for having a bad reputation among fans and film goers alike. You’ll also hear about the hit 2009 “Ghostbusters” video game and much, much more!

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 2 1/2 out of 5

Andrew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 3 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 3 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 2 1/2 out of 5

EPISODE TRIVIA

No. of “Back To The Future” references: 2
Matt O’Neill makes his debut on this episode.
A huge 15 or 20 minute chat on the recently announced “Ghostbusters” 2016 reboot was edited out of this episode for time. Most of that conversation then resurfaced as bonus material on Episode 19.0.

GHOSTBUSTERS (1984) – REEL CHAT 1.0 Jan 01, 2015

Happy New Year everyone! Welcome to the first official episode of “Reel Chat”, a new and exciting movies podcast that promises week in, week out – the “Reel World as we know it”.

On this premiere “Vintage Vault” episode, host Adam Stolfo is joined by co-host Brose Avard, Andrew McCaskill and Stuart Wilson to discuss one of the best and most beloved comedies of the 80s – 1984’s “Ghostbusters”.

Hear about Brose’s run-in (and 20 minute chat) with actor Ernie Hudson in 2009, Adam and Brose’s Ghostbusters location tour in New York City (where they met) in 2008, as well as the age-old question of how much the Proton Packs would actually cost if manufactured in real life.

We also look in-depth at the film’s amazing cast and filmmakers, it’s critical reception, the film’s various DVD and Blu-ray releases, the film’s music and 2 soundtrack releases, as well as the rise of Ghostbusters collectible/toy tie-ins for it’s all important 30th anniversary.

THE TEAM’S REVIEW SCORES

Adam 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Brose 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Andrew 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Matthew 4 1/2 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Stuart 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

Michael 4 out of 5 – RECOMMEND

EPISODE TRIVIA

No. of “Back To The Future” references: 2
Notable for introducing the “Reel Chat” episode format for which a movie is retrospectively reviewed. This has only been tweaked moderately since.
Adam and Brose met in New York in 2008 and ventured out to visit a number of real world locations from “Ghostbusters”. This is why this film was chosen for Episode 1.0.
The cinematography and trivia sections are much closer to the end of the episode than they ended up being in subsequent episodes.
Despite being the first, Adam classifies this as one “Reel Chat’s” worst episodes – sound quality wise anyway. This was mainly due to Adam’s microphone level not being at an optimum level – and he’s the host! Epic fail! Ah, the joys of first episodes.
The movie’s theatrical trailer being played at the beginning of an episode has its first appearance here. However, Adam regrets using a 30th Anniversary re-release trailer of “Ghostbusters” instead of it’s original 1984 trailer.
Stuart was brought in at the eleventh hour to replace Matt on this episode.