Episoder
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Clare and Alaina discuss the Oscar nominations for the 2023 Academy Awards. Come listen to us break down the major categories. The categories this year are jam-packed with talent, and artists at peak performance. Major stand-outs for us this year include Paul Mescal's nomination in AfterSun, Barry Keoghan in Banshees, and Stephanie Hsu in EEAO. Come listen to our predictions in prep for awards night!
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Clare and Alaina reflect on the best 2022 releases. 2022 was the year of horror, multiverses, and hit blockbuster sequels. For the first time, Clare and Alaina have one movie in common on their top 5 list. Listen as we break down our movie statistics for the year and find out what films we deem the best. Are you still trying to catch up on your 2022 watches? Start here to find the movies you may have missed!
*Correction: Alaina says the wrong title for her 5th movie, it is “Good Luck to you, Leo Grande” not “Good Luck, Leo Grande”
Movies Mentioned:
#5- 4.39-11.23
Clare’s Pick: Avatar Way of Water
Alaina’s Pick: Good Luck to You Leo Grande
#4- 11.23-16.20
Clare and Alaina’s Pick: The Batman
#3- 16.20-22.12
Clare’s Pick: Dual
Alaina’s The Fablemans
#2- 22.12-29.50
Clare’s Pick: Bones and All
Alaina’s Pick: Nope
#5- 29.50-36.01
Clare’s Pick: Top Gun Maverick
Alaina’s Pick: Aftersun
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 -
Manglende episoder?
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Clare and Alaina discuss movie news, early Oscar predictions, and the most anticipated films of 2023. Hear our thoughts on the DC Extended Universe as we learn that Wonder Women 3 is no longer moving forward. Additionally, we talk about the Sundance 2023 lineup and the directorial debut of Taylor Swift. As we roll into Oscar season, we discuss the current front runners for Best Picture, Actor, and Actress. Making Sense of Movies has you covered so you don't miss any of the important movie news.
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After a short hiatus, Clare and Alaina are back to explore the world of trickery, scamming, and disguises. You guessed it- we’re diving into the best movies about con artists. A con- artist is a person who cheats or tricks others by persuading them to believe something that isn't true. Some films are about real-life con artists, like Lee Israel (Can You Ever Forgive Me?), who forged more than 400 letters from deceased writers and actors. We also talk about Frank Abagnale Jr (Catch Me If You Can), known for 2.5 million dollars worth of check forgeries and impersonating a Pan Am pilot. We also talk about con artists we wish were real, like Bunty and Babli (Bunty Aur Babli). Not only are Bunty and Babli stellar tricksters, but they also dress better, sing better, and dance better than any other con artist out there. Listen to us talk about these movies and so much more!
Movies Mentioned
Corpus Christi- 1:47-19:21
The Lady Eve 19:21-32:05
Bunty Aur Babli 32:05-48:42
Catch Me if You Can 48:42-1:05.05
Can You Ever Forgive Me 1:05.05-1:19.40
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008
*Note: In the Podcast when talking aboutThe Lady Eve Alaina gets the main character’s name wrong, She keeps saying Gina when her name is Jean. Alaina also misnames the last movie, she says it is called Can’t you ever forgive me when it is actually called Can you ever forgive me -
In this latest episode of Making Sense of Movies, Clare and Alaina discuss movies about obsession. Since this can be a broad category, we specifically focus on characters obsessed with being the best at their profession or personal project. Hear us talk about the juggernauts of this category, Whiplash, and Black Swan. We compare the journeys between the two protagonists, focusing on the abuse of power, social isolation, and descent into insanity. When we meet Nina (Black Swan) and Andrew (Whiplash) they’re both fighting upward to prove themselves to a person of seniority within their prospective fields. In the other movies, we focus on, Rope and The Skin I live In; we are introduced to characters who are already at the top of their fields and abuse their position of power. On a lighter note, we also talk about hidden gems like Jiro Dreams of Sushi, a documentary that centers on 85-year-old Jiro Ono and his goal of perfecting the art of sushi making. Join us as we rank these movies and much more!
Movies Mentioned
Jiro Dreams of Sushi: 1.30-14.53
The Skin I live in: 14.53-37.30
Rope: 37.30-54:05
Black Swan: 54:05-1.18:26
Whiplash: 1.18:26-1.47:03
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 -
In this latest episode, we focus on the oldest form of conflict: humanity vs the natural world. These stories have similar beats, like surviving on limited resources, conflict over strategy, and acclimating to harsh weather. We examine what each movie does to rise to the top within the survival genre. Some focus on realism as we see in Alive (1993) and Meek's Cutoff (2010), which are inspired by real-life events. On the flip side, Crawl (2019) shows student-athlete Haley Keller out-swim alligators (after being bitten numerous times) during a category 5 hurricane. While Haley shows herself to be an “apex predator” we also meet characters who fumble through their situations, like the titular character Stephen Meek, who refuses to acknowledge he has led his party weeks off-course. Listen to us critique the placement of black boxes on planes, and how they always get separated from the survivors. We also discuss how well we would fare if put in the same situations. Do you have what it takes to survive bear traps, cougar attacks, avalanches, rock slides, and floods? If you said “yes” to more than one, we are thrilled to have you as a listener, Bear Grylls, welcome to Making Sense of Movies with Clare and Alaina.
Movies Mentioned
Alive: 1.27-17.13
Meek’s Cutoff 17.13-30.29
Tunnel 30.29-43.20
The Mountain between us 43.20-54.46
Crawl 54.46-1:11.16
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 -
Clare and Alaina make sense of the Oscar nominations!! With less then a week away from the award show, the race is between CODA and Power of the Dog for best picture. Come listen to us speculate over what will win, and remorse over Denis Villeneuve not being nominated for best director. We also discuss ABC’s decision not to present 8 awards during this year's live broadcast. While some categories like supporting actress and visual effects have locked wins, this year is particularly difficult to predict in categories like best actress, best film editing, and screenplay. Join Making Sense of Movies, with Clare and Alaina as we truly try to make sense of why some of these movies (@ Don't Look Up) were nominated.
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 -
What time is it? Time for a follow-up episode of Disney Original Movies. In this fabulous episode, we discuss classics like Cheetah Girls, High School Musical 2, and Wendy Wu. Listen to us evaluate the central friend/family dynamics within each movie. We found that HSM2’s gave secondary characters more room to breathe in a less Troy and Gabrilla focused movie. In Wendy Wu, we were able to appreciate the cultural impact Shen had on each member of the Wu family. Finally, in Cheetah Girls, we questioned why Aqua’s character arc is being brave enough to take the subway, while the others are given closure to layered family problems. Is your taste in Disney Originals more niche? Fear not, we can work this out. If you like the more off-the-beaten-path movies, we spend time unraveling the enigma that is Minutemen. Finally, we do a deep dive into the surprisingly philosophical movie Pixel Perfect, about the band Zetta Bytes who hit it big when Loretta, a holographic AI, joins the band. When Loretta has an identity crisis, she decides she’s gotta go her own way and disappears into the internet before a big gig. Come join Clare and Alaina as we discuss these movies, and so much more!
Movies Mentioned
The Cheetah Girls: 1.28-21.06
Pixel Perfect: 21.06-39.11
Wendy Wu Homecoming Warrior: 39.11-53.05
High School Musical 2: 53.05-1:23.59
MinuteMen: 1:23.59-1:41.25
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 -
As the year comes to an end, Clare and Alaina reflect on the best movies that have been released in 2021. We also take time to assess how Covid-19 has impacted the box office this year. Despite steady covid numbers, we saw movies like Spider-Man: No Way Home and Shang-Chi top the box office. This is also a year that indicates streaming and the theater-going experience can coexist. As for the quality of movies, Clare and Alaina agree that it's been an incredible movie year. With so many good movies out, Clare and Alaina have no movies that overlap in their top 5 list. Come listen to Clare and Alaina discuss their favorite movies. Find out how many movies from our list you’ve seen. If you haven't seen any, you may find yourself discovering a new favorite! Stay safe, and Happy New Year from your pals, Clare and Alaina.
Movies Mentioned
#5
Clare’s Pick: CODA: 3.24-5.48
Alaina’s Pick: Psych 3: This is Gus: 5.48-9.53
#4
Clare’s Pick: The Novice: 9.53-12.41
Alaina’s Pick: Judas and the Black Messiah: 12.41-17.06
#3
Clare’s Pick: Spencer: 17.06-21.35
Alaina’s Pick: Pig: 21.35-27.50
#2
Clare’s Pick: The Rescue: 27.50-34.43
Alaina’s Pick: Shiva Baby: 34.43-41.41
#1
Clare’s Pick: Tick, Tick. . . Boom!: 41.41-44.48
The Power of the Dog: 44.48-51.00
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 -
One reason classic literature is taught in high school is because of their literary themes that have withstood the test of time. While it may be hard to relate to stories of war or mythical prophecies, everyone can still relate to themes of love, coming of age, and survival (especially in high school). This is why classic literature has become such a popular sub-genre within teen movies. In this episode, Clare and Alaina discuss this sub-genre and break down which movies have become classics in their own right, and which ones may have Shakespeare rolling in his grave. While some of these movies have honored their predecessor, others extremely diverge from their source material. We also ask the hard-hitting questions, like: “Does sushi belong at a high school party?”. Come listen to us discuss this, and so much more! This is Making Sense of Movies, with Clare and Alaina.
Movies Mentioned
Valley Girl- 1.01-23.06
The half of it 23.06-48.11
Easy A 48.11-1:07.41
O 1:41.35-1:39.45
Clueless 1:39.45-1:57.40
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008
Movies Mentioned
Valley Girl- 1.01-23.06
The half of it 23.06-48.11
Easy A 48.11-1:07.41
O 1:41.35-1:39.45
Clueless 1:39.45-1:57.40
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 -
Fables of human-to-wolf transformations can be found in numerous parts of the world. The first known record of these stories is the Epic of Gilgamesh, published in 2100 BC. These creatures go by a variation of names, like wolf man, lycanthrope, and the most commonly known… werewolf. In this haunted Halloween episode, Clare and Alaina discuss the classic and obscure werewolf movies that have hit the silver screen. Come hear our thoughts on which human to wolf transformation is the most agonizing to watch. We also take the time to criticize the fictional communities being attacked by werewolves due to their mediocre leadership and insufficient werewolf response. If gross murders are not for you, we also analyze the love triangle in Red Riding Hood (2011) and decide that Valerie is 100% falling for the wrong guy. Spend your Halloween with Clare and Alaina as we talk about these topics and so much more!
Disclosure: The audio is staticy at some points of this recording.
Movies Mentioned
The Wolf of Snow Hallow .33-19.13
Wolf Guy 19.13-34.26
Red Riding Hood 34.26-49.38
The Wolf Man (1941) 49.38-1.02:17
Ginger Snaps 1.02:17-1.18:49
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 -
Clare and Alaina make sense of romance movies between humans and non-humans. Love is hard to find. Sometimes, love finds you when you least expect it...like when you buy an AI virtual assistant or a sex doll that you buy online. Listen to us as we break down each romance, and which couples get our approval. In addition to breaking down the relationships, we also discuss worldbuilding within the movie Her. Instead of being invested in the relationship, we were too busy thinking about the malevolent ways the technology could be used. Especially how creepy it is that Samantha, the AI girlfriend, can search through all of Theodore's data with no repercussions. Boundaries are important people!! Additionally, if you like Beauty and the Beast, you’re in luck! In a fun mix-up, Clare watched the French 1946 version, while Alaina watched the new live-action 2017 movie (even though each one would have preferred to watch the other). Come listen to us discuss these topics and so many more. This is Making Sense of Movies with Clare and Alaina!
Movies Mentioned
Beauty and the Beast (2017) and La Belle et la Bete (1946): 1.10-14.55
Her: 14.55-31.40
Jennifer’s Body: 31.40-47.02
Lars and the Real Girl: 47.02-59.00
The Fly: 59.00-1:15.53
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 -
The Green Knight (2021) directed by David Lowery is an adaptation of the 14th-century poem Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. The visuals, costumes, sets, and performance are all exceptional. While everything is great on a technical level, Clare and Alaina agree that all the movie's loose ends make for an unsatisfying ending. The Green Knight trusted its audience to know specific details about Arthurian history in order to understand the movies major themes. Don't worry though, we’re here to give you a history lesson on everything you need to know about the virtues of a knight. Alaina also breaks down the movie's most meta-scene, where a character discusses the ability to make their own changes to the source material. Come listen to us as we discuss: Does Sir Gawain gain his honor? Why did Sir Gawain's mother summon the green knight? Does this movie need more fog???? And much more! Join Clare and Alaina on our quest to make sense of The Green Knight.
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 -
Clare and Alaina make sense of Adam Sandler’s extensive career by discussing his earliest films to his latest. Sandler is known for his iconic performance playing *insert an Adam Sandler character who we meet at a low point at the beginning of the movie* whose scolded by *insert any one of his future ex-girlfriends whose frustrated by Adam Sandler's lack of motivation in life* which inspires him to *insert a job that leads to his character growth* which helps him to lead a fulfilling life with his newfound love interest, *insert the female lead who witnesses his growth and newfound ambition*. Know which movie we’re talking about? Take your pick! There are plenty of them!!
In addition to covering Adam Sandler's earlier work, we also discuss his more recent films like Punch Drunk Love and Uncut Gems which are some of his more serious roles. We discuss how small details used in the sound and costume design help to support the larger thematic elements of the movie. We also introduce a new metric for analyzing Adam Sandler movies, which evaluates which characters have grown throughout the film, and which have not. Join us for this and so much more… This is Making Sense of Movies with Clare and Alaina!
Movies Mentioned
Happy Gilmore: 1.46-13.18
The Wedding Singer: 13.18-27.55
Big Daddy: 27.55-42.09
Punch Drunk Love: 42.09- 1.10.20
Uncut Gems: 1.10.20-1.36.19
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 -
Every studio dreams of having a successful movie franchise since they’re known for generating the most box-office revenue. Take Marvel, Star Wars, and Jurassic World for example- all some of the highest-grossing films of all time. Studios need these movies like these to fund smaller projects within their company. Today, however, we’re here to shine some light on the movies that failed to get their sequels greenlit. Clare and Alaina discuss why these chosen movies didn’t connect with audience members, and which of these movies deserve a shot at redemption. We also discuss Eddie Redmayne’s acting discussions in Jupiter Ascending. Was he directed to scream or whisper all of his lines? The world may never know. Join Clare and Alaina as we make sense of why these movies didn’t become franchises!
Movies that didn’t become Franchises
The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo- 0.35-16.18
Jupiter Ascending- 16.18-30.43
Beautiful Creatures-30.43-45.33
The Mummy- 45.33- 58.05
A Wrinkle in Time- 58.05-1.11.24
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 -
Clare and Alaina discuss the Oscar nominations for the 2021 Academy Awards. Come listen to us break down the major categories, and do a lot of complaining about Mank (seriously though, who liked this movie?!?). Besides Mank nominations, there isn’t much to complain about. The categories this year are jam-packed with talent, and artists at peak performance. Major stand-outs for us this year include Riz Ahmed's nomination in Sound of Metal, Maria Bakalova in Borat Subsequent MovieFilm, and Chloe Zhao for Nomadland. Come listen to our predictions in prep for awards night!
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 -
Friends are there through thick and thin. From the simple things in life, like needing a shoulder to cry on, to the times you need someone to passionately kiss before you drive a car over a canyon edge. In this episode, Clare and Alaina discuss each character's past and motivations, and why they’re so compatible with their counterparts. There’s a lot of characters we go over (14) so be warned, this is a long episode. We also take some time to discuss how the cinematography adds to these character-driven stories. For example, how being in black and white is used to enhance Frances Ha, and the use of lavish landscape shots in both Stand By Me and Thelma and Louise. Be sure to join Clare and Alaina as they discuss which friends they would be most compatible with and so much more!
Disclosure: In the episode, Alaina accidentally says that Teddy’s father stormed Dunkirk (when it’s really Normandy) and Clare says “The Untouchables” instead of “The Intouchables”. Hey, no one is perfect, but we’re here to call ourselves out before the haters can do it for us.
Movies Mentioned
Stand By Me 0:17-17:40
Thelma and Louise 17:40-40:10
The Intouchables 40:10-53:16
Frances Ha 53:16-1.15:08
Girls Trip 1:15:08-1:27:53
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 -
Prime Time, a Polish thriller directed by Jakub Piątek, recently premiered at Sundance 2021. The film revolves around 20-year-old Sebastian as he takes hostages at a news station in an attempt to broadcast his message live on TV. Not only did Clare and Alaina have the opportunity to (virtually) be at the world premiere, but the two also participated in a Q+A with Jakub Piątek, and Bartosz Bielenia. Here is Clare and Alaina’s full review of the film.
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 -
Psychological Thrillers evoke a sense of suspense through its focus on the unstable emotions of characters and the devolution of the human mind. These movies often have darker themes and are accompanied by sadistic characters. While these movies can be difficult to watch, we continue watching, hoping for a glimpse into the mind of cannibals and psychopaths. It is in these movies that we also watch the protagonists slowly unraveled by those they’d least expect. In this episode, Clare and Alaina discuss the early beginnings of this genre as well as some of the more recent Psychological Thrillers releases. Join us as we talk about murder investigation methods, how much we hate Gregory from Gaslight and the squids that honorably gave their lives for Old Boy to be made.
Movies Mentioned
Gaslight .15-14.36
The Silence of the Lambs 14.36-26.42
Memories of Murder 26.42-46.05
Old Boy 46.05-59.10
Run. 59.10-1:11.46
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 -
To end the year of 2020, Clare and Alaina discuss the most successful Hollywood genre: superhero movies. For the past few years, superhero movies have driven the largest audiences to theaters and generated the most box office revenue. In this latest episode, we discuss elements of a good action sequence, compelling villains, and why Batman and Robin is a top tier superhero movie...a very ice-olated opinion (as Mr.Freeze might say). We also delve into the cultural significance these movies have on our society. Also stick around for Alaina’s conspiracy theories on Spider-Man 2. Join Making Sense of Movies with Clare and Alana, for our last episode of 2020! See you in the New Year!!!
Movies Mentioned
Wonder Women .43-13.33
Black Panther 13.33-23.30
Spider Man 2 23.30-37.05
The Incredibles 37.05-47.30
Batman and Robin 47.30-1:01.15
Intro and outro music:
Kevin MacLeod. "Dark Hallway". 2008 - Vis mere
