In the countryside just north of Tokyo, the Haruno family experiences change, growth, passion, and quiet strangeness through a series of episodic vignettes. We follow a young girl who’s haunted by a giant version of herself, her brother who’s trying to get over his love woes, a mother trying to get back into the swing of animation, a father fulfilling his role as a hypnotherapist, a grandfather absorbed in the final phase of living, and an uncle who’s taking a breather from city life. Filled with humor, absurdity, and a touch of the surreal, The Taste of Tea is a film that distinguishes itself by letting life unfold without judgment or a sense of urgency. Directed by Katsuhito Ishii, this is a story that anyone can delve into and emerge from with something to savor. As always, thank you for listening and we hope you enjoy our discussion. Where to watch the film: Amazon (Buy) YouTube (a copy might be available for free) The Internet Archive (Stream/Download) Send us film recommendations or feedback at: lefilmpodcast@gmail.com

While moving to another town, a young girl, Chihiro, and her family take a shortcut and stop near a tunnel that leads to a forgotten resort. While there, they become bound to a strange world that comes alive at night. Chihiro's parents are mysteriously transformed, leaving her to discover whether she can free herself and her family and reclaim the lives they once had. Hayao Miyazaki's 2001 Japanese animated film, Spirited Away, is filled with wonder, fear, loneliness, compassion, and love. A love letter to folklore, childhood, and the mysteries of everyday living, this Studio Ghibli masterpiece has left its mark upon countless viewers. If you haven't seen it already, please do. As always, thank you for listening, and we hope you enjoy our discussion. Where to watch: HBO Max (Stream) Apple TV (Rent and Buy) Amazon (Rent and Buy) Please send film recommendations and feedback to: lefilmpodcast@gmail.com

A young boy, Calogero, grows up in the 1960s Bronx torn between two father figures: his hardworking bus driver father and Sonny, a local crime boss who offers the allure of easy money and respect through violence. A Bronx Tale, Robert De Niro's 1993 directorial debut, balances nostalgic coming-of-age storytelling with moral complexity, and asks whether we learn more from the people we admire or the mistakes we witness. As always, thank you for listening and we hope you enjoy our discussion. Where to watch the film: Kanopy (Stream) YouTube (Rent) Apple TV (Rent Send us film recommendations or feedback at: lefilmpodcast@gmail.com