In the Details: a Celebration of Nuance

Episode 66: Life is Not a Cabaret Jun 17, 2022

I've developed an unhealthy obsession with the Real Housewives, let's face it. But for as much vapid bickering over white wine as there is on any iteration of this show, every once in a while it gets refreshingly real. This week I'm diving into all the micro-moments of RHONY icon Bethenny Frankel's Season 11 meltdown in Miami over LuAnn's caba-razy behavior while in supposed recovery for her alcoholism. Not to be missed is Best Supporting Tinsley, sad old Barbara, the mirrored martini glass, that napkin, and the scooping of the hair. It's melodramatic, it's campy, it's dark and it's absolutely fascinating reality television. Radio Andy RHONY Live Reading: https://bit.ly/3mXJXE0 Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 65: All About All About My Mother (w/ Leanne Kubicz!) Feb 15, 2022

In the Details is back this week/month/year to queen out on Pedro Almodovar's homage to mothers, actresses and the modern melodrama, 1999's "All About My Mother." Joining me this week is the always brilliant Leanne Kubicz to help me dive into the world of Almodovar, his themes and references and of course, his chicas, as well as his nuanced and compassionate representation of trans people and HIV/AIDS. Plus a bevy of references, from Douglas Sirk to All About Eve to some of his previous movies, as well as the most beautiful shade of red you've ever seen, Best Supporting Agrado and a wonderfully unexpected ending. Follow Leanne: @lianemarieK (Twitter) Leanne's Origami: @leannekpaper (Instagram) More of Leanne and her amazing taste in movies!: http://leannek.substack.com http://lmkfilmpicks.wordpress.com Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 64: Fever Dreams on VHS Oct 28, 2021

Just in time for Halloween, I've curated a fantasy movie marathon of some of the more questionable choices in the horror movie aisle of yesteryear's video store. These are not just bad movies (though I don't know if any of them would qualify as good), they're surreal and delirious and sometimes totally fascinating. And they're all available on Youtube! Before we get into it, I spend a few minutes hating on "Halloween KIlls." It's the worst. Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 63: Panic on the Platform Oct 14, 2021

One of the rings of hell is likely a New York City subway station in the 80's. And it probably looks like the 59th Street stop depicted in 1980's super sleazy "Maniac." I can't say I recommend the movie, but the subway scene with the nurse is a terrifying glimpse into a bygone era of the MTA. (Subway station bathrooms!) But first: I have attended "Mass" and I have a gospel to preach. Maniac scene: https://youtu.be/7I6Mf-UPYv4 "Man on a Train" short movie: https://youtu.be/k0poUY6B7aM Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 62: A Spooky Masseuse and a Suspicious Spouse Oct 05, 2021

I’m kicking off a month of Spooky Nuances with the 1950 film noir classic “In a Lonely Place,” a tense and twisted vehicle for superstars Humphrey Bogart and Gloria Grahame that also features a face journey by actress Jeff Donnell as the suspicious Sylvia, the amazing Hadda Brooks as a lounge singer who gets a Moment, and Martha the no nonsense masseuse. We wrap things up with an unmissable interview Donnell did with Skip E Lowe that features my new favorite Barbara. Skip E. Lowe interview: https://youtu.be/Wn8f7tVUrVQ Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 61: Oh Mo, We Gotta Touch This Sep 17, 2021

After an extended spring break and summer vacation, I'm back this week with some thoughts on Malignant, Bernard Hermann's score for Sisters, the shows Work in Progress and The Other Two, and Sarah Paulson's Linda Tripp, before a necessary celebration of the best 8 and a half minutes you'll see all year, "Brenda Vaccaro is having a good time." Brenda: https://youtu.be/L-kFa74FovY Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 60: The Undoing of the Enlightened Flight Attendant Mar 15, 2021

I was quick to write off both "The Undoing" and "The Flight Attendant" only months ago, but after finally bingeing both, I found reasons to appreciate both shows--specifically, some fine actressing from Nicole Kidman, Lily Rabe, Noma Dumezweni, Rosie Perez, Zosia Mamet and most of all, Kaley Cuoco. Expect plenty of spoilers of "The Undoing" and no spoilers of "The Flight Attendant" as I queen out on some prime acting choices and micromoments, before giving some long overdue love to "Enlightened," a show I deeply identify with and greatly appreciate as a sort of companion piece of "The Comeback." Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 59: Cherishing Valerie - Part 7: Valerie Loses It Feb 04, 2021

The much anticipated next chapter of "Cherishing Valerie" is here! This week we're breaking down Val's biggest meltdown, the Season 2 desert monologue. And perhaps it's perfect timing--never more have I identified with a woman in a track suit making beef rollatini and completely losing her shit. Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 58: The 3rd Annual Nuancies Jan 10, 2021

Awards season has officially begun this year! My fake award show looking back at a years' worth of episodes, plucking out the highlights, then ranking them on a purely emotional basis is back for a third year. The Nuancies are bigger than ever, even if my episode output in 2020 was smaller than ever. We're not just counting down the top five acting choices and micro-moments, but celebrating some hall of fame favorites from years past and honorable mentions that didn't make the list. Plus: musical breaks that can't get their shit together, a melodramatic guest montage, a decidedly strange memorial and the third recipient of the Beatrice Straight Award for Excellence in Nuance is announced! Brace yourselves. Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 57: A Visit From Mrs. Daigle Nov 28, 2020

Few actors can play drunk as convincingly as Eileen Heckart does in 1956's "The Bad Seed." Heckart won the Golden Globe and was nominated for both the Oscar and a Tony in the Broadway production a couple years earlier for her heartbreaking portrayal of Mrs. Daigle, grieving the death of her son and in desperate need to find out what happened to that penmanship medal. This week I'm going practically beat by beat through her two scenes to break down why this is such a pitch perfect performance. Plus we get a little more of the marvelous Nancy Kelly as the profoundly overwhelmed Christine Penmark! Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 56: The Exquisite Agony of Christine Penmark Nov 02, 2020

1956's "The Bad Seed" is most well-known for being a pioneer of the "killer kid" horror sub-genre. But it also features three Oscar-nominated female performances--Patty McCormack as the pigtailed psycho Rhoda Penmark, the brilliant Eileen Heckart as drunk, grief-stricken Mrs. Daigle, and Nancy Kelly as Rhoda's poor suffering mother Christine. Kelly, who previously won the Tony in the original stage production, brings a Broadway-sized performance to the movie that is fascinating, over the top, and teeming with bold acting choices. This week I pick out a few choice meltdowns that are giving me that Toni Collette in "Hereditary" vibe I love. Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 55: The Stepford Best Friend Oct 18, 2020

One of my favorite things about "The Stepford Wives" is the dynamic duo of Joanna and Bobbie--two former city girls turned suburban moms who find refuge in each other's humanity in the sinister utopia of Stepford. This week I'm queening out on Paula Prentiss's wacky charm as Bobbie before breaking down my favorite micro-moments during Joanna's desperate confession to her psychiatrist in the third act. Plus: some strong feelings on the 1978 "Invasion of the Body Snatchers," including a total spoiler of the infamous ending. Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 54: The Last Two Minutes of Lunch Meat Oct 09, 2020

If "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" is the filet mignon of horror movies, this is boiled bologna at best. Today I'm digging into the ultra-obscure shot-on-video, zero budget 1987 slasher "Lunch Meat," and specifically, it's bizarre and oddly fascinating ending--and music that scores it. This Texas Chainsaw rip-off is by no means worth an entire watch, but the last two minutes are surprisingly poignant. "Lunch Meat" on YouTube: https://bit.ly/36PaSL6 Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 53: Meryl Crying Against the Dishwasher Sep 29, 2020

It's just too much! This episode I'm queening out on Meryl Streep and Jeff Daniels' emotionally precarious minutes together in "The Hours." Julianne Moore's talking through tears and Nicole Kidman's raspy grasp of an Oscar get moments of appreciation, but it's an un-nominated Meryl melting down in her kitchen much to Jeff Daniels' effortlessly fey dismay that I've held dear all these years. I also discuss just how gay this movie is, how important that was to 17 year old me first discovering it, deep appreciation for Allison Janney as Sally, the tradition of cataloging references, Bad Hostess Syndrome, San Francisco as a city people tell you to like and which straight actors are the best at playing gay. The Louis Waters scene from "The Hours": https://bit.ly/33cjHwn Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 52: This Song Can't Get Its Sh*t Together Aug 03, 2020

There are few things I love more than an over the top movie soundtrack. This week I'm highlighting some insanely good Italian horror movie soundtracks that are all over 30 years old but could have been recorded last year, and are bonkers in the best way. Plus I queen out about "Dead to Me" (all that talking through tears!), some classic child beauty pageant documentaries and the late, great, In the Details alum Olivia de Havilland. Living Dolls on YT: https://bit.ly/2PkfWxb Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 51: Good Grief Jul 05, 2020

This week, I correct a grievous error from last week's episode that, well, no one would probably notice but me, and highlight some Blanche Devereaux nuances I forgot to mention! Plus: some thoughts on the 2007 revival of "Company," a re-appreciation of JoBeth Williams in "Poltergeist," some thoughts on the strange experience of grief and a few nuanced examples of it from "A Map of the World" and "Rabbit Hole," before wrapping things up on a high note. "Company" (2007): https://youtu.be/8fhW00fU1uQ "A Map of the World" (2000): https://youtu.be/tn63Ip1T5Gk Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 50: The Blanche Devereaux Episode Jun 22, 2020

I've been wanting to celebrate Rue McClanahan's nuanced Golden Girl Blanche from the moment I first watched her figure out what "lesbian" meant. Blanche is more than just the original Samantha Jones--while she's best known for being a vivacious sexpot, Blanche has moments of wackiness, dismay, anger and confusion that make me love her even more. This week I'm highlighting ten different scenes in the series that show just how genius McClanahan's performance is (with some cameo moments from Bea and Betty!). Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 49: Rose's Last Birthday Jun 12, 2020

Rose Nylund may seem like the least nuanced of the Golden Girls gals, but in one Season 6 episode, she got a whole scene to herself to prove otherwise. Betty White hand acts and self-interrupts and eventually even talks through tears in a brilliant flashback to her final birthday in St. Olaf, and this week I'm breaking it down beat by beat. Watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GxhwuLKMhAI Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 48: The North Avenue Character Actresses (w/ Craig Filar) May 08, 2020

The North Avenue Irregulars is an admittedly obscure 1979 Disney family film, and an unlikely source of nuance. But not only is the movie teeming with double entendre and a delightfully 70's color palette, it's filled to the brim with wackadoo set pieces featuring pitch-perfect comedic actressing from like Cloris Leachman, Kim Valentine, Virginia Capers, the infamous Patsy Kelly, and patron saint of the podcast herself, Barbara Harris, as a ragtag group of church ladies banding together to bring down organized crime in their town. I'm joined this week by Craig Filar, a longtime listener who is responsible for bringing this movie and Barbara Harris into my life. Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 47: A Tearful Goodbye to Schitt's Creek (w/ Nick Kochanov!) May 01, 2020

Canadian cult favorite "Schitt's Creek" went out on a high--not only with a satisfying final season but a post-series documentary/love letter "Best Wishes, Warmest Regards." (I spend the whole episode calling it "Best Wishes, Warm Regards," I know.) My Best Supporting Podcast co-host Nick Kochanov joins me this week to queen out on the most emotional moments, from the filming of Ted and Alexis's final dinner to The Letter from the moms to the heartbreaking Sarah Levy. We discuss the ways in which we both identify with David on an emotional level, our appreciation of the appreciation of Moira Rose as a gay icon and the sheer Canadianness of it all. Follow Nick on Twitter/Instagram: Nick: @NickKochanov The No Good Very Bad Gay Podcast: @badgaypod Squirrel Friends Cocktail Hour: @SFCHpodcast Best Supporting Podcast (with me!): @bsapod Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 46: Channeling My Inner Brenda Vaccaro Apr 23, 2020

Strange times call for strange content! This week I'm queening out on some recent favorite nuances that have found their way into my life in lockdown. From a perplexing Sylvia Miles in "Midnight Cowboy" to some really wackadoo Italian horror movie soundtracks to Best Supporting Actress winner compilations on YouTube, this is an odd sampling of what's keeping me sane these days. (And that includes Brenda Vaccaro.) BSA Playlist: https://youtu.be/qOBkVJYbRnQ Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 45: I Am Trapped in Small, Private Elevator! Mar 22, 2020

I'm certainly empathetic to poor Mrs. Hilyard in 1964's sweaty, sleazy "Lady in a Cage"--trapped like a caged animal while the world outside seems to go mad. This week I queen out on some of my favorite acting choices from star Olivia DeHavilland, who sinks her teeth into one of the better "mature lady in peril" roles of the 60's and 70's. Plus: a swarthy James Caan, a blousy Ann Sothern and an overly-ambitious indictment of society at large. In these strange times, it's somehow exactly what I needed. Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 44: Debbie Does Bayonne (w/ Leanne Kubicz) Feb 28, 2020

Hysterical Blindness is a lesser-known HBO original movie from 2002, directed by Mira Nair and featuring a Golden Globe winning performance by Uma Thurman as the occasionally delusional Debbie Miller, looking for love in all the wrong dive bars. From the pitch-perfect depiction of 1987 Bayonne to the prestige casting of Gena Rowlands and Ben Gazzara to the quintessential Best Supporting Actress work from Juliette Lewis, this is an unsung gem of a movie. Leanne Kubicz joins me again to celebrate both our shared Jersey roots and our shared love for this movie. Follow Leanne at @lianemarieK! Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 43: On My Bobby Baby 35th Birthday Feb 01, 2020

Stephen Sondheim's 1970 musical "Company" snuck up on me at the perfect time in my life. In the months before I turned 35, I discovered (a)musical theatre I genuinely liked and (b)a deep understanding and appreciation of the central character of Bobby. And not for nothing, the music is full of nuances, from the over the top opening number to Beth Howland's breathless vocal acrobatics to the best supporting actress that is Elaine Stritch to the honky 70's-ness of it all. This week, we're diving into some of my favorite moments. Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker

Episode 42: Troop Zero Gets a Badge in Nuance (w/ Jonathan Foster!) Jan 25, 2020

Allison Janney, Viola Davis, Edi Patterson, Jim Gaffigan and McKenna Grace (and little BSA Bella Higginbotham!) are at the heart of the charming, eventually tearjerking "Troop Zero" that just came out on Amazon Prime. My boyfriend Jonathan joins me again to queen out on the all-female writing and direction, Allison Janney's perfect timing, Viola Davis's sheer presence in anything, Jim Gaffigan serving Best Supporting Actor realness, and the surprisingly nuanced performance by McKenna Grace as Christmas Flint. On a related note, we recognize that indeed, you can pee on command. Follow Jonathan! @jonfost / @thicketnthistle (Instagram) Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker

Episode 41: The 2nd Annual Nuancies Jan 16, 2020

Awards season wouldn't be complete without the Nuancies! Once again we'll be looking back at the past year of In the Details and celebrating some of my favorite nuances, with five nominees but an embarrassment of winners. Plus, the second winner of the Beatrice Straight Award for Excellence in Nuance is named in a moving closing ceremony. Enjoy and thank you for indulging me, the Oscars are just such a snooze this year. Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 40: Five Bonkers Movie Endings Jan 09, 2020

Technically, this episode should be full of spoilers, but they're mostly for movies you'll likely never see anyway. This week, I'm diving into some of my favorite horror movie endings--but not for their cinematic brilliance. There is something wackadoo about these endings--they're over the top, chaotic, full of screaming and sweeping Pino Donaggio melodies, and they leave things on an unpredictable note that is both unresolved and completely satisfying. To see them for yourself, check out the links below! Eaten Alive: https://bit.ly/39QPxQD Tenebrae: https://bit.ly/2NaptX3 Tourist Trap: https://bit.ly/2QXlMF3 Carrie: https://bit.ly/2QBckIz Horror House on Highway Five: https://bit.ly/300R9mr Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 39: Lipsticked Nipples (w/ Johnny from That's Spooky!) Dec 05, 2019

Edith Massey is a nuance in and of herself. A quintessential best supporting actress in the world of John Waters, her deliriously batty, busty, forward-thinking Aunt Ida in "Female Trouble" is a queen ahead of her time. Johnny from the podcast "That's Spooky" joins me this week to sing the praises of Massey's inherent kindness, as well as her dental journey. Plus: John Waters' perfectionism, Mink Stole's gravitas, Katya's pitch perfect ode to Waters on Drag Race, cataloging, finding community through podcasting, a moment of exuberance from a wiener dog, a vague trauma memory of Polyester, some love for Mink Stole and spiders all over our tits. Find Johnny! Podcast: That's Spooky Instagram/Twitter: @thatsspookypod Johnny's Instagram: @pansytwist Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 38: Patricia Clarkson Sits on the Stairs Nov 21, 2019

Patricia Clarkson takes a 3 minute cameo in an episode of "Broad City" and turns it into a masterclass in how to play genuine pathos and genuine bananas all at once. This week, I'm breaking down her monstrous mother-son showdown beat by beat, nuance by nuance. Watch it here: https://youtu.be/uNHoQ4Nii4w Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 37: Rosemary's Neighbor (w/ Stacie Ponder!) Oct 31, 2019

How about a Halloween bonus episode, whaddya say?! One of my favorite gaylords of darkness, Stacie Ponder, joins me to point and scream at Ruth Gordon's wacky and wicked turn as Minnie Castavet in "Rosemary's Baby." We also queen out on Mia Farrow in a phone booth, Patsy Kelly out of the closet, and then just a full on tangent about Texas Chainsaw Massacre, because I can't not. Follow Stacie! Blog: finalgirl.rocks Podcast: Gaylords of Darkness Instagram: @finalgrrl Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 36: The Texas Chainsaw Masterpiece (w/ Vigor Mortis!) Oct 28, 2019

I could probably dedicate an entire podcast to 1974's "Texas Chainsaw Massacre"--this is already my second full episode focused on how much I love this movie. But this week I'm not alone--Brooklyn drag king Vigor Mortis joins me to dive deep on what we agree is a beautiful piece of American cinema. We explore the history of Ed Gein, the sociopolitical correlations of the movie to today, the Sawyer family's morality, Sally's willful determination to live, the surprising treatment of Franklin, the layers of Leatherface and the unnecessary backstories offered throughout the series. Follow Vigor Mortis: @heyvigormortis (Instagram) Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 35: This is a Real, Real Emergency! Oct 22, 2019

The 1987 slasher "Blood Rage" had no idea how perfectly wackadoo it was, and in large part due to Louise Lasser's committed performance (and the film's award-winning theme song!). This week, I queen out on Lasser's epic aria of a phone call with a seemingly bemused operator, the surprisingly charming final girl Karen and some real humanity (and tragedy) underneath all the shlock. Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 34: Cujo and the Final Mom Oct 04, 2019

Watching a mother and her son try to wait out a rabid dog from the relative safety of a broken down Pinto in "Cujo" wouldn't be so compelling if not for Dee Wallace's intensely emotional performance as Donna. This week, I queen out on some of her most powerful nuances and how she exemplifies the Final Mom archetype. I also highlight a similar showdown in 2018's "He's Out There," with Handmaids Tale BSA Yvonne Strahovski. Speaking of BSA's, the Best Supporting Podcast, with co-host Nick Kochanov, premieres October 9th! Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 33: Chita in the Middle Sep 01, 2019

Fosse/Verdon is, first and foremost, an amazing showcase of Michelle Williams as Gwen Verdon. And the episode “Nowadays” really lets her shine--but the devil in the details is Chita Rivera (Bianca Marroquin) lending incredible emotional nuance to the series’ best scene, which we’ll dive into beat by beat. But first, I queen out on Olivia Colman’s tour de force moment of maternal rage in Series 2 of Broadchurch! Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 32: Good to See You, Mr. Bagel Jul 31, 2019

Schitt's Creek is flooded with comedy gold--Catherine O'Hara, we see you--but this week I'm queening out on Alexis (Annie Murphy) in a brilliantly nuanced scene from Scene 4's "The Barbecue." But first, my continued thoughts on Broadchurch as I make my way into Season 2, including some questions about Charlotte Rampling, some love for a Best Supporting Actor and continued awe and admiration of the talents of Olivia Colman. Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 31: Fun Mom Broadchurch (w/ Jonathan Foster) Jul 22, 2019

Fun Mom Dinner and Broadchurch--just a couple of modern meditations on grief, denial and facing the looming inevitabilities of one's fate. Well, okay, not really--Fun Mom Dinner is actually a meditation on mediocrity, but just as compelling as Olivia Colman trying to solve a seaside murder. Joining me this week is Jonathan Foster, the artistic director of Thicket & Thistle (among other things!). We talk about his upcoming horror comedy musical "Death Cruise," before diving into the horrors of Fun Mom Dinner--spare the welcomed comedy of Paul Rudd--and Olivia Colman's Sad Mom Interrogation in the final episode of Season 1 of Broadchurch. (SPOILERS AHEAD!) Death Cruise TICKETS: bit.ly/deathcruisetickets (Promo Code: 666) Follow Thicket & Thistle: Instagram, Twitter: @thicketnthistle www.thicketandthistle.org Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 30: Midsommar in Wine Country Jul 11, 2019

One's a boozy girls trip gone wrong, the other's a trippy backpacking excursion gone wrong, but otherwise, Midsommar and Wine Country really have nothing in common, except for some really effective emoting from Florence Pugh and Amy Poehler. This week, my initial thoughts on Ari Aster's pagan fever dream and the uneven Netflix original full of SNL alums and one whiz-bang of a face journey. Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 29: Attending Muriel's Wedding (with Leanne Kubicz) Jun 01, 2019

This week, I'm joined by Leanne Kubicz to queen out on 1994's Muriel's Wedding! We share our love for Toni Collette and ABBA, our appreciation for Rachel Griffiths' presence in this movie, and of course, we celebrate the deeply nuanced performance of Muriel's mother Betty by Jeannie Dryden. We go deep on Muriel's journey from lonely pathological liar to grown woman, talk about the tragic circumstances of her iconic sister Joanie and both have so much to say about Rhonda's mom at the end of this movie. Follow Leanne at @lianemarieK! Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 28: BONUS! The Curtain Queen of Coventry Apr 25, 2019

A couple months ago, I scripted an episode about a viral video from five years ago of an older woman in Coventry, Rhode Island, recording a local ad the Quality Curtain Outlet--and doing a bang-up job, by the way! It was almost to the archives of my Google Drive, but alas--this week I am proud to present to you a wackadoo exploration of a woman named Rose having a Lynchian crisis of curtains in Rhode Island. The original video: https://youtu.be/3z9qrs_5b8s The desert monologue from The Comeback: https://youtu.be/XaPmxDV3EZg Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 27: Best Supporting Amy (with Nick Kochanov!) Apr 16, 2019

Squirrel Friend of the podcast Nick Kochanov (Very Bad Gay Podcast, Squirrel Friends Cocktail Hour) joins me this week to celebrate this generation's quintessential Best Supporting Actress: Amy Adams! And specifically, in what we both agree is her best performance (and her first nomination!), 2005's Junebug. We queen out on co-star Celia Weston, break down the hospital room breakdown, check the receipts on the Oscar nominations that year, and give a moment of appreciation for each of Amy Adams' other Oscar nominations. (On a vaguely related note: Ellen Burstyn was robbed for "Requiem for a Dream." Oh, and there are lots of Junebug spoilers in this episode.) Follow Nick on Twitter/Instagram: Nick: @NickKochanov The No Good Very Bad Gay Podcast: @badgaypod Squirrel Friends Cocktail Hour: @SFCHpodcast Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker Instagram: @colindrucker_

Episode 26: Gym Teacher Witch Friend Mar 29, 2019

So many troubled teens--and one kooky middle-aged woman--to discuss this week! My thoughts on Greta, the reign of Best Supporting Actresses in horror right now, the AARP Movies for Grownups awards, some bad child acting in Child's Play, some great child and adult-as-child acting in Pen15, magical music in the equally magical Eighth Grade, a moment of appreciation for Enya, and some of my favorite nuances from the 1977 "Carrie-lite" TV Movie "The Spell." (Oh, and a tangent about As Good As It Gets Ugh, I hate that movie.) Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker YouTube: www.youtube.com/colindrucker

Episode 25: Who is Barbara Harris and Why Is She Saying Those Nuanced Things About Me? Feb 27, 2019

You may not know the name Barbara Harris, but you probably should. She is not only a founding member of the Second City and a Tony Award winning stage actress, but she's also given some of the most nuanced performances in 20th century American cinema--and especially in her Oscar-nominated role (for Best Supporting Actress!) in the relatively obscure 1971 experimental flop "Who is Harry Kellerman and Why is He Saying Those Terrible Things About Me?" This week we're doing a deep dive into her tour de force performance (in about 12 minutes of screen time) to celebrate every little nuance, and also spend some time sorting through some thoughts and feelings on the Best Actress upset/delight at this year's Oscars... Link to movie: (Go to an hour and 12 minutes in to get to BH's scenes): https://youtu.be/coCS3f1adwU Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker YouTube: www.youtube.com/colindrucker

Episode 24: Cherishing Valerie - Part 6: The Assassination of Valerie Cherish Feb 07, 2019

"Jane? Jane? Sound familiar?" Jane Benson returns to Valerie Cherish's life because she needs to. She needs the money, first of all, but she also needs an opportunity to tell the truth about Valerie. The truth, however, is something Valerie does not always need to see, especially if it makes her look ugly or old. But what if it's seen as brave? Also: my thoughts on Glenn Close in "The Wife" and Alyssa Bresnahan as Louise in the Ivo von Hove production of "Network" on Broadway. Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker YouTube: www.youtube.com/colindrucker

Episode 23: And the Nominees Are...(missing Toni Collette) Jan 27, 2019

I didn't really expect Toni Collette to get recognized by the Academy for "Hereditary," but a girl can dream. This week, my thoughts on the five performances that were nominated for Best Actress instead, as well as--OF COURSE--the 2019 nominees for Best Supporting Actress. (Also, the first 15 minutes of this episode are just me talking about things like whether I should buy an apartment in Fort Lauderdale and what I thought about people who attended the Fyre Festival despite very little evidence of what they were paying for....) Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker YouTube: www.youtube.com/colindrucker

Episode 22: BONUS! The 1st Annual Nuancies Jan 08, 2019

We're knee-deep in awards season and about a week too late for a 2018 Year in Review episode, so I'm combining both for The 1st Annual Nuancies, looking back on some of my favorite nuances from 2018's episodes of In the Details, as well as the first recipient of the Beatrice Straight Award for Excellence in Nuance! Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker YouTube: www.youtube.com/colindrucker

Episode 21: Cherishing Valerie - Part 5: "Well, I Got It!" Jan 05, 2019

How exactly did Valerie Cherish get back on TV after almost a decade of circling the drain? The first episode of Season 2 does an amazing job of navigating the narrative nuances that take Valerie from desperately seeking stardom to nailing an audition at HBO playing, well, herself. This is truly her Comeback. Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker YouTube: www.youtube.com/colindrucker

Episode 20: Cherishing Valerie - Part 4: The Comedown Dec 15, 2018

At the end of the first season of "The Comeback," Valerie Cherish is on top of the world--or so she thinks. Her time in the spotlight fades out steadily--but not immediately. Valerie tries many different things to stay relevant before "Seeing Red" propels her into stardom again. This week, we'll take a look back at her other failed attempts at reality television, a brief time on Broadway and even an entrepreneurial effort with an old friend. But first, I queen out on Toni Collette, Regina King, Faye Dunaway, and of course--Brenda Vaccaro. Valerie on "Dancing With the Stars": https://youtu.be/J1s1TP1tLxA "Valerie: After the Laughter": https://youtu.be/la5LK5vLzS4 Featured music: "Valerie" - https://youtu.be/UplTKcohlu0 Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker YouTube: www.youtube.com/colindrucker

Episode 19: Dissecting The Devil Wears Prada w/ Jonathan Minton Dec 06, 2018

Meryl Streep’s Oscar-nominated turn as ice queen Miranda Priestly in “The Devil Wears Prada” may belong in a better movie--or this might be the perfect vehicle to let Streep shine, with pitch-perfect support from Stanley Tucci, Emily Blunt, and even Anne Hathaway. This week, I’m joined by writer/director Jonathan Minton (“Everyone Else Has”) to queen out not only on Meryl, but Olivia Colman, Tilda Swinton, Mamie Gummer, actress-specific podcasts, mid-90’s white lady music that would make a great lip sync, Julianne Moore’s meltdown in Magnolia, and what it was like to be young in New York. Plus: alternate casting choices for Miranda and whether this movie could be made today. Support “Everyone Else Has”: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/everyone-else-has-take-2 Instagram: @everyone_else_has Facebook: facebook.com/everyoneelsehas Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker YouTube: www.youtube.com/colindrucker

Episode 18: The Made-for-TV Hereditary of 1982 Nov 28, 2018

It's a very "Hereditary" themed episode, even though what we're really talking about today is the 1982 TV movie "Don't Go to Sleep," which hits very similar notes. Both movies feature surprisingly powerful performances by grief-stricken mothers--and speaking of which, Toni Collette just won Best Actress at the Gotham Independent Film Awards! So prepare for a lot of queening out on that. "Don't Go to Sleep" features a moment of Ruth Gordon at her most heartbreaking, and an intense confrontation between Valerie Harper and Dennis Weaver that I break down nuance by nuance. Much like "Hereditary," the supernatural horror of the plot is almost overshadowed by real life darkness of family tragedy. Watch it here: https://bit.ly/2P7knsw Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker YouTube: www.youtube.com/colindrucker

Episode 17: Spooky Synths & Other Soundtrack Surprises Nov 19, 2018

One of my favorite movie nuances, especially in horror movies, is the soundtrack. A good score can elevate even the worst movie,(which I discovered just recently). This week, I'm queening out on some surprisingly effective and somewhat obscure soundtracks, and especially the early use of synths in movies like "Let's Scare Jessica to Death" and my newest slasher obsession. Movies Discussed: Don't Go to Sleep (1982) Hereditary (2018) Let's Scare Jessica to Death (1971) Final Exam (1981) The House on Sorority Row (1983) The Deadly Intruder (1985) He Knows You're Alone (1980) Halloween (2018) Tourist Trap (1979) Carrie (1976) Blood Rage (1987) Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker YouTube: www.youtube.com/colindrucker

Episode 16: Laurie Strode & the Final Woman Nov 02, 2018

First things first: spoilers everywhere! I expected to love the new "Halloween," but I think I loved my idea of what it should be. This week, I'm not quite queening out so much as royally reading the new official sequel to the 1978 classic, and exploring the concept of the Final Woman, which I saw much more of in 1998's "Halloween: H20." I also fangirl out on my new favorite podcast, Gaylords of Darkness. Their Halloween recap (Episode 6 - Two Crabs in the Mud) is SO much truth, and also so much fun. Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker YouTube: www.youtube.com/colindrucker

Episode 15: 10 Things I Love About The Texas Chainsaw Massacre Oct 29, 2018

It's weird to think of a movie called The Texas Chainsaw Massacre being considered a classic piece of American cinema. The title prepares you for a sleazy bloodbath, but what it delivers is stunning cinematography, a nauseatingly effective score, nuanced relationships and character traits (I sort of love Franklin...), an emotionally complex villain and some very dark commentary on consumerism in America. Most importantly of all, it features an incredibly powerful performance by Marilyn Burns as my absolute favorite final girl, Sally. Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker YouTube: www.youtube.com/colindrucker

Episode 14: The Call's Coming from Inside the House Oct 18, 2018

When a Stranger Calls (1979) is infamous for the concept of "The call is coming from inside the house," which has become both a punchline and a meaningful metaphor today. The trope was also popularly used in the 1974 cult slasher Black Christmas. This week, I'm queening out on both movies, and especially Carol Kane's quirks, Olivia Hussey's raw terror, expert uses of music and editing to create a moment, and why nothing good comes from going upstairs.... Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/colindrucker

Episode 13: Four Forgotten Final Girls from the 80's Oct 09, 2018

Not everyone can survive a horror movie--and some final girls don't get enough credit for what they did to survive. This week, I'm navigating the nuances of four surprising slasher heroines from the 1980's and what makes each of them special. But first, we need to talk about Cloris Leachman's tense made-for-TV desert detour, "Dying Room Only." Get in Touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker

Episode 12: Let's Scare Jessica to Death (and also sell some beans) Oct 02, 2018

The title "Let's Scare Jessica to Death" tells you almost nothing about the 1971 hippie vampire cult classic except that someone named Jessica is being frightened repeatedly. But all you really need to know is that the titular role is played by a captivating Zohra Lampert, who gives a gripping and wildly nuanced performance both as the mentally unstable Jessica and as, I assume, herself in a handful of zany Goya commercials from the 80's. Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker YouTube: bit.ly/2O6uQbu

Episode 11: Microcrisp & Other YouTube Tidbits Sep 25, 2018

YouTube is like an outlet mall of nuance, and today we're doing a little bargain hunting! We're queening out on an obscure 1971 Italian thriller's soundtrack and a treasure trove of other vinyl rips before moving on to my new favorite thing to fall asleep to these days, the 1993 infomercial for Microcrisp. Plus: one of my favorite acting choices from the 80's and a moment of appreciation for Brenda Vaccaro. - Allan Miller (vinyl rips): https://bit.ly/2xBXdEV - The Strange Vice of Mrs. Wardh: https://youtu.be/DMhhfJY3dzA - Microcrisp: https://youtu.be/7brZwjGx9z4 - Hello Mary Lou: Prom Night 2 moment: https://youtu.be/lOjJ8TNQgBo - Brenda Vaccaro Screams: https://youtu.be/K7y3wRksFkk Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker YouTube: https://bit.ly/2O6uQbu

Episode 10: Notes on Notes on a Scandal (w/ Nick Kochanov) Sep 10, 2018

Judi Dench and Cate Blanchett acting their hearts out in the same movie? This called for back-up. Nick Kochanov (Squirrel Friends Cocktail Hour & The No Good Very Bad Gay Podcast) joins me this week to queen out on 2006's "Notes on a Scandal." We talk about the fine nuances of Judi Dench, the roaring power of Cate Blanchett, our favorite acting choices, the lines we lived for and, of course, the pitch-perfect score by Philip Glass. Follow Nick on Twitter/Instagram: Nick: @NickKochanov The No Good Very Bad Gay Podcast: @badgaypod Squirrel Friends Cocktail Hour: @SFCHpodcast Get in touch with me! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker

Episode 9: Cherishing Valerie - Part 3: Val Sep 04, 2018

We've explored many ways to answer the question, "Who is Valerie Cherish?" and this week, in the Part 3 of Cherishing Valerie, we're talking about the side of Valerie that comes out under pressure, who she is at home with Mark, Paulie G's effect on her, when we see her inner child emerge, and finally, why so many people love Valerie--especially gay men. Music: "Valerie" by Steve Winwood Amy Winehouse The Weeknd Joy Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker

Episode 8: Cherishing Valerie - Part 2: The Comeback Queen Aug 28, 2018

The only way to really get to know Valerie Cherish is through the people in her life--who she is with them and who they let her be. In Part 2 of "Cherishing Valerie," we're going to meet three key co-stars of her comeback: Juna, Mickey and Jane. They each bring out a different side of Valerie and each give her something important. Music this week: "Valerie" by Steve Winwood Athol McGregor (Plus some royalty-free mood music cause I think I'm breaking all kinds of copyright laws with this podcast.) Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker

Episode 7: Cherishing Valerie - Part One: TV's It Girl Aug 21, 2018

In many ways, "The Comeback" feels like a documentary about fame, how addictive it is, and the lengths fading sitcom actress Valerie Cherish will go to get it back--to be relevant again. To be heard. In Part One of a 3-part series, I explore the world of television Valerie came from, including some kooky parallels with another canceled workplace comedy of the early 90's, what might have happened after "I'm It" went off the air, and the addictive reward system built into reality television and reflected in the first episode of "The Comeback." Music: "Valerie" Original songs and covers by: Steve Winwood Athol McGregor RaRa Riot The Brothers Comatose Jerry Garcia & Amy Winehouse Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker

Episode 6: Poltergeist and the Power of Moms Aug 14, 2018

What I love most about 1982's Poltergeist is how emotional it is. This week, I'm featuring Jerry Goldsmith's amazing score while I discuss the power of JoBeth Williams performance as Diane, the welcomed inclusion of Beatrice Straight as Dr. Lesh, and the calculated chaos of Tobe Hooper's direction. Plus: a sneak preview of what's to come on In the Details this year! Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker

Episode 5: Rachel Getting Nuanced Aug 04, 2018

Rachel Getting Married is occasionally about Rachel's upcoming wedding, but it's mostly about her younger sister Kym and chaos that she brings as a perennial plus-one. This week's featured nuances include the powerful and deliberate acting choices of Rosemarie Dewitt, Bill Irwin and Debra Winger, the truth about Anne Hathaway's interpretation of Kym, the wonder that is Anna Deavere Smith, and some thoughts on how I handle grief. Movies/Shows discussed: Rachel Getting Married (2008) "Nurse Jackie" (2009) Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker

Episode 4: Her Hereditary Terror Jul 24, 2018

Hereditary could have just been the story of a family navigating unimaginable grief, and that would have been enough. But that merely lays the foundation for what's to come in what many are considering an instant horror classic generating, most importantly, precious Oscar buzz around Toni Collette's gut-wrenching performance. This week, I dive into some of Collette's best moments, a couple movie nuances Hereditary recalls for me, and the Ann Dowd moment we're all currently having. Movies discussed: Hereditary (2018) The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974) The Stepford Wives (1975) Rosemary's Baby (1968) Rachel Getting Married (2008) Get in touch! Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker

Episode 3: Call Me By Your Dad's Name Jul 17, 2018

Let's just say--I didn't LOVE Call Me By Your Name. But I think it's a phenomenally well-made movie, and among other things, features a very emotionally intelligent performance by Michael Stuhlbarg. But I more than take issue with the Elio/Oliver love story before shifting the focus back to Stuhlbarg's heartfelt monologue towards the end of the film. Films discussed: Call Me By Your Name (2017) Edge of Seventeen (1998) Want to get in touch? Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker

Episode 2: Gay for Beatrice Straight Jul 10, 2018

I have always wanted the opportunity to queen out on Beatrice Straight’s Oscar winning performance in 1977’s “Network.” She’s one of my favorite Best Supporting Actress winners because of the economy of her performance; what she accomplishes in about five minutes of screen time is a true feat of layered, nuanced, lived in acting. Movies discussed: Network (1977) Poltergeist (1982) The Promise (1979) “Grey Reminder” (1951) Get in touch! inthedetailspod@gmail.com @colindrucker (Twitter) /colindrucker (YouTube)

Episode 1: Five Essential Face Journeys Jul 01, 2018

On the very first episode, I am diving into five face journeys in film that truly take you somewhere new. I briefly queen out on the birth of the trope in film and TV before focusing in on some truly nuanced examples. Movies discussed this week: The Wind (1928) Sunrise (1927) The Passion of Joan of Arc (1928) Birth (2004) Lady Bird (2017) Erin Brockovich (2000) Vera Drake (2004) Email: inthedetailspod@gmail.com Twitter: @colindrucker

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