Midday Movies

Laura Fones and Stephen Frothingham

Welcome to the Midday Movies podcast, provider of fun, funny, and thoughtful media reviews 2-3x a week. Streaming on @radiotacoma101.9 every Tues/Thurs/Sat at 3pm.

  1. 6d ago

    Ep 325: Prestige Romance “Before Sunrise” (1995) A Whirlwind Night of Love and Philosophy in Vienna

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen dive into the enchanting world of Richard Linklater's Before Sunrise, a 1995 romantic classic that captures the fleeting beauty of connection. Starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, the film follows two young travelers who meet on a train in Europe and decide to spend an unforgettable night exploring Vienna. With a backdrop of candid conversations and spontaneous adventures, they grapple with life's big questions while experiencing the thrill of a deepening bond, all within the constraints of a single night. Laura and Stephen explore the film's rich dialogue and emotional depth, highlighting the character dynamics between Jesse, the American backpacker, and Celine, the French university student. They discuss the nuances of their relationship, the philosophical themes woven throughout their conversations, and the film's unique ability to evoke the essence of falling in love. With their signature blend of humor and insight, they reflect on the characters' journeys of self-discovery and the societal implications of their romantic escapades. Join them for a heartfelt discussion that celebrates the magic of fleeting moments and the transformative power of love. Whether you're revisiting this cinematic gem or experiencing it for the first time, this episode promises to resonate with anyone who has ever felt the thrill of a brief connection that lingers long after the moment has passed! Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction to Before Sunrise 01:30 — Overview of Jesse and Celine's characters 04:00 — The significance of their spontaneous night in Vienna 08:15 — Exploring the film's dialogue and philosophical themes 12:45 — The impact of youth and connection on the narrative 18:00 — Analyzing the cultural contrasts between Jesse and Celine 22:30 — The role of chance encounters in shaping our lives 27:00 — Final thoughts on the film's legacy and its place in the romance genre Don't miss this captivating episode of Midday Movies, where classic cinema meets heartfelt discussion! For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod Support your favorite film appreciation dynamic duo here https://buymeacoffee.com/middaymovies Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay updated on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook Linktree Check out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers, and more!

    Ep 325: Prestige Romance “Before Sunrise” (1995) A Whirlwind Night of Love and Philosophy in Vienna
  2. Jul 9

    Ep 324: “The Apartment” (1960) Romance in the Time of Organizational and Sexual Politics

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen continue their exploration of romance in cinema with the Billy Wilder classic, The Apartment. Released in 1960 and starring the incomparable Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine, this film dives into the cutthroat world of corporate America, where Lemmon's character, C.C. Baxter, lends out his apartment to company executives for their extramarital affairs in hopes of climbing the corporate ladder. What ensues is a sharp satire filled with humor, romance, and poignant social commentary that has influenced countless films and television shows, including the iconic Mad Men. Laura and Stephen dissect the film's intricate narrative, exploring the complexities of love, ambition, and the darker sides of human relationships. They discuss the dynamic between C. C. Baxter and MacLaine's character, Fran Kubelik, and the societal norms that shape their interactions amidst the backdrop of a bustling New York City insurance agency. With their trademark wit and insightful analysis, they delve into the film's rich character development, including the antagonistic yet charismatic Mr. Sheldrake, and the unique blend of comedy and drama that defines Wilder's work. Join them for an engaging conversation that celebrates the timelessness of The Apartment and its exploration of the human condition, loneliness, and the pursuit of love amidst the chaos of life. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to this classic, this episode will surely reignite your appreciation for this cinematic gem! Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction to The Apartment 01:30 — Overview of the main characters and their dynamics 03:15 — The significance of corporate culture in the 1960s 05:45 — Exploring the themes of love and ambition 10:00 — The role of social commentary in Wilder's work 15:30 — Jack Lemmon's portrayal of C.C. Baxter 20:00 — The dark humor and satirical elements of the film 25:15 — Fran Kubelik as a representation of women in the workplace 30:00 — Final thoughts on the film's legacy and impact Don't miss this captivating episode of Midday Movies, where classic cinema meets heartfelt discussion! For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod Buy us a Popcorn to support Midday Movies here Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook Linktree Check out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers, and more!

    Ep 324: “The Apartment” (1960) Romance in the Time of Organizational and Sexual Politics
  3. Jul 2

    Ep 323: “It Happened One Night” (1934) How This Classic Swept the Oscars and Invented the RomCom

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen continue their intrepid trek through classic romance with the iconic screwball comedy, It Happened One Night. This 1934 film, featuring the unforgettable pairing of Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert, tells the story of a working-class newspaperman and a spoiled heiress who find themselves on a raucous road trip to New York City at the height of the Great Depression. Their hilarious misadventures amount to not only a battle of the sexes but also a clash of social classes, all while showcasing an undeniable chemistry that has stood the test of time. Laura and Stephen dive deep into the film’s rich narrative, exploring its groundbreaking impact on the screwball comedy genre and the cultural commentary it provides. They discuss the dynamic between Gable and Colbert, their witty banter, and the societal norms that shape their interactions. With humor and insightful analysis, they highlight the film’s clever storytelling, memorable characters, and its historical significance, including its impressive sweep of the Academy Awards. Join them for a delightful conversation that celebrates the charm of classic cinema, the exploration of class and gender dynamics, and the sheer joy of watching two iconic leads navigate their way through love and laughter. Whether you're revisiting this timeless classic or experiencing it for the first time, this episode is sure to ignite your passion for film! Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction to It Happened One Night 01:15 — Overview of the main characters and their dynamics 03:45 — The significance of screwball comedy in film history 05:30 — The Great Depression's influence on the narrative 10:00 — Exploring the battle of the sexes and classes 15:20 — Memorable scenes and character interactions 20:00 — The cultural impact of Clark Gable's performance 25:15 — The film's Academy Awards sweep 30:00 — Final thoughts on the film's charm and legacy Don't miss this captivating episode of Midday Movies, where classic cinema meets heartfelt discussion! For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here. Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook Linktree Check out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers, and more!

    Ep 323: “It Happened One Night” (1934) How This Classic Swept the Oscars and Invented the RomCom
  4. Jun 25

    Ep 322: “Sabrina” (1954) A Love Triangle, a Parisian Makeover, and a Long Island Cinderella

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen embark on a charming journey through the classic romance of the 1954 film, Sabrina. Starring the iconic Audrey Hepburn, alongside Humphrey Bogart and William Holden, this delightful tale follows Sabrina Fairchild, the daughter of a chauffeur, as she transforms from a love-struck girl into a sophisticated Parisian woman, capturing the hearts of two brothers from the affluent Larrabee family. With themes of love, class disparity, and self-discovery, Sabrina is a timeless Cinderella story set against the backdrop of Long Island high society. Laura and Stephen dive into the film's rich character dynamics and the captivating performances of its leads. They discuss Sabrina's enchanting glow-up, the contrasting personalities of the Larrabee brothers, and the societal expectations that shape their relationships. With insightful commentary and plenty of humor, they explore the film's clever writing, directed by the legendary Billy Wilder, and how it remains relevant today. Join them for a lively conversation that delves into the intricacies of romance, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness. Whether you're revisiting this classic or experiencing it for the first time, this episode promises to rekindle your love for cinematic storytelling! Chapters: 00:00 — Laura and Stephen discuss today's featured movies on Midday Movies podcast 01:23 — Sabrina is a 1954 adaptation of Samuel Taylor's Broadway hit Sabrina Fair 02:28 — The Great Gatsby takes place in Long island society 07:01 — The staff that works for Sabrina is incredibly invested in her journey 08:23 — Sabrina is very distracted by her love of David on their Paris journey 14:28 — Linus and Sabrina develop a little chemistry on the tennis court 16:30 — Linus is trying to keep Sabrina away from David 17:22 — Linus is an industrialist of the highest. And he's passionate about development 19:44 — Linus is perhaps my favorite male character in the 1950s 20:55 — There is a lot about classism in this movie, though 21:51 — There's a 30 year age gap between Sabrina and Linus 26:33 — Sabrina is a fascinating member of the Hollywood class just in and of himself 28:58 — Edith Head was the costume designer on Sabrina. She won the Academy Award for best costume design 29:42 — Humphrey Bogart and William Holden hated each other on this film 31:57 — Stephen and Laura discuss Sabrina on today's Midday Movies Don't miss this enchanting episode of Midday Movies, where classic cinema meets heartfelt discussion! For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here. Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook Linktree Check out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers, and more!

    Ep 322: “Sabrina” (1954) A Love Triangle, a Parisian Makeover, and a Long Island Cinderella
  5. Jun 18

    Ep 321: “Heated Rivalry” (2026) The Game-Changing Romance Series that Started a Booktok Revolution

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen dive into the sizzling world of romance and rivalry with the international hit series, Heated Rivalry. Based on Rachel Reed's Game Changers book series, this captivating show follows the lives of two Major League Hockey stars, Ilya Rozanov and Shane Hollander, as they navigate the complexities of ambition, rivalry, and a magnetic connection that transcends the ice. Over the course of eight years, the duo grapples with love, denial, and self-discovery, all while the supporting characters offer insights that challenge their understanding of identity and acceptance. Laura and Stephen share their excitement for this much-requested series, highlighting its emotionally intelligent portrayal of closeted queer athletes in a hyper-masculine sport. They discuss the dynamic relationship between the leads, their contrasting backgrounds, and the impact of their friends, including the beloved Scott Hunter, who becomes an unexpected source of inspiration and support. With humor and heartfelt moments, this episode captures the essence of Heated Rivalry and why it has resonated with audiences worldwide. Join them for an insightful discussion that explores themes of love, identity, and the pressures of professional sports. Whether you're a fan of the book series or new to the show, this episode will leave you eager to catch up on all the drama and romance! Chapters: Introduction to Heated Rivalry Overview of the main characters and their dynamics The significance of rivalries in sports and relationships Exploring the supporting characters and their roles The emotional journey of Ilya and Shane Scott Hunter's impact on the narrative Final thoughts on the show's themes and appeal Don't miss this engaging episode of Midday Movies, where cinematic exploration meets heartfelt conversation! For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NFCS2GM). Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook Linktree Check out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers, and more!

    Ep 321: “Heated Rivalry” (2026) The Game-Changing Romance Series that Started a Booktok Revolution
  6. Jun 11

    Ep 320: “Off Campus” (Prime, 2026) Summer of Love Kicks Off With Hockey’s Hottest (Straight) Romance

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen take a delightful plunge into the world of romance and hockey with Prime Video's hit series, “Off Campus.” Based on Elle Kennedy's best-selling book series, this charming show introduces us to Hannah Wells, a dedicated music major, and Garrett Graham, the charismatic captain of Briar University's hockey team. As they navigate the complexities of college life, a unique deal is struck—Hannah helps Garrett academically while he assists her in winning the heart of a boy she likes. Cue the fake dating trope that leads to unexpected feelings and heartwarming moments! Laura and Stephen share their thoughts on the show's engaging characters, from the lovable main couple to their diverse friend groups, all of whom bring authenticity and warmth to the narrative. They discuss the modern rom-com elements that make Off Campus stand out, as well as the emotional intelligence displayed by its characters. With plenty of humor, romance, and relatable college experiences, this episode captures the essence of why viewers are falling in love with the series. Join them for a fun and insightful discussion that explores the themes of friendship, ambition, and the complexities of young love. Whether you're a fan of the book series or new to the show, this episode is sure to get you excited for the Summer of Love! Chapters: ​Introduction to Off Campus​Overview of the main characters and their dynamics​The fake dating trope and its implications​Discussing the friend groups and their authenticity​Emotional intelligence in character development​Comparison with Heated Rivalry​Final thoughts on the show's charm and appealDon't miss this captivating episode of Midday Movies, where cinematic exploration meets heartfelt conversation! For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at ⁠⁠@middaymoviespod⁠⁠, ⁠⁠@umbrellapodcastcollective⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠@facehuggersandfriendspod⁠⁠ We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Linktree⁠⁠ Check out our new merch shop ⁠⁠here⁠⁠ for tees, totes, stickers, and more!

    Ep 320: “Off Campus” (Prime, 2026) Summer of Love Kicks Off With Hockey’s Hottest (Straight) Romance
  7. Jun 4

    Ep 319: “Blade Runner” (1982) A Dystopian Exploration of Humanity and Identity in a Neon-Soaked Future

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen are joined by siblings Shay and Jason, co-hosts of the Rainy Day Rabbit Hole's History Unhinged podcast, as they dissect the iconic 1982 cyberpunk film, Blade Runner. This cult classic, directed by Ridley Scott, explores the haunting themes of identity, humanity, and the consequences of a consumer-driven society in a dystopian Los Angeles. The discussion dives deep into the film's portrayal of replicants, who struggle to survive in a world that views them as disposable products, all while grappling with their own emotions and desires for longer lives. Laura, Stephen, Shay, and Jason reflect on their personal experiences with the film, from initial impressions to a deeper appreciation for its philosophical inquiries about what it means to be human. They analyze the rich visual aesthetics created by Scott and cinematographer Jordan Cronenweth, and how the film's unique style has influenced the cyberpunk genre and modern cinema. The conversation also touches on the significance of memory, empathy, and the moral implications of creating artificial life, making this episode a thought-provoking journey through one of science fiction's most revered works. Join them for an engaging and insightful discussion filled with nostalgia, critical analysis, and a shared love for Blade Runner. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the film, this episode promises to deepen your understanding of its lasting impact on both cinema and culture! Chapters: ​00:00 — Introduction to Blade Runner​02:45 — Personal experiences with the film​10:30 — Themes of identity and humanity​18:00 — The film's visual style and its influence​25:15 — The significance of memory in replicants​35:00 — Analyzing the character dynamics​45:20 — The ambiguous ending and its implications​50:00 — Final thoughts on the film's legacy Don't miss this captivating episode of Midday Movies, where cinematic exploration meets heartfelt conversation! For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at ⁠@middaymoviespod⁠, ⁠@umbrellapodcastcollective⁠, and ⁠@facehuggersandfriendspod⁠ We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey ⁠here⁠. Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠Linktree⁠ Check out our new merch shop ⁠here⁠ for tees, totes, stickers, and more!

    Ep 319: “Blade Runner” (1982) A Dystopian Exploration of Humanity and Identity in a Neon-Soaked Future
  8. May 28

    Ep 318: “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” (2018) A New Vision of Spider-Man [Hopeful Sci-Fi]

    In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen swing into action as they explore the groundbreaking animated film, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. Released in 2018 and directed by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, and Rodney Rothman, this Oscar-winning film introduces audiences to Miles Morales, a teenager living in a Brooklyn already home to Spider-Man. When a freak accident grants him spider powers, Miles finds himself teaming up with various Spider-People from alternate universes to thwart the nefarious plans of Kingpin and his multiverse-altering collider. Laura and Stephen dive deep into the film's rich narrative and stunning animation style, celebrating the unique blend of humor, heart, and cultural representation that sets this film apart. They discuss the complexities of Miles’ character, his family dynamics, and the influences of his two father figures, each representing different paths in life. The hosts also highlight the film's impressive voice cast, including Jake Johnson as Peter B. Parker, Hailee Steinfeld as Gwen Stacy, and John Mulaney as the hilarious Spider-Ham, showcasing the film's ability to balance diverse characters with distinct personalities. Join them for a lively discussion filled with insights into the film's themes of friendship, loss, and self-discovery, as they unpack why Into the Spider-Verse has become a beloved entry in the superhero genre. Whether you're a long-time fan of Spider-Man or new to the franchise, this episode promises to inspire and entertain! Chapters: ​00:00 — Introduction to Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse​01:45 — Overview of Miles Morales and his unique journey​05:30 — Exploring the film's animation style and visual storytelling​12:00 — The significance of family dynamics in Miles' life​18:15 — The diverse cast of Spider-People and their unique traits​25:40 — Discussion on the film's themes of loss and self-discovery​30:00 — Final thoughts on the film's impact and legacy Don't miss this captivating episode of Midday Movies, where cinematic exploration meets heartfelt conversation! For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at ⁠@middaymoviespod⁠, ⁠@umbrellapodcastcollective⁠, and ⁠@facehuggersandfriendspod⁠ We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey ⁠here⁠. Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠Linktree⁠ Check out our new merch shop ⁠here⁠ for tees, totes, stickers, and more!

    Ep 318: “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” (2018) A New Vision of Spider-Man [Hopeful Sci-Fi]
5
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Midday Movies podcast, provider of fun, funny, and thoughtful media reviews 2-3x a week. Streaming on @radiotacoma101.9 every Tues/Thurs/Sat at 3pm.

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