The Invasion of the Poddy Snatchers

Ep 22 - The Bad and the Beautiful (1952)

I've told you a hundred times. I don't want to win awards. Give me pictures that end with a kiss and black ink on the books.
 
This time on IotPS, we dive into the glitzy shadows of Hollywood’s golden age with Vincente Minnelli’s classic melodrama. From ruthless ambition to romantic ruin, we unravel how this 1952 gem lays bare the cost of chasing cinematic greatness. Join us as we dissect Kirk Douglas’s Oscar-nominated portrayal of a charismatic yet morally bankrupt producer, the film’s striking structure, and why its themes still hit hard in today’s industry. Glamour, betrayal, and the price of legacy — let’s talk about The Bad and the Beautiful.

Ep 21 - Devil in a Blue Dress (1995)

"If you got a friend that you know does bad things, I mean real bad things, and you still keep him as a friend even though you know what he's like, do you think that's wrong?"
 
Step into the beautifully lit streets of 1940s Los Angeles with our latest podcast episode, where we dive deep into the gripping world of Devil in a Blue Dress. Based on Walter Mosley’s acclaimed novel, this neo-noir film follows Ezekiel “Easy” Rawlins, an African American WWII vet turned reluctant detective, as he unravels a web of secrets, power, and betrayal in a racially divided city. We’ll explore the film’s complex characters, its sharp social commentary, and the timeless allure of film noir through a modern lens. Join us as we examine how Devil in a Blue Dress brings fresh perspectives to the genre in post-war America.

Ep 20 - Amadeus (1984)

I speak for all mediocrities in the world. I am their champion. I am their patron saint.
 
In this episode, we dive into Amadeus (1984), Miloš Forman’s Oscar-winning masterpiece that explores the rivalry between the brilliant Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the envious Antonio Salieri. From the dazzling performances by Tom Hulce and F. Murray Abraham to the film’s lush cinematography and unforgettable soundtrack, we discuss how Amadeus blurs the line between historical drama and high art.

Ep19 - Sunset Boulevard (1950)

We didn't need dialogue. We had faces!
 
Join us on this episode as we dive into the iconic world of Sunset Boulevard! This 1950 film noir classic directed by Billy Wilder still leaves us in awe with its haunting story, unforgettable characters, and timeless themes. We break down exactly why we loved this film, from Gloria Swanson's "exceptional" performance as Norma Desmond to the unforgettable line, "All right, Mr. DeMille, I'm ready for my close-up." We explore the film's portrayal of Hollywood, ambition, and the darker side of fame—and why it still resonates today.

Ep 18 - The Sweet Smell of Success

I am tasting my favorite new perfume - success!
 
In this episode, we're watching The Sweet Smell of Success (1957) starring Burt Lancaster and Tony Curtis. This is a film that critics love but it died at the box office on its release. We try to work out why...
 
We also tried out new recording equipment...not too sure if it works!

Ep 17 - The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

I do wish we could chat longer, but... I'm having an old friend for dinner.
 
We both loved this horror-thriller when it first came out in the '90's, but has it aged like a fine Chianti?

Ep 16 - Gilda (1946)

I've got some news for you, Johnny. I'm going to do exactly what I please, when I please.We've spent a brilliant week at the Cinema Rediscovered festival at the the Watershed in Bristol. One of the films we watched was this restoration of Charles Vidor's film-noir, starring Rita Hayworth and Glenn Ford. What is it about this film that makes it so striking?

Ep 15 - Our Favourite Directors

In this episode we have opinions about film directors, and chat about the styles of film-making we both enjoy.If you'd like to suggest any films foe us to watch (especially Indian or African films, as we know absolutelynothing about these) please leave a comment.

Ep 14 - Get Carter

You're a big man, but you're in bad shape...
This time we've watched Get Carter (1971) starring Michael Caine in one his iconic roles. Directed by Mike Hodges we try to decide if this film deserves it's reputation as a one of the best British films of the 70's.

Ep 13 - The Night of the Hunter

Would you like me to tell you the little story of right-hand/left-hand? The story of good and evil?
This time we've watched Charles Laughton's only film as a director, The Night of the Hunter (1955), starring Robert Mitchum. Famed as a horror movie with qualities of a Grimm fairy tale, does this film deserve its reputation as an masterpiece of expressionist allegorical film-making?