Cinema: A to B

The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)

A spoiler free conversation on the Nintendo & Illumination Entertainment animated feature film phenomenon, The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Ben discusses how the movie successfully operates on two levels for both kids and adults. Alec shares how Jack Black (Bowser) connects with audiences. The guys discuss the controversy surrounding Chris Pratt as Mario. Ben explains why the visuals are Illumination's best in animation to date. The conversation shifts to a discussion on voiceover work in animated films and why stuffing in as many celebrities into roles might not be the best approach. Cinema: A to B rounds out the discussion hopeful that this opens the door to more Nintendo properties getting the feature film treatment.
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Cinema: A to B - Trailer

These are fun, off the cuff discussions on movies (new and old) & streaming series. Our goal? Bridge the gap that exists between Hollywood industry insiders and the casual viewer. We're Alec & Ben and this is Cinema: A to B.
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The Mandalorian - Season 3 (2023)

Spoilers ahead on a lengthy conversation on the third season of The Mandalorian on Disney+. Ben gives his honest assessment of the current state of the show. Alec has a well-reasoned suggestion for fixing a major plot issue. Ben reveals his theory surrounding Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy & showrunner/head writer Jon Favreau. The guys further discuss the current state and future of Star Wars streaming series and feature films.
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The Fabelmans (2022)

A spoiler-light conversation on Steven Spielberg's semi-autobiographical film, The Fabelmans. The guys question some of the awards hype surrounding the 2022 movie. Alec discusses how he views Steven Spielberg. Ben singles out notable acting performances and explains Spielberg's defining technique. The Cinema: A to B duo round out the discussion with an appreciation for what Spielberg offers the world of cinema and an encouragement for those who haven't seen the film.
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House of the Dragon - Season 1 (2022)

A spoiler-light discussion of the first season of the 2022 HBO Game of Thrones follow-up, House of the Dragon. Ben explains his initial frustrations with some casting decisions on the show. Alec gives his top 3 acting performances of Season 1. The guys address the Rings of Power comparisons regarding visuals, pacing, and performances. The conversation shifts to author George R.R. Martin and the future of the Game of Thrones world on HBO.
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The Batman (2022)

Cinema: A to B Season 1 Finale: a spoiler light conversation on the 2022 Matt Reeves film The Batman. Alec discusses the movie's new take on the caped crusader. Ben appreciates the shift in tone and new portrayal of Gotham City. The guys give brief performance breakdowns on all the major cast members including Robert Pattinson (Bruce Wayne, Batman), Zoe Kravitz (Selina Kyle), Jeffrey Wright (James Gordon), Colin Farrell (Penguin), and Paul Dano (Riddler). The discussion shifts to the current struggles of Warner Bros. and hopes for The Batman 2.
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The Hunt for Red October (1990) revisited

Cinema: A to B takes a look back at the Tom Clancy spy thriller from 1990, The Hunt for Red October. Is this the best in the submarine film genre? Alec and Ben make their case. Alec explains why the visual effects largely hold up even after over 30 years. Ben discusses the directing prowess of John McTiernan. Cinema: A to B dives deep into the performances of the cast including the late Sean Connery, Alec Baldwin, Scott Glenn, and Sam Neill. The guys also explain why this movie's writing and dialogue is a lot funnier than you might remember.
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Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986) revisited

Travel back to 1986 as Cinema: A to B revisits the John Hughes comedy, Ferris Bueller's Day Off. Alec drops a fun Ben Stein anecdote and discusses the challenges of comedic acting. Ben explains why the film's title is a bit misleading. The guys converse on the careers of stars Matthew Broderick (Ferris) and Alan Ruck (Cameron). Alec and Ben reminisce on the snapshot in time portrayed by this 1980s classic.
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Bullet Train (2022)

A spoiler filled episode on the 2022 Brad Pitt action-comedy Bullet Train. Or is it a comedy-action film? Alec draws comparisons to Guy Ritchie films. Ben has mostly high praise for the cast but a lone casting gripe. Alec discusses some side-story missteps. Cinema: A to B rounds out the episode on a brief discussion on the future of actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Tangerine).
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The Shawshank Redemption (1994) revisited

Alec and Ben revisit Frank Darabont's 1994 masterpiece The Shawshank Redemption. But was it always so heralded? Alec explains its unconventional route from largely unnoticed Stephen King adaptation to becoming a cinematic classic. Ben reveals the special place the film has for him as well as its cinematographer Roger Deakins. The guys discuss the career of Tim Robbins and the casting decision of Morgan Freeman to play Red. Cinema: A to B reflects on the film's powerful message.
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