683 episodes

The Next Reel team has been dedicated to reviews, news, and commentary on world film for a decade. This podcast is The Next Reel master feed including all the episodes of The Next Reel, Trailer Rewind, The Film Board, The Speakeasy, and the other shorts, interviews, and specials we've produced over the years.

The Next Reel Film Podcast TruStory FM

    • TV & Film
    • 5.0 • 7 Ratings

The Next Reel team has been dedicated to reviews, news, and commentary on world film for a decade. This podcast is The Next Reel master feed including all the episodes of The Next Reel, Trailer Rewind, The Film Board, The Speakeasy, and the other shorts, interviews, and specials we've produced over the years.

    The American Astronaut • The Next Reel

    The American Astronaut • The Next Reel

    “I’ve never understood this joke, but then I’ve never been to Earth.”Shooting for the Stars on a Shoestring Budget
    In 1996, writer/director Cory McAbee set out to make a wholly unique film that blended elements of science fiction, Western, comedy and musical genres. With a background in music and short films, McAbee threw everything he had into crafting the world of The American Astronaut. Shot on stark black and white 35mm film, this low-budget labor of love caught the attention of the Film Independent Spirit Awards, earning a Best Cinematography nomination. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we kick off the 2002 Film Independent Spirit Awards Best Cinematography Nominees series with a conversation about McAbee’s 2001 film The American Astronaut.
    Traversing the Quirky Universe of The American Astronaut
    Our discussion launches into the film's fascinating blend of genre tropes and cinematic influences. The lo-fi special effects, particularly in depicting space travel, somehow work perfectly in the established universe. We marvel at the creative framing and cinematography that elevate the low-budget production design. The memorable musical numbers get us singing along. At the heart of the story, we explore how this space Western playfully taps into themes of masculinity and loneliness across the cosmos.
    Further Points of Discussion
    Appreciating the authentic, understated performancesNoting the film's multitude of cinematic influencesStruggling with the underdeveloped antagonist storylineReveling in the earworm-inducing soundtrackComparing The American Astronaut to other quirky genre-bendersA Flawed but Ambitious Debut
    The American Astronaut is a testament to the power of a singular creative vision. While the ending stumbles a bit in its execution, the totality of Cory McAbee's debut feature is an undeniably striking and inventive piece of independent filmmaking. The cinematography rightfully earns its place among the Film Independent Spirit Awards nominees. Despite the budgetary limitations, this is a film that sticks with you long after the credits roll. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
    Film Sundries
    Watch this on Amazon or find other places at JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerLetterboxdThe Next Reel’s Family of Film Podcasts
    Cinema ScopeThe Film BoardFreely Adapted (coming soon!)Movies We LikeThe Next ReelThe Next Reel Shorts (retired)One Minute for Old Men (coming soon!)The Saturday Matinée (retired)Silver Linings (retired)Sitting in the DarkThree of a Kind (retired)Trailer Rewind (retired)
    Start your own podcast journey with the best host in the business. Try TRANSISTOR today!Become a Member Today! $5 monthly or $55 annuallyWant to upgrade your LETTERBOXD account? Use our PROMO CODE to get a DISCOUNT and help us out in the process!Find source material for The Next Reel’s family of podcasts – and thousands of other great reads – at Audible! Get your free audiobook and 30-day free trial today.Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!Here’s where you can find us around the internet:
    The WebLetterboxdFacebookInstagramThreadsXYouTubeFlickchartPinterestPete AndyWe spend hours every week putting this show together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!
    You can buy TNR apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.

    • 1 hr 1 min
    Wuxia Unleashed: Leon Hunt & Chris Hamm on Martial Arts and Myth • Cinema Scope • Bonus Episode

    Wuxia Unleashed: Leon Hunt & Chris Hamm on Martial Arts and Myth • Cinema Scope • Bonus Episode

    In this inaugural episode of Cinema Scope, host Andy Nelson is joined by professors Leon Hunt and Chris Hamm to explore the captivating world of wuxia, a Chinese film genre that blends philosophy, action, and legend. They discuss the key elements that define wuxia, such as the chivalrous heroes, period settings, and fantastical elements, as well as the concept of jianghu, a unique world within wuxia stories.
    Leon and Chris trace the evolution of wuxia from its roots in early Chinese literature to its influence on other genres, including Hollywood blockbusters. They also highlight notable works like A Touch of Zen, The Bride with White Hair, and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, analyzing their contributions to the development and popularity of wuxia cinema.
    This engaging and informative episode will deepen your appreciation for the richness and complexity of the wuxia genre, inspiring you to explore more of these captivating films.
    Film Sundries
    Recommended and Discussed MoviesCome Drink With Me on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatchGolden Swallow on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatchThe New One-Armed Swordsman on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatchA Touch of Zen on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatchThe Magic Blade on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatchLast Hurrah for Chivalry on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatchThe Butterfly Murders on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatchSwordsman II on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatchThe Bride with White Hair on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatchCrouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatchOur Letterboxd ListDr. Leon Hunt’s booksKung Fu Cult MastersMario Bava: The Artisan as Italian Horror AuteurChris Hamm’s booksThe Unworthy Scholar from Pingjiang: Republican-Era Martial Arts FictionPaper Swordsmen: Jin Yong and the Modern Chinese Martial Arts Novel
    Start your own podcast journey with the best host in the business. Try TRANSISTOR today!Become a Member Today! $5 monthly or $55 annuallyWant to upgrade your LETTERBOXD account? Use our PROMO CODE to get a DISCOUNT and help us out in the process!Find source material for The Next Reel’s family of podcasts – and thousands of other great reads – at Audible! Get your free audiobook and 30-day free trial today.Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!Here’s where you can find us around the internet:
    The WebLetterboxdFacebookInstagramThreadsXYouTubeFlickchartPinterestPete 

    • 1 hr 22 min
    Actor Patrick Fabian on The Man Who Would Be King • Movies We Like

    Actor Patrick Fabian on The Man Who Would Be King • Movies We Like

    “You call it luck. I call it destiny.”Talking About John Huston’s The Man Who Would Be King with our guest, actor Patrick Fabian
    In this engaging episode of Movies We Like, hosts Andy Nelson and Pete Wright are joined by special guest Patrick Fabian to discuss John Huston's epic adventure film, The Man Who Would Be King. Fabian, known for his roles in numerous TV shows and films, including his standout performance as Howard Hamlin in Better Call Saul, shares his passion for this classic movie and how it inspired him to pursue a career in acting.
    Throughout the episode, Fabian delves into his early days as an aspiring actor, from his time as a band president in high school to his decision to pursue a master's degree in theater at Cal State Long Beach. He also shares anecdotes about his experiences working on various television shows and the valuable lessons he learned along the way, such as the importance of persistence and adaptability in the face of rejection.
    As the conversation turns to The Man Who Would Be King, Fabian expresses his admiration for the film's sense of adventure, the strong bond between the lead characters, and the captivating performances by Sean Connery and Michael Caine. The hosts and guest explore the movie's themes, its representation of colonialism, and the enduring appeal of its grand storytelling.
    The Man Who Would Be King is a timeless adventure that continues to enthrall audiences with its sweeping narrative, unforgettable performances, and exotic locales. Andy Nelson, Pete Wright, and Patrick Fabian's engaging discussion about the film and Fabian's fascinating career journey make this episode of Movies We Like a must-listen for fans of classic cinema and those interested in the world of acting. Join them as they celebrate the enduring power of storytelling and the indelible impact that a single film can have on one's life and career.
    Film Sundries
    Find Patrick on Instagram, Threads, and X/TwitterWatch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerOriginal MaterialLetterboxdThe Next Reel’s Family of Film Podcasts
    Cinema ScopeThe Film BoardFreely Adapted (coming soon!)Movies We LikeThe Next ReelThe Next Reel Shorts (retired)One Minute for Old Men (coming soon!)The Saturday Matinée (retired)Silver Linings (retired)Sitting in the DarkThree of a Kind (retired)Trailer Rewind (retired)
    Start your own podcast journey with the best host in the business. Try TRANSISTOR today!Become a Member Today! $5 monthly or $55 annuallyWant to upgrade your LETTERBOXD account? Use our PROMO CODE to get a DISCOUNT and help us out in the process!Find source material for The Next Reel’s family of podcasts – and thousands of other great reads – at Audible! Get your free audiobook and 30-day free trial today.Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!Here’s where you can find us around the internet:
    The WebLetterboxdFacebookInstagramThreadsXYouTubeFlickchartPinterestPete AndyWe spend hours every week putting this show together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!
    You can buy TNR apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.

    • 1 hr 4 min
    Soul Food • The Next Reel

    Soul Food • The Next Reel

    “My grandma always said, ‘Family pulling together in times of need will make it strong.’”The Family That Eats Together: A Discussion of Soul Food
    Before Soul Food hit theaters in 1997, writer and director George Tillman Jr. struggled to get his first feature film made. After selling the script, the production company went under before filming began. Undeterred, Tillman persevered and found new backing from Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds and his wife Tracey. Their shared vision brought Tillman’s semi-autobiographical story to life. Soul Food went on to become a breakout hit, launching Tillman’s career and sparking an ongoing debate about family, culture, and tradition.
    Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 1998 NAACP Image Awards Outstanding Lead Actress in a Motion Picture Nominees series with a conversation about Tillman Jr.’s 1997 film Soul Food.
    Digging into Family, Food, and Forgiveness
    In our lively discussion, we dig into the joys and tensions of the Joseph family’s Sunday dinners. We’re divided on the effectiveness of young Ahmad’s voiceover narration as a narrative device. The family relationships feel authentic, with standout performances from the actresses playing the three sisters – Vanessa Williams, Vivica A. Fox, and Nia Long. However, we take issue with some of the easy storytelling choices, especially regarding Lem’s return to prison. The “fairy tale” ending strains believability more for Andy than Pete, but it does raise thought-provoking questions about the role of food and togetherness in absolving past wrongs.
    More Food for Thought
    Appreciating the film’s universal messages about family bondsMama’s troubling role in cultivating the family’s unhealthy dietBrandon Hammond’s sweet portrayal of young AhmadMichael Beach excelling with an interesting roleDirector George Tillman Jr.’s growth between this film and The Hate U GiveBringing Families Together
    Soul Food succeeds in celebrating the aspirational joy of gathering family around the table. While we question some of the storytelling choices, the performances draw us into the sprawling Joseph family. Throughout our conversation, we find plenty to chew on, from fairy tale endings to the competing pulls of past and future. It makes for a nourishing discussion worth tuning in to. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
    Film Sundries
    Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerLetterboxd
    Start your own podcast journey with the best host in the business. Try TRANSISTOR today!Become a Member Today! $5 monthly or $55 annuallyWant to upgrade your LETTERBOXD account? Use our PROMO CODE to get a DISCOUNT and help us out in the process!Find source material for The Next Reel’s family of podcasts – and thousands of other great reads – at Audible! Get your free audiobook and 30-day free trial today.Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!Here’s where you can find us around the internet:
    The WebLetterboxdFacebookInstagramThreadsXYouTubeFlickchartPinterestPete AndyWe spend hours every week putting this show together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!
    You can buy TNR apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.

    • 1 hr 17 min
    Love Jones • The Next Reel

    Love Jones • The Next Reel

    “Romance is about the possibility of the thing.”Love Jones hit theaters in 1997 as writer/director Theodore Witcher’s acclaimed debut. With an eclectic jazz soundtrack and romantic story filled with poetry slams, complex relationships, and career passions, the film earned praise and award nominations. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 1998 NAACP Image Awards Outstanding Lead Actress in a Motion Picture Nominees series with a conversation about Witcher’s 1997 film Love Jones.
    We Are at Odds With These Characters and Their Messy Relationships
    In our lively chat, we dive into the characters and their relationships. We discuss how Andy connect’s with Nina and Darius’ messy, on-again-off-again romance and the realistic motivations behind their poor decisions – whereas Pete does not. Though we don’t always agree, we explore their complex connection and the miscommunications and betrayals that plague their path to love. Their story represents one filled with the universal relationship struggles we all face on the road to maturity. But does the script work? 
    A Few Additional Areas of Conversation Regarding Love Jones
    Passionate debate on the casting, particularly of lead actor Lorenz Tate – too young and naive or just right?Our differing views on the authenticity of the script and dialogueExamining the photography backdrop and Nina's career motivationsThe interesting social commentary within the group of friendsOther Notable Discussion Points
    Appreciation for the supporting cast like Isaiah Washington and Lisa Nicole CarsonThe effectiveness of the melancholy jazz score and hip soundtrackOur thoughts on the photography capturing life in 1990s ChicagoThe timeless nature of relationship struggles depictedFor a look at the origins of a modern black romance classic, tune in to hear our in-depth conversation on all aspects of Love Jones. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
    Film Sundries
    Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerLetterboxd
    Start your own podcast journey with the best host in the business. Try TRANSISTOR today!Become a Member Today! $5 monthly or $55 annuallyWant to upgrade your LETTERBOXD account? Use our PROMO CODE to get a DISCOUNT and help us out in the process!Find source material for The Next Reel’s family of podcasts – and thousands of other great reads – at Audible! Get your free audiobook and 30-day free trial today.Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!Here’s where you can find us around the internet:
    The WebLetterboxdFacebookInstagramThreadsXYouTubeFlickchartPinterestPete AndyWe spend hours every week putting this show together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!
    You can buy TNR apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.

    • 57 min
    Jackie Brown • The Next Reel

    Jackie Brown • The Next Reel

    “Let’s be realistic. Now, sooner or later, they’re going to get around to offering me a plea deal, and you know that. That’s why you are here to kill me.”Jackie Brown Rides High in Tarantino’s Homage to Blaxploitation
    Quentin Tarantino burst onto the film scene in the 1990s with unique stylistic choices and sharp dialogue. After achieving critical acclaim for Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction, Tarantino turned to Elmore Leonard’s novel Rum Punch for his third directorial effort, Jackie Brown. Set in the seedy underworld of gun runners and bail bondsmen, Jackie Brown pays homage to 1970s blaxploitation films while putting Tarantino’s signature spin on the crime thriller genre.
    Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our 1998 NAACP Image Awards Outstanding Lead Actress in a Motion Picture Nominees series with a conversation about Tarantino’s 1997 film Jackie Brown.
    Fun With Time, Great Performances, and Controversy
    We dive deep into Tarantino’s playful use of time jumps, split screens, and flashbacks to reveal the intricacies of the heist plot. The stellar cast shines, especially Pam Grier in the title role and Robert Forster as the bail bondsman helping her out, not to mention turns by Robert De Niro, Samuel L. Jackson, Bridget Fonda, and Michael Keaton. We also touch on the controversy around Tarantino’s use of the N-word. Overall, we find lots to love in this homage-filled film.
    More Topics From Our Chat
    Beautiful cinematography and lighting choicesForster and Grier’s heartbreaking final sceneKeaton’s surprising but perfect castingThe fantastic soundtrackTarantino’s masterful directing skills on displayGreat discussion of awards snubs and box office numbersFinal Thoughts on Jackie Brown
    With its loving homage to 1970s blaxploitation films, great soundtrack, and stellar cast, Jackie Brown shows Tarantino at the height of his powers. We have a great time talking about this underappreciated gem. Check it out, then tune in to hear our conversation. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
    Film Sundries
    Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerOriginal Material: Rum Punch by Elmore LeonardLetterboxd
    Start your own podcast journey with the best host in the business. Try TRANSISTOR today!Become a Member Today! $5 monthly or $55 annuallyWant to upgrade your LETTERBOXD account? Use our PROMO CODE to get a DISCOUNT and help us out in the process!Find source material for The Next Reel’s family of podcasts – and thousands of other great reads – at Audible! Get your free audiobook and 30-day free trial today.Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!Here’s where you can find us around the internet:
    The WebLetterboxdFacebookInstagramThreadsXYouTubeFlickchartPinterestPete AndyWe spend hours every week putting this show together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?What are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!
    You can buy TNR apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.

    • 1 hr 6 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
7 Ratings

7 Ratings

Allistair62 ,

My new favourite podcast

I only found out about this podcast by reading a review of another movie podcast. I like /Filmcast, Now Playing and Filmspotting, but this one is by far the best. The good natured banter, the humour, the vast film knowledge, and the clear logical reasoning make this a standout. Neither host gets so high upon any horse that he can't be knocked off it by the other. There seems to be a genuine friendship and trust behind the intelligent analysis. I particularly love the Speakeasy episodes and the hilarious Amazon reviews, but I am writing this because I just heard the Fury Road episode and felt sad for Andy feeling sad about the lack of reviews. Thanks Pete and Andy. I'm just going out back to fish with Salvador Dali.

Bren61 ,

Everyone's a critic ...

... but few are as easy to listen to as Pete Wright and Andy Nelson, hosts of "The Next Reel", a relaxed weekly podcast covering a wide range of film interests. Whether you like to keep up with the latest, or discover (or re-visit) the greatest, you can rely on Pete and Andy to keep you informed and entertained with their friendly banter that makes this one of the most enjoyable (and least pretentious) of film podcasts.

For in-depth discussion on current hits and misses, catch the monthly "Film Board Presents" episode.

Get excited about what's yet to hit your local cinema with Pete and Andy's weekly trailer reviews.

Test your movie smarts with the "Instagram Guess the Movie Challenge".

Learn about some of cinema history's all-time greats (or maybe not-so-greats), as your hosts present their various film series, featuring movies with a common theme, including such diverse topics as the cinematography of James Wong Howe, Film Noir, adaptations of Stephen King stories and the films of Hollywood's "Golden Year" 1939 (including "Only Angels Have Wings", starring Rita Hayworth, who gave good face- oh Andy how could you?). For me this is the most fascinating and enjoyable part of "The Next Reel"- having been a movie buff for over 40 years and having seen most of the films covered by these guys (one of the few podcasts talking about such movies), it's fascinating to hear how these classics are regarded by others seeing many of them for the first time.

Almost as fascinating is each end-of-programme flickchart ranking of the film discussed as each host tries to persuade the other to rank the film to their way of thinking (and if they can't, well that's what the Rock-Paper-Scissors game was made for!).

I thoroughly recommend this show, for when it comes to film podcasts, I find myself eagerly awaiting the next "The Next Reel".

Melbowie ,

Technical movie reviews done well

A great mix of social commentary and technical movie reviews. Unique format that is at its best when the hosts utterly disagree. 'Knowing' is a good episode reference for this.

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