Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica delve into the groundbreaking new Superman film directed by James Gunn, where the iconic hero is reimagined in ways that challenge traditional narratives. The episode kicks off with a jaw-dropping scene of Superman being playfully dragged through the snow by his dog, Krypto, a striking visual that sets a tone of vulnerability rarely seen in supe...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris takes listeners on an inspiring journey through the life of the legendary French actress, * The Divine Sarah Bernhardt *. This dramatized biographical film artfully intertwines historical events with creative storytelling, beginning with the dramatic amputation of Bernhardt's right leg at the age of 70, a consequence of a stage accident. Despite this setbac...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Alex dives deep into the gripping Danish medical drama * Second Victims * (Det andet offer) , a film that confronts the harrowing realities faced by healthcare professionals in high-stakes environments. The narrative follows Alex, a dedicated neurologist played by  Özlem Saglanmak , who is thrust into a chaotic shift marked by critical decisions that will have pr...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica embark on a compelling journey into the world of * The Unholy Trinity *, a film that aims to breathe new life into the Western genre. With only three major Western releases anticipated in 2024, this unique project by Australian filmmakers Lee Zachariah and Richard Grey stands out by drawing parallels between the frontier mythologies of Australia...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris embarks on a thrilling exploration of the latest installment in the iconic franchise, * Jurassic World: Rebirth *. Set five years after *Jurassic World Dominion*, the film introduces a world where dinosaur attractions have lost their luster, and only a small population of prehistoric creatures survives in a remote equatorial region. The hosts delve into the...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Alex First delves into the highly anticipated sequel * 28 Years Later The episode highlights the film's innovative take on the zombie genre, showcasing a diverse array of Infected, from slow, crawling creatures to agile, terrifying foes. Alex discusses the standout antagonist, Sampson, played by Chai Lewis Parry, and the film's bold narrative choices, including a...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica dive into the thrilling sequel * M3GAN 2.0 * that challenges the traditional narrative of artificial intelligence in cinema. Gone are the days of AI solely depicted as a threat; this film intriguingly poses the question: what happens when we need a killer AI to combat another? The hosts explore how the sequel builds upon the original's premise,...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica rev up their engines as they dive into the exhilarating world of * Formula 1: The Movie *, a film that uniquely captures the essence of high-stakes racing by filming during actual F1 events. The hosts explore the audacious choice to blend Hollywood drama with the raw authenticity of real races, likening it to shooting a war film amidst an ongoin...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica embark on an insightful journey through the animated film * Elio *, which boldly tackles themes of existential loneliness and the quest for belonging through the eyes of an 11-year-old orphan. Voiced by the talented  Jonas Kibrab , Elio's desperate plea for extraterrestrial intervention serves as a poignant reflection of the profound isolation m...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica delve into the delightful chaos of * Riviera Revenge *, a romantic comedy that uncovers the hidden secrets of long-term relationships. Inspired by a true story, the film follows 75-year-old Francois, a former military man, who stumbles upon love letters in his attic that reveal his wife Annie's decades-old affair with their close friend, Boris....

In this episode of *Movies First*, Alex First dives into the chilling depths of * Dangerous Animals *, an Australian psychological horror film that redefines the shark thriller genre. Drawing inspiration from classics like *Jaws* and *Dead Calm*, this film intricately weaves natural horror with psychological tension, delivering a gripping experience that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats....

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris & Jessica explore the complex world of love and ambition in *Materialists *, a film that delves into the life of Lucy, played by Dakota Johnson , a professional matchmaker who excels in uniting others while struggling to find her own happiness. At 35 and boasting nine successful marriages under her belt, Lucy's obsession with wealth in her personal life...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris & Jessica explore the latest installment in the iconic *Karate Kid* franchise, a film that not only pays homage to its roots but also boldly navigates the complex waters of cultural integration. Since its inception in 1984, the franchise has amassed over $700 million worldwide, and this new chapter might just be its most culturally significant yet. With...

In this episode of *Movies First*, we delve into the inspiring true story depicted in *EL47*, a film that chronicles the life of Manola Vital, a bus driver whose courageous actions transformed Barcelona's public transportation landscape during a tumultuous period in Spanish history. Set against the backdrop of the 1950s and 60s, the film highlights the plight of internal migrants, including Vital...

In this episode of *Movies First*, we dive into the chilling world of *Bring Her Back*, the latest horror feature from the Philippou brothers, Danny and Michael, who captivated audiences with their debut film, *Talk to Me*. Set in their native South Australia, this gripping tale follows the harrowing journey of two siblings, Piper, a nearly blind girl, and her older stepbrother Andy, as they navig...

In this episode of *Movies First*, we dissect the gripping film *Beating Hearts*, a bold reimagining of the classic romantic tragedy that intertwines the themes of love, crime, and class struggle. Set against the backdrop of Northern France from the 1970s to the 1990s, this cinematic journey follows the tumultuous relationship between Jackie, a middle-class girl haunted by her past, and Clotaire,...

In this episode of *Movies First*, we delve into the thought-provoking remake of Disney's beloved classic, *Lilo and Stitch*, exploring its deeper themes of grief and the significance of chosen families in contemporary society. Directed by Dean Fleischer Campbell, known for his Oscar-nominated work on *Marcel the Shell with Shoes On*, this adaptation draws fascinating parallels between its charact...

In this episode of *Movies First*, we explore the intense and thought-provoking Australian psychological thriller, *The Surfer*, featuring a captivating performance by Nicolas Cage as a man seeking to reclaim his past by purchasing his childhood clifftop home. As he grapples with financial struggles and an estranged relationship with his teenage son, portrayed by Finn Little, the narrative delves...

In this episode of *Movies First*, we dive into the transformative narrative of *The Wedding Banquet*, a remake that brilliantly reinterprets Ang Lee's 1993 classic. This film intricately weaves themes of marriage, family, and cultural identity, presenting a fresh perspective on modern relationships amid the complexities of IVF struggles and immigration challenges. The story centers around Jingle...

In this episode of *Movies First*, we dissect the latest installment of the iconic *Mission Impossible* franchise, *The Final Reckoning* , which has grossed over $4 billion across eight films. Despite the thrilling stunts and breathtaking visuals—like Tom Chris soaring in biplanes over South Africa and diving into the depths of the Bering Sea—the film struggles under the weight of a bloated storyl...

In this episode of *Movies First*, we delve into the gripping world of *La cocina*, a film that exposes the hidden realities behind the kitchen doors of our favorite restaurants. The narrative unfolds in a high-pressure environment where missing money, illegal workers, and romantic entanglements create a volatile atmosphere that will make you reconsider your next dining experience. Drawing from hi...

In this episode of *Movies First*, we explore the heartwarming yet poignant film *The Penguin Lessons*, set against the tumultuous backdrop of 1976 Buenos Aires, where a military coup looms ominously. The narrative follows Tom Michelle, played by the charming Steve Coogan, as he navigates his role as a new English teacher at the prestigious St. George's College. The strict headmaster, Timothy Buck...

In this episode of *Movies First*, we delve into the inspiring true story depicted in *The Salt Path*, which follows the extraordinary journey of Rainer and Mothwin as they navigate the depths of despair and emerge with newfound resilience. After losing their home, facing a terminal diagnosis, and suffering financial ruin all within a week, this couple's tale challenges our perceptions of strength...

In this episode of *Movies First*, we dive into Marvel's groundbreaking film *Thunderbolts*, which boldly places mental health at the forefront of its superhero narrative. As we explore the character of Yelena, played by Florence Pugh, we discuss her profound struggles with purposelessness and how this reflects a larger shift in the portrayal of psychological issues in mainstream entertainment. Th...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Alex delves into the captivating biopic *Monsieur Asnavour*, which chronicles the life of the legendary French-Armenian singer-songwriter Charles Aznavour. With a rich musical backdrop featuring both his iconic hits and lesser-known tracks, the film offers an intimate glimpse into Aznavour's journey from a troubled childhood to international stardom. We explore h...