Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights

In this episode of  *Movies First*,  Chris and Jessica dissect the ambitious yet flawed romantic film * A Big, Bold, Beautiful Journey * starring Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell. Despite the star power and a hefty $40 million budget, the film struggles to deliver on its emotional promises, leaving audiences feeling detached and underwhelmed. Listeners will be intrigued by the hosts' analysis of th...

In this episode of  *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica explore the captivating animated heist film * The Bad Guys 2 *, a sequel that delves into the messy realities of redemption through the lens of charming anthropomorphic characters. As former criminals navigate the challenges of rebuilding their lives, the film cleverly balances serious themes with family-friendly humor, making it a standout in...

In this episode of  *Movies First*, the Chris and Jessica dive deep into the unconventional relationship drama * Splitsville *, where a fatal car crash serves as the catalyst for a series of unexpected confessions and bizarre friendships. With Kyle Marvin's portrayal of Carrie, a man grappling with the disintegration of his seemingly perfect marriage, the film challenges traditional narratives aro...

In this episode of  *Movies First*, Alex First takes listeners on an extraordinary journey through the stunning IMAX documentary * Australia 3D: The Wild Continent *. Spanning five years and covering an awe-inspiring 50,000 kilometres, this 38-minute feature offers an unparalleled glimpse into the diverse ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes of Australia. The host discusses the film's impressive...

In this episode of  *Movies First*, Alex First dives into the heartwarming Australian film * Kangaroo *, a compelling tale inspired by the true story of Chris Brolga Barnes. Starring Ryan Corr as Chris Masterman, a Sydney weather presenter whose career takes a nosedive after a botched segment, the film explores themes of redemption and personal growth as Chris finds himself in the remote town of S...

In this heartfelt episode of  *Movies First*, Chris pays tribute to the legendary Diane Keaton, whose passing has left an undeniable void in the world of cinema. With a career spanning decades, Keaton was not just an actress; she was a muse, a style icon, and a powerhouse whose talent and charisma captivated audiences worldwide. Chis reflects on her early life in Santa Monica, California, and the...

In this episode of  *Movies First*,  Chris and Jessica embark on a thrilling exploration of * Honey Dont *, a groundbreaking film that reimagines the classic film noir genre through a modern lesbian lens. The hosts delve into Margaret Qualley's captivating portrayal of Honey O'Donohue, whose journey through the sun-soaked streets of Bakersfield is steeped in complex family dynamics and trauma. The...

In this episode of  *Movies First*,  Chris and Jessica explore the chilling depths of the latest installment in the * Conjuring * franchise, * The Conjuring: Last Rites *. This ninth film not only continues the series' legacy of supernatural horror but also delves into profound themes of family, faith, and generational trauma. The hosts discuss how the film artfully intertwines the haunting saga o...

In this episode of  *Movies First*,  Chris and Jessica explore the sharp and witty world of * The Roses *, a dark comedy that reinterprets the age-old adage "all's fair in love and war." With powerhouse performances from Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch, the film takes a modern spin on the classic War of the Roses narrative, diving into the complexities of career dynamics and power shifts wi...

In this episode of  *Movies First*,  Chris and Jessica delve into the haunting narrative of * Weapons *, a chilling exploration of a school tragedy where 17 children vanish without a trace at precisely 2:17 AM, leaving only one classmate behind. The hosts discuss the film's unsettling atmosphere, expertly crafted by director Zach Cregger, who transforms ordinary elements into a visual language of...

In this episode of  *Movies First*,  Chris and Jessica dive into the groundbreaking independent film * Sorry Baby *, a debut feature that defies the typical labels often associated with indie cinema. Directed, written, and starring Eva Victor, the film follows Agnes, a character navigating life in a quiet university town, and is structured in clever chapters that seamlessly blend the present with...

In this episode of  *Movies First*, Chris and his co-host Jessica, dive into the wildly unpredictable world of Darren Aronofsky's latest thriller, * Caught Stealing *. What begins as a seemingly innocuous favor—watching a cat—quickly escalates into a chaotic whirlwind involving Russian mobsters and religious zealots, all while maintaining an unexpected charm. Chris highlights Justin Butler's stand...

In this episode of  *Movies First*, Chris and his co-host Jessica, dive into the thought-provoking film * Eddington *, a haunting exploration of modern America set against the backdrop of a small New Mexico border town during the COVID pandemic. The narrative follows Sheriff Joe Chris, played by Joaquin Phoenix, who begins as a skeptical figure questioning mask mandates in a town untouched by the...

In this episode of  *Movies First*,  we dive into the adrenaline-pumping world of the action thriller * Fight or Flight *, where the claustrophobic confines of an airplane become the backdrop for a gripping tale of betrayal and survival. The film kicks off with a heart-racing sequence that sets the stage for chaos, before rewinding to reveal how a botched operation to capture a mysterious hacker k...

In this episode of  *Movies First*,  Chris and Jessica delve into the unsettling depths of the new psychological horror film * Together *, which takes the concept of human relationships to a chilling extreme. The narrative centers around Tim, a struggling musician, and Millie, a dedicated teacher, whose nearly decade-long relationship becomes a nightmarish exploration of codependency. Chris highli...

In this episode of  *Movies First*, Chris dives into the high-octane sequel * Nobody 2 *, where Bob Odenkirk returns as Hutch Mansell, a suburban father with a tumultuous past. Four years after his explosive showdown with the Russian mob, Hutch finds himself buried under a $30 million debt, navigating a treacherous world of international hits while trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy at hom...

In this episode of  *Movies First*, film critic Alex First delves into the captivating film * The Stolen Painting *, a thought-provoking exploration of the art world’s moral complexities and the shadows of history. The narrative kicks off with Andre Masson, a self-assured Paris auctioneer, portrayed by Alex Lutz, who receives startling news about an Egon Schiele painting found in the hands of Mart...

In this episode of  *Movies First*,  Chris and Jessica dive into the delightful chaos of the new film * Freakier Friday *, a nostalgic yet fresh take on the beloved classic. After 22 years, the original stars, Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan, reunite to explore a reimagined story where not just mother and daughter, but four characters find themselves swapping bodies due to a supernatural twist....

In this episode of  *Movies First*,  Chris and Jessica unravel the intricate layers of the French film * When Fall Is Coming *, a poignant exploration of family secrets and the haunting nature of our past actions. The film, reminiscent of Ingmar Bergman's thematic depth, showcases how unresolved issues can linger like autumn leaves, refusing to fall. Chris delves into the character of Michelle, a...

In this episode of  *Movies First*,  Chris and Jessica explore the gripping thriller * Relay * that unveils the chilling world of corporate whistleblowing and the shadowy figures who negotiate silence. The film presents a thought-provoking narrative that reshapes perceptions of corporate accountability, revealing the intricate web connecting whistleblowers, corporations, and fixers. Chris highligh...

In this episode of  *Movies First*,  Chris and Jessica take a deep dive into the thought-provoking film * The Life of Chuck *, a refreshing take on the apocalypse that focuses on the extraordinary impact of one ordinary man. The film flips traditional storytelling on its head, exploring how the end of the world can feel deeply personal through the lens of mysterious billboards and the life of Chuc...

In this episode of  *Movies First*,  Chris and Jessica delve into the thrilling and comedic world of the film * Bride Hard *, where the chaos of wedding planning collides with the high-stakes realm of international espionage. The film's unique premise features a maid of honor who is also a secret agent, navigating the challenges of both roles with hilarious and heartwarming results. Chris notes th...

In this episode of  *Movies First*,  Chris and Jessica dive into the innovative new film * Fantastic Four: First Steps * that redefines the superhero genre by shifting focus from epic battles to the deeply personal themes of pregnancy and parenthood. Set in a stunning retro-futuristic 1960s universe, the film leaps past the typical origin story, introducing an already beloved team facing unexpecte...

In this episode of  *Movies First*,  Chris and Jessica embark on a poignant exploration of the film * The Friend *, a unique tale that shifts the narrative of grief from human to canine. Centered around a Great Dane named Apollo, who is left to navigate the complexities of loss after his owner’s tragic death, this adaptation from a nameless novel presents a fresh perspective on mourning. Chris hig...

In this episode of  *Movies First*,  Chris and Jessica explore the thrilling revival of the classic horror film * I Know What You Did Last Summer * after a 28-year hiatus. Set against the backdrop of 2025, this reimagined tale delves into how our relationship with secrets has evolved in the age of social media. The expanded cast of five young adults introduces a fresh dynamic, filled with complex...