Navigating Narrative

If you love stories, you're going to have to engage with myths. That's partly because some of the greatest stories ever told are myths, partly because countless authors have been inspired by ancient myths, and partly because they pop up all over pop culture. In this episode, Daeus and Kate bring on special guest Josiah DeGraaf to talk about... . How myths are NOT just made up, but actually based i...

For many men, Mel Gibson's portrayal of William Wallace in Braveheart is a heroic role model. But while this character is properly inspiring in some ways, overall he actually completely betrays the ideals of a hero set up in the story's first act. In this episode, Daeus and Kate argue that Braveheart is wish fulfillment propaganda for dudes. We cover... . How the death of Wallace's wife caused him...

This episode is just incredible. (Sorry, I had to.) The Incredibles is one of the greatest movies from the golden age of Pixar. Not only is the pacing, action, and humor spot on, but the story still has a lot to teach men (and women!) today. In this episode, Kate and Daeus talk about the common cultural narrative for men that the successful man is independent, suave, non-cooperative and non-vulner...

Disney's Frozen is perhaps the single best movie to start with if you want to learn how to analyze stories. The themes are easy to pick up on without being on the nose. It contains both good and questionable messages, and totally aces both. Buckle in as Daeus and Kate cover: . The theme of love vs fear . How "Let it Go" is the ultimate deconstruction story . The symbolism of gloves . How Anna and...

We recently watched the Amazon Prime show, House of David. Boy, do we have thoughts! In this episode, learn: . What is a "twice-told story?" . Why the plot fails so badly . Our thoughts on how Hollywood makes movies/shows . How House of David fails to display evil properly . The cinematography almost made Daeus weep? . Is the Bible Cinematic Universe a bad idea? . And much more! Contact us at navi...