Reading Between the Reels: Film analysis with snark and heart

RBR #83: “Aquaman”

Aquaman is a 2018 superhero film starring Jason Momoa that became DC’s highest grossing movie. With Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom hitting theaters this week and officially wrapping up the Snyderverse, we take a look back at the original film’s stunning visual effects, epic underwater battles, and themes of identity, heritage, and the responsibility that comes with wielding immense power.

RBR #82: “Raiders of the Lost Ark”

Raiders of the Lost Ark is a classic 1981 adventure film directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Harrison Ford as the iconic archaeologist Indiana Jones. On this episode, Thomas Riddle (“Adventures in Learning with Indiana Jones,” “Imagineering Education,” “Star Wars in the Classroom”) joins us to discuss why it’s considered one of the all-time great movies. 

RBR #81: “The Hunger Games”

The Hunger Games is a dystopian science fiction film directed by Gary Ross, based on Suzanne Collins' best-selling novel of the same name. With its prequel The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes hitting theaters this week, we examine the 2012 movie’s technical aspects and discuss its themes of inequality, survival, and resistance.

RBR #80: “Highlander”

Highlander is a 1986 fantasy movie that explores the themes of immortality, destiny, and the price of eternal life. On this episode, we look back at the cult classic film and analyze its dynamic cinematography, fascinating characters, dense mythology, and iconic soundtrack featuring several songs by the band Queen.

RBR #79: “Blade Runner”

Blade Runner, directed by Ridley Scott and starring Harrison Ford, is a 1982 dystopian film that has become an enduring influence on the cyberpunk genre and a seminal work in the realm of science fiction cinema. For our 3rd anniversary, Dan Zehr (“Coffee with Kenobi”) returns to help us break down the movie’s stunning visuals, haunting soundtrack, and thought-provoking themes.

RBR #78: “Logan”

Logan is a 2017 superhero movie directed by James Mangold that serves a raw and emotional farewell to Hugh Jackman's iconic portrayal of Wolverine. On this episode, we discuss how the film distinguishes itself within the superhero genre by its gritty, character-driven storytelling, melancholy music, and its thoughtful exploration of the themes of mortality, redemption, and the consequences of violence.

RBR #77: “Big Trouble in Little China”

Big Trouble in Little China is a 1986 action-comedy directed by John Carpenter and starring Kurt Russell. Although it was a box office bomb upon its release, the movie has since become a beloved and enduring cult classic. In this episode we take a look back at the film’s unique blend of martial arts action, humor, and over-the-top characters.

RBR #76: Top 5 Anticipated Movies of the 2023-2024 School Year

For this episode, we share our top five most anticipated movies scheduled for this upcoming 2023-2024 school year. Many of these films may see their release dates shifted due to the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, but we’re excited for them just the same.