Reading Between the Reels: Film analysis with snark and heart

RBR #69: “Transformers”

Transformers is a 2007 sci-fi action film directed by Michael Bay and based on the popular toy and cartoon franchise. With the latest entry in the live-action series, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, debuting this summer, we deconstruct the original movie and discuss the stunning visual effects, humor, romance, and memorable soundtrack.

RBR #68: “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse”

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is a 2018 animated superhero movie that tells the story of Miles Morales and features a unique animation style that combines comic book art and computer-generated animation, resulting in a stunning and visually inventive experience. With its sequel Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse hitting theaters this summer, we look back at the critically acclaimed original film.

RBR #67: “Guardians of the Galaxy”

Guardians of the Galaxy is the 10th entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and a winning blend of humor, action, and heart. With Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 hitting theaters, author Adam Bray (Marvel Encyclopedia, Marvel Studios Visual Dictionary, Ultimate Marvel) joins us to break down the original film’s stunning visuals, memorable characters, engaging story, and “awesome” soundtrack.

RBR #66: “Back to the Future”

Back to the Future is a 1985 movie that combines science fiction, comedy, and adventure to create a thrilling and heartwarming classic. For this episode, Ian Doescher (author of the William Shakespeare’s Star Wars series and Get Thee Back to the Future) joins us to discuss the film's inventive premise, memorable soundtrack, iconic imagery, and pitch-perfect performances from Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd.

RBR #65: “Field of Dreams”

Field of Dreams is a 1989 American fantasy-drama film that explores themes of family, redemption, and the power of following one's dreams. With the 2023 MLB season just getting underway, Ross Hollebon ("Fantha Tracks," “Album Cockpit Podcast”) joins us to discuss this baseball movie’s great performances, stunning cinematography, and memorable score.

RBR #64: “John Wick”

John Wick is one of the most successful and beloved action movies in recent years. With its use of highly-choreographed long single takes that blend gunplay with hand-to-hand combat, the film redefined the genre and launched a franchise that continues with John Wick: Chapter 4. In this episode, we dissect the original film’s thrilling action sequences, intricate world-building, and a standout performance from Keanu Reeves.
***Please note, this episode was recorded before the passing of Lance Reddick. RIP***

RBR #63: “Shazam!”

Shazam! is the 7th entry in the DCEU and a movie that blends the superhero genre with family drama and 1980s style horror. With its sequel Shazam! Fury Of The Gods on the horizon, we look back at the original film and discuss why it received critical acclaim.

RBR #62: “Creed”

Creed is the 7th installment in the Rocky series and serves as a sequel, a reboot, and something of a remake of the original movie. With Creed 3 hitting theaters next week, we break down the 2015 film and discuss whether or not it works on its own merits.