Join Laura and Stephen as they continue their Summer of Love series with a deep dive into the 2015 period romance film “Carol.” Directed by Todd Haynes and starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, this episode explores the emotionally rich and visually stunning story of a transformative romance in the conservative era of 1950s America. Through their analysis, they discuss the sociopolitical context of the time, character dynamics, and the artistry of Todd Haynes, while celebrating the film's impact and beauty.00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast00:07 Overview of 'Carol'00:42 Hosts' Banter and Personal Updates01:48 Historical Context of 'Carol'06:11 Character Analysis: Carol and Therese12:29 Todd Haynes' Filmmaking Style14:59 Natural Progression of Romance15:47 Carol's Contentious Divorce17:22 Therese's Role and Perspective18:23 Generational Differences20:09 Therese's Artistic Growth21:04 Hardge's Opposition26:48 The Road Trip27:08 Cinematography and Symbolism28:48 Final Thoughts on Carol30:08 Conclusion and Next Episode PreviewAnd look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Released this month alongside the FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025). Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
Hosts Laura and Stephen conclude their discussion on Harper Bazaar's list of the 25 best Halloween films in their podcast, Midday Movies. They cover influential horror titles from the last 50 years, focusing on films released post-2016. The discussion includes detailed critiques of 'Midsommar,' 'It,' 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show,' and 'Jennifer's Body,' among others. They delve into film themes, notable performances, and how these movies can inspire Halloween costumes. They finalize their top three picks: 'Get Out,' 'Psycho,' and 'Scream.' The hosts encourage listener engagement and take audience suggestions for films to review in-depth.00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast00:36 Halloween Season Excitement01:33 Recap of Harper Bazaar's Top 25 Halloween Movies02:09 Midsommar: Horror in Broad Daylight04:48 IT: The New Age of Stephen King Horror06:06 Rocky Horror Picture Show: Cult Classic08:22 Jennifer's Body: High School Horror10:21 Train to Busan: Zombies on a Train11:04 The Shining: Kubrick's Masterpiece12:44 The Craft: Teenage Witchcraft16:48 Exploring an Iranian Vampire Movie17:35 The Charm of The Addams Family (1991)20:42 Jordan Peele's Masterpiece: Get Out (2017)22:19 Alfred Hitchcock's Classic: Psycho (1960)23:50 The Ultimate Halloween Movie: Scream (1996)27:09 Reflecting on the List and Halloween Costumes29:31 Wrapping Up: Final Thoughts and FarewellFollow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
In this episode of Midday Movies, Laura and Stephen dive into the Halloween spirit with an engaging discussion on fall ambiance and costume ideas. They explore a curated list from Harper's Bazaar of the top 25 Halloween movies, providing detailed insights and personal anecdotes about each film's significance and impact. Covering classics like 'Hocus Pocus,' 'Nosferatu,' and 'Silence of the Lambs,' the pair shares their excitement for the spooky season and hints at their own Halloween plans. The episode ends with a tease for the next part, where they will continue with the top 12 Halloween movie recommendations.00:00 Spooky Greetings and Fall Vibes01:07 Halloween Costume Ideas01:58 Top Halloween Movies: Hocus Pocus04:46 Top Halloween Movies: Nosferatu06:14 Top Halloween Movies: Shaun of the Dead07:29 Top Halloween Movies: Beetlejuice09:36 Top Halloween Movies: The Witches of Eastwick10:46 Top Halloween Movies: Candyman11:41 Top Halloween Movies: Silence of the Lambs13:20 Top Halloween Movies: Corpse Bride13:55 Tim Burton's Halloween Mastery14:37 Carrie: The Nightmare of High School15:41 Practical Magic: A Generational Favorite17:36 Nicole Kidman: Ubiquitous Star19:01 Oni Baba: A Japanese Classic20:16 Death Becomes Her: A Campy Classic22:36 Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter23:37 Wrapping Up and What's NextFollow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
In this episode, Laura introduces the Cinemax series “The Knick” (now streaming on HBO & Hulu), which stars Clive Owen and is set in a 1910s San Francisco public hospital named The Knickerbocker. The show is praised for its historical accuracy, having been based off a real-life pioneering surgeon with a substance use disorder, and covers themes like pioneering surgical procedures, drug addiction treatment, and societal issues of the time, including the bubonic plague in Chinatown. The discussion also touches on emotional attachment to objects and the evolution of mental health treatments. Listeners are encouraged to check out “The Knick” for its thrilling and sometimes challenging content.00:00 Introduction to Midday Mini00:06 Overview of 'The Knick'00:15 Historical Accuracy and Setting00:28 Character and Plot Highlights01:43 Comparisons to Other Shows01:56 HBO's Prestige Television02:16 Technological and Social Changes03:08 Emotional Attachment to Objects04:16 Mental Health and Asylums06:22 Conclusion and Recommendations07:32 Closing Remarks and Call to ActionFollow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
Laura and Stephen continue their podcast 'Midday Movies' by discussing Collider's list of the 28 Best Back-to-School Films, focusing on the top 14. They highlight timeless John Hughes classics, influential comedies, and heartwarming stories of academic excellence. Films like 'School of Rock,' 'Rushmore,' 'Grease,' 'Footloose,' 'Fast Times at Ridgemont High,' '10 Things I Hate About You,' 'Akeelah and the Bee,' 'Election,' 'Legally Blonde,' 'Dead Poets Society,' 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone,' 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off,' 'The Breakfast Club,' and the top pick 'Mean Girls' are discussed in depth. Each movie is praised for its unique storytelling, cultural impact, and unforgettable characters. The episode invites listeners to vote on which film they should cover next in a detailed review.00:00 Welcome to Midday Movies01:22 Kicking Off with School of Rock03:02 Rushmore: Wes Anderson's Classic04:37 Grease: A Timeless Musical06:17 Footloose: Dancing Through Restrictions08:53 Fast Times at Ridgemont High10:16 10 Things I Hate About You12:02 Akeelah and the Bee: Spelling Triumph13:27 Reese Witherspoon's Dark Satire: Election14:26 Legally Blonde: Overcoming Expectations15:55 Dead Poets Society: The Gold Standard17:13 Harry Potter: The Sorcerer's Stone19:31 Ferris Bueller's Day Off: A Whimsical Rebellion21:41 The Breakfast Club: Detention Bonding23:22 Mean Girls: High School Hierarchy26:20 Conclusion and FarewellFollow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
In this episode of 'Midday Movies,' Laura and Stephen conclude their Summer of Love series with a discussion on “The Worst Person in the World,” Norway's 2021 entry into the Oscar Best International Film Race. Set in Oslo, the film follows protagonist Julie as she navigates career changes, relationships, and self-discovery. Julie's journey highlights the challenges faced by modern generations, such as economic pressures and the freedom to redefine life paths. The hosts delve into the film's narrative structure, key themes, and character dynamics, ultimately exploring what it means to live a fulfilling and adaptable life. They also discuss the film's emotional realism and its metaphorical implications on life and relationships.00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast00:07 Overview of “The Worst Person in the World”00:16 Meet Julie: A Relatable Protagonist00:59 Julie’s Career and Relationship Struggles03:22 Julie and Aksel: A Complex Relationship04:56 Generational Tensions and Life Choices05:37 Julie’s Indecision and Potential11:01 Millennial Perspectives on Life and Career14:35 Emotional Realism and Fantastical Elements16:03 Julie's Decision to Leave Aksel16:45 The Time Freezing Scene and Mushroom Trip16:58 Julie's Relationship with Her Dad17:30 Aksel’s Analytical Nature vs. Julie's Emotions18:59 Aksel’s Monologue on Aging and Culture20:58 Julie's Adaptability and Life Choices23:25 The Goldilocks Scenario in Relationships24:39 Life Paths and Societal Expectations27:13 Concluding Thoughts on the Film28:28 Wrapping Up the Summer of Love SeriesFollow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
In this Midday Mini episode, hosts Laura and Stephen engage in a whimsical discussion about assigning astrological signs to the main characters from Pixar's 2008 film, WALL-E. They explore the traits of characters like WALL-E, Eve, Mo, and others, correlating their characteristics with Aquarius, Capricorn, Virgo, and more. The hosts analyze the signs using their extensive astrology knowledge and humor, providing listeners with an entertaining look at the zodiac traits of their favorite robots and humans from the movie.00:00 Introduction to Midday Mini and Wally's Astrological Signs00:36 Wally: The Aquarius Innovator03:10 Eve: The Capricorn Workaholic04:31 Mo: The Fastidious Virgo05:26 Otto: The Manipulative Scorpio06:27 The Captain: Sagittarius or Leo?07:33 John and Mary: Pisces and Cancer09:55 Rampaging Robots10:03 The Beauty Robot: A Libra's Charm11:04 The Punchy Robot: Aries in Action12:16 The Umbrella Robot: Taurus Traits13:13 The Loyal Cockroach: Another Taurus14:25 The Chatty President: Gemini Vibes16:12 WALL-E's Star Signs: A Fun Analysis17:54 Wrapping Up: Final Thoughts and FarewellAnd look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Released this month alongside the FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025). Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
Laura and Stephen continue their "Summer of Love" series with a deep dive into Pixar’s 2008 masterpiece, WALL·E. They explore the film’s themes of love, corporatocracy, climate collapse, and the power of being yourself—even if you’re a robot. The hosts discuss the film’s visual storytelling, its critique of convenience culture, and why WALL·E stands out as one of the greatest robot romance films of the 21st century.Key Topics:Why WALL·E is the best Pixar film (and why "Up" fans might disagree)The film’s silent cinema influences and visual storytelling brillianceThe dystopian world of Buy-N-Large: corporatocracy and climate apocalypseThe Axiom as a utopia of convenience—and its hidden costsHow WALL·E introduces “friction” and changes everyone he meetsThe love story between WALL·E and Eve: wordless, pure, and movingReflections on humanity, convenience, and what makes us humanFun facts: Ben Burtt’s sound design, silent era influences, and Sigourney Weaver’s cameoTakeaways:Sometimes, inconvenience is what makes us human.Even in a world run by corporations, hope and love can change everything.WALL·E is a story of resilience, hope, and the beauty of finding joy in unlikely places.Timestamps & Topics:00:00 – Introduction: Meet Laura & Stephen, and the Summer of Love series00:19 – Why WALL·E? Pixar’s best film and its silent cinema inspiration01:28 – WALL·E’s story: Love, corporatocracy, and climate collapse02:34 – The world of WALL·E: Toxic Earth, the Axiom, and by-and-large07:12 – Visual storytelling: Show, don’t tell; the power of wordless scenes10:55 – WALL·E as a Disney prince, his character, and his “parents”13:44 – The rise of by-and-large: Monopoly, corporatocracy, and dystopia17:19 – The Axiom: Utopia of convenience, medical advances, and the cost of comfort21:59 – Humanity, convenience, and what makes us human27:05 – WALL·E introduces “friction” and changes everyone he meets31:45 – The love story: WALL·E & Eve, robot ballet, and wordless romance36:24 – The film’s ending: Art history in the credits, true love’s spark, and hope41:21 – Fun facts: Ben Burtt’s sound design, silent era influences, Sigourney Weaver cameo44:00 – WALL·E’s legacy: Hope, resilience, and the beauty in inconvenience47:00 – Wrap-up: Next episode teaser (“Carol”), community shout-outs, and closingAnd look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Released this month alongside the FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025). Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
Laura and Stephen discuss FX's new series, “Alien: Earth,” a prequel set two years before the original 1979 Alien film. Streaming on Hulu, the series depicts a dystopian world of 2120 controlled by five corporations, including Weyland-Yutani, and a new player called Prodigy. Prodigy, led by the young trillionaire Boy Cavalier, focuses on turning terminally ill children into synthetics. The show explores themes of corporate dystopia, immortality, and synthetic consciousness. When a Weyland-Yutani ship carrying deadly aliens crash-lands on Earth, Prodigy seizes it, setting off a battle involving xenomorphs and other terrifying alien species. Tune in to watch the fascinating developments and enjoy classic alien horror reimagined with new twists (new episodes air every Tuesday).00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:08 Overview of Alien Earth01:04 Corporate Dystopia and Immortality02:28 Boy Cavalier and the Synthetic Children04:43 The Inciting Incident06:23 New Alien Threats08:38 Conclusion and Where to WatchAnd look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Released this month alongside the FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025). Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
In this episode of Midday Movies, Laura and Stephen delve into Paul Thomas Anderson's 2017 film “Phantom Thread,” starring Daniel Day-Lewis and Vicky Krieps. As part of their 'Summer of Love' series, they explore the complex relationship between a fastidious 1950s fashion designer and an iron-willed waitress. The discussion extends to themes of power dynamics, method acting, and the transformative nature of love. Highlights include insights on the film’s sound design, costume excellence, and the often dark yet redemptive portrayal of romantic entanglements.00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast00:07 Discussing Phantom Thread01:00 Daniel Day Lewis' Acting Career02:26 Plot Overview of Phantom Thread03:42 Character Dynamics and Relationships05:57 Themes of Control and Surrender07:34 Personal Reflections on Love and Relationships09:03 Power Struggles in Relationships13:58 Toxic Relationships and Love15:13 Reynolds' Tyrannical Nature16:42 Reynolds' Sensitivity and Sound Design17:50 Christopher Nolan's Take on Phantom Thread19:07 The Artistic Genius and Alma's Strength19:33 The Costuming and Aesthetic Beauty20:52 Reynolds and Alma's Relationship Dynamics23:30 The Complexity of Love28:01 Final Thoughts and RecommendationsAnd look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Released this month alongside the FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025). Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
In this episode, Laura and Stephen delve into “Materialists” (2025), a film written and directed by Celine Song, centered around a New York matchmaker named Lucy, played by Dakota Johnson, who finds herself in a love triangle with two men, John (Chris Evans) and Harry (Pedro Pascal). Through this exploration, the hosts discuss the film's deep themes about love in the 2020s, questioning societal pressures, and the impact of capitalism on romantic relationships. They highlight key scenes, character dynamics, and the thought-provoking societal critiques embedded in the narrative. The episode concludes with reflections on personal values, the pitfalls of focusing on quantitative metrics in relationships, and the importance of aligning with one's true desires and needs in love.00:00 Introduction and Setup00:17 Overview of 'Past Lives' and 'Materialists'00:45 Plot and Characters of 'Materialists'01:40 Themes and Messages03:15 Personal Reflections on Romance and Capitalism05:33 Key Metrics for Successful Relationships07:34 Final Thoughts and Recommendations13:30 Conclusion and Sign-OffAnd look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Released this month alongside the FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025). Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
In this Midday Mini, hosts Stephen and Laura discuss their (and the internet’s) latest obsession, “K-Pop Demon Hunters,” the top-ranking 2025 Netflix animated movie. They highlight its unique blend of K-pop, musicals, Korean folklore, and anime elements, praising its captivating songs and relatable characters. Directed by Maggie Kang, the movie integrates beautifully crafted songs into its compelling storyline. The hosts compare the film's quality to classic Disney movies and anticipate more content due to its immense popularity.00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic00:05 Overview of K-Pop Demon Hunters00:33 Why K-Pop Demon Hunters is a Must-Watch00:59 Characters and Plot Highlights01:22 Cultural and Musical Elements04:00 Character Dynamics and Humor06:55 Emotional Impact and Final Thoughts10:01 Conclusion and FarewellAnd look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Released this month alongside the FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025). Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective or Facehuggers and Friends @facehuggersandfriendspod for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen discuss the top 12 best Netflix original series according to Entertainment Weekly. The podcast covers a diverse range of shows, from cultural phenomena like 'Stranger Things' and 'Bridgerton' to critical hits such as 'The Haunting of Hill House' and 'When They See Us.' They provide insights, fun facts, and personal commentary on each series, aiming to help listeners decide their next Netflix binge.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview01:07 Starting the Countdown: Number 12 to 1104:51 Diving into 'Wednesday'06:57 Exploring 'Bridgerton'10:05 The Phenomenon of 'Stranger Things'11:49 The Impact of 'Squid Game'12:47 Mr. Beast Reality Show and Legal Issues13:19 Squid Game and Its Impact13:38 When They See Us: A Deep Dive14:50 I Think You Should Leave: Comedy Gold15:54 Adolescence: A Tense Miniseries18:25 Baby Reindeer: A Dark Tale19:53 Beef: A Unique Comedy21:18 The Haunting of Hill House: A Masterpiece26:18 Wrapping Up: Final Thoughts and FarewellAnd look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025). Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
In this episode of 'Midday Movies,' hosts Laura and Stephen review and discuss Entertainment Weekly's list of the 25 best Netflix original series. They start with number 25, 'The Upshaws,' and go through to number 13, 'Midnight Mass,' providing descriptions and personal insights on each show. The hosts aim to help listeners narrow down their Netflix choices among the vast array of original content available. The list includes a mix of comedy, drama, and thriller series, featuring creators like Wanda Sykes and Mike Flanagan.00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast00:07 Entertainment Weekly's Top 25 Netflix Originals02:49 Discussing the List: The Upshaw's and Kingdom04:35 Arcane: League of Legends and Hilda07:03 Chef's Table and Never Have I Ever08:07 Dead to Me and Lupin09:44 Mindhunter and The Crown12:15 American Vandal and Russian Doll14:25 Midnight Mass and Mike Flanagan's Brilliance16:45 Conclusion and Next Episode TeaserAnd look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025). Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
💕 WELCOME TO THE SUMMER OF LOVE — REVIEWING THE BEST ROMANCES OF THE 21ST CENTURY💕 In this episode of “Midday Movies,” Laura and Stephen discuss the Oscar-nominated film “Past Lives,” written and directed by Celine Song. This episode delves into the intricacies of a love story spanning 24 years, focusing on themes of fate (“in-yeon”) , destiny, cultural identity, and the realism of human relationships. Inspired by Song's semi-autobiographical elements, the film examines the connection between Nora (Greta Lee), a twice-immigrated Korean national, and her childhood sweetheart, Hae Sung (Teo Yoo) who remained in South Korea. The hosts analyze the narrative structure, character development, and provide personal reflections on fate and love, producing an in-depth review of this instant classic. Join them as they explore why “Past Lives” is celebrated as one of the best films of the 21st century (according to the New York Times).00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast00:07 Overview of 'Past Lives'00:50 Discussion on Fate and Destiny02:23 Celine Song's Autobiographical Influence03:50 Plot Breakdown: Act One04:32 Plot Breakdown: Act Two05:43 Plot Breakdown: Act Three11:54 Themes of Culture and Identity24:47 Cinematography and Symbolism30:53 Final Thoughts and Recommendations31:23 Closing Remarks and Future EpisodesAnd look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025). Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
💕 WELCOME TO THE SUMMER OF LOVE — REVIEWING THE BEST ROMANCES OF THE 21ST CENTURY💕 In this episode of 'Midday Movies,' Laura and Stephen take a lunch break to discuss Cameron Crowe's semi-autobiographical masterpiece “Almost Famous” (2000). They delve into the film's journey of a teenage rock journalist following an up-and-coming band, band politics, and unrequited love. They share researched behind-the-scenes insights, including Crowe's own experiences and the relationships he fostered with rock legends. The hosts highlight the movie's nostalgic love for the 70s music scene and explore the rich character dynamics and personal stories that make the film a cult classic. Available on Paramount Plus, “Almost Famous” offers a deeply personal and heartfelt experience captured by Crowe's unique lens.00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast00:07 Overview of Almost Famous00:47 Personal Reflections and Summer Vibes01:46 Cameron Crowe's Early Career and Inspirations02:56 Plot Summary and Key Characters08:40 The Love Triangle and Band Dynamics17:42 The Road Movie Experience19:54 Character Actors and Iconic Scenes27:27 Final Thoughts and Recommendations28:19 Themes of Reality and Unreality32:06 Closing Remarks and Sign-OffAnd look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025). Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
💕 WELCOME TO THE SUMMER OF LOVE — REVIEWING THE BEST ROMANCES OF THE 21ST CENTURY💕 In this episode of Midday Movies, Laura and Stephen are discussing the 2017 instant romance classic, “Call Me By Your Name.” Starring Timothee Chalamet in his breakout role and with a script adapted by James Ivory (and for which he won the Oscar), this film follows a 6-week summer romance in Italy between 17 year old Elio and a 24 year old doctoral student staying with Elio’s family. Sensual and scored with longing by Sufjan Stevens, this film reveals a timeless emotional message through the medium of doomed age-gap love in an Italy on the precipice of a new era. Let’s get into it!And look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025). Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
💕 WELCOME TO THE SUMMER OF LOVE — REVIEWING THE BEST ROMANCES OF THE 21ST CENTURY💕 In this episode of Midday Movies, Laura and Stephen discuss the 2004 Charlie Kaufman masterpiece, “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.” Starring Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet (in an Oscar-nominated role) as lovers so toxic that both have decided to surgically remove the memory of their relationship, this film was voted the 7th best movie of the 21st century by the New York Times. Visually evocative and brilliantly structured, the cliché of love overcoming all obstacles is freshly articulated through a stellar main and supporting cast (Kirsten Dunst, Mark Ruffalo, Elijah Wood, et al.), nonlinear story progression, and an unforgettable soundtrack. Let’s get into it!And look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025). Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
In this episode of Midday Movies, Laura and Stephen delve into the incisive themes of Bong Joon-ho's "Parasite," a film that masterfully explores the complexities of social mobility and meritocracy. As they dissect the symbolic elements and narrative structure, they reflect on how the film mirrors societal hierarchies and the elusive nature of the American Dream (or, South Korean Dream). Join them as they unravel the layers of this cinematic masterpiece, discussing its impact on both personal and cultural levels. #SocialMobility #Meritocracy #ParasiteFilmAnd look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025). Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!
In this episode of 'Midday Movies,' hosts Laura and Stephen count down the top 50 movies of the 21st century, continuing from their previous podcast episode that covered numbers 100 to 51. The list, compiled by the New York Times, reflects votes from 500 industry luminaries. Highlights include Pixar’s 'Up' at number 50, Alfonso Cuarón’s 'Roma' at 46, Quentin Tarantino's 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' at 44, and Christopher Nolan’s 'The Dark Knight' at 28. The top 10 features modern classics like 'The Social Network,' 'Spirited Away,' 'Get Out,' and the number one spot goes to Bong Joon-ho’s 'Parasite.' Join the conversation as the duo delve into each film, discussing their significance and the directors who made a mark with their influential works.00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:28 Top 50 Hottest Movies of the 21st Century: Part 201:07 Movie #50: Up01:57 Movie #49: Before Sunset02:33 Movie #48: The Lives of Others02:53 Movie #47: Almost Famous03:26 Movie #46: Roma03:53 Movie #45: Moneyball04:10 Movie #44: Once Upon a Time in Hollywood05:00 Movie #43: Old Boy05:24 Movie #42: The Master05:37 Movie #41: Amelie06:00 Movie #40: Yi Yi06:27 Movie #39: Lady Bird06:47 Movie #38: Portrait of a Lady on Fire06:55 Movie #37: Call Me by Your Name07:33 Movie #36: A Serious Man07:42 Movie #35: A Prophet08:25 Movie #34: WALL-E09:01 Movie #33: A Separation09:37 Movie #32: Bridesmaids10:05 Movie #31: The Departed10:24 Movie #30: Lost in Translation10:55 Movie #29: Arrival12:04 Movie #28: The Dark Knight12:50 Movie #27: Adaptation13:21 Movie #26: Anatomy of a Fall13:59 Movie #25: Phantom Thread14:38 Movie #24: Her15:13 Movie #23: Boyhood15:51 Movie #22: The Grand Budapest Hotel16:02 Movie #21: The Royal Tenenbaums17:14 Surprising Entries and Popular Hits17:39 David Fincher's Redemption18:51 Alfonso Cuarón's Breakthrough19:29 Ang Lee's Masterpieces20:07 City of God and Other Gems20:42 Quentin Tarantino's Iconic Moments22:46 Top 10 Countdown Begins24:41 The Social Network and Its Impact25:36 Miyazaki's Spirited Away26:16 Jordan Peele's Get Out26:48 Eternal Sunshine and Other Classics27:48 Top 5 Films of the 21st Century33:22 The Great Man Theory of Cinema34:21 Final Thoughts and Audience EngagementAnd look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025). Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”We want to know what you think about our podcast! Let us know in this brief survey here.Listen to us on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media to stay up to date on upcoming shows and announcements! Instagram Facebook LinktreeCheck out our new merch shop here for tees, totes, stickers and more!