Episodes

  • On this special "Indie Film Only" additional episode of UK Film Club, film critics Chris Olson and Brian Penn review a selection of short and feature-length independent movies.


    The movie reviews include:

    Rock, Paper, Scissors: A short film directed by Franz Böhm, Rock, Paper, Scissors is based on the true story of Ivan (Oleksandr Rudynskyi) who helped his father (Sergey Kalantay) run a makeshift hospital during the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine. After their plans to move the hospital go awry thanks to their getaway transport being bombed by a Russian aircraft, their peril increases when a group of Russian soldiers are seen scouring the hill looking for their bunker. Ivan, who has made the decision to take on the soldiers after an impromptu sniper rifle lesson from one of the patients, finds himself in over his head when the original estimate of two Russian soldiers turns out to be disastrously incorrect.Curiosity: A short film directed by Michael Cooke, Curiosity is about a young guy named Kevin (Bishop) is in his bedroom, relaxing, messing about with his phone. He comes across a video that instructs how to access the dark web. Curiosity gets the best of Kevin and he goes to his computer and follows the instructions. To his delight, he finds himself accessing that part of the Internet and proceeds to take advantage of what it offers. However, he soon finds a video where a live inhuman and grotesque auction is taking place. A Good Day Will Come: A short film directed by Amir Zargara, in A Good Day Will Come Sia Alipour plays Arash, a promising Iranian wrestler whose future career hangs in the balance when he struggles to focus on the sport whilst his country experiences civil unrest. Following the death of his sister in a protest against the government, Arash decides he cannot stay quiet, and wears a t-shirt in her memory after a match. Having chosen to join the protesters, Arash barely struggles to keep the turbulent crowds from turning violent and later becomes swept up in a conspiracy that will see him sign a confession under violent duress that he killed someone during the protest. Perennial Light: A feature-length film from Colin Hickey, Perennial Light (2024) is a wondrous experience. So unlike anything being produced in the mainstream, it’s an art film which epitomises what’s interesting about experimental filmmaking. Told without dialogue or conventional narrative, this independent Irish movie paints a seemingly autobiographical portrait of one man’s life – from his troubled youth up to adulthood. From the tragedies that befall him, to fragments we see of family life in a rural setting... you get the sense that you’re witnessing a flow of memories, recalled with both nostalgia and melancholy.Embrace Disruption: A short film from filmmaker Johanne Chagnon, Embrace Disruption is an experimental art film. The Scalpel: A short film from filmmaker Richard H Lyford, The Scalpel has been restored and scored by Ed Hartman.

    Visit our website to find more of the latest movie reviews and news about our film podcast.


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  • Join horror film critic Rachel on The Scream Test as she reviews Child's Play as part of the UK Film Review Podcast. For fans of horror movie reviews, there is no better show to subscribe to.


    Check out the other UK Film Review Podcast shows including:


    The Fantom Zone - for all things nerdy in cinema.


    Gay, Actually - for all things LGBTQ+ in film.


    UK Film Club - for reviews of all movie types + listener reviews.


    Find out more on our website about our film podcast.


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  • In this movie reviews podcast, film critics Chris Olson and Brian Penn talk about the summer films - or lack of. In this episode of UK Film Club we have movie reviews of Deadpool & Wolverine, Trap, the Netflix documentary Trap, as well as indie and short film reviews of My Best Nut, Undertow, The Xenophobes, The Highest Brasil, and City of Oz.


    The Nostalgia Pick for this month's episode of a movie review of Alien - the original Ridley Scott film from 1979 - to tie in with the new release of Alien: Romulus.


    Find out more about our Film Podcast on our website. And visit Chris Olson's official website for more on him - https://www.chrisolson.co.uk/


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  • Happy Hot Girl Queer Summer! Join Amber and Joyce as they discuss the Catherine Corsini film, Summertime. Listen as they muse over the romantic French countryside alongside the roaring streets of Paris, issues of second-wave feminism and perhaps the true meaning of a hot girl summer?


    This episode contains spoilers!


    Be part of the UK Film Review film podcast community and follow @UKFilmReview on our socials.


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  • Deadpool & Wolverine is the topic of this episode of The Fantom Zone, in their monthly episode as part of the UK Film Review Podcast. Directed by Shawn Levy and starring Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool and Hugh Jackman back as Wolverine, this is one of the most anticipated superhero films of the year. 


    For more movie reviews, film podcast goodness, be sure to subscribe to the UK Film Review Podcast as well as The Fantom Zone - who have their own separate channels as well.



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  • Film critic Rachel is back with more movie reviews for The Scream Test show, part of the UK Film Review Podcast. She's following up with her awkward relationship with the Twilight films in this Part 2 episode. Be sure to check it out and share it.


    Search UK Film Review Podcast for more movie reviews and film podcast goodness.


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  • On this movie reviews podcast, film critics Chris Olson and Brian Penn provide a wealth of film reviews for the latest releases, as well as short and indie films, Netflix movies and more. Plus a section of listener movie reviews at the end!


    In Episode 17 of UK Film Club, we have movie reviews of:

    Fly Me to the MoonTwistersA Quiet Place: Day OneConey Island CousinsOvershadowPainBeverley Hills Cop (1984) Beverley Hills Cop: Axel F (2024)

    Head to our website for more film reviews.


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  • Join Amber and Joyce on Gay Actually this month as they discuss the lesser-known gritty English film, Between Two Women! They speak about the journey of both characters, Ellen and Kathy, and the film's perception of class, gender and sexuality in 1950s Northern Britain. It's more fun and less academic than it sounds! Join the fun!


    Keep up-to-date with all our film reviews and film podcast news by visiting the official UK Film Review website!


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  • Join The Fantom Zone gang this week for our review of A Quiet Place: Day One. In this fun filled chaotic episode Ian and Symone discuss the highs and many lows of this prequel, the vibes between Joseph Quinn and Lupita Nyong'o and work out if a cat truly can breathe underwater.


    The Fantom Zone is part of the UK Film Review Podcast - our popular film podcast.


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  • On this episode of The Scream Test, host Rachel and her guest review the first three Twilight films. Fans of Bella Swan and Edward Cullen will be in their element, unless Rachel doesn't like the movies! Find out by listening to this film podcast episode.

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  • On this popular film reviews podcast, film critics Chris Olson and Brian Penn provide top cinematic banter despite the hot weather, illnesses and the footy being on. We have cinematic film reviews of Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, Bad Boys: Ride or Die, The Bikeriders, Hitman, Freydis and Gudrid, Homeboud, On the Ridge, Someone Dies! and Second Thought. As well as a Nostalgia Pick of X-Men (2000) to celebrate the upcoming release of Deadpool & Wolverine.


    Spoiler warnings and explicit words - in particular a cheeky clip during the Someone Dies review - you have been warned.


    We also have some listener reviews that we read out, and some other indie film promos!


    Remember to subscribe to our film podcast on all major podcast platforms and share with your loved ones.


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  • Join The Fantom Zone gang this week as they finally get Ian to watch Amazon Prime's The Boys. Tobi and Ian discuss all things The Boys, some comics and also a little politics too.


    Check out more from our Film Podcast by searching for UK Film Review Podcast on your favourite platform.


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  • Happy Pride Month! Join Amber and Joyce on this epic gay adventure as they discuss the pioneering lesbian film, Desert Hearts. From cowboys, to summer romances, to self-identity, they cover it all as they chart protagonist Vivian's journey towards self-acceptance and her love interest Cay's thirst for freedom. Have you seen the film? Let us know what you think!


    Content warning: Spoilers


    Gay, Actually is a film podcast part of the UK Film Review Podcast.


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  • Horror film critic Rachel is not running solo on this episode of the film podcast The Scream Test, she is joined by Steve (a new guest!) as well as her podcast gang. Beloved Val is in her dog igloo, for fans of canines in their movie review shows! The topic of this show is the Poltergeist movies, so fans of 80's Slasher films will be in their element.

    The Poltergeist: A Haunting Look at Family, Fear, and Freaky Effects - A Scream Test Episode

    Ready to delve into the world of suburban scares and spectral shenanigans? Join us on this episode of The Scream Test as we delve into the iconic Poltergeist film series!


    From director Tobe Hooper and producer Steven Spielberg comes a chilling tale that's not just about bumps in the night – it's about the terrifying hold the supernatural can have on a seemingly ordinary family. We'll be revisiting the Freeling family's ordeal as their California home becomes a hotbed of paranormal activity, with TVs spewing static, disembodied voices echoing through the halls, and a swimming pool transformed into a perilous gateway to the afterlife.


    We'll be dissecting what makes the Poltergeist movies such enduring classics:

    The relatable characters: The Freelings aren't your typical horror movie family. They're loving, flawed, and utterly believable. We'll explore how their struggles to keep their home and family safe resonate with audiences.The groundbreaking special effects: From the iconic scene of the Freeling's kitchen being ravaged by a rogue poltergeist to the unforgettable image of little Carol Anne disappearing into the static-filled television, the special effects in Poltergeist were revolutionary for their time. We'll discuss how they continue to impress even today.The underlying themes: Poltergeist is more than just a ghost story. It's a cautionary tale about the dangers of progress and the unseen costs of suburban convenience. We'll be diving into the film's social commentary and how it reflects the anxieties of the era.

    Whether you're a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, this episode of The Scream Test promises a chilling good time. Join us as we turn up the volume on the iconic theme song, crank up the scares, and ask the age-old question: They're here.... Are you scared?

    So, grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and get ready for a hauntingly good listen!


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  • Join film critic Chris Olson as he is joined by film critic Jack Salvadori who has just returned from the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. His 6th time attending the festival, Jack provides a smorgasbord of incredible film reviews on this film podcast episode.


    Jack watched 54 films in Cannes so pretty much almost anything that screened, and him and Chris chat about the highlights and winners, such as Anora, Emilia Perez, Grand Tour, the disappointments such as Megalopolis, The Shrouds, Furiosa, and Horizon, and the hidden gems in the parallel sections, like Misericordia, Good One, or the Godard documentary.


    Find out which film made Jack's potential "Film of the Year" list.



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  • On this top film reviews podcast, film critics Brian Penn and Chris Olson provide insights into the latest movie releases, streaming films, and independent cinema for the UK Film Review Podcast community. UK Film Club covers all manner of movies and in this May episode, listeners can enjoy film reviews of the following new movies:

    Challengers film review: a tennis film starring Zendaya, Mike Faist, and Josh O'Connor. Zendaya stars as Tashi, a skilled tennis player with a hold on two other tennis players – portrayed by Mike Faist and Josh O’Connor. The piece consists of an unconventional narrative, jumping back and forth, held together by a single climactic match which you can quickly infer holds all the stakes. You may expect this to be a picture about competing for a person’s affection, yet it proves to be something much more complex and fun than simply that. It is soap-opera-esque with many twists and turns; betrayal around every romantically or sexually charged corner. It’s a great time.The Fall Guy film review: a comedy action film starring Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt. From the first notes of the Kiss classic playing behind a montage of stunt moments across cinema’s recent history, The Fall Guy defines itself as a love story. This movie loves stunt performers. But what did film critic Brian make in his film review for UK Film Club? Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes film review: a new installment in the popular franchise, this film has been getting rave reviews, including 4-stars on the UK Film Review website from film critic George Wolf. But listen in to hear whether Brian makes this his Film of the Month! Unfrosted: a new Netflix comedy from Jerry Seinfeld. Telling a wacky tale about the development of the Pop Tart from Kelloggs, the film has a smorgasbord of comedic cameos, but is it any good? Find out why film critic Chris Olson called it "Soggy". Paddling: An indie feature film directed by James Popplewell, our film critics really enjoyed this moving drama starring Aaran Parry as a man struggling with his relationship. Learn more and even hear a clip from the film in this film podcast episode. Tomorrow Never Comes: another indie film review, this time for an end-of-the-world drama with a low budget but a lot of heart. Hear a clip in the episode and find out more about this movie! Bad Boys: this month's Nostalgia Pick to tie in with the upcoming release of Bad Boys: Ride or Die (which we will hopefully review in next mont's film podcast episode of UK Film Club).

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  • Welcome back to Gay Actually! Join Amber and Joyce as they discuss Saving Face, as the iconic 2004 film is about to reach its 20th birthday. They speak about Alice Wu's authentic and breathtaking vision for her characters, Wil and Vivien, how the film stays true to itself, and the East Asian principle of 'saving face' through a queer lens.


    Have you seen this film? Let us know at @gayactuallypodcast on Instagram.


    This episode contains spoilers!


    Find out more about our film podcast.


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  • Join Chris, Ian and Tobi as part of The Fantom Zone's 50th episode celebrations


    This week in the first of two parts of our deep dive into all things Watchmen, we discuss the merits of Zack Snyder's 2009 adaptation.


    Make sure to also tune in next week for part 2 where the gang discuss the 1976 Alan Moore comic itself.


    Enjoy

    Instagram - @thefantomzonepodcast

    Email - [email protected]


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  • Join Rachel for a solo show of The Scream Test - one of the best horror film podcasts around. Having noticed Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2 has arrived on Prime Video, Rachel takes this chance to share her love and passion for the film - one that even she notes is "universally hated".


    Rachel doesn't have a film podcast guest on this episode, so why not be her company and listen to it? Perhaps several times so she really feels your love for her.


    ASMR fans will enjoy Rachel stopping to glug her drink several times during the film podcast episode. Enjoy.


    The plot of the film is: A group of tourists arrives in Burkittsville, Maryland after seeing The Blair Witch Project (1999) to explore the mythology and phenomenon, only to come face to face with their own neuroses and possibly the witch herself.


    Rachel apparently declares her love for this film, even at people at bus stops - so now she gets to do that in this film podcast episode globally.


    The Scream Test is part of the UK Film Review Podcast. Remember to check out our other shows, follow us on socials, and be part of our film-loving community!


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  • Warning: Spoilers and Explicit Language.


    On this film podcast episode, film critics Chris Olson and Brian Penn go over the best new movie releases for April 2024. Including cinema film reviews of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, Back to Black (the new Amy Winehouse film), and The Book of Clarence.


    For the Streaming Pick this month, a true crime documentary on Netflix called What Jessica Did gets reviewed.


    In the indie section, we have film reviews of:

    Rosetta Stoned: A high-school stoner comedy with a lot of heart. Mambo Man: A Cuban drama with plenty of flavour. Swords of Justice II: A fan film with plenty of sword fighting - as you might imagine from the title. Straight Through Crew: A fantastic piece of rural hedonism - check out how our film critics attempt to pronounce hedonism.

    For the Nostalgia Pick, our film critics go back to 1979 and review the Mel Gibson-led original Mad Max movie - as a tie in with the upcoming release of Furiosa.


    We hope you enjoy this film podcast episode. Do let us know what you think on our Instagram page - https://www.instagram.com/ukfilmreview/


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