In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen dive into the decades-spanning revolutionary narrative of Paul Thomas Anderson's "One Battle After Another," a film that has garnered significant Oscar buzz. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Teyana Taylor, and Sean Penn, this sprawling American epic explores the clash between militant countercultural revolutionaries and a repressive police state, all while addressing the generational family drama of anti-state activism. Laura and Stephen dissect the film's colorful characters, including the fiery revolutionary Perfidia and the morally ambiguous Colonel Lockjaw, while examining the film's commentary on political action and the cyclical nature of struggle. With a mix of humor and profound moments, they delve into the film's three acts, discussing everything from the chaotic opening scenes to the poignant resolution. Join them as they unpack the layers of "One Battle After Another," a film that resonates deeply with contemporary issues and challenges viewers to reflect on the nature of activism and personal legacy.

00:00 Introduction to "One Battle After Another"

01:30 Overview of the film's premise and themes

04:00 Discussion on the character of Perfidia

08:00 Insights on Colonel Lockjaw's role

12:00 Exploration of the film's narrative structure

16:00 The significance of generational trauma

20:00 Humor amidst chaos in the film

24:00 Analysis of the film's production techniques

28:00 Comparisons to contemporary activism

32:00 Final thoughts on the film's impact and Oscar potential

36:00 Conclusion and reflections on the Oscars

For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod

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In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen embark on a critical discussion about the first Best Picture nomination for 2026, Yorgos Lanthimos' "Bugonia." Starring Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons, this film delves into pressing societal issues like climate collapse and inequality through a comedic sci-fi lens. The duo explores the film’s bizarre premise of a pharmaceutical CEO being kidnapped by a conspiracy-fueled “human resistance fighter,” while unpacking the film's timely themes and character dynamics. With a focus on the performances of Stone and Plemons, along with supporting cast member Aiden Delbis, this episode highlights the director’s characteristically surreal storytelling approach and its commentary on the complexities of power and morality in competitive contemporary society. Join Laura and Stephen as they navigate the whimsical yet dark world of "Bugonia," a film that challenges viewers to question the nature of truth and the role of institutions in our lives.

00:00 Introduction to "Bugonia"

01:30 Overview of the film's premise and themes

04:00 Discussion on Emma Stone's character, Michelle

08:00 Insights on Jesse Plemons' role as Teddy

12:00 Exploration of Aiden Delbis' character, Don

16:00 The film's ideological conflicts and character dynamics

20:00 Cinematic techniques and the use of VistaVision

24:00 The significance of bees in the narrative

28:00 Comparisons to the original South Korean film

32:00 Final reflections on the film's impact and themes

36:00 Conclusion and thoughts on the Oscar race

For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod

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In this thrilling Midday Mini, hosts Laura and Stephen dive into the post nuclear world of Fallout: Season 2, a series that continues to capture their hearts with gaming nostalgia. With its vibrant setting in New Vegas, the duo explores the rich character dynamics and morally complex narratives that mirror the beloved video game. From the morally gray decisions of Hank McLean, played by the iconic Kyle MacLachlan, to the spirited journey of Lucy McLean, this episode highlights that motley crew of characters and their moral collisions in the post-apocalyptic landscape. Laura and Stephen share their favorite moments, discuss the significance of various factions, and reflect on the show's ability to blend humor and drama seamlessly. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the Fallout franchise or a newcomer, this episode is packed with insights and excitement that will leave you eager for more. Tune in for a fun romp through the wasteland and prepare for a season three that's shaping up to be epic!

00:00 Introduction to "Fallout Season 2"

01:30 Overview of the show's setting in New Vegas

04:00 Character dynamics: Hank, Lucy, and the Ghoul

08:00 The moral complexities of the series

12:00 The significance of factions in the Fallout universe

16:00 Highlights of the cast and their performances

20:00 Easter eggs and references to the game

24:00 Anticipation for season three

28:00 Conclusion and reflections on the series

For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod

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In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen dive headfirst into the exhilarating world of this year's Oscar nominations! With excitement in the air, they explore the standout films vying for the coveted gold statue in the categories of Best Documentary Feature, Animated Feature, and Best Picture. From gripping documentaries that tackle pressing social issues to animated tales that tug at the heartstrings, this episode covers a remarkable lineup of films that made waves in the cinema landscape last year. Laura and Stephen share their insights, notable facts, and personal favorites, setting the stage for the 98th Academy Awards. Join them as they dissect the nominations and celebrate the art of filmmaking during this thrilling Oscar season!

00:00 Introduction to Oscar nominations

01:30 Overview of the documentary feature nominees

04:00 Discussion on "The Alabama Solution"

07:30 Insights on "Come See Me in the Good Light"

10:00 Exploration of "Cutting Through Rocks"

13:00 Overview of "Mr. Nobody against Putin"

16:00 Discussion on "The Perfect Neighbor"

19:00 Transition to animated feature nominees

21:30 Overview of "Arco"

24:00 Insights on Pixar's "Elio"

27:00 Discussion on "K Pop Demon Hunters"

30:00 Overview of "Little Amelie or the Character of Rain"

33:00 Insights on "Zootopia 2"

36:00 Transition to Best Picture nominees

38:00 Overview of "Begonia"

41:00 Discussion on "F1, the Movie"

44:00 Insights on "Frankenstein"

47:00 Overview of "Hamnet"

50:00 Insights on "Marty Supreme"

53:00 Overview of "One Battle after Another"

56:00 Discussion on "The Secret Agent"

59:00 Insights on "Sentimental Value"

01:02:00 Overview of "Sinners"

01:05:00 Final thoughts on "Train Dreams"

01:08:00 Conclusion and reflections on the Oscar season ahead

For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod

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In this exciting Midday Mini, hosts Laura and Stephen dive into the wild world of Ryan Murphy's latest television creation, "The Beauty." This midday mini explores the show's unique blend of drama, sci-fi, and dark humor, set against an alien-sounding backdrop that keeps viewers guessing. With its intriguing premise involving a deadly virus that enhances beauty at a lethal cost, the series features standout performances from Evan Peters and Rebecca Hall as FBI agents investigating the chaos surrounding the Beauty virus. The episode discusses the show's significant cultural commentary on beauty standards and self-improvement, while also highlighting the entertaining character dynamics and unexpected cameos, including the likes of Bella Hadid and Ben Platt. Join Laura and Stephen as they unpack the layers of this captivating series, filled with scandal, charm, and explosive twists that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Prepare for a thrilling ride through the bizarre and glamorous world of "The Beauty"! Now streaming on FX/Hulu.

00:00 Introduction to "The Beauty"

01:15 Overview of the show's premise and themes

04:00 The significance of Bella Hadid's cameo

06:30 Exploring the FBI agents' dynamic

10:00 The role of Ashton Kutcher's character

13:30 The dark humor and horror elements

17:00 The cultural commentary on beauty standards

20:00 The unique storytelling style of Ryan Murphy

24:00 Conclusion and reflections on the show's impact

For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod

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In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen embark on the visually iconoclastic journey through Terrence Malick's 1978 masterpiece, "Days of Heaven." Starring a young Richard Gere and marking Malick’s 2nd feature film, the audience is taken into the lives of itinerant farm workers in early 20th century America, exploring themes of love, ambition, and moral ambiguity against the backdrop of breathtaking sunset cinematography. With the ethereal glow of golden hour lighting, cinematographer Nestor Almendros crafts an unforgettable visual experience that elevates the biblically-inspired narrative of desire and conflict. Laura and Stephen dive deep into the film's tense character dynamics, including the love triangle between Bill, Abby, and The Farmer, while also reflecting on the broader implications of their actions. Join them as they dissect the film's philosophical undertones and its poignant commentary on humanity, all while celebrating the cinematographic artistry that makes "Days of Heaven" a 20th-century classic.

00:00 Introduction to "Days of Heaven"

01:30 Overview of the film's setting and historical context

04:00 The beauty of the cinematography and natural light

08:00 Character dynamics: Bill, Abby, and the farmer

12:00 The significance of Linda's narration

15:30 Themes of ambition and moral ambiguity

19:00 The Edenic quality of the farm and its allusions to the Bible

22:30 The role of jealousy and deception in the love triangle

26:00 The impact of external events on the characters

30:00 Reflections on the film's philosophical themes

34:00 Conclusion and final thoughts on "Days of Heaven"

For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod

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In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen take you back into their January Film School Series, diving into the 10 must-see masterpieces celebrated for their stunning cinematography, as highlighted in the insightful "Filmmaker's Book of Ten" by award-winning cinematographer Steven Bernstein. From the painterly visuals of Stanley Kubrick's "Barry Lyndon" to the emotionally charged landscapes of Wong Kar Wai's "In the Mood for Love," (for more of a deep dive into this film, see episode 230), this episode offers a feast for the eyes and the mind. Laura and Stephen discuss the mastery behind each film's visual storytelling, exploring how light, color, and innovative techniques evoke powerful emotions, even in the absence of dialogue. Whether you’re a budding filmmaker or a casual moviegoer, this episode will inspire you to appreciate the artistry that goes into creating visually extraordinary cinema. Prepare to see movies in a whole new light!

00:00 Introduction to the episode

01:30 The influence of Steven Bernstein's "Filmmaker's Book of Ten"

03:00 The significance of cinematography in film

05:00 Exploring "Barry Lyndon" and its natural lighting techniques

10:00 The visual revolution of "In the Mood for Love"

14:30 The ethereal beauty of "Days of Heaven"

18:00 The artistic vision behind "The Conformist"

21:00 The raw emotion captured in "Raging Bull"

25:00 The shadowy brilliance of "The Godfather"

28:00 The pioneering techniques of "Citizen Kane"

32:00 The chaotic beauty of "Apocalypse Now"

36:30 Conclusion and reflections on the power of cinematography

For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod

For more thoughts from the thoughtful filmmaker & author, Steven Bernstein, check out the following:

- ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Filmmaker's Book of Ten⁠ referenced in today's episode

- ⁠His social media⁠⁠⁠

- ⁠⁠⁠His Filmmaker and Fan's Podcast⁠

We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.

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In this special episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen present a captivating feature from the Umbrella Podcast Collective's own Mysterious PNW. Join them as they explore the eerie yet fascinating Seattle Death Museum, a unique establishment housing an array of death artifacts and curiosities. From haunted dolls to post-mortem photography, Laura and Stephen delve into the macabre history surrounding death and the death industry. They discuss chilling tales of haunted objects, including the infamous Annabelle doll, and the intriguing practice of capturing the likeness of the deceased through photography and death masks. With a blend of humor and genuine curiosity, this episode invites listeners to confront their own perceptions of mortality while uncovering the stories behind these haunting relics. Prepare for a journey into the darker side of history that will leave you both intrigued and spooked!

00:00 Introduction to the Seattle Death Museum

01:30 The hosts' fascination with the death industry

03:15 Planning a trip to explore spooky attractions

05:00 The allure of haunted dolls

08:00 The story of Mr. Creepy and other haunted dolls

12:00 The significance of post-mortem photography

15:30 Exploring death masks and their historical context

18:00 The Unknown Woman of the Seine and her legacy

21:30 The impact of death masks on identity and memory

25:00 Conclusion and reflections on mortality

For more Laura and Stephen, follow us at @middaymoviespod, @umbrellapodcastcollective, and @facehuggersandfriendspod

For more spooky PNW tales from Mysterious PWN follow them at @mysteriouspnwpod

We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.

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