It's the Pictures
Boston Online Film Critic Members Max Covill and Evan Crean discuss the latest news in the world of film.
The Stanley Kubrick | It's the Pictures 232
Max and Evan explore the cinematic legacy of Stanley Kubrick, focusing on the recent release of a comprehensive box set of his films known as The Complete Kubrick. The hosts discuss various aspects of Kubrick's work, including his unique approach to filmmaking and the impact of his films across different genres. The conversation delves into Stanley Kubrick's filmography, exploring various films including 'The Killing', 'Paths of Glory', 'Spartacus', 'Lolita', 'Doctor Strangelove', '2001: A Space Odyssey', 'A Clockwork Orange', and 'Barry Lyndon'. The hosts discuss the themes, directorial styles, and cultural impacts of these films, highlighting Kubrick's versatility and the...
The Twilight Zone and Rod Serling | It's the Pictures 231
In this episode of the It's the Pictures podcast, hosts Max Covill and Evan Crean discuss various topics including their experiences with childhood movies, the recent acquisition of Warner Brothers by Skydance, and the impact of the Twilight Zone series. They delve into the themes of nostalgia, the evolution of film and television, and the significance of storytelling in the context of both classic and contemporary works. The conversation delves into various episodes of The Twilight Zone, discussing their themes, character arcs, and notable twists. The hosts reflect on their personal favorites and the impact of the series on...
Zach Cregger and Resident Evil | It's the Pictures 230
Max and Evan talk about the films of Zach Cregger, including Barbarian, Weapons, and Resident Evil. Before all that there's Star Wars news, Paramount merger discussion, and more. Stay turned afterward for a discussion on The History of Concrete and 9 to 5.
TIFF 2026 Recap | It's the Pictures 229
Max and Evan excitement and buzz surrounding the film festival season, with a focus on the films premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival. It also delves into the anticipation for upcoming film releases and the impact of documentaries in the current film landscape. Stay tuned for thoughts on Club Kid, Wild Horse Nine, INK, I Play Rocky, and Elsinore. In the What We've Been Watching section stay for reviews on Backrooms, IT Ends, and the new Shaun the Sheep feature.
Takeaways
Film festival season is in full swingExcitement for upcoming film releases Film...Tim Curry Forever | It's the Pictures 228
Evan and Max begin the episode talking about the celebrities that have passed recently before shifting to the booming box office and the success of 'The Odyssey.' The impact of the Warner Brothers merger is explored, along with the upcoming 'Days of Thunder.'
The episode features a focus on Tim Curry as a cultural icon, discussing the influence of 'Rocky Horror Picture Show' and the legacy of 'Clue.' A lively discussion covering classic adaptations, Tim Curry's iconic roles, the legacy of Tim Curry, nostalgic animated series, cinematic adaptations and TV shows, the...
2026 Fall Festival Preview | It's the Pictures 227
Max and Evan discuss the summer box office, movie news, and upcoming film festivals. Films coming to TIFF, Venice, NYFF, and probably Telluride are discussed. The conversation covers upcoming movies, including a new film starring Pedro Pascal and a biopic about Anthony Bourdain. It also delves into the new Spider-Man movie.
Chapters
00:00 New Setup and Background03:02 Summer Box Office and Movie Selections05:53 Movie News and Anticipation for Film Festivals29:27 Upcoming Movies33:28 The Anthony Bourdain Biopic51:15 The New Spider-Man MovieBatman: The Animated Series with Daniel Dockery | It's the Pictures 226
This week Max and Evan are joined by author Daniel Dockery to discuss his upcoming Batman: The Animated Series novel, I Am The Knight. They start with the news about the Warner Brothers and Paramount merger, and the implications of studio mergers in Hollywood. The future of Hollywood and film diversity is also discussed, along with Marvel news and horror movie trailers. The episode concludes with a transition to the featured topic: Batman the Animated Series. The conversation delves into the impact of Batman: The Animated Series, the genesis of 'I Am the Night,' character redefinition and evolution...
Remembering Jurassic Park's Sam Neill | It's the Pictures 225
The episode begins with a discussion about the late Sam Neill. Max Covill and Evan Crean also discuss the impact of streaming services on physical media and the film industry. They provide updates on the summer movie game and share their thoughts on recent movie releases. The conversation covers the life and career of Sam Neill, focusing on his notable roles in films like Jurassic Park, The Hunt for Red October, and In the Mouth of Madness. It also delves into his later work in movies like The Hunt for the Wilderpeople and TV shows like Peaky Blinders. The...
Tis I, Enola Holmes | It's the Pictures 224
Max Covill and Evan Crean discuss the Enola Holmes trilogy on this episode of the It's the Pictures podcast. First they discuss the Heat 2 casting rumors and revisit the Summer Box Office game. Then they discuss all three titles in the Netflix series, Enola Holmes. Is it a winning vehicle for star Millie Bobby Brown or is this a case best left unsolved? Max and Evan finish with reviewing Minions & Monsters, Jackass: Best and Last, and a look back at the Rambo movies.
Hi I'm Johnny Knoxville, Welcome To Jackass | It's the Pictures 223
Max and Evan discuss the four theatrical films of the Jackass franchise ahead of the series finale, Jackass: Best and Last. First they discuss Google investing in film studio A24 and give an update on the Summer Box Office Game. Then the guys talk about the four Jackass movies. Stay tuned afterwards for a discussion on Toy Story 5 and the original Cape Fear movie.
Strange Encounters Spielberg with Andrew Liptak | It's the Pictures 222
Max and Evan of It's the Pictures are joined by journalist and newsletter writer, Andrew Liptak. Liptak runs the successful newsletter Transfer Orbit on Science-Fiction / Fantasy novels. The three men discuss Steven Spielberg and his many alien movies including Close Encounters of the Third Kind, E.T., War of the Worlds, and Disclosure Day.
No Grogu, Only Pedro | It's the Pictures 221
Max and Evan begin with a discussion of the Cannes Film Festival, Matt Damon's role in The Daniels' project, and the surprising box office performance of a horror movie. The transition to discussing Pedro Pascal's career leads to a review of his role in The Mandalorian and The Last of Us, as well as a review of Fantastic Four: First Steps. Pedro Pascal's rise to fame, versatility, and compelling performances are highlighted as key takeaways from the conversation. The conversation delves into Pedro Pascal's diverse roles, showcasing his range as an actor.
Stay tuned for...
I'm an actor. Karl Urban | It's the Pictures 220
In this episode of It's the Pictures, Max and Evan give an update to the box office game, Greta Gerwig's Narnia release, Karl Urban's talent, a Fast and Furious TV series, and more. The conversation delves into Karl Urban's diverse roles in various franchises, including Star Trek, Thor Ragnarok, Dread, Mortal Kombat 2, The Boys. Finally there's a conversation on Ready or Not 2, The Fan, The Killer, and Mother Mary.
Takeaways
Karl Urban's versatile acting careerChapters
00:00 Technical Difficulties and Box Office Updates06:29 Fast and Furious TV Series and Spin-Offs17:06 Summer...2026 Summer Movie Contest | It's the Pictures 219
Max and Evan discuss upcoming summer movies, box office predictions, and make their picks for the summer movie contest. The hosts also share their thoughts on upcoming movies and documentaries they have seen.
Takeaways
Box office success of superhero movies is not guaranteed, and the performance of sequels can vary.The popularity of characters like Baby Yoda and the Minions can drive box office success.The impact of familiar characters and franchises on audience engagement and box office performance.The unpredictability of box office success and the influence of marketing and audience reception on...The Meryl Streep | It's the Pictures 218
In this episode of the It's the Pictures podcast, Max Covill and Evan Crean discuss recent movies, the Cannes Film Festival, and the career of Meryl Streep. They also share their thoughts on 'The Devil Wears Prada' and other films featuring Meryl Streep. The conversation covers a range of topics, including the portrayal of Meryl Streep in 'The Devil Wears Prada,' the impact of body image comments in the film, and a discussion of other Meryl Streep movies such as 'Defending Your Life' and 'Silkwood.' The hosts also share their thoughts on 'Life of Brian' and 'Fast...
1986 That’s Not a Blockbuster: This is a Blockbuster | It's the Pictures 217
Max and Evan first talk about speculation for a sequel to 'Project Hail Mary,' Martin Scorsese's new movie, and the lineup of the Independent Film Festival Boston.Then, they delve into movies celebrating their 40th anniversary in 1986, with a focus on 'Crocodile Dundee' and 'Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home.' The surprising success of 'Crocodile Dundee' is discussed, highlighting its lack of substance and dated humor. The conversation delves into the enduring relevance of 80s movies and the nostalgia and cultural significance of these films, highlighting their lasting impact on audiences and the film industry.
<...
The 98th Academy Awards Recap | It's the Pictures 216
Max and Evan discuss the 98th Oscars, upcoming movie projects, and the sound quality of the broadcast. The hosts discuss the impact of the Oscars on the film industry and share their thoughts on the event's production. The conversation covers a range of topics including the Oscars, specific films, and experiences at Disney World. It also delves into Israeli films featured in the Boston Jewish Film Festival.
Takeaways
Oscars impact industrySound quality issuesBroadcast production challenges Oscars discussionIsraeli films in the Boston Jewish Film FestivalChapters
00:00 Introduction and Post-Oscars Discussion08:24 Kate...The Best Oscars Lineup Ever? | It's the Pictures 215
Max and Evan delve into the 49th Academy Awards, reflecting on the films of 1976, including classics like 'Rocky', 'Taxi Driver', 'Network', and 'All the President's Men'. They discuss the impact of these films, the recent passing of Robert Duvall, and the current state of the entertainment industry, including acquisitions and box office trends. Stay tuned afterwards for a discussion on Predator: Badlands and Excalibur.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the 49th Oscars and Current Events
12:10 Tribute to Robert Duvall and Industry News
14:45 Exploring the 49th Oscar Nominees
23:36 In-Depth Discussion...
Stunts! | It's the Pictures 214
Max and Evan delve into the history and evolution of stunts in film, highlighting iconic stunts from classic movies and the significance of stunt design in cinema. It also explores the influence of stunts on film genres and franchises, shedding light on the underappreciated aspect of filmmaking.
Takeaways
Stunts in film have a rich historyIconic stunts from classic filmsThe evolution of stunts in cinemaThe art of stunts involves risk, dedication, and meticulous planningChapters
00:00 Introduction and Winter Struggles
02:22 Super Bowl Recap and Movie Trailers
05:03 Baldur's...
Thank Goodness for Mel Brooks | It's the Pictures 213
In this episode of It's the Pictures, hosts Max Covill and Evan Crean discuss the life and legacy of Mel Brooks, touching on his impact on comedy and film. They also remember the late Catherine O'Hara, explore Brandon Sanderson's new deal with Apple TV+, and reflect on the significance of Brooks' work, including films like Blazing Saddles and Spaceballs. The conversation highlights the timelessness of Brooks' humor and the influence he has had on generations of comedians.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Snowmageddon
02:58 Super Bowl Excitement and Grammy Thoughts
05:45 Tribute to...
2026 Most Anticipated Movies | It's the Pictures 212
Max and Evan discuss their most anticipated films of 2026, Kathleen Kennedy's departure from Lucasfilm, Oscar nominations and awards season, and more. The conversation covers a wide range of film genres and upcoming releases, including horror, thrillers, prestige movies, and highly anticipated films. It also includes film reviews of '28 Years Later: The Bone Temple', 'Oldboy', and 'Shrek'.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Football Banter05:13 Kathleen Kennedy's Legacy and Future Projects37:21 Horror and Thrillers43:17 Prestige Movie: Wild Horse Nine49:34 Wild Card Films: 'The Bride' and 'I Want Your Sex'56:04 Most Anticipated Films: 'Disclosure Day' and 'Mother Mary'01:04:04...One Banger After Another | It's the Pictures 211
In this episode of It's the Pictures podcast, hosts Max Covill and Evan Crean discuss the films of Rob Reiner, their holiday movie acquisitions, and the current film awards season. They reflect on their favorite films, including classics and recent releases, while also sharing insights on television highlights from the past year. The conversation transitions into a tribute to Rob Reiner's iconic films, followed by a review of recent movies they've watched and their anticipation for upcoming releases in 2026.
The Best Blu-ray and 4K UHD of 2025 | It's the Pictures 210
Max details some of the best Blu-ray and 4K UHD releases of 2025. Titles include Eyes Wide Shut, Dollars Trilogy, Tron, Dark City, and more.
The Best Movies of 2025 | It's the Pictures 209
In this episode, hosts Evan and Max discuss the monumental acquisition of Warner Bros. by Netflix, the implications for the film industry, and the excitement surrounding the re-release of Star Wars. They also reflect on their top films of 2025, sharing insight into movies like Sinners, One Battle After Another, Marty Supreme, Weapons, and more.
Chapters
00:00 The Netflix-Warner Bros. Acquisition Shock
11:36 The Excitement of Star Wars' Return
23:39 Top Films of 2025: A Year in Review
01:04:14 Looking Ahead: Anticipated Films and Final Thoughts
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Get Your Knives Out for Thanksgiving | It's the Pictures 208
In this episode of the It's the Pictures podcast, Max Covill and Evan Crean discuss the three movies in the Knives Out franchise. Before that they discuss Muppets Knives Out, Poker Face cancelation, and Warner Bros for sale.
The feature this week is a discussion on Knives Out, Glass Onion, and Wake Up Dead Man. Stay tuned afterwards for some thoughts on A House of Dynamite, If I Had Legs I'd Kick You, and the Apple TV+ series Down Cemetery Road.
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Yorgos Lanthimos and Emma Stone with Amelia Emberwing | It's the Pictures 207
In this episode of the It's the Pictures podcast, Max Covill is joined by guest Amelia Emberwing to delve into the collaborations between director Yorgos Lanthimos and actress Emma Stone. Before that they discuss The Mummy 4 news, Chloe Zhao and Manga adaptations, and a new Miss Piggy movie.
They explore the films, including 'The Favourite' and 'Poor Things', discussing themes, performances, and the unique storytelling styles of Lanthimos. The conversation also touches on the recent films 'Kinds of Kindness' and 'Bugonia', analyzing their narratives and the implications of their endings.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to th...
Keanu Reeves Filmography with Andrew Crump | It's the Pictures 206
Max and Evan are joined by Journalist and BOFCA member, Andrew Crump. First, they discuss Jane Schoenbrun's new adaptation of Black Hole and Stranger Things. Then, Keanu Reeves movies, minus John Wick and The Matrix. Stay tuned after the credits for What You've Been Watching, as the guys discuss HIM, John Woo movies, and Little Amelie.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
03:58 Discussion on Jane Schoenbrun's Upcoming Projects
09:39 Stranger Things and Its Cultural Impact
17:30 Keanu Reeves: A Look at His Filmography
27:14 Exploring Keanu's Lesser-Known Films
35:11 Keanu's Acting Style and Public Persona
John Candy and I Like Me | It's the Pictures 205
Max and Evan discuss the filmography of John Candy in honor of the new documentary, I Like Me, now airing on Amazon Prime Video. First, they discuss the late Diane Keaton and the mark she left on cinema. Then, they talk about new movies in the Ocean's 11 franchise, a Sigourney Weaver Alien return, and a national rollout of Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair. Stay tuned after the credits for What You've Been Watching, as the guys discuss Tron: Ares and Weapons.
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Paul Thomas Anderson Redux and One Battle After Another | It's the Pictures 204
Max and Evan discuss the filmography of Paul Thomas Anderson. Before they go from Hard Eight to One Battle After Another, they talk about the latest in film and television. Jimmy Kimmel is back on air, a new Spaceballs 2 photo emerges, and The Social Network is getting a sequel.
Hard Eight (1996)Boogie Nights (1997)Magnolia (1999) Punch-Drunk Love (2002)There Will Be Blood (2007)The Master (2012)Inherent Vice (2014)Phantom Thread (2017)Licorice Pizza (2021)One Battle After Another (2025)Website:
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TIFF 2025 Wrap Up | It's the Pictures 203
Max shares his thoughts on some of the other movies he saw during the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF 2025). Before that the news of Robert Redford's passing, raves for Paul Thomas Anderson's One Battle After Another, Jimmy Kimmel put "on hold," and the TIFF's People's Choice Winner. Stay tuned afterwards for the additional coverage out of the Venice Film Festival. Movies covered include:
The Testament of Ann LeeBad ApplesWake Up Dead ManRental familyArcoLove+WarEPiC: Elvis Presley in ConcertThe Secret AgentHamnetFrankensteinThe Smashing MachineNewport and the Great Folk DreamWebsite:
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Bonus: TIFF 2025 Part 1
Max shares reviews from the Toronto International Film Festival 2025.
Included in this episode:
Sentimental Value
It Was Just an Accident
A Private Life
The Last Viking
Nirvanna, The Band, The Show, The Movie
No Other Choice
The Choral
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Preshow TIFF 2025 | It's the Pictures 202
Max shares some news ahead of TIFF 2025. Listen to some of the first reviews out of Telluride and Venice.
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Opening: "The Fire" by Dan_Mantau (c) 2022 - http://ccmixter.org/files/Dan_Mantau/64603 Licensed under
Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial (3.0)
Closing: Pixie Pixels (featuring Kara Square) by spinningmerkaba (c) cop...
2025 Fall Movie Preview | It's the Pictures 201
Max and Evan discuss the Fall Movie season, mentioning some of their most anticipated films for the rest of 2025. A lot of emphasis is on films playing at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and the Venice Film Festival. Stay tuned afterward for thoughts on Weapons and The Luckiest Man in America.
Max
It Was Just An Accident No Other ChoiceFrankensteinSentimental ValueHamnetThe Wizard of the Kremlin
Evan
Dust BunnyJohn Candy: I Like MeJay KellyWake Up Dead ManRental FamilyHouse of DynamiteWebsite:
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Hayao Miyazaki with Toussaint Egan | It's the Pictures 200
Max and Evan are joined by guest Toussaint Egan to discuss the post-2000s output from the director Hayao Miyazaki. Before they dive into movies like Spirited Away, The Boy and the Heron, and Howl's Moving Castle, they discuss some of the latest film news. Then comes the finale of the Summer Box Office game. Stay tuned afterward for thoughts on the new movies like The Naked Gun and a lot more. Check out episode 191 of the It's the Pictures podcast if you want more Hayao Miyazaki coverage. #hayaomiyazaki #studioghibli
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...199: Adam Sandler Comedies
Max and Evan discuss the early Adam Sandler comedies. Before they dive into movies like Happy Gilmore, Billy Madison, and The Wedding Singer, they discuss some of the latest film news. First, some thoughts on the Emmy nominations. Then, talking about some films added to TIFF 2025, the 50th festival. Finally, an update on the box office game as the last movie, Fantastic Four: First Steps, heads to theaters. Stay tuned afterward for thoughts on the new I Know What You Did Last Summer, KPop Demon Hunters, and Superman.
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i...
198: The One True Superman
Max and Evan discuss the Christopher Reeve Superman movies. Before they dive into Superman, Superman II, and Superman III, they discuss some of the latest film news. First, an acknowledgement of the NYT top 100 of the 21st century poll. Then, a director has been hired for James Bond and an update on the Summer Box Office Game. Stay tuned afterward for a review of Jurassic World Rebirth and more.
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Li...
197: Summer Reviews on 28 Years Later, The Life of Chuck, and more
Max does a solo episode as he talks about the latest news in the film industry, the summer box office game, and reviews some recent theater releases in 28 Years Later and The Life of Chuck.
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Opening: "The Fire" by Dan_Mantau (c) 2022 - http://ccmixter.org/files/Dan_Mantau/64603 Licensed under
<...196: Celebrating JAWS 50th with Odie Henderson
Film Critic Odie Henderson joins Max and Evan to discuss the 50th anniversary of JAWS. The landmark film continues to excite filmgoers even all these years later. The episode also includes discussions on Mission: Impossible, Sinners, and reviews of Pee-Wee as Himself and Ballerina.
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Opening: "The Fire" by Dan_Mantau (c) 2022 - h...
195: John Wick Series "Yeah, I'm thinking I'm back"
Max and Evan discuss the John Wick series of films on this week's episode. Using the recently released documentary "Wick is Pain" and the upcoming spin-off "Ballerina" as a jumping-off point, the guys share some of their favorite parts of the John Wick series. Before the feature, they talk about the winners of the Cannes Film Festival, some embargo controversy and more. Stay tuned afterwards for thoughts on the Harrison Ford classic, Witness, and the new feature, Jane Austen Wrecked My Life.
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194: Sci-Fi / Horror Tropes with Deirdre Crimmins
Max and Evan are joined by horror afectionado and journalist Deirdre Crimmins to discuss tropes in Horror / Sci-fi. Before starting the episode, there's some brief discussion on GTA VI and some upcoming movies from James Grey and Jane Schoenbrun. Then the conversation turns to the featured topic with a discussion of some of the more common tropes in Sci-Fi / Horror. Finally, stay turned afterwards for a brief review of Marvel's Thunderbolts*
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