The Next Reel Film Podcast TruStory FM

"You can’t trust a man’s life to your little notes and pictures.”REBROADCAST
Christopher Nolan’s second film, Memento from 2001, caught a lot of attention on its release. The clever screenplay structure where the story unfolds both forward and backward in time creates an experience much like that of our protagonist Leonard Shelby (wonderfully played by Guy Pearce), a man suffering from anterior grade memory loss. Some people said Memento was too clever for its own good or that it was all style with little substance. Others found it to be incredibly creative with a unique story exploring the psychology of our character. No matter how you approach it, Memento is a film worth looking at in greater depth. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we kick off our twist endings series called ‘Spoiled. Rotten?’, in which we debate if a film is ruined if you already know the twist. Pete’s selection is Nolan’s 2001 film Memento.
Here’s a hint at what we talk about.
What do we think of twist endings? In the world of twist endings, what are some that work for us and some that don’t? Do we find Memento to be an effective example, even if the twist ending actually happens at the midway point of the chronological story? Guy Pearce is always wonderful, but it’s so great seeing Carrie-Anne Moss and Joe Pantoliano together again right on the heels of their success with The Matrix. How much do we actually understand the story and what are our opinions about what really happened with Leonard, Sammy, and the mysterious John G? Nolan started working with Wally Pfister here as his cinematographer and David Julyan composed music. Do we like the look and music? And how much do we love this film as compared to so many who clearly hate it?
It’s a strong entry into our catalogue and one we’re glad to have discussed. The twists hold up and we have a great time talking about them. Check it out then tune in! The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!
Film Sundries
Learn more about supporting The Next Reel Film Podcast through your own membership — visit TruStory FM.
Watch this film: JustWatchScript TranscriptOriginal theatrical trailerOriginal poster artworkOriginal MaterialFlickchartLetterboxd
Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!
Become a Member Today! $5 monthly or $55 annually
Visit our WATCH PAGE to rent or purchase movies we've talked about on the shows that are part of The Next Reel’s family of podcasts. By doing so, you get to watch the movie and help us out in the process as a portion comes back our way. Enjoy!

Build your own website (or one for your granny!) with Squarespace. Try it today!
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?
Become a Member here: $5 monthly or $55 annually
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 books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.Or sign up for AUDIBLE.

“It’s what I have to work with.”Adapted from the critically acclaimed Off-Broadway musical, Hedwig and the Angry Inch tells the story of an East German rock star on a journey of self-discovery. Directed by and starring John Cameron Mitchell, the film premiered at the 2001 Sundance Film Festival. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 2002 Film Independent Spirit Awards Best Cinematography Nominees series with a conversation about Hedwig and the Angry Inch.
With standout performances from Mitchell as well as Michael Pitt and Miriam Shore, Hedwig wrestles with difficult questions around gender that still resonate today. While our opinions differ on certain story elements, both agree the trailblazing musical remains an artful and subversive work.
We discuss some musical numbers, the complex journeys of Hedwig, Yitzhak, and ‘antagonist’ Tommy Gnosis, as well as supporting roles from Andrea Martin and Stephen Trask. Debates emerge around how the film brings its story to a close through dreamlike imagery. Both come to appreciate Hedwig even more through discussing its timeless message of self-acceptance.
With weighty themes balanced with humor and rock, the film leaves much to contemplate. 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 trailerOriginal MaterialLetterboxd
Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!
Become a Member Today! $5 monthly or $55 annually
Visit our WATCH PAGE to rent or purchase movies we've talked about on the shows that are part of The Next Reel’s family of podcasts. By doing so, you get to watch the movie and help us out in the process as a portion comes back our way. Enjoy!

Build your own website (or one for your granny!) with Squarespace. Try it today!
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?
Become a Member here: $5 monthly or $55 annually
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 books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.Or sign up for AUDIBLE.

“Make a sound and I’m going to drown you in the lake.”A Sundance Standout That Earned Cinematography Honors
Scott McGehee and David Siegel, the directing duo behind The Deep End, began developing the project in the late 1990s. Inspired by the 1940s novel The Blank Wall by Elisabeth Sanxay Holding and the 1949 film adaptation The Reckless Moment directed by Max Ophüls, they set out to create a modern noir thriller centered around a mother's fierce love and protection for her son. With the help of cinematographer Giles Nuttgens, they crafted a visually stunning and emotionally charged film that caught the attention of the Sundance Film Festival and beyond. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the 2002 Film Independent Spirit Awards Best Cinematography Nominees series with a conversation about The Deep End.
A Mother's Love, a Son's Secret, and a Blackmailer's Agenda
In our discussion of The Deep End, we explore the central premise of the film – a mother who discovers a dead body and believes her son is responsible. Tilda Swinton portrays Margaret Hall, a woman who makes a quick decision to cover up the crime. As the plot progresses, a blackmailer enters the picture, complicating matters further. While we both appreciate aspects of the film, we find ourselves divided on the effectiveness of the story and Swinton's performance. The cinematography, however, remains a standout element, earning its Independent Spirit Award nomination.
Other Discussion Points
The supporting performance of Goran Visnjic as the blackmailer Alek Spera and how his character evolves throughout the filmThe film's handling of the son's sexuality and the potential consequences of his father discovering the truthThe use of Lake Tahoe as a setting and its contribution to the overall atmospherePacing issues and plot points that we found problematic or unbelievableThe Deep End is an intriguing and visually captivating thriller that sparked a lively discussion between us. While we may not see eye-to-eye on all aspects of the film, particularly Tilda Swinton's performance and the overall effectiveness of the story, we agree that the cinematography is truly remarkable and worthy of its Independent Spirit Award nomination. The film's exploration of complex themes and moral dilemmas makes it a thought-provoking watch, even if it doesn't quite hit the mark in all areas. 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 trailerOriginal MaterialLetterboxd
Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!
Become a Member Today! $5 monthly or $55 annually
Visit our WATCH PAGE to rent or purchase movies we've talked about on the shows that are part of The Next Reel’s family of podcasts. By doing so, you get to watch the movie and help us out in the process as a portion comes back our way. Enjoy!

Build your own website (or one for your granny!) with Squarespace. Try it today!
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?
Become a Member here: $5 monthly or $55 annually
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 books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with

“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)
Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!
Become a Member Today! $5 monthly or $55 annually
Visit our WATCH PAGE to rent or purchase movies we've talked about on the shows that are part of The Next Reel’s family of podcasts. By doing so, you get to watch the movie and help us out in the process as a portion comes back our way. Enjoy!

Build your own website (or one for your granny!) with Squarespace. Try it today!
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?
Become a Member here: $5 monthly or $55 annually
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 books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with o

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
Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!
Become a Member Today! $5 monthly or $55 annually
Visit our WATCH PAGE to rent or purchase movies we've talked about on the shows that are part of The Next Reel’s family of podcasts. By doing so, you get to watch the movie and help us out in the process as a portion comes back our way. Enjoy!

Build your own website (or one for your granny!) with Squarespace. Try it today!
Here’s where you can find us around the internet:
The WebLetterboxdFacebookInstagramThreadsXYouTubeFlickchartPinterestPete AndyWe spend ho...

“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)
Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!
Become a Member Today! $5 monthly or $55 annually
Visit our WATCH PAGE to rent or purchase movies we've talked about on the shows that are part of The Next Reel’s family of podcasts. By doing so, you get to watch the movie and help us out in the process as a portion comes back our way. Enjoy!

Build your own website (or one for your granny!) with Squarespace. Try it today!
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?
Become a Member here: $5 monthly or $55 annually
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 books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.Or renew or sign up for a Letterboxd Pro or Patron account with our LETTERBOXD MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNT.Or sign up for AUDIBLE.