This week on Film Detectives, we dive into two wildly different yet thematically connected sci-fi cult classics: Capricorn One (1977) and Dark Star (1974). One is a gripping government conspiracy thriller about a faked Mars landing, the other a low-budget, absurdist space odyssey with a talking bomb and existential dread.

We unpack the paranoia, satire, and societal mistrust that fuel both films, and explore how they reflect 1970s skepticism toward authority, the space race, and media manipulation. From Peter Hyams' tense realism to John Carpenter’s surreal humor, these films might seem worlds apart—but they’re both brilliant time capsules of cinematic rebellion.

Buckle up for deep cuts, behind-the-scenes trivia, and our take on why these forgotten gems still matter today.

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We're back after 3 years!!

In this episode, Film Detective dives into two iconic 1970s sci-fi films that explore dystopia, ecology, and the human condition: Logan's Run (1976) and Silent Running (1972). The show examines the sleek futurism and hedonistic nightmare of Logan's Run, where society eliminates anyone over 30 to maintain a utopian illusion. Through its vibrant production design and social commentary, the film reflects fears of overpopulation and loss of individuality.

Then, the episode shifts to Silent Running, Douglas Trumbull’s directorial debut, which swaps sleek cities for a lonely spaceship harboring the last forests of Earth. Bruce Dern delivers a haunting performance as a botanist who defies orders to preserve the natural world. The show explores the film’s environmental message, minimalist storytelling, and groundbreaking visual effects. Including the precursor of the AI technological surge we are currently experiencing in 2025.

Together, the films paint a picture of early '70s sci-fi’s moral concerns—questioning progress, control, and our relationship with nature.

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The Film Detectives bring you an educational episode focusing on the films of Iranian director, Marjane Satrapi. In this episode we discuss her award winning movie, "Persepolis" and her latest release, "Radioactive". Join us as we delve deeper into Iranian cinema.