Film Reviews Episodes

Dirty Harry (1971) is a film that not only redefined the crime thriller genre but also cemented Clint Eastwood’s place as one of cinema’s most iconic leading men. In this week’s episode of Born to Watch, Whitey and Gow are joined by special guest Will the Worky to discuss this gritty masterpiece that follows the relentless pursuit of justice by Inspector Harry Callahan. With its unforgettable storytelling, striking cinematography, and the moral dilemmas it raises, Dirty Harry is more than just a...

When it comes to the greatest films of all time, few are as universally beloved as E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. In this E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial Review, Whitey and Gow take a deep dive into Spielberg’s sci-fi classic, joined by a special guest to tackle “The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly” in true Born to Watch style. Whether it’s your first time experiencing this heartwarming tale or a nostalgic revisit, this episode breaks down why this film has cemented itself as one of the greatest family movi...

In this week’s episode of Born to Watch, Whitey and Damo tackle one of the most polarising blockbusters in cinematic history—Star Wars: The Last Jedi. You’ve heard it before: The Last Jedi either reignited the saga with bold creativity or sent it careening off a cliff into a galaxy far, far away from anything recognisable. For Whitey and Damo, it’s the latter, and they aren’t afraid to say it. If you’re tuning in for a spirited debate, prepare for a critical breakdown of what went wrong in the e...

Few movies blend chaos, comedy, and holiday cheer as seamlessly as Gremlins (1984). This darkly delightful gem from director Joe Dante and producer Steven Spielberg has become a holiday classic for its irreverent tone and unforgettable creatures. Whether you’re drawn in by the fuzzy charm of Gizmo or the anarchic antics of his mischievous offspring, Gremlins offers something unique: a satirical horror-comedy that’s heartwarming and horrifying. We hope you enjoy this Gremlins (1984) movie review ...

Few films define holiday nostalgia as perfectly as Home Alone. In this Home Alone (1990) Movie Review, we revisit the timeless story of Kevin McCallister, the mischievous yet resourceful eight-year-old who accidentally gets left behind during the Christmas holidays. Directed by Chris Columbus and written by the legendary John Hughes, Home Alone continues to hold a unique place in cinematic history as a family comedy that delivers heart, laughs, and the unmistakable magic of the holiday season. O...

In this Blood Diamond (2006) Movie Review, we explore Edward Zwick’s gripping drama that shines a stark light on the human cost of the diamond trade. Set against the backdrop of Sierra Leone’s brutal civil war, the film weaves an intense story of survival, greed, and redemption through the intertwined lives of a smuggler, a fisherman, and a journalist. With unforgettable performances by Leonardo DiCaprio, Djimon Hounsou, and Jennifer Connelly, Blood Diamond is a heart-pounding thriller that forc...

In the late 1980s, few movies encapsulated the aspirational vibe of the era quite like Cocktail. Released in 1988, this romantic drama, directed by Roger Donaldson and starring a magnetic Tom Cruise, is a cocktail of ambition, love, and the search for identity. For this week’s episode of Born to Watch, we’re deep-diving into this cult classic. In this Cocktail (1988) Movie Review, we’ll explore the film’s signature style, performances, and its lasting impact on pop culture. The Story of Brian...

Buckle up for this comprehensive Braveheart (1995) Movie Review - a journey into the heart of one of Hollywood’s most iconic films. Few films, like Braveheart, have managed to carve a lasting legacy in cinematic and cultural history. Released in 1995, this historical epic directed by and starring Mel Gibson became an instant classic, captivating audiences with its sweeping storytelling, larger-than-life battles, and deeply emotional core. For this week’s episode of Born to Watch, we’re diving he...

Ridley Scott’s Gladiator (2000) wasn’t just a movie—it was an event, a cultural phenomenon that revived the sword-and-sandal epic for a modern audience. In this week’s Born to Watch podcast episode, we take a deep dive with our Gladiator (2000) Movie Review, a timeless classic that set the bar for historical dramas, earning critical acclaim and five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. With stunning visuals, a poignant score, and unforgettable performances, Gladiator remains one of cinema’s g...

Few films define absurdist comedy, as well as Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004). Directed by Adam McKay and starring Will Ferrell as the legendary, moustachioed newscaster Ron Burgundy, Anchorman carved a bold path through comedy with an all-star cast, offbeat humour, and unforgettable quotes that have lingered in pop culture. In this Anchorman (2004) Movie Review, we’re diving deep into what makes this cult classic not just a film but an icon of comedy—and one of the most quotable mo...

In the world of British crime cinema, few films capture the frenetic energy and dark humour of the underworld quite like Snatch (2000). Directed by Guy Ritchie, Snatch is a heist film on steroids, merging British grit with slapstick absurdity and a labyrinthine plot filled with double-crosses stolen diamonds, and unlikely heroes. For our latest Born to Watch podcast episode, we dive into what makes Snatch such a stand-out in the crime genre and why its impact remains strong 20 years after its re...

Joker: Folie à Deux is a follow-up that takes the foundations of 2019’s Joker and, quite frankly, leaves them in the dust. Directed once again by Todd Phillips, this sequel trades in the raw, grounded intensity of the first film for a flashy, surreal spectacle that feels jarringly out of place. Where Joker delivered a chilling psychological portrait of Arthur Fleck’s descent into madness, Folie à Deux seems content with superficial theatrics and stylistic excess, abandoning the careful character...

If ever there was a film that brings true terror out of something as every day as fan meeting their idol, Stephen King’s Misery (1990) is that film. Directed by Rob Reiner and based on the bestselling novel by Stephen King, Misery tells a haunting story that swaps out supernatural threats for the all-too-real horror of human obsession. Released at the dawn of the '90s and now over 30 years old, Misery remains one of the most potent psychological horror films of our time. It is a perfect Hallowee...

When we look back at late-90s cinema, few films hit the nerve of an era quite like Enemy of the State (1998). Directed by Tony Scott and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, the film was released when the internet was still in its infancy, and the public’s understanding of digital surveillance was minimal at best. Fast-forward to today and Enemy of the State feels less like a cautionary tale and more like a prediction of the modern world. Starring Will Smith in one of his first dramatic leading roles...

When it comes to 90s action movies, The Rock (1996) is an absolute powerhouse, packing in all the adrenaline, explosions, and star power you'd expect from a Michael Bay film. This high-octane blockbuster fuses a prison break with a military conspiracy, creating a wild ride that still holds up almost 30 years later. At its core, The Rock combines the thrilling escapism of an action movie with a surprisingly engaging plot. The story kicks off when a group of rogue U.S. Marines, led by the stoic G...

When it comes to biting satire and outrageous humour, Tropic Thunder remains a standout in the annals of Hollywood comedies. Released in 2008, this film, directed by Ben Stiller, is a unique blend of action, absurdity, and razor-sharp commentary on the entertainment industry itself. In this Tropic Thunder Movie Review, we dive deep into the film’s multilayered humour, its over-the-top performances, and the controversies that have kept it relevant long after its initial release. Plot Breakdown...

When we talk about The Naked Gun (1988), we’re diving headfirst into a comedy treasure chest—one filled with absurdity, brilliant wordplay, and visual gags that just don’t stop. This Zucker, Abrahams, and Zucker (ZAZ) film, starring the ever-stoic Leslie Nielsen as the bumbling detective Lt. Frank Drebin, stands as one of the defining examples of slapstick parody. It’s a film that has aged remarkably well, continuing to resonate with new audiences and reminding those who saw it back in 1988 just...

Few buddy cop films from the '80s pack the wild, testosterone-fueled fun that Tango & Cash (1989) does. This action-comedy, starring Sylvester Stallone and Kurt Russell, has cemented its place as a cult classic. While it may not be the most refined piece of cinema, it’s a wild ride from start to finish, showcasing all the hallmarks of the late '80s action genre – explosions, witty one-liners, and big hair. Plot Breakdown The story is as over-the-top as you'd expect. Ray Tango (Stallone) and G...

The Fugitive (1993) is one of those films that perfectly encapsulates the tension and pulse-pounding excitement of a great action-thriller. Directed by Andrew Davis and starring Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones, this movie has earned its spot as a quintessential ‘90s action film, but it does more than just deliver spectacular stunts and edge-of-your-seat chases. At its core, The Fugitive is a cat-and-mouse game wrapped in a deeper story of justice, survival, and determination. The film explores...

When it comes to films that have left a lasting mark on the horror genre, few can rival the terrifying power of The Exorcist (1973). Directed by William Friedkin and adapted from William Peter Blatty’s 1971 novel, The Exorcist shattered boundaries with its unflinching portrayal of demonic possession and the battle between good and evil. Released in December 1973, the film captivated audiences and sparked controversy for its graphic content and shocking themes. This review will explore why The Ex...

In this week's episode of Born to Watch, we're diving into a film that strikes the perfect balance between humor, heartbreak, and the hope that pulls us through life's darkest moments. Directed by David O. Russell and featuring a powerhouse cast, "Silver Linings Playbook" has left a lasting impression on audiences since its release in 2012. This film isn't just another romantic comedy—it's a deeply moving exploration of mental health, relationships, and the redemptive power of love. "Silver Lin...

Hey there, Fellow Watchers! This week on Born to Watch, we dive deep into one of the most whimsical, enchanting, and downright bizarre films of the 1970s, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. This technicolour dreamscape of a movie, adapted from Roald Dahl's beloved 1964 children's novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, is a kaleidoscopic journey that weaves together childlike wonder, satirical wit, and a dash of dark humour. But for those who've seen it, it’s much more than just a kids’ mov...

Hey there, Watchers! In this special quick-review episode, Whitey dives into the much-anticipated Alien: Romulus with his Alien Romulus Quick Review. This is Whitey’s first solo movie breakdown, so let's see how he handles the acid-blooded pressure of reviewing one of the year’s most anticipated sci-fi horror films! Alien: Romulus delivers the pulse-pounding tension and gritty horror that fans have been waiting for. Director Fede Álvarez knocks it out of the park by dialling the franchise back ...

When it comes to classic films that have left an indelible mark on pop culture, few stand out as vividly as The Princess Bride (1987). Directed by Rob Reiner and adapted from William Goldman’s novel of the same name, this film is a rare gem that effortlessly blends adventure, romance, and comedy into a story that continues to captivate audiences across generations. In the latest episode of Born to Watch, Whitey and Damo are joined by our great American mates from the Middle Aged Movie Podcast to...