Movies & Us

Jen and Sarah review Avengers: Infinity War in this episode of The Strategic Whimsy experiment. They discuss how character driven plots have made the MCU so successful and wonder how Endgame will change everything for fans. And, with more than 20 films in the series, they discuss how many they will be able to watch before the final installment, more than a decade in the making. What did you think...

In this episode of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment, Jen and Sarah review Logan Lucky, Steven Soderbergh’s first feature film after coming out of retirement. The duo discusses the interesting casting choices, the elaborate plot, and the backlash on the internet surrounding this redneck heist film. What did you think of Logan Lucky? Did you think the unique premise made up for the other flaws in the...

In this episode, Jen and Sarah review the highest grossing movie of all time, Avatar. The Strategic Whimsy Experiment duo has mixed reviews of the film but can find commonality in their appreciation of the stunning visuals. They discuss the brilliance of the technology and their thoughts on the many sequels scheduled for release in the coming years. What did you think of Avatar? Did it live up to...

In this episode of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment, Jen and Sarah jump into How to Train Your Dragon. The duo breaks down some of the themes of the movie, including being accepted, the breaking of traditional gender roles, and the importance of empathy. Against the backdrop of having dragons for pets, this animated feature is a treat for kids and adults like! What did you think of How to Train You...

Action, adventure, Indy, oh my! In this episode of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment, Jen and Sarah review Raiders of the Lost Ark. They discuss what sets Indiana Jones apart from other protagonists and the brilliance of the character in a film as fun as this. What did you think of Raiders of the Lost Ark? How does this compare with today’s action and adventure films? Contact us with any questions o...

In this episode of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment, Jen and Sarah, along with a special guest, discuss Marvel’s latest film, Captain Marvel. Together, they delve into the many messages included in the film and the power of film to shed light of difficult topics. With the Marvel Cinematic Universe constantly expanding, and Endgame releasing soon, they talk about Captain Marvel’s place and what they...

On this special bonus episode, Jen and Sarah compare BlacKkKlansman and Green Book. Though they were nominated for many of the same awards, cover similar topics, and are set during similar time periods, there are many differences between the two films. What did you think of BlacKkKlansman? What did you think of Green Book? And what does Green Book’s best picture win say about the state of cinema t...

In this episode of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment, Jen and Sarah discuss Spike Lee’s newest film, BlacKkKlansman. Based on a true story, this powerful film sheds a light on racism, the breaking of barriers, and what it means to be human. What did you think of BlacKkKlansman? Do you think this film is an opportunity to bring people together or split them apart? Contact us with any questions or com...

In this episode of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment, Jen and Sarah tackle the controversy-laden, Best Picture winner, Green Book. Together, with a special guest, they discuss the reaction from Dr. Shirley’s family, the implications of the film’s best picture win, and the multifaceted nature of race. What did you think of Green Book? How do you feel about the depiction of racial reconciliation in fi...

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, some great films were made. In the recent past, in this very galaxy, a less profound movie was made. In this episode of The Strategic Whimsy experiment, Jen and Sarah turn their sights on the 2018 film, Solo. The two discuss whether or not this film should exist, the confusion surrounding its place in the Star Wars canon, and their thoughts about the poss...

In this episode of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment, Jen and Sarah review the 2017 film, Columbus. After discussing it on the Top 10 Films Seen in 2018 episode, the pair watched it and had to review it. Together, they discuss the film’s use of silence, its introspective nature, and how this peaceful film stands apart from most other films today. Have you watched Columbus? Do you ever find yourself...

In this episode of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment, Jen and Sarah dive into the 2016 film, La La Land. Loved by critics and viewers alike, this movie took the nation by storm, but why is that? The pair discuss the musical genre as a whole and the bittersweet reality of pursuing your dreams. What did you think of La La Land? Did it live up to the hype or leave something to be desired? Contact us wi...

Though their friendship is Unbreakable, Jen and Sarah are Split on their opinions about M. Night Shymalan’s newest thriller, Glass. On this episode of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment, they discuss their interpretations of the film and find much common ground. They dive into the problematic nature of sequels, the importance of hope, and how this stacks up against other films today. What did you thi...

In this episode of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment, Jen and Sarah review the 2018 film, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. This innovative animated feature celebrates the artistry of comic books, the importance of family, and the hero in all of us. What did you think of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse? Where does this rank for you among superhero films? Contact us with any questions or comments...

Drum roll, please… In this episode, Jen and Sarah dive into the 2014 film, Whiplash. This daring, rule-breaking film won many awards and left audiences with myriad questions and contrary opinions. These film lovers discuss the film’s commentary on the music scene, the underlying message that greatness requires sacrifice, and, of course, JK Simmons’ amazing performance as Terrance Fletcher, in this...

In this episode of The Strategic Whimsy experiment, Jen and Sarah are joined by Sophie Zhang, a fellow film lover, to discuss Crazy Rich Asians. Their diverse backgrounds lead to a rich conversation about how culture and film intersect and the universal themes that unite us regardless of our differences.

At the beginning of a new year, it’s always fun to reminisce about the year before. In this episode of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment, Jen and Sarah reveal the top 10 movies they saw in 2018. Tune in for a trip down memory lane, full of quirky comedies, introspective dramas, critically-acclaimed gems, and more. Jen’s List: 1. Phantom Thread 2. Brooklyn 3. Her 4. Minding the Gap 5. Searching 6. Am...

In their first episode of 2019, Jen and Sarah roast the 2008 film, Twilight. They discuss this film’s widespread popularity, the ramifications of on-screen relationships, and how responsibility and creativity go hand in hand, in this episode of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment.

Blackmail, infidelity, murder, oh my! In this episode of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment, Jen and Sarah review Dial M For Murder. They discuss Hitchcock’s unique style of filming, the challenge of adapting this story from the stage to film, and the masterful building of tension. Though not one of Hitchcock’s own favorites, the 1954 film is a joy to watch and a directorial delight.

On this episode of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment, Jen and Sarah review Scoop. In this 2006 film, Woody Allen combines his quirky humor, endless neuroses, and an absurd premise to create a piece of strategic whimsy. They compare Scoop with Allen’s other work and discuss how it would be received if released today.

Breaking away from films, Jen and Sarah dive into the first season of AMC’s hit TV show Mad Men on this episode of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment. With such stunning visuals and three-dimensional characters, it’s no wonder this show continues to gain new fans even now, more than ten years after its premiere.

Leaning into the whimsy part of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment, Jen and Sarah review the 2018 film, Tully. Going beyond the film itself, they discuss the power of empathy, the importance of pursuing our dreams, and how vital it is to infuse wonder into our daily lives.

The Strategic Whimsy Experiment is back with a review the star-studded 2016 film, Hail Caesar! In this episode, Jen and Sarah unpack the Coen brothers’ bold choice to blend noir and comedy on the backdrop of Hollywood’s golden age. This colorful movie sparks a deeper conversation about the film industry, the information it shares, and the ideals it holds.

Jen and Sarah roast The Notebook in the fifth episode of The Strategic Whimsy Experiment. Though it is hailed by many as a great love story, they discuss an alternative view and the realities of how film influences how we interact with the world around us.

In episode 4, The Strategic Whimsy Experiment takes on the 2013 film, Her. Jen and Sarah discuss the portrayal of modern-day romance, the importance of color and sound in setting tone, and the current state of AI. Their discussion goes beyond just film and into the implications digital media has on our daily lives.