The Fiction Podcast

TheFictionPodcast
  • 4.7 (12)
  • Fiction

We’re Classical Studies majors who wandered from ancient epics into modern fiction and never found our way out. Now we dive into worlds, themes, and characters across books and movies, tracing the core threads and irresistible plots. Then we grade everything—C is squarely average—because evaluating art is inherently absurd and endlessly fun. Thoughtful but never stiff, nerdy but never gatekeep-y, we’re here to enjoy stories, celebrate them, and laugh at ourselves along the way.

  1. 14h ago ·  Bonus

    Why Your Favorite Christopher Nolan Movie Might Not Be the Best — S.4 - Bonus Episode 17

    Get ready to dive into the mind-bending world of Christopher Nolan! In this bonus episode, hosts Frank and Justin unleash their top five favorite Nolan films, inspired by a passionate listener's rankings. From the gritty brilliance of Memento to the visually stunning Interstellar, you’ll discover the reasons behind each choice and what makes these films unforgettable. Frank and Justin share insights that will have you reconsidering your own rankings and rekindling your love for Nolan’s cinematic masterpieces. Join in on the fun as they engage with a listener’s ranking that challenges their own, creating an entertaining back-and-forth that keeps you guessing. Tune in now and rediscover the films that have defined a generation! Also, if you are a fan of the show, please leave us a rating/review on your favorite podcast app. We greatly appreciate it. Chapters 00:00 Introduction & Christopher Nolan Setup02:12 Top Five Christopher Nolan Rankings10:24 Listener Rankings & Hot Takes15:04 Dream Christopher Nolan Casts20:11 Role Swaps: Recasting Nolan Films24:16 Wrap-Up & Future Bonus Episodes

    Why Your Favorite Christopher Nolan Movie Might Not Be the Best — S.4 - Bonus Episode 17

  2. Aug 12

    Ancient Legends: How Classics Like The Odyssey Shape Modern Storytelling — S.4 - Episode 16

    Ever wondered what makes a hero truly legendary? In this capstone episode of Season Four, Frank and Justin unravel the intricate tapestry of heroism, weaving through iconic stories from ancient cultures to contemporary cinema. They dive into the duality of heroism as they dissect Christopher Nolan’s polarizing adaptation of The Odyssey, sparking debates that challenge conventional notions of heroism. The Hosts also reflect on a season filled with epic tales—from the Iliad and the Odyssey to the cinematic masterpieces that have shaped our understanding of heroism. You’ll discover the pivotal traits that distinguish a hero from a legend, as Frank and Justin share their insights on characters that embody these qualities. They discuss the timelessness of stories like Mulan, Black Panther, and the Hero’s Journey, drawing parallels to modern interpretations of ancient myths. In addition, Frank And Justin provide recommendations for films and stories that resonate with the themes discussed throughout the season. They emphasize the importance of keeping ancient narratives alive in today’s pop culture and what it means for our understanding of heroism. Tune in for a lively conversation that not only recaps the season’s highlights but also invites you to reflect on the nature of heroism in your own life. Don't miss this engaging wrap-up that promises to ignite your curiosity and passion for the stories that define us. Chapters00:00 - Season 4 opens with a recap of the ancient epics and adaptations covered01:19 - Why this episode is the season’s capstone and wrap-up 01:58 - The season’s central question: who is a hero, and who is a legend?03:38 - Why controversy around The Odyssey keeps classics in the conversation04:28 - Comparing adaptation criticism to The Lincoln Lawyer and other fandom debates07:01 - Lawyer TV shows, Denny Crane, and a quick detour into comfort-viewing09:39 - Resetting the season’s structure around heroes, legends, and journeys10:03 - Is Odysseus a hero or a legend?12:10 - Disney’s Hercules as a cleaner example of the Greek hero arc14:12 - Why Odysseus is legendary but not heroic in the modern sense15:42 - How ancient heroism differs from modern heroism16:47 - Rapid-fire character verdicts begin: Achilles, Hector, and Leonidas18:36 - Moses in Prince of Egypt as the clearest modern-style hero19:26 - Nameless in Hero as legend, but not hero20:49 - Mulan as both legendary and heroic21:17 - The Woman King: Nanisca as legend, Nawi as hero in progress22:02 - Black Panther as hero, but debated as a legend22:42 - The Northman and its mythic roots in Hamlet and later storytelling24:24 - Returning to Odysseus and tying the whole season together25:05 - Standout films of the season: The Woman King and Hero26:10 - Why Hero and Mulan worked so well on rewatch31:08 - Recommendations Conn Iggulden’s historical fiction40:30 - Listener recommendations, feedback, and community responses41:45 - A note from Professors Foss and Schindler after watching The Odyssey Recommendations Conn Iggulden - Emperor Series (book)Conn Iggulden - Conqueror Series (book)Evan Winter - The Rage of Dragons (book)Kevin Hearne - The Iron Druid ChroniclesRome (tv series)African Queens - Njinga (docuseries)African Queens - Cleopatra (docuseries)

    Ancient Legends: How Classics Like The Odyssey Shape Modern Storytelling — S.4 - Episode 16

  3. Aug 5

    The Odyssey (2026): Homer, Myth & Storytelling With Author Janell Rhiannon - S.4 - Episode 15

    In this episode, we explore the timeless themes of the Odyssey and Iliad, comparing Homeric epics with Christopher Nolan's modern adaptation. We along with our Guest Host Janell Rhiannon (Ancient Historian and Writer) discuss the cultural significance, character complexities, and the challenges of translating ancient stories into contemporary media. In this episode, we explore the nuances of adapting classic stories to modern media, the importance of supporting the arts, and the impact of sound design in filmmaking. We also discuss our favorite characters, scenes, and the challenges of translating ancient tales to the big screen. Guest Name Janell Rhiannon Key Topics Comparison of Odyssey and IliadImpact of Nolan's adaptation on understanding HomerChallenges of translating ancient texts into filmThemes of heroism, home, and human conditionThe significance of storytelling and myth in culture The importance of supporting classical stories in modern mediaThe role of sound design in creating immersive film experiencesChallenges in adapting ancient stories like the Odyssey for contemporary audiencesThe impact of visual and auditory elements on storytelling Chapters 00:02 Introduction to the discussion on Homeric epics 03:17 Meet Janell Rhiannon 04:30 Iliad vs. Odyssey 11:47 Why The Odyssey Works on Film 21:02 Adapting Homer and Emily Wilson's Translation 41:40 The Bow, Sound, and Cinematic Moments 48:40 Lightning Round: Characters, Monsters, and Heroes 55:39 Final Grades and Reflections 1:02:44 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Janell Resources The Iliad by Caroline Alexander - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=The+Iliad+by+Caroline+AlexanderThe Odyssey (Emily Wilson translation) - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=The+Odyssey+Emily+WilsonGreek Mythology Retold Podcast - https://example.com/greek-mythology-podcastChristopher Nolan's Films - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0634240/Supporting the Arts - NEA - https://www.arts.gov/ Guest Links Website - https://janellrhiannon.com Instagram - https://instagram.com/janelle_rhiannon

    The Odyssey (2026): Homer, Myth & Storytelling With Author Janell Rhiannon - S.4 - Episode 15

  4. Jul 29

    Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey (2026): Review of the Director's Vision — S.4 - Episode 14

    Hosts Frank and Justin and guest host Wes Clark (Director, Writer - How to Start a Cult in 5-Easy Steps) discuss Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, addressing his directorial choices, cultural influences, and the impact of practical effects in film. They also explore the idea of different directors interpreting the same story. The conversation covers a range of topics, including favorite characters and actors in the poem, the portrayal of key scenes, and a discussion of Christopher Nolan's films. Takeaways Directorial choices play a significant role in shaping the cultural and emotional impact of a film.Cultural influences and experiences of directors contribute to the unique interpretation and presentation of a story.Practical effects and sound design can enhance the authenticity and emotional resonance of a cinematic experience. Character and Actor PreferencesPortrayal of Key ScenesChristopher Nolan's FilmsSignificance of CharactersImpact on Popular Culture Chapters 00:00 The Impact of Directorial Choices08:56 Cultural Influences and Interpretation28:49 The Significance of Practical Effects and Sound Design01:03:15 Closing Remarks

    Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey (2026): Review of the Director's Vision — S.4 - Episode 14

  5. Jul 22

    Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey (2026): The Journey Begins! — S.4 - Episode 13

    The Fiction Podcast hosts, Frank and Justin, finally get to discuss Christopher Nolan's adaptation of Homer's The Odyssey - part one of three episodes. In this episode, they debrief the movie, discuss its themes, and share their hot takes. The movie is an epic journey filled with deadly trials, encounters with gods and monsters, and the struggle to reclaim home and family. The hosts express their excitement and appreciation for the movie's world-building, scale, and attention to detail. The conversation delves into the portrayal of characters in the film adaptation of the Odyssey, exploring the transformation of Odysseus, the role of the gods, and the performances of the actors. The discussion also covers the characters in the movie adaptation of The Odyssey, including their performances and impact on the overall film. Last, but certainly not least, they grade the movie (C is average). Takeaways Epic JourneyWorld-Building Character portrayal in film adaptations can differ from the original text.The performance of actors can influence the audience's perception of the characters. Character performances and their impact on the filmThe Ron Weasley AwardGrading the movie Chapters 00:00 The Epic Journey of Odysseus31:50 The Transformation of Odysseus35:37 Interpretation of Penelope and Ending of the Film42:39 Heat Map Analysis of Characters01:11:16 Grading the Movie

    Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey (2026): The Journey Begins! — S.4 - Episode 13

  6. Jul 8 ·  Bonus

    Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey (2026): Why We're So Excited — S.4 - Bonus Episode 12

    In this Bonus Episode, Frank and Justin talk about their excitement and anticipation for the release of Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey (coming out next week). They share their hopes, expectations, and concerns, while also reflecting on the impact of nostalgia and the potential storytelling and cinematography in the film. Takeaways Excitement for 'The Odyssey' movie releaseManaging expectations and nostalgia impact Chapters 00:00 The Cold Open05:58 Expectations and Controversy11:56 Nostalgia and Expectations18:01 Final Thoughts and Expectations

    Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey (2026): Why We're So Excited — S.4 - Bonus Episode 12

  7. Jul 1

    The Northman (2022): Was Revenge Worth It? — S.4 - Episode 11

    The Fiction Podcast continue their tour of the Ancient World in discussing Robert Eggers' 2022 Viking movie, The Northman, featuring Alexander Skarsgard. The conversation delves into the movie's cinematography, world-building, character development, and emotional range of the main character, Amleth. The hosts explore the historical and mythological aspects of the film, sharing their general takes and hot takes on various elements. From there, they discuss the tragedy of the protagonist's inability to let go, character analysis and "Who needs Therapy" rating of the key characters, as well as grading the movie. Skål!!! Takeaways Cinematography and world-building were standout elements of the movie.The character development and emotional range of the main character, Amleth, were lacking. Tragedy of the protagonist's inability to let goCharacter analysis and therapy rating"Viking vibes" and grading the movie Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Fiction Podcast06:16 History and World Building19:24 Character Development and Emotional Range28:52 Amleth's Decision and Conclusion34:17 Therapy Ratings40:21 Viking Vibes46:29 The Ron Weasley Award & grading the movie53:34 Preview: The Odyssey

    The Northman (2022): Was Revenge Worth It? — S.4 - Episode 11

  8. Jun 24

    Black Panther (2018): The King, The Revolutionary, and The Legend — S.4 - Episode 10

    Frank and Justin continue Season 4 with their discussion of the movie Black Panther, where they explore Wakanda and world building, character analysis of T'Challa and Killmonger, and the legendary status of Black Panther as a symbol. The conversation also hits the theme of isolationism in Wakanda, character analysis through a 'heat map,' the Ron Weasley Award, and of course, grading the movie. Takeaways Exploration of Wakanda and world building in Black Panther is a blend of traditional West African culture and modern technology, creating a rich and immersive setting.The characters of T'Challa and Killmonger in Black Panther challenge traditional hero and villain archetypes, blurring the lines between morality and compromise.The legendary status of Black Panther as a symbol transcends individual characters, representing the protector of Wakanda and the legacy of the Black Panther mantle. The significance of the Black Panther as a legendary characterDebate on the duty of Wakanda to the worldThe use of a 'heat map' for character analysisThe Ron Weasley AwardGrading the movie Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Black Panther19:34 Character Analysis: T'Challa26:12 Character Analysis: Killmonger37:25 Legendary Status of Black Panther44:24 Heat Map: Character Analysis55:13 The Ron Weasley Award01:06:30 Upcoming Episodes

    Black Panther (2018): The King, The Revolutionary, and The Legend — S.4 - Episode 10
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Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

We’re Classical Studies majors who wandered from ancient epics into modern fiction and never found our way out. Now we dive into worlds, themes, and characters across books and movies, tracing the core threads and irresistible plots. Then we grade everything—C is squarely average—because evaluating art is inherently absurd and endlessly fun. Thoughtful but never stiff, nerdy but never gatekeep-y, we’re here to enjoy stories, celebrate them, and laugh at ourselves along the way.

Information

  • Creator
    TheFictionPodcast
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    89
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 TheFictionPodcast
  • Show Website
    The Fiction Podcast