Film Reviews Episodes

Welcome back to Born to Watch, where we dive deep into the movies that have shaped our lives and the world of cinema. This week, we continue our Demi Moore Double Shot with a look at the 1990 supernatural romantic thriller, "Ghost." Directed by Jerry Zucker, "Ghost" has left an indelible mark on pop culture and remains a beloved classic. So, let's delve into the elements that make this film so unforgettable. Cinematography and Visuals "Ghost" is a visually stunning film that masterfully blends t...

A Few Good Men (1992) is a gripping courtroom drama testament to the power of compelling storytelling, strong performances, and sharp dialogue. Directed by Rob Reiner and based on Aaron Sorkin's play, the film has become a classic in the genre. It delivers a powerful narrative that delves into themes of honour, duty, and the complexities of military life. Overview The film centres around the court-martial of two U.S. Marines, Lance Corporal Harold Dawson (Wolfgang Bodison) and Private First Clas...

Bachelor Party , the 1984 comedy film directed by Neal Israel, is a quintessential representation of 80s excess, raunchy humor, and carefree fun. Starring a young Tom Hanks in one of his earlier comedic roles, the film dives headfirst into the chaotic world of pre-wedding festivities, delivering a non-stop barrage of laughs, absurd situations, and memorable characters. For the latest episode of the Born to Watch podcast, we’re diving deep into this cult classic to explore what makes Bachelor Par...

Hey there Watchers!! We’re back with another episode, and this week, we’re diving into the adrenaline-pumping world of “Rocky IV.” This 1985 classic is not just another instalment in the Rocky series; it’s a cinematic phenomenon that encapsulates the Cold War tensions of the era, delivers unforgettable fight sequences, and gives us one of the most iconic training montages ever. So, let’s put on our boxing gloves and step into the ring as we dissect everything that makes “Rocky IV” a heavyweight ...

"Groundhog Day," released in 1993 and directed by Harold Ramis, is more than just a comedy; it's a timeless exploration of human nature, personal growth, and the possibility of redemption. At the heart of this film is Bill Murray's iconic portrayal of Phil Connors, a cynical and egotistical weatherman who finds himself inexplicably trapped in a time loop, reliving the same day repeatedly. This seemingly simple premise blossoms into a rich narrative that balances humour with profound philosophica...

Hey there, fellow Watchers. Today, we're turning the Born to Watch blowtorch on the 2000 British crime drama "Sexy Beast" , directed by Jonathan Glazer in his feature film debut. This movie is a riveting exploration of the criminal underworld, marked by outstanding performances, sharp dialogue, and an intriguing blend of violence and dark humour. Let's dissect what makes this film a standout in its genre and why it remains a compelling watch two decades later. Plot Overview "Sexy Beast" follows ...

"Field of Dreams," directed by Phil Alden Robinson and released in 1989, is a film that transcends the boundaries of sports and delves into the heart of human experience. Starring Kevin Costner, Amy Madigan, James Earl Jones, Ray Liotta, and Burt Lancaster in his final film role, this cinematic gem explores themes of redemption, the power of belief, and the importance of following one's dreams. Set against the backdrop of America’s favourite pastime, baseball, "Field of Dreams" is not just a mov...

In the pantheon of post-apocalyptic cinema, few films have achieved the iconic status of George Miller's Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior . Released in 1981, this Australian action masterpiece solidified Mel Gibson's status as a global star and redefined the genre with its raw, kinetic energy and visionary storytelling. For this week's episode of Born to Watch, we delve deep into why The Road Warrior remains a timeless classic, resonating with audiences over four decades later. Cinematic Brilliance a...

Welcome back, Born to Watch listeners! In this episode, we dive into the electrifying world of "Rocky III," the third instalment in the legendary Rocky series. Directed by and starring Sylvester Stallone, this 1982 classic reinvigorates the saga of the Italian Stallion with new challenges, unforgettable characters, and the iconic anthem "Eye of the Tiger." Overview and Plot Summary "Rocky III" begins with Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) at the pinnacle of his career. He’s the reigning heavywei...

In this Second Birthday Celebration of the Born to Watch Podcast, we're diving into the abyss of the iconic 1986 science fiction masterpiece, "ALIENS", directed by James Cameron. This sequel to Ridley Scott's 1979 film "ALIEN" elevated the franchise to new heights and redefined the parameters of the sci-fi and horror genres. As we celebrate this significant milestone of our show, it's only fitting that we delve into a film that itself marked a monumental achievement in cinematic history. A Seque...

Rebel Moon Part 2: The Scar Giver attempts to elevate its predecessor’s groundwork into a sprawling space saga in this follow-up to the ambitious yet divisive first instalment. Helmed once again by a director known for his love of grand visual feasts, the movie aims to stitch new threads into the expansive tapestry of its galaxy. However, as the Born to Watch team discovered, even the most visually stunning feasts can leave one feeling unexpectedly underwhelmed. Whitey and Damo are back in the h...

Welcome back to another episode of the Born to Watch podcast! This week, we're strapping in and taking off with a deep dive into the 1997 high-flying action thriller Con Air . Directed by Simon West, this film not only encapsulates the excess of the late ‘90s action cinema but also serves as a showcase for Nicholas Cage’s wild-eyed heroics and a cast of characters that feel ripped straight from a comic book. Con Air follows Cameron Poe, a former U.S. Army Ranger, played by Nicholas Cage with his...

Welcome back to another episode of Born to Watch, where we dive into the gritty, smoke-filled alleys of action cinema, this time with Tony Scott’s explosive 1991 film, "The Last Boy Scout." Starring Bruce Willis and Damon Wayans, this film melds the rough-and-tumble aesthetics of the early '90s with sharp dialogue and an unrelenting pace, making it a standout in the action genre. "The Last Boy Scout" opens with a rain-soaked, noir-style narrative, where Joe Hallenbeck (Bruce Willis), a disenchan...

"Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back," directed by Irvin Kershner and released in 1980, stands not only as one of the most iconic sequels in cinema history but also as a pivotal turning point in the expansive Star Wars saga. As we gear up for Star Wars Day 2024, a retrospective glance at this masterpiece reveals its undiminished power to captivate and provoke thought, making it an enduring treasure in the sci-fi genre. Cinematography and Visual Innovation From Hoth's chilling winds to Dagobah's l...

"Stripes" (1981), directed by Ivan Reitman and starring Bill Murray and Harold Ramis, is a quintessential early '80s comedy that perfectly captures the zeitgeist of an era that teetered between the absurdity of the Cold War and the ever-relaxing social mores. At its heart, "Stripes" is a comedic rebellion against the rigidity of military life, making it a film that resonates with the themes of individualism and anti-establishment sentiment prevalent at the time. The Plot & Characters The film fo...

Welcome back, fight fans, to another round in the cinematic boxing ring with "Rocky II," a film that not only cements Sylvester Stallone's Rocky Balboa as an American cinematic icon but also offers a deeper look into the life of his rival-turned-friend, Apollo Creed, masterfully portrayed by Carl Weathers. As part of our Carl Weathers tribute tour, let's dive into how "Rocky II" contributes to the legacy of this incredible actor and character, and why this sequel punches just as hard as its pred...

When "Basic Instinct" first graced cinema screens in 1992, it didn't just arrive; it detonated with the force of a cultural and cinematic bombshell. Directed by Paul Verhoeven and penned by Joe Eszterhas, this neo-noir thriller became a topic of fervent discussion, controversy, and analysis. Damo's pick for the podcast, undoubtedly, underscores not just the film's enduring impact but also its provocative standing in the annals of movie history. So, let's dive into the icy waters of "Basic Instin...

In celebration of our 100th episode, what better film to dissect than "JAWS," the blockbuster that redefined the summer movie experience and cemented Steven Spielberg's status as a master storyteller. Released in 1975, "JAWS" not only terrorized audiences with its portrayal of a man-eating great white shark but also demonstrated the power of cinema to evoke primal fears and unforgettable suspense. Let's dive into the depths of "JAWS" and explore what makes it a cinematic masterpiece and a cultur...

In this latest episode of the Born to Watch Podcast, hosts Whitey and Gow, along with special guest Sloane Nickson, dive into the 2007 action-packed thriller, "Shooter". Directed by Antoine Fuqua and based on the novel "Point of Impact" by Stephen Hunter, "Shooter" follows the story of Bob Lee Swagger (played by Mark Wahlberg), a former Marine Corps sniper who is coaxed back into action only to be framed for a crime he didn't commit. "Shooter" starts with a bang, quite literally, setting the ton...

In our latest episode of the Born to Watch Podcast, we delve into the 1976 cinematic masterpiece, "Rocky," marking our first full gathering in nearly two months. This episode is particularly poignant as we embark on our "Rocky" journey, paying homage to the late, great Carl Weathers, whose portrayal of Apollo Creed left an indelible mark on the franchise and the hearts of fans worldwide. Directed by John G. Avildsen and written by Sylvester Stallone, who also stars as the titular character, "Roc...

Napoleon Dynamite, a film that gently meanders through the life of an awkward high schooler in rural Idaho, has remarkably carved itself into the hearts of a cult following since its release in 2004. In the latest episode of the Born to Watch Podcast, hosts Whitey and Damo are joined by none other than "Australia's Best Look Back Actor," Croaksey, to unpack the nuances of this peculiar yet endearing cinematic piece. At first glance, Napoleon Dynamite appears to be a series of loosely connected e...

"Galaxy Quest," a film that transcends the traditional boundaries of sci-fi comedy, cleverly satirises the tropes of classic science fiction television series while simultaneously paying heartfelt homage to them. Directed by Dean Parisot and released in 1999, the movie stars an ensemble cast including Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, Alan Rickman, Tony Shalhoub, Sam Rockwell, and Daryl Mitchell. It's a film that not only fans of sci-fi can appreciate but also offers plenty of laughs, excitement, and...

The 1989 martial arts film "Kickboxer" stands as a hallmark in the genre, resonating with fans for its robust action sequences, emotive storyline, and the charismatic presence of Jean-Claude Van Damme. This review delves into the various aspects that make "Kickboxer" a memorable and enduring film in the martial arts canon. At the core of "Kickboxer" is a tale of revenge and personal growth, a theme that resonates deeply within the martial arts genre. The story follows Kurt Sloane (Jean-Claude Va...

"Wayne's World (1992)," a film that transcended its "Saturday Night Live" sketch origins to become a cult classic, encapsulates the early '90s like few other movies do. Directed by Penelope Spheeris and starring Mike Myers and Dana Carvey as Wayne Campbell and Garth Algar, respectively, the film is a brilliant blend of humour, music, and a touch of innocence, all wrapped up in a storyline that's both engaging and hilariously absurd. At its core, "Wayne's World" is a story about friendship, dream...