A fun and accessible podcast that explores philosophical ideas and themes in popular films. Come join the conversation at "Philosophy in Film"!
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Episode 107: The Odyssey This week on Philosophy in Film , the gang sets sail with Christopher Nolan's ambitious retelling of The Odyssey , breathing new life into Homer's timeless epic of monsters, memory, and the long road home. After the fall of Troy, the cunning Odysseus embarks on a perilous journey across unfamiliar seas, where every island, temptation, and trial tests not only his resolve,…
Episode 106: Dogville This week on Philosophy in Film, the gang steps onto the chalk-lined streets of Lars von Trier's provocative 2003 drama, Dogville . When the mysterious Grace arrives seeking refuge from a pair of gangsters, the isolated mountain town reluctantly offers her shelter. But as hospitality gives way to exploitation, kindness slowly curdles into cruelty, revealing just how thin the…
Episode 105 - Back to the Future Great Scott ! This week on Philosophy in Film , the gang travels back in time to 1985 with Robert Zemeckis' beloved sci-fi adventure classic, Back to the Future . When Marty McFly is accidentally sent back to 1955 in a time machine built by the eccentric Doc Brown, he quickly discovers that history is far easier to disrupt than repair. Craig kicks things off,…
Episode 104: Glory Daze This week on Philosophy in Film , the gang cracks open a time capsule with Glory Daze , the scrappy 1995 Gen-X comedy filled with graduation panic, beer-soaked nostalgia, and an early Ben Affleck appearance before the Hollywood spotlight hit. Set over one chaotic night before graduation, the film follows a group of college friends desperately clinging to youth before…
Episode 103: Stand by Me This week on Philosophy in Film , the gang sets out down the tracks with Rob Reiner's beloved coming-of-age classic, Stand by Me . Based on Stephen King's novella The Body , the film follows four boys as they leave in search of a missing body. What begins as childhood curiosity slowly unfolds into a meditation on friendship, memory, and the quiet moment when innocence…
Episode 102: Slap Shot With Special Guest: Megan Craig (Associate Professor of Philosophy and Art, Stony Brook University) The gloves are off this week on Philosophy in Film as the gang faces off with George Roy Hill's bruising classic, Slap Shot! Set in the fading mill town of Charlestown, the film follows player-coach Reggie Dunlop, played by Paul Newman, as he tries to save a failing hockey…
Episode 101: One Battle After Another This week on Philosophy in Film, the gang locks in on Paul Thomas Anderson's sprawling, darkly funny, and relentlessly restless epic, One Battle After Another . Inspired by Thomas Pynchon's Vineland, the film follows Bob, a washed-up former revolutionary played by Leonardo DiCaprio, who's forced back into a life he thought he'd escaped when his daughter…
Episode 100: Miracle on 34th Street Ho ho ho! For our 100th episode, the gang celebrates Philosophy in Film's centenary by stepping into the warm glow of a holiday classic with the original Miracle on 34th Street (1947). This timeless courtroom tale explores whether faith, goodwill, and a touch of magic still have a place in a modern, skeptical world. Craig lights the tree with Producer's Notes…
Episode 99: A House of Dynamite This week, the gang steps into the explosive tension of A House of Dynamite , a modern pressure-cooker thriller where family secrets, fraying loyalties, and a single terrible night threaten to blow everything apart. Craig sounds the alarm and readies for attack with Producer's Notes (9:16), while Alain scorches a few eyebrows with the Beauclair Synopsis (18:44),…
Episode 98: Lean On Me Season 5 marches on as the gang steps into the halls of Eastside High for John G. Avildsen's 1989 drama Lean On Me , where Principal Joe Clark takes on failing systems, fraying hope, and a school on the brink with nothing but a bullhorn, a baseball bat, and a stubborn belief in his students. Craig rings the bell with Producer's Notes (9:52), setting the tone for a spirited…
Episode 97: Weapons Just in time for a Halloween Spooktacular, the gang is back for Season 5 of Philosophy in Film , and the reel's already spinning! First up in the tray: Zach Cregger's eerie ensemble horror Weapons (2025), where seventeen schoolchildren vanish at 2:17 a.m., forcing a town to ask: what if the monster isn't outside, but inside the story? In search of answers, Craig sounds the…
Episode 96: Eddington This week on Philosophy in Film , the gang rides into the dust and disinformation of Ari Aster's 2025 neo-Western Eddington . Set during the upheaval of 2020, the film pits Joaquin Phoenix's stoic, conspiracy-prone sheriff Joe Cross against Pedro Pascal's pragmatic mayor Ted Garcia in a small New Mexico town splintered by mask mandates, social media warfare, and secrets.…
Episode 95: Sinners This week on Philosophy in Film , the gang steps into the blood-soaked confessional of Ryan Coogler's 2025 thriller, Sinners . Nestled in the indie-crime-vampire-redemption-gangster genre, the film follows Eli Morgan, a disgraced pastor-turned-defense attorney, as he's pulled into the moral murk of faith, failure, and a client who might not be entirely human. Craig hacks away…
Episode 94: The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King Our long journey through Middle-earth reaches its end as the gang takes on the towering finale of Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings trilogy: The Return of the King . Craig lights the beacons with Producer's Notes (8:03), rallying the realm for the final leg of our quest. Alain draws his sword for the Beauclair Synopsis (20:22), charting the…
The battle for Middle-earth rages on as Philosophy in Film journeys into The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. This episode delves into the shifting alliances, moral dilemmas, and heroic struggles that define the second chapter of Peter Jackson's legendary trilogy. Craig sounds the Horn of Helm's Deep with Producer's Notes (9:02), while Alain embarks on a perilous march through Synopsis Pass…
The gang at Philosophy in Film embarks on a wild ride with Sean Baker's Palme d'Or-winning dark comedy, Anora . This episode explores the intricate narrative of Anora Mikheeva, a Brooklyn-based sex worker portrayed by Mikey Madison, whose impulsive marriage to Vanya Zakharov, the son of a Russian oligarch, leads to unforeseen challenges when his family intervenes. Craig reveals his impulsivity as…
Embark on an epic journey with the gang as we delve into Peter Jackson's cinematic masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring . With the fate of Middle-earth resting on a perilous quest, the crew unites to explore the deep lore, unforgettable characters, and weighty themes that set this legendary saga in motion. Taking his farthest step outside the Shire, Craig sets us on the…
This week on Philosophy in Film, we light up the holiday season with the 1990 holiday classic, Home Alone ! Directed by Chris Columbus and written by John Hughes, this iconic family comedy follows Kevin McCallister, a pint-sized troublemaker accidentally left behind when his family heads to Paris for Christmas. As Kevin defends his home from two bumbling burglars, Harry and Marv, he discovers not…
Episode 88: Alien: Romulus Shaking up the release schedule with Episode 88 of Philosophy in Film, the gang boards the hauntingly dark Alien: Romulus, the latest installment in the storied sci-fi horror franchise. Returning to the series' roots, this new chapter explores themes of survival, creation, and the horrifying unknown. Craig starts the countdown with Producer's Notes (6:54), setting the…
Episode 89: Pump Up The Volume This week on Philosophy in Film, the gang cranks up the dial with the 1990 cult classic Pump Up The Volume. Starring Christian Slater as the enigmatic pirate radio DJ Hard Harry, this film delves into themes of rebellion, teenage angst, and the power of uncensored self-expression. From the airwaves of suburban Arizona to the philosophical crossroads of free speech…
Episode 87: The Cabin in the Woods In Episode 87, the Philosophy in Film Podcast descends into the horror-comedy labyrinth of The Cabin in the Woods (2012), where slasher tropes and cosmic horror are delightfully turned inside out. Craig breaks out his sales tactics in Producer's Notes (8:34), setting the stage for Alain to deliver a chilling Beauclair Synopsis (21:08), diving into the intricate…
In our 86th episode, the gang is joined by Dr. Steven Brence as we travel back to the smoky cafes and shadowy alleyways of wartime Morocco with the cinematic classic " Casablanca ." This beloved film follows the story of Rick Blaine, an American expatriate who must choose between his love for Ilsa Lund and helping her husband, Victor Laszlo, escape the clutches of the Nazis. The episode begins…
For the 85th episode of the Philosophy in Film Podcast, the gang ventures deep into the sands of Arrakis with Denis Villeneuve's highly anticipated "Dune: Part 2." This sci-fi epic continues the journey of Paul Atreides as he unites with Chani and the Fremen to fight against the oppressive forces threatening their world. As the spice must flow, so must our philosophical musings! Craig navigates…
Episode 84: Anatomy of a Fall For the 84th episode of Philosophy in Film Podcast, the gang lays down the gavel on Justine Triet's 2023 Palme d'Or-winning film, "Anatomy of a Fall." This gripping legal drama follows a writer accused of her husband's murder as she navigates the complexities of truth and perception. Join us as we interrogate the evidence and cross-examine the narrative with segments…
Episode 83: Fight Club This week on Philosophy in Film, the gang grapples with the anarchic world of David Fincher's Fight Club . Starring Edward Norton, Brad Pitt, and Helena Bonham Carter, this cult classic delves into themes of consumerism, identity, and rebellion as it follows an insomniac office worker and a devil-may-care soap maker as they form an underground fight club that evolves into…
Wake up. This week, the gang ventures down the rabbit hole of 2001's cult classic sci-fi thriller, Donnie Darko. Set in 1988, this film explores the interconnected relationships between characters while searching for the underlying truths that bind everything together, for better or for worse. Craig guides the way first with the hare-raising Producer's Notes (6:23), then Alain chooses to sit next…
For this week's episode, the gang marvels at the magnificence of The Grand Budapest Hotel . With an all-star cast of both fresh and familiar faces, this charming Wes Anderson film stars Ralph Fiennes as the concierge of a first-class resort hotel in the 1930s. The story unfolds after the mysterious death of one of the patrons and M. Gustave (Fiennes) finds himself as the primary suspect in this…
Episode 80: Roadhouse This week, the gang takes a trip back to the glory of 1980s cinema with the high-octane feature Roadhouse ! Starring Patrick Swayze as the Ph.D.-educated bouncer, the gang discusses their shared similarities with our hero, exploring the relatable parallels in their professional experiences as Craig begins the brawl with Producer's Notes (6:37). Alain then fights his way…
Episode 79: Oppenheimer This week on Philosophy in Film, the gang takes on Christopher Nolan's explosive biographical thriller, Oppenheimer. With an all-star cast including Cillian Murphy, Florence Pugh, Robert Downey Jr., and many others, this film explores the life and dilemma surrounding physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer and his contributions to the Manhattan Project, along with the consequences…
Just in time for Valentine's Day, the gang at Philosophy in Film explores love and the afterlife in 1990's surprise Box Office smash, Ghost , starring Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, Tony Goldwyn, and Whoopi Goldberg. Tag along this journey of treachery and self-discovery beginning with Producer's Notes (5:40), then Alain gives his patented Beauclair Synopsis (13:46). Next, Craig takes us down the…
Philosophy in Film brings in the new year with Netflix's 2023 thriller Leave the World Behind . Directed by Mr. Robot 's Sam Esmail and based on the 2020 novel by Rumaan Alam, the gang prepares for cataclysmic crisis by cracking this week's featured beer, starting with Producer's Notes (8:40) and the Beauclair Synopsis (21:09), heading down the Philosopher's Corner (37:08), diving deep into the…
In this heartwarming episode, we unravel the magic of "Love, Actually" (2003), a romantic masterpiece directed by Richard Curtis. Producer's Notes (7:05) set the scene, with insights into the Bonnie Doon moments that shape the Christmas narrative. The Beauclair Synopsis (19:45) delicately weaves the intertwined lives, creating a tapestry of romance and holiday spirit that even the Grinch would…
In this introspective episode, we delve into "Into the Wild" (2007), a cinematic journey directed by Sean Penn. Producer's Notes (6:30) kick off our exploration, providing unique insights into local interests and the film's creation. The Beauclair Synopsis (21:15) paints a vivid picture of the transcendental experience, where simplicity and a return to nature shape the narrative. Philosopher's…
In this riveting episode, we dissect "Final Destination" (2000), a mind-bending creation by director James Wong. Producer's Notes (8:40) kick off our exploration, revealing Rube Goldberg-like behind-the-scenes details. The Beauclair Synopsis (20:50) paints a thrilling narrative, entwining fate, and the enigmatic concept of living forever vs. death's malevolent designs. Philosopher's Corner (37:51)…
Episode 73 of Philosphy in Film marks the start of Season 4! In this episode, we explore Straight Story (1999), a cinematic gem by director David Lynch. We start with intriguing insights behind the scenes with Producer's Notes ( 8:15 ). Next, we meander and weave through the Beauclair Synopsis ( 19:15 ) from start to finish. Philosopher's Corner (23:55) delves into profound themes, inviting…
Philosophy in Film wraps up our 3rd season in style with this very special episode featuring the summer smash hit: Barbie! In this episode, the gang dives into their old toy chest to delve into the decades-popular toy as she hits the big screen. Driven by an all-star cast, Barbie brings with her a passionate discourse amongst film-goers, as well as an unexpectedly meaningful philosophical glimpse…
What…we've got here is…Episode 71 of Philosophy in Film! Returning with 1967's touchstone classic: 'Cool Hand Luke', guided by the Oscar-winning performances of Paul Newman and George Kennedy, the gang digs away at the highly decorated prison film for philosophical discussion. With the help of special guest Megan Craig ( Associate Professor of Philosophy and Art, Stony Brook University ), the gang…
The 70th installment of Philosophy in Film features our heroes traveling back to 1936, with Steven Speilberg's blockbuster 1981 film: Indiana Jones & The Raiders of the Lost Ark! With the beloved archeologist at their side, the gang embarks on a quest to find philosophical meaning behind one of the most storied franchises in cinema history, driven by segments like Producer's Notes (5:45), the…
For the 69th episode of Philosophy In Film Podcast, the gang takes a swing at M. Night Shyamalan's 2002 sci-fi horror, 'Signs'. This week, we explore the dark phenomenons of the podcast, including Producers' Notes (10:39), the Beauclair Synopsis (25:19), Philosopher's Corner (36:35), the Round Table Discussion (45:32), crop-circling back to Reviews (91:12), and heading down the stretch with…
This week in episode 68 of Philosophy In Film Podcast, the gang dines on the thrilling comedy horror, 'The Menu'. Once again, we feast our way through all your favorite and less favorite courses of the podcast, including Producers' Notes (5:56), the Beauclair Synopsis (26:17), Philosopher's Corner (46:06), the Round Table Discussion (65:00ish), and, of course, the #Mailbag (116:24). As always, we…
Episode 67 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast looks at the titular Pixar classic, 'Wall-E'. Once again, we work our way through all your favorite and less favorite segments of the podcast, including Producers' Notes (7:58), the Beauclair Synopsis (17:48), Philosopher's Corner (29:31), the Round Table Discussion (39:23), and, of course, the #Mailbag (92:51). As always, we engage in a discussion of…
Episode 66 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast looks at the satire-drama 'Triangle of Sadness'. As always, we work through all the familiar aspects of the show, including Producers' Notes (6:15), the Beauclair Synopsis (20:16), Philosopher's Corner (34:36), the Round Table Discussion (42:54), and, of course, the #Mailbag (1:35:44). As always, we try to fit in a discussion of all the philosophical…
Episode 65 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast looks at the highly anticipated Avatar 2, and also hockey cards. As is our way, we work through all the familiar aspects of the show, including Producers' Notes (6:14), the Beauclair Synopsis (19:00), Philosopher's Corner (38:42), the Round Table Discussion (48:20), and, of course, the #Mailbag (1:46:33). As always, we try to fit in a discussion of all…
Our annual Christmas special, episode 64 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast is a look at "A Charlie Brown Christmas". We cover all the old familiar aspects of the show, including Producers' Notes (7:09), the Beauclair Synopsis (16:03), Philosopher's Corner (27:14), the Round Table Discussion (36:14), and a bulkier than normal edition of the yuletide #Mailbag (97:05). As always, we try to fit in a…
Episode 63 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast features esteemed guest Philosopher, Joe Saunders, as we look back at Paul Thomas Anderson's "Inherent Vice)". While Craig embraces the spirit of the movie and slowly retreats into his own mind, we cover all the familiar segments, including Producers' Notes (7:59), the Beauclair Synopsis (16:42), Philosopher's Corner (25:59), and a Round Table…
Episode 62 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast features the German film "All Quiet on the Western Front (2022)" based on the 1929 novel of the same name. As is always the case, we make our way through Producers' Notes (5:47), the Beauclair Synopsis (16:36), Philosopher's Corner (36:15), and a Round Table Discussion (49:11), where as always, we discuss the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects…
Episode 61 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast features the blockbuster 2022 sequel "Top Gun: Maverick". With the Producer doing his best impersonation of an old man yelling at the clouds throughout, this episode follows the familiar itinerary with Producers' Notes, the Beauclair Synopsis, Philosopher's Corner, and a Round Table Discussion, where as always, we discuss the philosophical and…
2022 Halloween Special: Episode 60 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast features the 2021 sequel to the classic horror-thriller "Candyman" directed by Nia DaCosta. After a relentless campaign by some of our most dedicated listeners, we finally take on the Candyman franchise... This episode includes Producers' Notes (6:08), the Beauclair Synopsis (22:14), Philosopher's Corner (aka: The Corner) (40:22)…
Episode 59 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast features the 1993 American Western "Tombstone". While we struggle to keep things on the tracks for this one, all of the regular segments somehow make it into the episode, including Producers' Notes (7:21), the Beauclair Synopsis (18:48), Philosopher's Corner (46:41) and the Round Table Discussion (53:25), where we, as always, discuss the philosophical…
Somewhere deep within the multiverse, this episode was released on time... Episode 58 of the Philosophy In Film Podcast features the 2022 absurdist science fiction comedy drama "Everything Everywhere All At Once". This episode includes all of the regular segments you've come to expect here, including Producers' Notes (8:20), the Beauclair Synopsis (24:41), Philosopher's Corner (37:01) and the…
