Midnight Local

It is both refreshing and enraging to see the great female characters of the pre-code film era. These women were central characters with agency, desires, motives and in this case deadly control over every man she meets. We lost female characters like this for 30+ years and some could argue they were never the same. Baby Face (1933) is a dark movie about an anti-hero who uses her sex appeal to exact revenge on men. This movie was heavily censored even before the code went into effect. In the early 2000's an original copy of the film in its full form was discovered! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Baby Face (1933) 02:59 Exploring the Pre-Code Era and Censorship 06:01 The Role of Women in Pre-Code Cinema 09:02 Character Analysis: Lily Powers and Her Journey 12:02 The Dark Themes of Baby Face 14:59 Censorship and Its Impact on the Film 17:56 The Relationships and Dynamics in Baby Face 20:58 The Ending and Its Implications 24:03 Concluding Thoughts on Baby Face and Its Legacy 34:57 The Power of Manipulation in Film 41:11 Female Empowerment and Revenge 42:47 Cultural Reflections in Historical Cinema 44:13 Critical Reception and Lasting Impact 49:03 Reality vs. Fiction in Modern Storytelling 56:41 The Importance of Narrative Integrity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gold Diggers of 1933 is possibly the best and most fun pre-code movie. You will be surprised how modern it feels. This movie has it all, Busby Berkley dance numbers, strong female leads, comedy, relevant political commentary, The Great Depression and a jaw-dropping grand finale. The last number in this movie left us with so much to talk about we considered giving it its own episode. IT IS THAT GOOD. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gold Diggers of 1933 06:04 The Context of the Great Depression 09:03 The Role of Women in the Film 12:11 Musical Numbers and Their Significance 14:55 The Technical Aspects of Filmmaking 17:56 The Legacy of Busby Berkeley 20:56 Cultural Reflections in Gold Diggers of 1933 25:38 The Bechdel Test and Representation in Film 31:43 The Cynicism of the Era 36:08 Class Struggles and Romantic Entanglements 45:41 The Final Musical Numbers and Their Impact 50:32 Plot Twists and Character Dynamics 51:05 My Forgotten Man 53:11 The Bonus Army and Historical Context 01:03:11 Artistic Imagery and Symbolism 01:06:27 The Legacy of Gold Diggers of 33 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have spent nearly a century trying to make another gangster movie this good and some could argue we haven't done it yet. Being released before the Hay's code allows this movie to really speak it's mind and it does. With its loud commentary about the state of the US, strong female characters, sex, openly gay characters and nuance this movie is the perfect reminder of what the code took from us. It's a cliche for a reason, they don't make them like they used to. THE HAYS CODE:  The "Don'ts" (Absolutely Forbidden) Profanity, including "God," "Jesus," or "hell" used irreverently. Nudity, in any form (including silhouettes). Illegal drug use. Sexual perversion (code word for homosexuality, fetishism, etc.). White slavery (human trafficking, especially of white women). Miscegenation (interracial romantic or sexual relationships). Scenes of childbirth, in fact or in silhouette Ridicule of clergy. Willful offense to any nation, race, or creed. The "Be Carefuls" (Sensitive Topics Requiring Caution) Use of firearms. Theft, robbery, and safe-cracking. Brutality and gruesomeness. Techniques of murder. Sympathy for criminals or crime success Adultery, if presented sympathetically or explicitly. Seduction. Sexual relationships outside of marriage. Excessive kissing or lustful embraces. Drunkenness, especially if humorous or sympathetic. Use of liquor in the presence of children. Mocking the law or law enforcement. Revenge in modern times as a moral justification. Surgical operations, unless essential to the plot. Cruelty to animals. Apparent cruelty to children. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Midnight Local and Pre-Code Cinema 06:01 The Evolution of Film Acting and Cagney's Influence 11:58 Character Development: Tom Powers and His Journey 18:00 Prohibition Era and Its Influence on the Film's Narrative 23:57 Censorship and Its Impact on Film and Society 30:03 Character Development and Censorship in Film 32:44 The Rise of Cagney and Blondell 37:05 Iconic Scenes and Their Backstories 40:39 War and Morality in Cinema 49:13 The Introduction of Jean Harlow 57:18 The Impact of Realism in Film 01:00:26 Buster Keaton and Physical Comedy 01:09:00 The Evolution of Gangster Films 01:25:29 The Legacy of James Cagney and Film History Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In light of current events we couldn't ignore the 2006 film 'Idiocracy' any longer. People like to think of this film as something of a prophecy but unfortunately it is mostly just a eugenics movie that seems to trip over it's own feet. We are going to talk mostly about where this movie misses but can admit it does have some moments. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Idiocracy 02:49 Themes of Eugenics and Society 06:04 Cultural Context and Humor 08:49 Character Analysis and Plot Overview 17:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 19:06 The Absurdity of Future Society 25:57 Critique of Class and Intelligence 28:51 Political Commentary and Personal Reflections 32:54 Cognitive Dissonance 36:00 The Joy of Low-Budget Films vs. High Expectations 41:43 Existential Dread and Personal Reflection 44:08 Parenting and Media Impact 51:42 The Love of Cinema and Its Evolution 54:45 Cynicism in Film and the Search for Authenticity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This movie feels like it is happening at exactly the same time, but outside of the frame lines of Clueless...and in a slightly sideways universe. What's a girl to do when her boyfriend comes back to life as a Mechanical T-Rex? This movie has the answers. Greg and Mere had a ton of fun watching and talking about this film and would love to invite you to come on in and have a ton of fun with them. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tammy and the T-Rex 02:51 Exploring the Plot and Characters 06:00 The Insanity of the Science 09:06 The Comedic Duo and Their Scheme 12:00 The T-Rex Transformation 15:03 The Consequences of the Experiment 17:55 The Rampage Begins 20:07 The Quirky Characters of Small Town Law Enforcement 23:04 The Absurdity of the T-Rex and Its Impact 26:11 Body Shopping: A Darkly Humorous Twist 29:30 The Brain in a Jar: Exploring Identity and Existence 30:25 Low Budget Charm vs. Big Budget Expectations 36:26 Reality TV: The Illusion of Authenticity 40:52 Experiences at a Gay Sports Bar 42:04 The Intersection of LGBTQ+ Spaces 44:54 Theater Dynamics and High School Experiences 48:12 Reality TV Encounters 50:32 The Reality of Reality TV 52:17 Cultural Commentary on Gender and Media 56:56 Exploring Societal Trends and Birth Rates #movies #moviereview #filmtalk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Greg and Mere dive deeper into the film library of Nico Mastorakis with 'Blind Date' (1984). This movie is just good, not so clean fun! Is it a Thriller? Sci-Fi? Drama? Absurdist Comedy? As we have learned about the films of Mastorakis it is everything at once, nothings off the table. On the b-side we talk about film school and work experiences we have had over the years. Chapters 00:00 11am and Far Away 03:00 Exploring Nico Mastorakis' Filmography 05:51 The Nostalgia of 80s Cinema 08:59 Blind Date: A Film Overview 11:53 Character Dynamics and Themes 15:07 The Killer's Motives and Plot Twists 18:09 The Role of Technology in the Film 21:03 The Concept of Stalking in Cinema 23:47 The Climax and Resolution 27:05 Final Thoughts on Blind Date 42:08 Selfish Heroism and Trauma 44:58 The Messy Nature of Storytelling 52:08 The Absurdity of Film Production 55:49 The Reality of Awards and Recognition 01:01:07 Teaching and Learning in Film 01:15:47 Behind the Scenes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are talking about the 1984 film 'Blood Tide,' starring James Earl Jones and the guy from Karate Kid! We analyze the film's plot and production, and discuss the implications of its psychosexual horror elements, including themes of sacrifice and insanity. This movie made us really miss the low-budget creativity of the 80s and 90s. Listen to the end for some personal anecdotes from Greg's student filmmaking days and hints into what we might be watching next. Chapters - 00:00 Opening Rituals and Childhood Stories 02:58 Exploring Blood Tide and Its Creators 06:02 Master Rakas and His Unique Style 08:49 The Craft of Blood Tide 12:02 Plot Overview and Character Dynamics 15:02 Themes of Sacrifice and Insanity 23:15 Exploring Duress and Sacrifice 24:36 The Complexity of Character Relationships 26:03 The Appeal of Low-Budget Creativity 30:10 The Role of Mythology in Storytelling 32:06 The Importance of Character Development 34:10 Cultural Reflections in Film 36:32 The Evolution of Independent Cinema 40:40 The Impact of Budget on Film Quality 47:39 Underwater Filmmaking Challenges 50:30 Scrappy Student Filmmaking 52:50 Upcoming Movie Discussions 54:00 Cultural Reflections in Horror 01:00:20 Longevity and Anti-Aging Trends 01:02:58 Malthusian Sci-Fi and Overpopulation Concerns Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

High school honor student by day, h**ker by night. In this episode we dive into the 1984 film 'Angel', exploring its place in exploitation cinema, the dynamics of sex positivity, and the representation of queer identities in the 1980s. We shift to the aesthetic appeal of low-budget films and how we could make an entire podcast just about Susan Terrell. Mere talks about her nostalgia for the pre-internet days and Greg recommends sho buy a Brick. 'Angel' has a few notable sequels so let us know if you like this episode and we will watch 'Angel 2: Avenging Angel'. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes 01:30 Overview of the Movie 'Angel' 04:48 Exploration of Themes in 'Angel' 10:05 Character Introductions and Dynamics 15:00 The Killer's Role and Motivations 20:04 Queer Representation and Social Commentary 27:11 Exploring Themes of Childhood and Abandonment 30:58 The Aesthetic Appeal of Low-Budget Films 32:58 Susan Terrell's Unique Presence 35:17 The Evolution of the 'Angel' Franchise 37:15 The Punk Rock Spirit of Low-Budget Cinema 40:55 The Challenges of Modern Filmmaking 47:12 Creative Rigging and Filmmaking Innovations 48:03 Exploration of Exploitation Cinema 54:06 Nostalgia for Pre-Internet Days 56:48 The B-Side Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Moving forward Midnight Local will be focusing on forgotten movies like the ones that show up in the unique offerings of Night Flight Plus. They explore the concept of exploitation cinema, and discuss the long lost 1981 film 'Dead and Buried'. They delve into the intricacies of horror films, the importance of special effects, and the themes of reanimation and memory. The discussion transitions into cultural commentary on punk movements and the importance of fun in society, exploring how these elements reflect broader societal issues and concludes with reflections on tolerance and understanding different perspectives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is an update! We are wrapping up this season of Midnight Local and will be back in January of 2025 with more episodes. We hope everyone has a great holidays, dee you in 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Midnight Local, hosts Greg and Meredith dive into the cult classic 'Serial Mom' directed by John Waters. They explore the film's themes of suburban life, the duality of its main character Beverly, and the societal commentary on media and celebrity culture. The conversation highlights the absurdity of the plot, the dark humor, and the film's satirical take on American values. In this conversation, they explore various themes including the fascination with celebrity murderers, the impact of social media on public discourse, and the role of misinformation in politics. They discuss the absurdity of modern entertainment and the cultural commentary of John Waters, while also touching on the dangerous ideologies propagated by figures in the manosphere. The dialogue reflects on the complexities of societal values and the need for critical thinking in an age of rapid information exchange. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Mood Setting 02:47 Exploring 'Serial Mom' and John Waters' Influence 05:56 Character Analysis: Beverly and Her Duality 08:57 The Plot Unfolds: A Mother's Grievances 12:04 Murderous Escalation: The First Kill 15:06 Cultural Commentary: Media and Celebrity 17:46 The Trial and Public Perception 20:58 The Climax: A Mother's Love and Violence 24:14 Final Thoughts on Satire and Society 38:46 The Obsession with Celebrity Murderers 42:47 The Impact of Social Media on Society 46:37 Political Commentary and the Role of Misinformation 55:50 The Future of Green Investment and Climate Change 01:05:51 The Dangerous Ideologies of the Manosphere 01:15:10 Understanding John Waters and His Cultural Commentary Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Greg and Meredith explore the 1932 film 'The Island of Lost Souls,' a pre-code horror adaptation of H.G. Wells' 'The Island of Doctor Moreau.' They discuss the film's themes, character dynamics, and the implications of its portrayal of morality and control. The conversation also touches on the cultural and racial implications of the film, the role of women in early cinema, and the efficiency of short films compared to modern media consumption. They delve into the cinematic influences and thematic elements of 'Island of Lost Souls,' exploring its connections to other films, the innovative sound design, and the evolution of horror as a genre. They discuss the impact of H.G. Wells' work on film adaptations, the cultural censorship faced by the movie, and its legacy in the horror genre. The dialogue highlights the film's unique qualities, its historical significance, and the ongoing fascination with its themes and characters. Chapters 00:00 Nostalgia for Old Media 02:49 Exploring Pre-Code Horror 05:52 The Island of Doctor Moreau Adaptation 09:08 Character Dynamics and Relationships 12:00 The Role of Women in Early Cinema 14:53 Themes of Control and Manipulation 17:46 The Nature of Evil and Morality 20:56 Cultural and Racial Implications 23:49 The Impact of Pre-Code Restrictions 26:59 The Efficiency of Short Films 30:05 Comparing Old and New Media Consumption 35:07 Exploring Cinematic Influences 38:25 The Role of Sound Design in Horror 42:32 The Evolution of Horror Films 48:29 H.G. Wells and Adaptations in Film 52:55 Censorship and Cultural Impact 56:59 The Legacy of Island of Lost Souls Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meredith and Greg delve into the 1986 film 'The Fly' directed by David Cronenberg, exploring its themes of body horror, transformation, and the complexities of relationships. They discuss the film's opening, character dynamics, and the implications of the protagonist's transformation into a fly. The conversation also touches on the metaphorical aspects of aging and disease, the nature of the monster, and the performance of Jeff Goldblum. The hosts critique the film's world-building and reflect on the impact of body horror as a genre. The conversation turns to the differences between empathy and sympathy. They discuss the relatability of body horror and how anxiety manifests in horror films. They close on the misrepresentation of gaslighting, the impact of male creators in storytelling, and the evolution of Jeff Goldblum's persona in film. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The Fly and Its Themes 03:00 Exploring Body Horror and Character Dynamics 06:12 The Transformation and Its Consequences 09:04 The Role of Relationships and Jealousy 11:56 The Climax and the Nature of the Monster 14:56 Metaphors of Aging and Disease 18:11 The Ending and Its Implications 20:53 Reflections on Performance and Humor 24:03 Critique of World-Building in The Fly 26:51 Body Horror as a Genre and Its Impact 34:04 Exploring Body Horror and Relatability 36:51 Empathy vs. Sympathy 39:39 Anxiety in Horror and the Cringe Factor 42:45 Gaslighting: Misunderstandings and Definitions 46:44 The Complexity of Male Creators and Their Impact 52:53 The Evolution of Jeff Goldblum's Persona 01:00:45 Reflections on Fame and Identity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Greg and Meredith delve into the 1984 film 'Ghostbusters.' They explore themes of working-class heroism, the film's problematic elements, the unique blend of comedy and horror, and the challenges of sequels and reboots. The discussion also touches on character dynamics, the role of special effects, and the social commentary embedded in the film. The conversation also touches on parental perspectives regarding the film's appropriateness for children, Dan Aykroyd's beliefs about the supernatural, and the evolution of his career. Additionally, they critique the portrayal of authority figures in the film and discuss the legal battles surrounding the theme song. They try to answer the question, are The Ghostbusters the working class Batman(men)? 00:00 - The Anti-Batman 03:11 - Ghostbusters: A Classic 05:57 - The Resurrection of Chevy Chase and Bill Murray's Creepiness 08:46 - The Unique Blend of Comedy and Horror 12:04 - The Challenges of Sequels and Reboots 15:10 - Character Dynamics and Casting Choices 17:54 - The Role of Special Effects in Storytelling 20:48 - The Ghostbusters' Business Model 24:07 - Cultural References and Social Commentary 31:57 - Exploring Wealth and Gender Dynamics in Ghostbusters 39:40 - Parental Perspectives on Ghostbusters 41:06 - Dan Aykroyd's Beliefs and Career 46:14 - The Evolution of Dan Aykroyd 55:05 - Critique of Authority and the American Dream 01:03:09 - The Legal Battle Behind the Theme Song Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Continuing their series on frightening films, Meredith and Greg talk about the 1960 Alfred Hitchcock classic, Psycho. In this conversation the hosts discuss how Hitchcock used Psycho to start to break the barriers of the Hays code, the compelling performance of Anthony Perkins and walk through the plot points of the film. They also talk about the infamous shower scene and the film's attention to detail. The discussion also leads to a general conversation about their differences in what they like about movies before concluding the episode. 00:00 - Introduction to Psycho 03:05 - How Psycho Broke the Code 07:10 - Is Hitchcock Overanalyzed? 09:57 - The Master of Suspense 13:48 - The Shock of Losing the Main Character 17:30 - First Impressions of Norman Bates 19:45 - Cinemas Most Famous Scene 28:00 - At Lose Ends After Losing Marion 32:50 - Discussing the Ending 38:25 - Sequels and the Character Arbogast 48:00 - The Remake and Vince Vaughn 53:24 - The Discussion Takes a Turn 01:02:30 - Like what you Like! 01:11:06 - Final Thoughts on Psycho Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices