Send us a text

Ryan Coogler's "Sinners" blends vampire horror with a profound exploration of cultural identity through the lens of a 1930s juke joint under siege by Irish vampires. The film's exceptional cinematography and soul-stirring soundtrack elevate it to our highest-rated movie yet.

• Michael B. Jordan delivers a standout dual performance as twins, creating two distinct characters who share significant screen time
• The film uses aspect ratio changes brilliantly, expanding the screen as the narrative's scope widens
• Score and soundtrack integrate blues and Irish music to tell a story about cultural preservation and amalgamation
• Vampires as Irish immigrants creates a powerful metaphor about historical racial dynamics in America
• The contrasting approaches to cultural blending—sharing versus consuming—forms the core thematic tension
• Cinematography shines particularly during musical sequences where visuals and sound become fully integrated
• Despite some third-act predictability, the film maintains its artistic integrity and emotional impact

Watch Sinners in IMAX if possible for the full intended experience with its expansive visuals and immersive sound design.

Support the show

Send us a text

We dive into the recently released zombie thriller 28 Years Later, exploring its place in the franchise and evaluating what makes it stand out in the horror genre.

• Film serves as both sequel and standalone story accessible to viewers unfamiliar with earlier films
• Strong performances from Aaron Taylor Johnson and Ralph Fiennes anchor the emotional core
• Cinematography blends nostalgic handheld camera work with innovative visual techniques
• Soundtrack creates unexpected emotional resonance, particularly during pivotal scenes
• Story explores coming-of-age themes through a post-apocalyptic lens
• Different types of infected expand the franchise mythology in interesting ways
• Tracksuit-wearing cult hints at fascinating directions for future sequels
• Film makes thoughtful points about death, acceptance, and human nature amid horror
• High rewatch value with many subtle details to discover
• Earns a solid 4 out of 5 rating from High and Dry Podcast

If you enjoyed our review of 28 Years Later, please subscribe to High and Dry Podcast wherever you get your podcasts and let us know what you thought of the movie.

Support the show

Send us a text

Robert Pattinson delivers a masterful dual performance in Bong Joon-ho's Mickey 17, a sci-fi satire that explores identity, expendability, and the dark side of colonial expansion. The film follows a man who is repeatedly cloned and sacrificed for a fledgling colony on an alien planet, ultimately challenging the authoritarian leadership threatening both human settlers and indigenous life.

• Pattinson plays both Mickey 17 and Mickey 18, showcasing distinct personalities despite being clones
• Mark Ruffalo portrays Kenneth Marshall, a Trump-like authoritarian leader complete with red-cap-wearing supporters
• The film features strong performances from Naomi Ackie and Toni Collette in supporting roles
• Bong Joon-ho's direction creates a deliberately muted visual palette that brightens only when characters experience freedom
• The storyline draws clear parallels to contemporary politics while examining the ethics of colonialism
• Originally scheduled for release in 2022, the film faced multiple delays including one following an assassination attempt on Donald Trump

If you enjoyed our review of Mickey 17, please rate and subscribe to High and Dry Podcast wherever you get your podcasts. We'll be back next week with another film breakdown!

Support the show

Send us a text

High n' Dry takes "Nosferatu" and intertwines humor and horror while exploring deeper themes surrounding desire and repression. Through personal anecdotes and critical assessments, the discussion reveals the film's artistic merit and how it resonates with contemporary issues in vampire storytelling.

• Examination of cinematic techniques and symbolism
• Personal stories linking to key film elements
• Discussion of character arcs, particularly Dafoe
• Analysis of the film's place in modern vampiric narratives
• Exploration of community engagement and shared experiences

Support the show

Send us a text

Is "Die Hard" the ultimate Christmas movie, or is it just an action-packed romp with a holiday backdrop? Join us this Christmas Eve as we sip on Knob Creek bourbon and indulge in some Black Friday cannabis deals, while tackling this age-old debate with our signature high and dry flair. We reminisce about the 80s, fondly recalling TV classics and new panel shows featuring Michael Ian Black, before diving into our structured three-part method to dissect "Die Hard." From assessing the film's quality, to exploring its deeper themes, and finally imagining ourselves in the movie, it's a conversation filled with whiskey-fueled insights and spirited debates.

As the conversation unfolds, we don't shy away from the polarizing reception of films like "Avatar," juxtaposing its storytelling with classics like "Dances with Wolves" and discussing the audience's thirst for mature thrillers akin to "The Thomas Crown Affair." We dissect Bruce Willis's everyman appeal and Alan Rickman's villainous charm, sparking debates over his performances in other films like "Dogma" and "Galaxy Quest." A humorous critique of J.K. Rowling's characterization choices in the Harry Potter series adds a whimsical twist to our analysis, while the iconic elements of "Die Hard" — from its dynamic cinematography to its diagenic music choices — keep us hooked.

In the final chapters, we venture into the realm of societal norms, the notion of the ends justifying the means, and the evolution of character dynamics in "Die Hard." We muse over the film's surprising progressiveness, lack of outdated stereotypes, and the complexities of John McClane's relationships. With a speculative twist, we imagine how a new character could shake up the plot, and explore precision in handling dangerous situations, all while humorously reimagining "Die Hard" with fresh perspectives. As we plan our holiday movie lineup, we look forward to "Muppet Christmas Carol" for New Year's, wrapping up our episode with laughter, whiskey, and a nod to the classics.

Support the show

Send us a text

Remember the days when X-Play was the highlight of your gaming universe? Neither do we. We spice things up with tales from our personal lives, recounting our recent lobster diving adventures and the sweaty challenge of surviving without air conditioning. As Halloween looms, we dish out our thoughts on the Silent Hill 2 remake, perfect for setting the spooky mood this season.

Ever wondered what makes a movie worth watching again? We unpack our unique "Luke method of filmology," evaluating films based on acting, cinematography, score, story, and the elusive rewatchability factor. This leads us to a spirited debate on the recent film "The Creator," where we critique its plot holes and underwhelming performances through a comedic lens. We also explore the enigmatic world of vampire films, arguing passionately that none can transcend a meager six out of ten. Sci-fi films aren't safe from our scrutiny either, as we dissect their unrealistic portrayals of futuristic tech and military strategies, all with a healthy dose of humor.

Finally, we dive into the chaotic world of AI depictions and retrofuturistic themes, drawing comparisons to beloved styles like "Fallout" and "The Jetsons." We engage in a whimsical 'what if' scenario, imagining alternate storylines that could have salvaged some of the films we critique. From satirical takes on plot inconsistencies to humorous riffs on character dynamics and military absurdities, this episode delivers laughs and critical insights in equal measure. Whether you're a sci-fi aficionado or just in it for the laughs, there's something here for everyone. So tune in, have a chuckle, and join us as we keep it real in the world of film and gaming nostalgia.

Support the show

Send us a text

What if your presence could change the fate of the "Prometheus" crew? In this electrifying episode of the High and Dry Podcast, we beat the San Diego heat with some boogie boarding and nostalgic chats about the animated classic "Home Movies," brought to life by Brendon Small and H. Jon Benjamin. We also zero in on how humor ages, spotlighting Trevor Noah's self-deprecating wit as a timeless example. Personal updates abound: Ryan narrowly escapes a stress migraine, Luke recharges with a movie outing, and James battles the coastal heat sans air conditioning.

Feel the thrill as we dissect Ridley Scott's "Prometheus" using our unique three-part method. From discussing our choice blends of smokes and drinks to analyzing societal notions of masculinity portrayed in media, our conversation is anything but dry. We evaluate the film within the context of the "Alien" franchise, comparing its impact on audiences from different eras. Luke shares his experience of watching "Prometheus" as his gateway into the "Alien" series, sparking a lively discussion on storytelling and character evolution.

The episode crescendos with an exploration of "Prometheus" themes, from the perils of curiosity to the quest for meaning. We muse on the film's technological predictions and the potential risks of advanced AI. Imagining ourselves in the movie, we humorously ponder how our actions might alter the narrative, and critique the characters' often questionable decisions. Finally, we toast Ridley Scott, lauding his cinematic legacy while offering candid thoughts on his recent works. Don't miss this episode for a fresh, entertaining perspective on a sci-fi classic!

Support the show

Send us a text

Ever found yourself cheering for a hero who’s not so heroic? We kick off this episode of the "High and Dry Podcast" with a toast to confusion and camaraderie, reminiscing about "Greg the Bunny" and how humor has aged over time. Amid the sweltering heatwave stories, we raise our glasses (and joints) to the timeless Western, "Tombstone." Dive into our initial impressions while we indulge in Acapulco Gold, strawberry shortcake resin, and Kentucky straight bourbon. Kurt Russell's mustache? Worth every puff and sip.

Get ready for a no-holds-barred critique of "Tombstone," where we dissect everything from its pacing quirks to its mixed bag of acting performances. Val Kilmer’s Doc Holliday is a standout, while Bill Paxton didn’t quite hit the mark. We weigh in on the film’s traditional score and its impact on the viewing experience. Our unique blend of technical insights and personal takes offers a fresh perspective on this star-studded Western. And let's be honest, sometimes nostalgia gets in the way, but we’re here to keep it real.

As we shift gears, our conversation gets deeper, exploring the romanticization of flawed heroes like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday. The episode wraps up with a sardonic reflection on heroism, morality, and those iconic cowboy stories that have shaped our cultural landscape. From the complexities of regret to the impractical yet legendary imagery of cowboys, we tackle it all with humor and honesty. Tune in for an engaging mix of critique, nostalgia, and thought-provoking discussions that will leave you pondering the true nature of heroism.

Support the show