Episodes

Originally reviewed by Film Critic Alex First In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica delve into the gripping heist thriller *Fuze*—a film that masterfully intertwines a city-wide crisis with a daring bank robbery. Set against the...

Sourced from the original review by critic Alex First. In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica explore the chilling supernatural horror film *Hokum*, a unique blend of psychological tension and folklore set against the eerie backdrop of a...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica take a deep dive into the gripping action thriller *Seven Snipers*, where the traditional sniper narrative is flipped on its head. Instead of being the predator, the sharpshooter becomes the prey, leading to a thrilling exploration of survival and maternal instinct. The film follows Kris "Voodoo Child" Hendricks, portrayed by Radha Mitchell, as she seeks refuge on a remote Australian farm with her teenage daughter, Anya, only to have her past ...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica dive into the gripping drama *The Drama*, featuring powerhouse performances from Robert Pattinson and Zendaya. The film unfolds with Charlie, played by Pattinson, a British Museum director engaged to Ella, portrayed by Zendaya, a bookstore clerk. Their seemingly perfect relationship is put to the test during a casual evening with friends that spirals into a psychological minefield when a game prompts each person to reveal their darkest secrets...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica delve into the thought-provoking adaptation of Albert Camus' classic novel, *The Stranger*, directed by François Ozon. The film presents a unique exploration of existentialism through the eyes of its protagonist, Meursault, played by Benjamin Voisin, who embodies a character unlike any other—one who simply exists without the typical motivations of love, ambition, or anger. Set in 1938 French-controlled Algiers, the narrative begins with Meurs...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica delve into the poignant film *Jean Valjean*, exploring the transformative power of kindness and redemption through the eyes of Jean Valjean, portrayed masterfully by Gregory Getebois. The hosts reflect on the pivotal moment that shifts the trajectory of Valjean's life—a single act of compassion from the Bishop, played by Bernard Kampon, that sets the stage for a profound character journey. Chris and Jessica discuss how the film intricately po...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica plunge into the chaotic world of *They Will Kill You*, a blood-soaked horror action comedy that takes the concept of a hotel to a whole new level—one where it serves as a temple for a Satanic cult. The film kicks off with Asia Reeves, played by the talented Zazie Beetz, and her younger sister Maria fleeing from their abusive father, setting the stage for a tense and emotional ride. After a fateful encounter leads Asia to prison, she emerges a ...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica dissect the ambitious yet chaotic film *A Private Life*, a unique blend of psychological thriller, comedy, and murder mystery that strives to captivate but often confounds. The hosts delve into the intricate premise surrounding psychiatrist Lillian Steiner, played by the talented Jodie Foster, whose life spirals as she grapples with the mysterious death of her patient, Paula. With elements of hypnosis and past life connections thrown into the ...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica dive into the emotionally charged drama *Reminders of Him*, a film that flips the narrative on redemption stories by focusing not just on the seeker of forgiveness, but on those who must decide whether to grant it. The hosts explore the complex journey of Kenna, portrayed by Mikey Monroe, who returns to Laramie, Wyoming after serving seven years for vehicular manslaughter, only to confront the painful legacy of her past. As Kenna grapples wit...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica embark on a thought-provoking journey through the sci-fi film *Project Hail Mary*, where the fate of humanity rests on the shoulders of an unlikely hero—a middle school science teacher. With the sun dying and an alien organism named Petrova threatening Earth, Dr. Ryland Chris, played by Ryan Gosling, finds himself on a mission light years away from home, grappling with the weight of the world and a haunting isolation. The hosts delve into the...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica take a wild plunge into the darkly comedic sci-fi horror film *Cold Storage*, where the most dangerous entity to emerge from space isn't an alien invasion, but a tiny parasitic fungus. The hosts unpack the film's bizarre premise, which begins with the Skylab disaster of 1979, leading to a zombie outbreak caused by a long-dormant fungus hidden beneath a self-storage facility in Kansas. Chris and Jessica highlight the film's unique storytelling...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica delve into the introspective drama *Midwinter Break*, a film that challenges the conventions of storytelling by focusing on the subtle, unspoken moments of love and faith between a retired Irish couple, Stella and Jerry. Set against the backdrop of their trip to Amsterdam, the hosts explore how the film captures the quiet unraveling of their relationship, marked by years of unaddressed issues and emotional distance. The discussion highlights ...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica dive into the delightful animated sports film *GOAT*, which tells the heartwarming story of a small goat with dreams as big as his heart. Set in a vibrant world where Roarball—a thrilling twist on basketball—is dominated by powerful animals like rhinos and polar bears, our protagonist Will Harris faces the ultimate underdog challenge. The hosts discuss how the film cleverly plays with the concept of the "greatest of all time" while delivering ...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica embark on a captivating exploration of Mikey Gyllenhaal's bold reimagining of the classic tale in *The Bride*. This film takes a daring leap by shifting the focus from Frankenstein's monster to his partner, the Bride, while intertwining the life of Mary Shelley in a unique and creative narrative. The hosts delve into the intriguing concept of Mary Shelley as a ghost possessing a young woman named Ida, played brilliantly by Jessie Buckley, who ...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica explore the poignant biographical drama *I Swear*, which tells the compelling story of John Davidson, a Scottish teenager whose life is turned upside down by Tourette's syndrome. Set in 1983, the film begins with John as a promising soccer goalkeeper, filled with potential and dreams, only to be confronted by the sudden onset of debilitating symptoms that leave him isolated and misunderstood. Chris and Jessica discuss the film's powerful depic...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica embark on a wild journey through the outrageous dark comedy *Beckett's Fortune*. The film opens with Beckett Redfellow, portrayed by Glen Powell, facing his imminent execution while recounting his tumultuous life story to a priest. This daring premise sets the stage for a narrative filled with tragedy, ambition, and moral ambiguity. The hosts delve into Beckett's complex relationship with his mother, Mary, whose heartbreaking decisions shape h...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica delve into the poignant exploration of relationships in Bradley Cooper's latest film, *Is This Thing On?* The film presents a refreshing take on the end of a marriage, focusing on the quiet acceptance between Alex and Tess Novak, played by Will Arnett and Laura Dern, rather than the typical dramatic fare. Their 26-year marriage concludes not with chaos, but with a simple acknowledgment that it's over, leading to a civil yet unsettling dynamic ...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica take a thrilling dive into Baz Luhrmann's latest documentary, *EPIC: Elvis Presley in Concert*, a mesmerizing tribute to the King of Rock and Roll. With over 1,100 performances between 1969 and 1977, Elvis's energy and charisma are legendary, and this documentary immerses viewers in his electrifying world without ever leaving North America. Chris and Jessica discuss how the film captures the essence of Elvis's live performances, making audienc...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica take a daring plunge into the provocative film *Pillion* The narrative centers around Colin, portrayed by Harry Melling, an introverted parking officer whose mundane life is transformed when he encounters the enigmatic Ray, played by Alexander Skarsgård. Their connection ignites in a pub, leading to a unique and submissive relationship that pushes Colin to discover his desires and boundaries. Chris and Jessica delve into how this unconventiona...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica dive into the whimsical yet frustrating world of *Somebody to Love* (Follemente), a romantic comedy that explores the chaos of overthinking in dating. The film presents a unique premise: what if every decision you made on a date was influenced by a chorus of voices in your head? The story follows Pierro, a 40-year-old high school teacher, and Lara, a 35-year-old furniture restorer, as they navigate their first date filled with awkwardness and ...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica dive into the vibrant world of *Marty Supreme*, a film that takes us back to the 1950s and introduces us to the audacious Marty Mauser, a dreamer with aspirations of becoming the world's greatest table tennis player. The hosts explore Marty's journey from the Lower East Side of New York City to the competitive scene of the British Open in London, highlighting his unyielding confidence and relentless ambition. But as Marty soon discovers, the r...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica delve into the poignant film *Hamnet*, an adaptation of Mikey O'Farrell's novel that explores the deeply personal life of William Shakespeare through the lens of his family, particularly focusing on the tragic story of his son, Hamnet. The episode opens with the revelation that Hamnet's untimely death at just 11 years old may have inspired one of Shakespeare's most renowned works, *Hamlet*, prompting a profound discussion on how personal loss ...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica dive into the heart-pounding horror film *Primate*, where the line between love and terror blurs in an unimaginable way. The chilling premise poses a haunting question: what if your beloved family pet turned into your worst nightmare? The episode kicks off with a shocking attack that sets a brutal tone, immediately plunging listeners into the film's intense atmosphere. As the narrative unfolds, we meet Lucy, a college student returning home t...

In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica explore the inspiring yet tumultuous life of Christy Martin, one of the most influential figures in women's boxing, as depicted in the film *Christy*. Starting from humble beginnings in West Virginia, Christy's journey from an accidental boxer to a trailblazer in the sport is a powerful tale of resilience and determination. With her initial foray into boxing motivated by a need for money rather than glory, listeners will be captivated by how a...