Watch With Sound

Though it may have been overshadowed by giant sandworms at the box office, Julio Torres did not hold back with his directorial debut, Problemista. In typical A24 fashion, the imagery is quirky and surreal, the characters are complex, and the sense of childlike wonder is unmistakable. Join us as we talk navigating the mazes of parental pressures, soul-crushing customer service interactions, and bureaucratic nightmares that make up adulthood. Because amidst all that, aren't we all just trying to find someone who understands us? Who knows, maybe we’re all just dead instead… ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

The spice must flow! Dune: Part Two has arrived, and it's a cinematic sandstorm. From the mind-blowing visual effects to the star-studded cast, join us as we dig deep into the immersive world of Arrakis, Frank Herbert's iconic legacy, and whether Part Two lived up to the hype. As always, we discuss what we liked, what we didn't, and if we’ll be sticking around for Part Three. Did the impossible-to-avoid memes and viral sandworm popcorn bucket prepare you for this visual feast?

This week, we’re exploring one of the latest A24 films to hit the big screen, The Zone of Interest. Rarely do movies give us the chance to talk about issues that are so relevant to current events, but Jonathan Glazer ensures that we have context to do just that. Join the conversation as we discuss how it feels to be in a home with the commandant of Auschwitz, Glazer’s unconventional filming techniques, and allegories to modern conflicts that are impossible to ignore. Offering powerful reminders about what turning a blind eye truly looks like, The Zone of Interest makes it clear it’s up to us to heed the warning.

It can be difficult to discuss a film with such volatile subject matter, but May December was so thought-provoking that we knew we wanted to talk about it. Rather than retell the story that inspired the movie, May December examines the aftermath of a “scandal” (read: felony) and encourages us to approach the situation in front of us with empathy. Listen along as Carmela and Josh tackle morality in the characters, the importance of words said between the lines, and fame that can result from tabloid-worthy crimes. What do you think about true crime celebrities?

We’re back with the first catch up of 2024! After a brief intermission, Josh and Carmela are ready to tackle the new year. We’re getting into some housekeeping, like Oscar nominations and our upcoming collaboration, and as per usual, it’s hard to not fall into discussions of our looming 30th birthdays. To make sure we get off on the right foot, we close out with reflecting on the best parts (and movies, obviously) of 2023. We have some big plans for 2024, so we hope you’ll stick along for the ride!

Wake up! You’re not dreaming, we’re back with another A24 film! On today’s episode we tackle Nic Cage’s newest film, Dream Scenario. We dive deep into what felt like a classic, honest-to-god A24 film; nothing overly imaginative and nothing overly boring. We talk about our love for Nic Cage, “cancel culture,” and our thoughts on A24’s current status as the “weirdo indie film studio.” Lastly, we talk about our own dreams and if we’ve dreamt of a stranger we’ve never met before. Are we all dreaming of the same person? Find out on today’s episode!

Carmela and Josh are feeling reflective with the wave of the holidays this year, so there’s never been a better time to sit down for a quick chat. For today’s Quick Take, we’re getting deep into our feelings to discuss the care-free holiday joy of our childhoods, New Year's resolutions, and the dreaded anticipation of turning 30 in the coming months. If you think that would make emotions run high, wait until the topic of design trends comes up. From all of us here at Watch With Sound, we hope you enjoy the season!

This week, we’re looking behind the gates of Graceland and there’s plenty of moodboard content to go around with the latest A24 release, Priscilla. It’s clear that Sofia Coppola stans are in the building as Carmela and Josh get into the stellar casting, the dreamy, ethereal quality that Sofia brings to the screen, and the journey of a girl coming into adulthood in the shadow of a superstar. Comparisons to Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis were inevitable and fan reactions seemed to be mixed in light of The King’s portrayal, but we want to know what you think! Is the film going to impact his legacy?

Pull up a chair and get comfortable because this week, we’re getting into the latest Scorsese crime epic, Killers of the Flower Moon. Based on a true story, Josh and Carmela waste no time examining their own knowledge of the Osage people, the criticisms this movie is facing, and the performances that bring the story to life. It’s no secret that we’re big fans of Scorsese here at Watch With Sound, but we want to know what you think! Did you catch this in theaters?

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, there's nothing like finding a moment to unwind and catch up with your ol’ buddies. On today’s episode, Josh and Carmela discuss the challenges of making friends as adults, avoiding pyramid schemes, and getting through existential crises about what life might be like when we’re 80. Thanks, Martin Scorsese. Come chat with us!

Who said women can’t be problematic? Definitely not Josh and Carmela, that’s for sure. This week, we’re talking about the latest and greatest teen movie to sweep the nation: Bottoms. Director Emma Seligman pulls no punches to give us a genuine raunchy high school satire, and we could not be more grateful. The conversation wouldn’t be complete without discussing the evolution of comedy and all the classic tropes the film embraces, but we want to know what you think! Is it just a repeat of every 2000s teen blockbuster or does it live up to the hype?

This week, Josh, Carmela, and crew (that’s me!) are tackling Scorsese’s underrated classic, The King of Comedy. With characters who are willing to do whatever it takes to achieve stardom, we had the opportunity to discuss parasocial relationships, the line between delusion and confidence, and the absurdity that comes with celebrity. In the wise words of Carmela, “I could start punching people in the street to go viral,” so I’d watch out if I were you. Only a schmuck would miss this one. Do you have any underrated favorites we should check out next?

Our resident podcast hosts were feeling indecisive between a quick take or a regular episode- so why choose? This week, we’re catching up on minor head traumas and childhood memories before diving into A24’s latest horror, Talk to Me. Youtubers Danny and Michael Philippou’s terrifying directorial debut gives us everything from complex relationships to nightmare fueling scares, but we want to know what you think. Would you talk to the hand?

Does anyone else feel like there’s been a 90’s movie trend lately? We decided to hop on board to revisit the classic crime drama, Heat. Well, “revisit” is relative, because *someone* on our team had never seen an Al Pacino film before! No rewriters corner needed this week as we talk Michael Mann’s captivating visual style, the complexities of each character, and of course, we have to admire the iconic diner scene featuring two of the greats. It’s a Pacino v. De Niro showdown- don’t miss it!

We can’t stop saying it: Barbenheimer is the biggest movie event of the year. Join us as we close this little chapter of cinematic history and discuss what we learned along the way. As always, we’re getting into what we liked, what we didn’t, Nolan’s distinctive style, and the ripple effect of man’s creations. We’re not historians or quantum physicists, but hopefully a couple of simpletons can do it justice. Let us know what you think!

C’mon, you guys knew this was coming. This week, Josh and Carmela are donning their pink stilettos to strut into the long-awaited Barbie. Hang out while we get into what we liked, what we didn’t, Barbie Land’s relationship to the “real world,” and the role of gender in our viewing experience. Featuring an appearance from our editor/copywriter extraordinaire (that’s me!), you won’t want to miss it. It’s easy to have high expectations when we can’t escape the marketing, so share your thoughts in the comments! Did it live up to the hype?

Some great movies just fly completely under the radar, and that’s the way we feel about this week’s pick, The Nice Guys. Featuring the seemingly random pair of Russell Crowe and Ryan Gosling, hijinks ensue! Listen along while Josh and Carmela get into what they liked, what they didn’t, subverting the expectations of the buddy-cop genre, and Gosling flexing his comedy muscles soon again for Barbie. Do you have a favorite underrated gem for us to check out? Let us know in the comments!

We’re looking to the vivid pastel skies this week to explore the latest Wes Anderson film, Asteroid City. Join us as we talk about our favorite moments, existentialism versus nihilism, and our theories as to why this director can be so polarizing. With an all-star cast, over-the-top colors and symmetry, and a complex structure, all the classic Wes Anderson elements are here- did he deliver?

We’re back! After a brief recharge, Carmela and Josh are ready to jump right into the latest emotional love story by A24, Past Lives. A debut film from director Celine Song, her characters showed so much thoughtfulness and vulnerability that we were inspired to do the same. Join us while we get into what we liked, what we didn’t, regrets and what-ifs, and our own experiences with emigration and assimilation. Let us know what you think!

This week, our Wong Kar-wai-athon continues with Fallen Angels. The ‘sequel’ to our beloved Chungking Express, you might have seen this one on your favorite angsty aesthetic moodboard accounts too. Many directors tend to play it safe when they follow up successful projects, but not this one- the last thing you can call Fallen Angels is comfortable. We’re talking everything from Wong Kar-wai’s iconic filming style to chaotic character dynamics and the male gaze, so don’t miss it! Did we have any hot takes?

Our last Quick Take was SIX MONTHS AGO, time flies by too fast. On this Quick Take we catch up on what we’ve been up to! Carmela is finally learning how to read and with hella confusing books nonetheless, Josh finally gets an Apple product, and of course we talk about our love, admiration and inspiration we get from movies. We also tie up the episode with an actual Quick Take about the evergrowing world of Ai and how we feel about it.

As pop culture enthusiasts, Watch With Sound feels a certain obligation to keep up with the MCU. They aren’t all winners (especially in recent years), but James Gunn’s final swan song might change our tune. Hang out while we talk about what we liked, what we didn’t, and the controversy surrounding Gunn’s defection to DC. Featuring all the ingredients of a classic Guardians movie without any of the typical Marvel baggage, what did you think?

Man, it is so easy to accidentally summon a demon these days. After a 10 year hiatus, the Evil Dead franchise is back, not pulling any gorey punches, and we were squirming in our seats the whole time. Join us as we get into what we liked, what we didn’t, the future of the franchise, and Evil Dead’s legacy on horror.

P.S. Did you catch that title card?

Can you believe it’s been six months since Josh and Carmela have talked about A24? Thank goodness Ari Aster is here to bring us back on track. This three-hour absurdist nightmare fuel may not be for everyone, but it’s A24’s most expensive film to date: Beau is Afraid. Come along as we get into what we liked, what we didn’t, the sense we try to make of the events that unfolded on screen, and the anxiety we felt along the way. Watch With Sound’s resident cat supervisor has a lot to say as well, so don’t miss it!

The Super Mario Bros. Movie was a polarizing topic here at Watch With Sound. If you like to hear us laugh, scream, and cry, join us while we get into the latest video game adaptation to hit the box office. As always, we get into what we liked, what we didn’t, the all-star cast, and how we felt about the story. We could argue that Nintendo has introduced entire generations to the world of video games, and this movie delivered a world that was jam-packed with references to some of our most cherished memories- but is nostalgia enough? Let us know what you think!

If you love watching Willem Dafoe descend into insanity on the big screen, then you won’t want to miss this week’s episode on Inside. The graphic designer inside of Carmela and Josh pops out in full force while they get into what they liked, what they didn’t, and the contemporary pieces that flood the scenes. Just like art, some films leave a lot to interpretation, but is it worth the effort? I guess you’ll have to listen in to find out!

In typical John Wick fashion, our title character once again finds himself with a bounty on his head and no choice but to defeat every single bad guy who crosses him. For almost three hours, stuntman-turned-director, Chad Stahelski, kept us glued to the film with high stakes and striking visuals, but how does it hold up against the previous installments? Join us as we get into what we liked, what we didn’t, some of the greatest fight sequences in recent memory, and Rina Sawayama’s grand entrance into the Wick-iverse. Can you believe they’ve made four of these and we still want more?

If you know anything about Watch With Sound, you knew this episode was coming. Some franchises are so convoluted that sequels have to ignore entire storylines just to keep going, but Scream has held strong through a whopping 6 films. Come hang out while we get into the twists on classic Scream tropes, the signals to a new era, and the directors putting their middle fingers up to their predecessors in the most loving way possible. Seriously- do you think they’ll be able to keep it going for the next one?

Some moviegoers see films like Cocaine Bear and see the demise of cinema, but us? We see a shining beacon in a new era of camp. This episode is packed to the brim with all your favorite segments: what we liked, what we didn’t, a lively rewriter’s corner, and we even find time to take a jab at Marvel. Classic Josh and Carmela! For a movie reminiscent of 2000s horror parodies, it was obvious we were going to have a fun conversation, but what about you? Are you tired of the traumatic blockbusters and eating up the absurd and outrageous comedies like we are? Let us know in the comments!

In the ever-expanding universe of M. Night Shyamalan, it’s hard to explain why Signs seemed to be calling out to us. Looking at the film with fresh eyes, this 21 year-old thriller inspired us to reminisce on childhood fears and the impact the twist had on our tiny minds all those years ago. If early-2000s blockbusters are your thing, you’ll enjoy hanging out while we go over the practical effects, religious overtones, and a director’s impulse to write themselves into their own movies. We’re not always sure if we’re Shyamalama-fans here at Watch With Sound, but what do you think? Should we tackle The Sixth Sense next?

Of all the movie screenshots that used to flood our Tumblr dashboards, none have stopped us in our tracks like Chungking Express. For as long as we can remember, Wong Kar-wai has had the film bros in a chokehold, and it’s not hard to see Wong Kar-why! Listen in while Josh and Carmela get into the fun they had appreciating the filmmaking techniques, distinct use of color, and themes of love and time. This one has been recommended to us for a while, so let us know what you think! What Wong Kar-wai classic should we tackle next?

Daddy issues are on full display in the latest Brandon Cronenberg film, Infinity Pool. This week, we delve right into discussions about our creative purgatories, art as a tool of self reflection, and obviously, if we have the opportunity to gush about Alexander Skarsgård or Mia Goth, we’re going to take it. Challenging as it may be to work in your father’s shadow, what do you think? Does Brandon’s work live up to his dad’s?

Have you been following award show season? This week we’re hanging out to talk Oscar nominations, with our predictions, snubs and all. If you think you can guess how many times Josh and Carmela mention Everything, Everywhere, All at Once, you’re probably wrong and your guess needs to be higher. Sometimes it’s disappointing knowing our favorite films may never see awards or even nominations, but hey, art is subjective! I seem to remember a certain Best Picture Director calling the Oscars a “very local” festival…

If there is one thing Shudder is going to do, it’s distribute an experimental,  micro-budget horror film. This week, you’re in for a shorter episode as Skinamarink takes the feeling of being a fly on the wall to new extremes, leaving lots of room for interpretation from person to person. Spawning conversations of nightmares, lucid dreams, and childhood fears, one podcaster (Carmela) gets so creeped out during the conversation that they (Carmela) get up and turn on the TV for comfort. Listeners, beware!

We’ve had Furbies and Tamagotchis, Siri and Alexa, and now… M3GAN? For our first film of 2023, we couldn’t wait to see this AI #girlboss on the big screen. As always, we get into what we liked, what we didn’t, our fear of technology, and the effect of viral social media trends in today’s marketing strategies. Films that blend comedy and horror are some of our favorites over here at Watch With Sound, but what did you think? Are you going to be looking out for new installments of the M3G-CU?

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year everyone!

For OUR LAST EPISODE of 2022, we’re wrapping this year or our Lord with a Quick Take! We catch up on why the Watch With Sound media well has been dry, our capabilities of consuming and receiving media, some hints at future episodes for movies, and last but not least OUR YEARLY MOVIE ROUND UP!! Strap in as we take out 2022 and get ready for 2023.

Everyone here at Watch With Sound Network is grateful for your continued support throughout 2022, not to mention the support we get off air and even with these dry spells we still feel all the love, we’re excited to see you all in 2023! Be safe and take care.

In news that shocked no one, Carmela and Josh loved the latest Anya Taylor Joy film. “Eat the rich” type movies might be low hanging fruit, but we don’t have much to complain about after being served this over-the-top take on foodie culture. Dine with us as we jump right into what we liked, what we didn’t, classism within food, and an ending that made us want to revisit Midsommar. But here’s what we really want to know: What do the restaurant workers think?

It’s been a while since a Marvel release of this magnitude. Two years ago, director Ryan Coogler had the unenviable job of rewriting Wakanda Forever after the sudden and tragic loss of Chadwick Boseman, and we weren’t sure if we would ever get to see this film come to life. Our favorite Marvel kingdom can’t mourn for too long, though, so we got into what we liked, what we didn’t, the incredible performances, and the critiques of the “Recast T’Challa” crowd. Although Wakanda Forever seemed to be a fitting tribute to the franchise’s late star, the film’s problems were hard to overlook. Regardless, did you think it was a solid introduction to the MCU’s newest players, or did the unfocused story fall below expectations?

Cannes winners always get us excited, and this week is no different as we tackle Park Chan-wook’s latest release, Decision to Leave. Listen up as we get into what we liked, what we didn’t, and the place of foreign films in western media. All kinds of emotion and symbolism were packed into this film’s 138-minute runtime, but it was engaging the whole way through. We might be a few simpletons over here at Watch With Sound, so let us know if you caught anything we missed!

Whew, it’s been a while, eh? It seems like Josh and Carmela say that every time they get into a quick take. This week, our favorite podcast duo is kicking off Q3 with an anthology of little stories to update us with what they’ve been up to. Carmela had a brief encounter with a puppy, Josh was mistaken for an Uber, we all went to Halloween Horror Nights together; What other hijinks could the gang have gotten up to? Listen along to find out!

This week, we’re talking about the highly-anticipated Neon satire, Triangle of Sadness. Expectations were high as director Ruben Ostlund earned his second Palme d’Or win, but does the film live up to the hype?  Listen along while we get into what we liked, what we didn’t, the writing style, and the irony of the overall idea of this film and other popular media. Relax your Triangle of Sadness and let us know your thoughts! Is a commentary on class and inequality something that you’d be interested to see, or is poking fun at the ultra-rich is too easy of a target?

We can’t stop using the word “delightful” this week as Josh and Carmela discuss the new whodunit, See How They Run. Over the top, hilarious, and meta, this film proves that a concept doesn’t necessarily have to be ground-breaking to have an impact. Listen along while we get into what we liked, what we didn’t, and the ethics of entertainment based on true crime. Saoirse Ronan haters need not click further. It’s a podcast– you listen to one, you’ve listened to ‘em all.

Babe, wake up, Watch With Sound is talking about the latest A24 release! This week, we’re getting into Ti West’s sophomore film, Pearl. It’s rare to see a sequel from A24, Mia Goth has us absolutely captivated, and we got to see it in 35mm, so there’s a lot we were looking forward to in this installment. Join in on the conversation while we get into what we liked, what we didn’t, and the journey this trilogy has taken from slasher to character study. Are you looking forward to Maxxxine or do you think this story is running out of juice?

This week, Zack Cregger made a huge impact on us with his solo-directorial debut, Barbarian. A masterclass in the relationship between comedy and horror, Cregger shows an incredible understanding of his audience and their reactions to the story playing out in front of them. As always, we talked about what we liked, what we didn’t, and the different techniques we saw in Barbarian that kept us guessing. Would you have stayed in a rental with a stranger?

Starting the month off right, Josh and Carmela are getting straight into the latest A24 debut, Funny Pages. Another victim of a nonexistent marketing budget, this absurd little slice-of-life film doubles a coming-of-age journey for an aspiring comic illustrator. Graphic designers by trade, the gang shared their professional art experiences and how their own origin stories held up in comparison. Listen along while we get into what we liked, what we didn’t, and our take on finding your footing in a creative industry.

Carmela and Josh have never seen a single Predator film, but this week they’re tackling the latest installment in the cult-classic franchise, Prey. Streaming exclusively on Hulu, expectations were non-existent but the team found a lot to appreciate from the signature sound effects to the cinematography. Listen in while we talk about what we liked, what we didn’t, and the future of streaming services.

It’s been a little too long since Josh and Carmela geeked out over their favorite industry powerhouse, so obviously the team had to fill the void with A24’s latest release: Bodies Bodies Bodies. As always, we get into what we liked, what we didn’t, and how divisive satire can be. A bit of horror and a whole lot of comedy, this film took whodunit tropes in a direction that we never saw coming, so pull up a chair and grab your headphones because we have a lot to say.

This week, we’re tackling the latest in a string of highly-anticipated films by Jordan Peele, Nope. Is it horror? Is it sci-fi? Is it a Creature Feature? Josh and Carmela get into what they liked, what they didn’t, some of the most common criticisms they’ve heard, and how their opinions changed the longer they sat with it. Despite how skeptical we may have gone into it, Nope turned out to be a potential treasure trove for multiple viewings, but what do you think? How does Nope hold up to Jordan Peele’s other work?

This week, we’re talking about the latest addition to the MCU, Thor: Love & Thunder. I know you might be used to a podcast of certified Marvel haters, but Josh and Carmela decided to go a different route with this one. Instead of taking jabs at the weaknesses these films typically have and the capitalism of it all, we get more critical with this film and how it fits into the cinematic universe as a whole. Do you think Taika Waititi created another sequel as enjoyable as Thor: Ragnarock or did the beloved Korg drop the ball?