Phoenix Cinema Podcast

In this episode of the Phoenix Cinema Podcast Film Club, we discuss the 1992 film 'Bad Lieutenant' directed by Abel Ferrara.

The conversation delves into the film's challenging themes, including morality, redemption, and the role of religion. Each host shares their initial reactions, with many finding the film difficult to watch due to its graphic content and portrayal of a morally ambiguous protagonist. The discussion also touches on the film's stylistic choices, the performances of the cast, particularly Harvey Keitel, and the overall impact of the film on viewers.

The episode concludes with reflections on the...

Join Chris Austin and Luke Parker on Phoenix Cinema Podcast as they discuss Kathryn Bigelow's latest film, A House Of Dynamite.

The conversation delves into the complexities of defense spending and the inherent risks associated with military technology. It highlights the tension in global politics and the uncertainty of future events, emphasizing the precariousness of the current geopolitical climate.

It's a scary time, folks. And our modern day cinematic landscape is reflecting that back at us. Well worth a watch, now available on Netflix.

If you enjoy what you hear then press that...

Welcome to our very first live episode of the podcast where Chris Austin got the opportunity to meet director Hugh Welchman after a screening of his wonderful LOVING VINCENT, the very first animated fully painted film.

Listen on as Hugh talks about his entry into the world of cinema, his years spent producing many films and winning an Oscar for one of them, to the incredible behind the scenes story of the making of this seminal and unique film and beyond to what's next.

To watch LOVING VINCENT in a venue as beautiful and historic...

In the next episode of Phoenix Cinema Podcast Film Club, Chris Austin and Luke Parker dive into the 2002 Brazilian gangster classic, City Of God.

This is a brutal, brutal movie in so many ways but it's also a classic in every way. Violent, vivid, funny at times, and with a snappy pace that never lets up, this is a vision of the favelas of Rio de Janeiro that made Chris fearful of ever visiting Brazil for a long while. Probably not the best advertisement for a tourist board but thrilling in its honesty and depiction of those...

In this episode of the Phoenix Cinema Podcast, hosts Chris Austin and Luke Parker delve into Tim Mielant's film 'Steve', exploring its themes of mental health, addiction, and the struggles faced by both students and educators in a reform school setting. They discuss the film's emotional impact, character performances, and cinematic techniques, while also comparing it to other films and sharing their final thoughts and recommendations.

We were big fans of the movie 'Small Things Like These' by the same director also starring Cillian Murphy and this continues their fine form together. Here's hoping for more from...

In this episode of the Phoenix Cinema Podcast Film Club, hosts Chris Austin and Luke Parker are joined by Hannah Tavares as they delve into the classic film 'Goodfellas' directed by Martin Scorsese.

They share their personal experiences with the film, discuss its impact on cinema, and analyze the performances of the cast, including Robert De Niro, Ray Liotta, and Joe Pesci. The conversation also touches on the film's soundtrack, cinematography, and the portrayal of female characters, particularly Lorraine Bracco's role. The hosts reflect on the film's legacy and its significance in the gangster genre.

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In this episode of the Phoenix Cinema Podcast, hosts Chris Austin and Luke Parker delve into Paul Thomas Anderson's latest film, 'One Battle After Another.'

They explore the film's intricate plot, character dynamics, and the masterful pacing that keeps audiences engaged throughout its lengthy runtime. The discussion highlights standout performances, particularly from Leonardo DiCaprio and Sean Penn, and examines the film's contemporary relevance and political undertones. The hosts also reflect on the film's cinematography, score, and overall impact, concluding with their personal ratings and thoughts on its potential for awards recognition.

This may well...

In this episode of the Phoenix Cinema Podcast, host Chris Austin interviews musician and artist Hugo Max, who discusses his unique journey as a multi-disciplinary artist.

Hugo shares insights into his upbringing in a musical family, his passion for silent cinema, and the art of live scoring films. He reflects on the significance of improvisation in his performances, particularly with classic films like Nosferatu and The Golem. The conversation explores the themes of expressionism in cinema, the relevance of silent films today, and Hugo's future projects.

Hugo Max will be performing live at Phoenix Cinema...

In this episode of the Phoenix Cinema Podcast, Chris Austin and Luke Parker sit down with Mateusz Pacewicz, the writer and director known for the Academy Award-nominated film Corpus Christi.

They discuss Mateusz's journey from his upbringing in Warsaw to his experiences in the film industry, including the challenges of writing and directing. Mateusz also shares insights into his creative process, the influences that shaped his work, and offers valuable advice for aspiring filmmakers. The conversation highlights the importance of patience, collaboration, and the evolving nature of storytelling in cinema.

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In this episode of the Phoenix Cinema Podcast, host Chris Austin and composer/editor Stefan Krieger welcome composer Johan Söderqvist, known for his work on the games Battlefield One and Battlefield V and various film projects. Johan shares insights into his musical journey, the influence of jazz on his composition style, and the importance of emotional storytelling in music for games. He discusses his family background, the impact of classical training, and his collaborative process with fellow composer Patrik Andrén.

In this engaging conversation, we touch on Johan's upcoming projects and the innovative techniques he em...

In this episode of the Phoenix Cinema Podcast, host Chris Austin and Luke Parker engage in a captivating conversation with composer Evgueni Galperine. They explore his musical upbringing, transition into film music, and the impact of his work on various projects, including the acclaimed series Baby Reindeer and the upcoming film Kraven the Hunter.

Galperine shares insights on the creative process, the significance of awards in cinema, and the timeless nature of art. The discussion highlights the universal language of music and the importance of passion in artistic expression.

If you like what you're hearing...

In this episode of the Phoenix Cinema Podcast, host Chris Austin and Luke Parker engage in a captivating conversation with composer Evgueni Galperine. They explore his musical upbringing, transition into film music, and the impact of his work on various projects, including the acclaimed series Baby Reindeer and the upcoming film Kraven the Hunter.

Galperine shares insights on the creative process, the significance of awards in cinema, and the timeless nature of art. The discussion highlights the universal language of music and the importance of passion in artistic expression.

If you like what you hear...

Welcome to another episode of Phoenix Cinema Podcast! In this episode host Chris Austin, along with guests Zalan Pall and Juliana Sonsin, delve into the Brazilian film 'Central Station' directed by Walter Salles, screened as part of the Phoenix Classics season.

They explore the film's impact on Brazilian cinema, its themes of hope and resilience, and the authenticity of its representation of Rio de Janeiro in the 90s. The discussion also highlights the emotional depth of the characters, particularly the complex relationship between Dora and Josué, and the journey of the young actor who played Josué. The ep...

On this episode of Phoenix Cinema Podcast Film Club, film composer Raphaelle Thibaut (Sea Lions Of The Galapagos) has chosen this week's movie and it is one hell of a movie.

Chris and Luke dive into the 1975 French movie, The Old Gun, directed by Robert Enrico.

They explore the film's gripping narrative centered around a surgeon's quest for vengeance during World War II, discussing its emotional depth, character dynamics, and the impact of its musical score. The conversation highlights the film's anti-war themes, the performances of the cast, and the directorial choices that contribute to...

In this episode of Phoenix Cinema Podcast, Chris and dive into Celine Song's second film, Materialists. We discuss the film's themes of love, class and the predictability of its plot.

We also discuss the lead performances of its main trio of actors and how one of them just seems profoundly miscast.

The conversation also touches on the film's pacing, soundtrack, and the very modern concept of matchmaking while reflecting on our own personal experiences with dating and how self-conscious this film made Chris feel about his height.

All this and more so listen...

In this episode of Phoenix Cinema Podcast, Chris and Luke dive into Milos Forman's 1984 Oscar-winning classic, Amadeus.

They explore the film's rich themes of genius, envy, and ambition, as told through the eyes of composer Antonio Salieri. The conversation covers character performances, cinematic techniques, pacing issues, and the film's historical accuracy. They also discuss the director's legacy, the film's Oscar wins, and how it compares to other films, ultimately pairing 'Amadeus' with other notable works.

If you are able to watch this on a big screen, we highly recommend it!

When you're done...

Welcome to another episode of Phoenix Cinema Film Club! Film writer Larry Taylor (John McTiernan: The Rise And Fall Of An Action Movie Icon, Tony Scott: A Filmmaker On Fire) chose this week's movie Shoot To Kill, also known as Deadly Pursuit in the UK (a title we much prefer).

This 80's action thriller teams Sidney Poitier and Tom Berenger against a deadly killer with a hostage in the mountains of the Pacific Northwest.

It's not a perfect movie but it is so much fun. Listen on and then let us know your thoughts and...

Things start off a little emotional here at the top and if that makes you uncomfortable then this is the perfect movie to discuss.

Tim Robinson and Paul Rudd star in Andrew DeYoung's feature directorial debut, Friendship, about a man suffering through a mid-life crisis who becomes obsessed with his new next door neighbour.

It is awkward, hilarious, sad and confounding at times but truly worth the watch and the discussion. This is highly recommended, so watch the movie and listen to the episode in whatever order you like. (We've tried our best to keep...

Welcome to Phoenix Cinema Podcast Film Club where Phoenix Cinema manager Zalan Pall has chosen Kelly Reichardt's Certain Women, a reflective, emotional and intimate look at a collection of certain, um, women (and men) struggling to connect with each other amid intense loneliness in the vast Montana landscape.

Listen on as we discuss the unique storytelling style of Reichardt, focusing on the emotional depth of the characters and the significance of silence in the film. We also explore the themes of loneliness, isolation and the complexities of female experiences in rural America.

Enjoy the show...

Chris and Luke discuss James Gunn's new take on the iconic character of Superman which also serves as a launch of the new DCU Studios movie slate that Gunn is now overseeing. A lot to take on. But Gunn takes it on admirably in his signature style and we had a lot of fun with this!

Listen on as we discuss what it is that works for us and what maybe doesn't. We understand this movie has divided a lot of opinion but, come on, it's Superman! There's a lot to enjoy here.

Like, rate...

Film writer Larry Taylor joins Chris Austin and Luke Parker on the Phoenix Cinema Podcast to discuss his film books (John Mctiernan: The Rise And Fall Of An Action Movie Icon, Tony Scott: A Filmmaker On Fire). Larry talks about his early love of film and how it led to him writing two books on two influential film directors for him, books that we highly recommend.

Listen on as Chris explains why he initially hid Larry's book in the bookstore when he came across it and also for what's coming next!

John Mctiernan: The Rise...

Episode Four of Phoenix Cinema Podcast Film Club brings us Hannah's pick, Adaptation, a truly zany and ultra meta film written by Charlie Kaufman about Charlie Kaufman and his fictional brother Donald who are struggling with writers block while trying to adapt a book, The Orchid Thief.

The lines between fiction and reality blur massively here but thankfully it's very well written and well directed by Spike Jonze as well as being anchored by a truly terrific cast.

It's a head scratcher but a film well worth the group conversation and what an amazing group...

Chris Austin is joined by composer and editor of the podcast, Stefan Krieger, as well as actor/playwright/friend Will Charlton to discuss the new Joseph Kosinski movie, F1.

We discuss the film's nostalgic qualities reminiscent of classic summer blockbusters, the performances of the cast, particularly Brad Pitt, and the impact of the film's score by Hans Zimmer.

We conclude with our ratings and also choose what movie we would pair alongside this. Get involved in the comments and ratings below and let us know your thoughts and pairings also!

Strap in!

Chris Austin and Luke Parker discuss Danny Boyle's highly anticipated return to the zombie universe he began with 28 Days Later with what may well have been the best movie trailer of the year.

We discuss our expectations for the movie and whether they were met as well as the surprising plot and tonal directions the story takes as well as the set up for future instalments in this wild horror franchise.

Join us for one more venture into the ravaged and terrifying landscape of the Rage Virus.

In this episode of Phoenix Cinema Podcast Film Club, Chris and Luke are joined by Phoenix Cinema manager Zalan to discuss the 1995 film Safe directed by Todd Haynes.

We dive into the film's exploration of environmental illness, psychosomatic issues, and Julianne Moore's identity crisis. We also analyse the ambiguous narrative, the societal commentary on women's health and the film's unsettling tone.

Join us as we travel to the Wrenwood community for some "healing" and listen to the end as we reveal what the next film club pick will be as well as our ratings for...

Chris Austin is joined on Phoenix Cinema Podcast by musician/filmmaker/activist Tim Arnold who discusses his background, his love for Soho, segueing a career from music into storytelling into political activism and also about his new film SUPERCONNECTED which is set to screen as a live performance by Tim Arnold alongside his album at Phoenix Cinema on September 26. Get your tickets now!

Tim was a blast to talk to and his new film is about a subject that is very relevant in our modern day tech society. We could have spoken to him on this subject...

Welcome to Episode 2 of Phoenix Cinema Podcast Film Club where we discuss the sci-fi horror classic Alien (1979).

This is a beloved film and an all time classic for a reason. We dive into the impact this film made on genre films throughout the 80's, the incredible performance of the late Ian Holm (and a personal story from Chris about the time he met him), and why the hell someone would take a cat on board a spaceship with them.

We hope you enjoy!

Chris Austin is joined by his brother who is also the composer and editor of the podcast, Stefan Krieger, to discuss the eighth (and last?) movie in the long-running M:I franchise.

Suffice to say it did not go down well considering this is meant to be the final movie of what has been a mostly inconsistent film series.

But the disappointment of the movie resulted in a really fun conversation as we discuss what didn't work for us and why as well as what does work in this movie and the others in the...

Chris Austin and Luke Parker are joined by French film composer Raphaelle Thibaut on the Phoenix Cinema Podcast to discuss her life and career, most notably the recent Disneynature documentary film, Sea Lions Of The Galapagos, which is truly a stunning musical achievement.

Raphaelle was such a blast to talk to and we hope you enjoy this episode as we continue to talk to the best film composers currently working.

Sea Lions Of The Galapagos is available to watch now on Disney+.

Welcome to Episode 50 (!!) and our first official episode of the Phoenix Cinema Podcast Film Club where Chris and Luke are joined by our favourite guest Ralph D. Apel (Getting LOST) to discuss the final Roger Moore Bond movie, A View To A Kill (1985).

This was a blast to discuss as most Bond movies usually are. Join us as we dive into what (mostly) works as well as a whole lot that doesn't and stay tuned to the end of the episode as Luke reveals what we'll be watching next!

It's time for a new Wes Anderson movie! That means strap in for some amazing production design, a quirky Desplat score, a star-studded cast and Chris and Luke just aren't that into it.

Join us as we discuss why and dig into what makes a Wes Anderson movie work for us and why we'd like to see something different.

Feel free to completely disagree with us but you have to listen first!

The Phoenician Scheme is available to watch in cinemas now.

Our favourite recurring guest Ralph D. Apel rejoins Chris Austin and Luke Parker on the Phoenix Cinema Podcast to discuss his work as a producer on the feature film documentary, Getting LOST which had its UK premiere at Phoenix Cinema in November of 2024.

Ralph is so engaging that it took two episodes to get around to this but the wait was worth it as Ralph reveals how he got involved with the film, his LOST podcast that became so popular Jorge Garcia (Hurley from LOST) would listen to it while making the show, his experience meeting Oscar-winning...

Composer of the podcast, Stefan Krieger, joins Chris and Luke as they discuss Ryan Coogler's latest film, SINNERS, which may be the most entertaining film of the year.

The music by Ludwig Göransson is absolutely fantastic and this is a film that deserves to be seen on the biggest screen possible.

Listen in as we travel to Clarksdale, Mississippi, 1932, for the best juke joint in town!

Chris Austin spoke with Oscar-winning film composer Anne Dudley (The Full Monty) about her music inspirations growing up, the power of collaboration with key filmmakers in her life and also about her upcoming film, SIGNS OF LIFE, that she composed and produced.

Anne was a delight to speak to and has had such a prolific and incredible career composing music for films, TV shows and artists.

Do look out for SIGNS OF LIFE set to be released in the UK by end of the year and check out Anne's incredible discography wherever you get your...

Chris and Luke are joined by our favourite cinema manager, Zalan Pall of Phoenix Cinema, to discuss this Oscar-winner for Best Animated Film, Flow, by Latvian filmmaker Gints Zilbalodis

In a post-apocalyptic world seemingly devoid of humans, animals still cling on to survival and we follow one black cat's journey in particular as it makes its way across a perilous landscape and the community of different creatures it encounters and the relationships they form along the way.

It's a beautiful film in many ways with no dialogue which enhances every other aspect in so many...

Chris and Luke head to a divided Argentina in 1976 for this warm, heartfelt dramedy starring Steve Coogan and a penguin.

The movie may feel forced at times but its heart is in the right place and, again, the penguin, It makes all the difference.

Listen now!

Welcome to a special Film Club episode of Phoenix Cinema Podcast where we dive into the unofficial Bond film, Never Say Never Again, the Thunderball remake starring Sean Connery on his final return to the role!

Ralph D. Apel (Getting LOST) rejoins Chris Austin and Luke Parker and fellow Film Club member Hannah Tavares to dive into this 1983 Irvin Kershner directed film, made to challenge and go head to head with the Roger Moore-starring Octopussy that same year!

This was a fun discussion where we all have our say on the Bond franchise as a...

Fil Freitas is a filmmaker and Duty Manager of the world-famous The Prince Charles Cinema in London and what he's done is he's made a movie called THE REGULARS which is a film set at the PCC and starring the PCC staff (as well as a couple of professional actors) about a day in the life working at the venue and just trying to get through the shift.

Fil was a blast to speak to, clearly so intelligent about film and so generous with his time. This is truly a special achievement and we are so proud...

Veteran film director Barry Levinson teams with veteran producer Irwin Winkler to direct legendary actor Robert De Niro (in dual roles!) in what may very well be De Niro's final say on the gangster genre.

Join Chris and Luke as they dig into this film that has been a box office bomb but is not as bad as the critics have been making it out to be. Your mileage on this one may vary but, hey, you get double De Niro for the price of one!

Film composer Raashi Kulkarni joins Chris and Luke in the PCP studio and reveals her love of music and scoring started at a very early age through to her years spent learning on the job as an assistant composer for hit TV shows to making it on her own and being the sole composer on feature films.

Raashi was an absolute pleasure to talk to and a lesson in what it is to stay humble but incredibly resilient, hard-working and collaborative.

Look out for the upcoming A Nice Indian Boy soon to reach the UK...