In this Reel Kwik Review, we’re diving headfirst into Project Hail Mary, the latest film from Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, starring the ever-reliable Ryan Gosling, some delightfully weird science, and yes… spider-shaped aliens. Because cinema.

This was one of our most anticipated films of 2026, and with Dale being a full-blown disciple of Andy Weir’s novel, the stakes are higher than a malfunctioning spaceship hurtling toward the sun. So the big questions: does it do the book justice? Does it work for newcomers? And is this a genuine contender for film of the year… or just floating aimlessly in the void?

We break it all down:

• First half: spoiler-free thoughts, hot takes, and whether it’s worth your time
• Then: our verdict and recommendations
• Final stretch: full spoiler breakdown for those ready to go full galaxy brain 🧠✨

Expect science, chaos, and at least one of us pretending we fully understand astrophysics.

What film do you want to see covered? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

Support our Patreon for more TTR! https://patreon.com/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:10:00 - Spoiler-Free Thoughts

00:33:03 - Full Spoiler Review

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Third Reel, we sit down with multi-award-winning filmmaker Toby Hyder, who’s quietly (and very cleverly) using AI not to replace storytelling - but to enhance it. Think less “AI takes over Hollywood” and more “AI carries the heavy bags while the humans make the art.”

Toby breaks down how he writes and directs his films in the traditional sense - working with real actors, real performances, and actual human emotion - before using his custom-built motion capture rig to drop those performances into richly realised, AI-assisted worlds. It’s filmmaking that feels both cutting-edge and reassuringly… human.

We dig into his multi award-winning short Bones of Yew, exploring how historical accuracy, performance capture, and AI rendering all come together to create something that looks massive in scale without losing its soul.

Along the way, we chat:

🎬 Whether AI is best suited as a tool for indie filmmakers rather than a Hollywood takeover artist

🎬 How tech can support creativity without stepping on its toes

🎬 And why the future of cinema might be less about replacement… and more about collaboration

It’s a fascinating look at where filmmaking is heading - where the heart stays human, and the pixels just help it beat louder.

Apologies on some of the sound issues heard during this episode, we did our best to clean it up.

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

Support our Patreon for more TTR! https://patreon.com/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Toby's Background

00:17:02 - AI in Film

00:41:02 - Bones of Yew Deep Dive

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a while tinkering in the podcast lab (and possibly knocking over a few beakers), we’ve emerged with something fresh for you lovely listeners: The Third Reel Tier List.

You know the drill. The internet’s favourite pastime. Ranking things into neat little rows of judgement. S Tier, A Tier, B Tier… and the dreaded D Tier. Usually it’s chocolates, crisps, or the correct order of biscuits for tea dunking. But we thought… why not do it with one of the most beloved studios in film history?

So this week we’re diving headfirst into the colourful, emotionally devastating, toy-filled world of Pixar.

From the game-changing arrival of Toy Story to tear-jerkers like Up, modern adventures such as Inside Out, and every car, monster, rat and robot in between… we rank the entire Pixar filmography and decide once and for all:

🎬 Which films deserve the S-Tier crown

🎬 Which comfortably cruise through A and B tier

🎬 Which land with a slightly awkward thud in C or D tier

🎬 And when exactly Pixar’s unstoppable golden run started to wobble

If you love Pixar movies, animated films, movie rankings, and film podcasts, this episode is basically a giant animated playground. Come join us as we attempt the impossible: ranking Pixar.

Which group of films do you want to see us cover next? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

Support our Patreon for more TTR! https://patreon.com/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:16:54 - Initial Rankings

01:51:15 - Confirming Rankings

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part 2 of our A–Z of Films C tournament crashes in with the remaining 16 contenders, all competing for the right to challenge last week’s victorious classic. Only one film can complete the conquest and be crowned the ultimate C movie.

Will a cool cult classic cause an upset? Could a crime caper claim cinematic glory? Or will a critically certified cornerstone of the canon crush the competition?

The wheel delivers chaos. We deliver confident commentary. You deliver the internal conflict.

It’s the concluding chapter in our colossal C collision. The crown awaits. 🎬🏆

Agree with the winner? Any ones you want to see included in future letters? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

Support our Patreon for more TTR! https://patreon.com/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:06:46 - Round of 16

01:29:58 - Quarters

01:33:57 - Semis

01:38:45 - Final

01:41:45 - Ultimate Final

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The A–Z of Films is back and we’ve crash-landed on the most competitively stacked consonant in the canon: the letter C. Previously, Alien and Birdman bagged the lofty A and B belts… but who claims the coveted C crown?

We’ve carefully curated (and mildly quarrelled over) 32 colossal C-class classics. The wheel of names spins with cruel, chaotic confidence, creating completely confounding clashes that we then attempt to critique with questionable credibility. It’s a traditional knockout competition, but make it cinematic carnage.

In Part 1, sixteen contenders collide. Next week, the remaining sixteen complete the bracket, and the two survivors will clash for cultural supremacy.

Will A Clockwork Orange commit its way to victory?

Does Cool Runnings cruise past the competition?

Is Chinatown truly the crown jewel of noir?

Are there committed campaigners for Chicken Run?

Controversy, conversation, catastrophically confident claims… it’s all here.

Consider this your compulsory cinematic catch-up. Grab a cuppa, clutch your popcorn, and come cast your internal ballot.

The canon is calling. 🏆🎥

Are there any films you think we missed in our list of C films? Any ones you want to see included in future letters? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

Support our Patreon for more TTR! https://patreon.com/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:11:30 - Round of 16

01:19:00 - Quarters

01:29:30 - Semis

01:37:37 - Final

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Did it do justice to Emily Brontë’s gothic fever dream of a novel? Thankfully, Rachael actually read the book, so we have at least one qualified adult in the room. 📚

We dig into whether Fennell’s version captures the tragic romance, toxic obsession and full throttle emotional melodrama that made the story immortal, or whether it swaps stormy passion for aesthetic quick cuts. We also stack it up against Saltburn, Fennell’s previous tale of wealth, desire and deeply questionable decision making.

Are the performances as haunting as the Yorkshire moors themselves? Does Heathcliff brood effectively? Is Cathy iconic or chaotic? Most importantly, is this one worth braving the cinematic storm for?

The episode is split into two parts:

Part 1: Spoiler free thoughts, initial reactions and our honest recommendation.

Part 2: Full spoiler breakdown where we dissect the major scenes, the bold creative choices and deliver our final scores.

Love. Revenge. Mud. Intense eye contact. It’s all here.

Press play and step into the storm.

What film do you want to see covered? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

Support our Patreon for more TTR! https://patreon.com/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:13:56 - Spoiler-Free Thoughts

00:54:05 - Full Spoiler Review

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We dive deep into the history of music biopics, from iconic classics to cult oddities, sharing our favourites, our least favourites, and everything in between. Then we speculate wildly about the future of the genre.

But it’s not all films and hot takes. We also go behind the curtain of Sean’s career, exploring his path as a music journalist, his podcast adventures, and how we know him without being creepy.

As Walk the Line wisely reminds us: “Sometimes you have to do what’s best for you.” — advice that works for musicians, biopics, and podcasters alike.

For more of Sean’s music insights, check out his podcast

What Song - https://open.spotify.com/show/664FoTBkhGNaeWudxBLUul?si=96dfa53d98d9421a

and explore his journalism work here - https://shorturl.at/BjE0B

What's your favourite and least favourite music biopic? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

Support our Patreon for more TTR! https://patreon.com/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:06:00 - Sean's Background

00:46:53 - Music Biopics Deep Dive

01:28:50 - A Better Man Review

01:45:45 - Future of Music Biopics

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Part 2 of our Two Towers deep dive, we return to Middle-earth to cover Acts 2 & 3, our final thoughts, and the scores — and yes, this episode is absolutely dominated by Helm’s Deep.

Often cited as one of the greatest battle sequences ever put to film, the Battle of Helm’s Deep didn’t just raise the bar — it obliterated it. Rain-soaked chaos, brutal scale, flawless geography, and tension that somehow escalates for nearly an hour without losing momentum. Hollywood has been chasing this high ever since… and mostly failing.

We break down why Helm’s Deep works on every level:

• Practical effects meeting early CGI

• Character-led action amid overwhelming odds

• Visual storytelling so clear you always know where you are (a miracle, frankly)

• And a final charge that still gives goosebumps two decades later

Beyond the battle, we dig into the film’s emotional payoffs, its darker tone, the growing weight on its characters, and whether The Two Towers is actually the most important film in the trilogy, even if it’s unfairly branded the “weakest”.

Is this the moment LOTR truly became untouchable?

Does Helm’s Deep alone justify its legendary status?

And how does it all land when the dust finally settles?

Swords shatter. Horns sound. Cinema history is made.

This is The Two Towers – Part 2. Ents. ⚔️🛡️🏰

FULL SPOILERS FOR LORD OF THE RINGS THE TWO TOWERS IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

If you have any things you want to discuss about this film or Lord of the Rings in general, email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through our socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

Support our Patreon for more TTR! https://patreon.com/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:05:17 - Review: Act 2

00:59:10 - Review: Act 3

01:42:21 - Closing Thoughts & Scores

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on The Third Reel, we begin our deep dive into The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, kicking things off with Part 1, where we tackle Act 1 only. Part 2 lands next week, covering Acts 2 & 3, our final thoughts, and the all-important scores.

Often (rudely) labelled the worst film in the trilogy, yet somehow still considered one of the greatest films ever made, The Two Towers sits in a strange cinematic no man’s land. But is that reputation fair? Or is this the unsung MVP of Middle-earth?

We break down the fractured narrative, the tonal shift from Fellowship, the rise of Rohan, and the film’s growing obsession with mud, despair, and extremely intense walking. And yes… we’re already warming up for Helm’s Deep - a battle so iconic it permanently changed how Hollywood stages large-scale warfare (and set the bar impossibly high for everyone else).

Swords clash, Uruk-hai run in straight lines, and we ask the big questions:

Is this really the weakest of the trilogy?

Or is The Two Towers quietly doing the heaviest lifting of them all?

Grab your lembas bread — Part 1 begins now. 🧙‍♂️⚔️

FULL SPOILERS FOR LORD OF THE RINGS THE TWO TOWERS IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

If you have any things you want to discuss about this film or Lord of the Rings in general, email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through our socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

Support our Patreon for more TTR! https://patreon.com/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:08:34 - Review: Act 1

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Jessie Buckley earning serious awards chatter, we ask the very important question: has the Shakespeare well finally run dry… or is there still emotional gold to be mined from the Bard’s personal life? 👀🎭

Based on the novel by Maggie O’Farrell, Hamnet explores the devastating real-life tragedy that inspired Hamlet, reimagining the loss of Shakespeare’s son and the grief that shaped one of the most famous plays ever written. It’s intimate, sorrowful, beautifully performed… but does it work as a film, or is it just prestige misery bait with a ruff collar?

In classic Reel Kwik fashion:

• 🎬 First half: spoiler-free thoughts, performances, themes, and Oscar prospects
• 🚨 Second half: full spoiler breakdown, deeper analysis, and final scores

Expect chat about grief, awards hype, and whether this film earns its place in the Oscar conversation — or belongs back on the stage.

🎧 Press play, grab a quill, and prepare for tragedy (the cinematic kind).

What film do you want to see covered? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

Support our Patreon for more TTR! https://patreon.com/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:13:31 - Spoiler-Free Thoughts

00:36:28 - Full Spoiler Review

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Instead, we’re heading back to where it all began: Danny Boyle and Alex Garland’s grimy, raw, pulse-pounding horror classic 28 Days Later, the film that kicked off this apparently new franchise and redefined fast, angry “infected” (they are not zombies, thank you very much).

We pit it against another lonely, end-of-the-world favourite: I Am Legend — a glossy Hollywood blockbuster with a very different take on isolation, survival, and yelling at mannequins.

Same ruined world. Very different vibes.

One is documentary-style, bleak and uncomfortably real.

The other is big-budget, star-powered and unapologetically cinematic.

But which one actually does it better?

To find out, we put both films through our highly rigorous, completely unbiased, definitely scientific scoring system. Four categories. Five points each. No vibes. Just facts™.

The Categories

• Story & Emotional Impact
• Craft & Tone
• World-Building
• Tension & Set-Pieces

The overall winner takes home the prestigious, imaginary trophy for Best Zombie (Sorry, Infected) Movie.

What better time to get spooky than January? Other than that other horror month of course.

Press play, lock the doors, and join us as civilisation collapses - again.

FULL SPOILERS FOR 28 DAYS LATER AND I AM LEGEND IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

Agree with our scores? What would you score these films? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

Support our Patreon for more TTR! https://patreon.com/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:09:51 - Category 1: Story & Emotional Impact

00:48:53 - Category 2: Craft & Tone

01:06:54 - Category 3: World-Building

01:23:32 - Category 4: Tension & Set-Pieces

01:43:55 - Final Scores

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Against Keira Knightley.

Yes. Elizabeth-Swann-Bend-It-Like-Beckham-Actual-National-Treasure Keira Knightley. And you could even say that Dale’s dislike is less Pride and a whole lot more… Prejudice.

So in this episode of Make Me a Fan Of…, Rachael and Daniel each bring a Keira Knightley film to the table in a bold, valiant, possibly doomed attempt to turn Dale from Keira-Knightley-Doubter into Keira-Knightley-Enjoyer. Can the team make it 2 for 2 on opinion-shifting? One thing’s certain — Dale is much more stubborn than Rachael, so this one might go down to the wire.

This format has become one of the most beloved in our little podcast universe (turns out we all love a bit of emotional peer pressure), so you can expect more of these in the future… though probably featuring Rachael more than anyone else. Dan just seems to like everyone.

And to set the mood, we leave you with the immortal words of Elizabeth Swann herself:

“You like pain? Try wearing a corset.”

Keira Knightley. Icon. Corset Queen. But will she become Dale-Approved™?

Stick around to the end to find out whether three carefully-chosen films are enough to change a mind — or whether Dale remains unmoved, like a particularly grumpy Mr Darcy in the rain.

What actor/director do you have a dislike of that you want to see covered? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

Support our Patreon for more TTR! https://patreon.com/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:07:31 - The Debate

00:31:32 - The Films

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This year, Nolan returns with a mind-bending spectacle that promises headaches and awe in equal measure. Spielberg’s back in sci-fi, Denis Villeneuve is rounding off his Dune trilogy, and yes… there’s more superhero madness than you can shake a cape at. We’re talking trailers, teasers, and all the film gossip that tickles our pickle (and maybe yours).

A quick note: schedules and release dates change on a whim, so what we’re talking about is accurate at the time of recording — don’t get mad if things shift! Also, the recording goes a bit sideways for Daniel near the end, so you’ll miss a couple of his opinions on two December films — sorry, Daniel.

On top of all that, we’re showing off our brand-new cover art and launching our brand-new Patreon, where you can support the podcast and get exclusive content. Big year, big films, big chaos — and now a big new way to join the fun.

Laughs, ironic commentary, and mild arguments guaranteed — all while we rank what we’re most anticipated to see in 2026. A new year, a new slate of cinema, and of course, the same chaotic three of us pretending we know what’s coming next.

Let us know your what you are excited to see in 2026!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:11:34 - 2026's Most Anticipated

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s been a huge year for cinema — some massive blockbusters, some tiny gems, and honestly? A big year for horror fans. But which films will claw their way to the top? Which “masterpiece” will cause the most chaos? And which beloved favourite will one of us totally hate for reasons that barely make sense?

Stick around for laughs, mild outrage, and a surprisingly heartfelt goodbye to 2025 — as we crown our personal Best Films of 2025.

Let us know your 2025 rankings!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:06:44 - The Lists

02:05:00 - Honourable Mentions

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This time, we’re diving into Christmas films, but not the usual suspects. No Home Alone, no Elf, no It’s a Wonderful Life. Instead, we’ve gone digging a little deeper into the Christmas vault… well, Dale and Dan did.

Rachael brings The Holiday — one of her all-time festive favourites — in a bold attempt to convert notorious The Holiday hater Dan. Can she finally thaw his icy heart, or will this one end up on his seasonal naughty list?

Dan, fresh off Halloween fever and still riding the wave of our 80s film draft, opts for Gremlins. Is it a Christmas movie? Yes. Is it also mildly traumatising? Also yes.

Meanwhile, Dale goes deep with Jack Frost. Yes, that Michael Keaton one. You know, where he dies and comes back as a snowman... Seriously.

Join us as we revisit these slightly obscure Christmas picks and ask the all-important question: do any of them deserve a permanent place in your yearly Christmas movie rotation?

Hot takes, festive chaos, and an extremely questionable snowman await.

Which theme do you want to see us tackle next? What's a film you'd bring to the table for this theme? Let us know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:14:44 - Gremlins

00:32:55 - Jack Frost

00:46:45 - The Holiday

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We all adore The Muppet Christmas Carol here at TTR, but this year we’re taking the long road past Kermit and into the return of our Versus Series—pitting two adaptations that NONE of us had ever seen before. Bold? Foolish? Extremely on brand?

In the red corner: 1951’s Scrooge, starring Alastair Sim—widely hailed as the definitive Scrooge by Christmas purists.

And in the blue, motion-captured corner: Robert Zemeckis’ 2009 animated A Christmas Carol, featuring Jim Carrey playing… well… everyone.

Which film honours Dickens’ vision? Which is more entertaining? Who gives the superior “Bah Humbug”? And which one deserves a place on your festive rewatch list instead of being visited by the Ghost of Christmas Nope?

We break it all down in four categories:

🎭 Performance

📚 Faithfulness & Adaptation

🎨 Visual Representation

🎄 Entertainment

Each category scored out of 5 by each TTR host, with a final tally to crown the ultimate Christmas champion.

Grab your Baileys, wrap something (literally anything), and join us for a festive showdown of Dickensian proportions.

FULL SPOILERS FOR SCROOGE AND A CHRISTMAS CAROL IN THIS EPISODE. But you surely already know this story...

Agree with our scores? What would you score these films? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:20:58 - Category 1: Performance

00:41:10 - Category 2: Faithfulness & Adaptation

00:53:27 - Category 3: Visual Representation

01:11:38 - Category 4: Entertainment

01:27:11 - Final Scores

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To mark the occasion, Dale takes the captain’s chair (steady yourselves) and fires a series of deeply investigative, hard-hitting questions at the other two — everything from our humble, slightly shambolic beginnings to the origins of our name, and even whether any of us seriously considered quitting along the way. Yes, we are doing a clip show!

We also peel back the curtain on how the whole circus actually works: from the first spark of an idea to the moment an episode finally, miraculously, appears in your feed. And to top it off, we drop some genuinely exciting news about what’s coming next as we roll into the new year — changes that might just make this podcast feel ever so slightly more legitimate.

Here’s to a year of laughter, questionable opinions, cinematic nonsense, and the unwavering belief that chatting about films is a personality trait. Onwards, upwards, and maybe even occasionally on time!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:04:00 - Looking Back

01:06:26 - The Process

01:29:14 - Looking Forward

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Before we even get to the movies, we take a wander through our own personal histories of 2012—yes, the questionable fashion choices, the terrible haircuts, and the cultural moments we’d rather forget. Then we hop over to the big headlines and pop-culture buzz of the year, because nothing sets the mood for a nostalgic top-ten like reminding ourselves just how strange that year really was.

Then it’s list time. Each of us brings our personal Top 10 Films of 2012, counting down from ten to one… with one important rule: if a film appears higher up on someone else’s list, we zip it until it reaches its highest spot. (It’s tense. It’s dramatic. It’s the closest thing we’ll ever get to strategy on this podcast.)

Last time we did this—for 2010—Daniel and Dale basically had the same list in a slightly different order.

This time?

Oh no.

No, no, no.

Let’s just say the lists are… wildly different. Chaos reigns. Friendships are tested. Rachael judges everyone.

But at the end of all this, one film must stand victorious. Which 2012 masterpiece takes the crown?

Let us know your 2012 rankings!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:13:57 - The Lists

01:56:18 - Honourable Mentions

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Edgar Wright’s classic remake of an iconic film is sprinting onto screens, and what better way to celebrate the decade that practically invented modern blockbuster cinema? In this episode, we’re cranking the nostalgia and competition all the way up.

We’re joined by our second guest ever, the legendary Joe — a name dropped on practically every other episode — and finally, we get to put a voice to the hype. Of course, we do it in true Third Reel fashion: battling it out in the ultimate draft game. Joe picked the decade and the format, but can he take down the veterans? Will Dan continue his draft domination, or can Dale finally snatch one win? Spoiler: probably not, but hope dies last.

Categories are stacked for maximum chaos: Action/Adventure, Comedy, Horror/Thriller, Teen/Coming-of-Age, IMDb Elite (8.0+), IMDb Cult Classic (7.0 or below), and a cheeky Free Pick. From laugh-out-loud moments to tense cinematic showdowns, this episode is a playground for film nerds and trivia warriors alike.

Tune in for nostalgia, rivalry, and the kind of cinematic fun only the Third Reel Draft can deliver.

Who won? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com and vote through our Instagram poll or via TikTok @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:26:12 - The Draft

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In Part 1, we give our spoiler-free thoughts — covering everything from Jacob Elordi’s haunting performance as the Creature to Oscar Isaac’s tortured genius as Victor Frankenstein. Then, in Part 2, we dive headfirst into full spoiler territory, dissecting the film’s biggest twists, gothic themes, and that jaw-dropping ending.

Is this del Toro’s magnum opus or a monster mishmash? Tune in as we break down the film that’s shocking audiences and sparking debates everywhere.

Agree with our score? What films do you want to see covered in our Reel Kwik series? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:16:34 - Spoiler-Free Thoughts

00:35:18 - Full Spoiler Review

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, it’s Part 2 of our Lord of the Rings review, where we tackle Act 2, Act 3, and wrap things up with our closing thoughts and all-important scores.

We’re talking Balrog battles, Boromir blunders, and big emotional moments as we say farewell to the Fellowship (for now). Is this one of the greatest fantasy films ever made? Or just the longest? Tune in to find out.

Grab your cloak, tighten your lembas belt, and join us one last time for the end of all things… until next week’s episode, obviously.

FULL SPOILERS FOR LORD OF THE RINGS THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

If you have any things you want to discuss about this film or Lord of the Rings in general, email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through our socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Review: Act 2

00:52:24 - Review: Act 3

01:31:03 - Closing Thoughts & Scores

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This week, The Third Reel tackles The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring – the episode you’ve all been waiting for (and possibly the one we’ve been dreading editing). As always with our deep-dive reviews, things got a little… epic. So, we’ve split this one into two parts. Consider this your extended edition (Part 1 covering Act 1), with Part 2 (covering acts 2 and 3 followed by our closing thoughts and scores) dropping next week – no orcs, wizards, or hobbits will keep us from finishing it.  

Expect questionable accents, passionate arguments over who the true hero of Middle-earth is, and a worrying amount of time spent talking about second breakfasts.  

Grab your lembas bread, pour yourself an ale, and join us as we set off on the adventure of a lifetime.  

FULL SPOILERS FOR LORD OF THE RINGS THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE RING IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

If you have any things you want to discuss about this film or Lord of the Rings in general, email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through our socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:21:26 - Review: Act 1

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We’re assembling the ultimate spooky squad:

• Human Killers - (if they’re squishy and mortal, they count)

• Supernatural - spirits and demons (the spooky, floaty kind)

• Undead - beasties who just couldn’t stay dead

• Slashers - who love a bit of a stabby-stab

• Monsters (self-explanatory… and probably slimy)

• Free Pick - (chaos mode unlocked)

The rules? Delightfully unhinged. Each of us can justify our picks however we please. Are we choosing based on iconic films? Who’d win in a back-alley brawl? Who would front the most terrifying boyband? Anything goes. If the categories start to blur like a low-budget jump scare, we’ll argue our case to the death. Our death, probably.

Classic snake draft format, because fairness matters… even when evil is afoot.

You, dear listener, hold the power. When the teams are built, you vote on who crafted the deadliest, coolest, most nightmarishly brilliant horror roster. The winner takes the crown, the losers sleep with the lights on.

This is The Horror Icons Draft.

May the best nightmare win. 🎃🩸🗳️

Who won? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com and vote through our Instagram poll or via TikTok @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:14:57 - The Draft

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Dan came in hot with The Faculty — because nothing says “90s horror” like alien teachers and an emo Elijah Wood. Rach went nostalgic (and slightly traumatised) with Jeepers Creepers 2, one of the films that made her the horror fan she is today. And Dale? Well… Dale chose Saint Maud. Because of course he did. Existential dread, religious trauma, and pyromania — it’s basically the most Dale pick ever 🔥

Join us as we trade scares, argue over which film aged the worst, and question our life choices. It’s creepy, it’s campy, it’s cathartic — it’s a Halloween hangout you won’t want to miss.

The concept is simple: each of us brings a film to fit the theme, at least one person hasn’t seen it before, and when we watch, it’s no phones, no distractions – full attention. What did the others think? Tune in to find out.

Which theme do you want to see us tackle next? What's a film you'd bring to the table for this theme? Let us know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:17:38 - Jeepers Creepers 2

00:37:50 - Saint Maud

00:54:00 - The Faculty

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In our second horror episode of the spooky season, we’re putting the movie adaptations under the microscope — or maybe under the flashlight — and ranking them across four categories: Adaptation Faithfulness, Story & Characters, Horror & Scares, and Creature Design & Visuals.

We love the games… but do the films earn a green herb or a game over screen? 🎬🧟‍♀️

FULL SPOILERS FOR SILENT HILL AND RESIDENT EVIL IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

Agree with our scores? What would you score these films? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:18:58 - Category 1: Adaptation

00:41:02 - Category 2: Story & Characters

00:58:28 - Category 3: Horror & Scares

01:16:32 - Category 4: Creature Design & Visuals

01:29:56 - Final Scores

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👻 Expect our usual mix of witty banter, film insights, and plenty of horror-loving chaos. Whether you’re a die-hard horror fan or just here for the popcorn, this episode will give you chills… and maybe a chuckle or two.

We kick things off spoiler-free with our first impressions before heading into full spoiler territory in the second half, and trust us, the spoilers section is where this film really shines...

Agree with our score? What films do you want to see covered in our Reel Kwik series? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:12:43 - Spoiler-Free Thoughts

00:33:15 - Full Spoiler Review

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In our Hall of Fame/Lame: Adam Sandler episode, the original Happy Gilmore swung straight into our Hall of Fame. But how does Happy Gilmore 2 stack up nearly 30 years later? Sequels this far removed rarely hit the mark, and with critics split down the middle, we’re here to break it all down.

We kick things off spoiler-free with our first impressions before heading into full spoiler territory in the second half. Does this sequel deserve a green jacket, or is it headed for the sand trap?

Agree with our score? What films do you want to see covered in our Reel Kwik series? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:13:35 - Spoiler-Free Thoughts

00:36:02 - Full Spoiler Review

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Join Rachael as she takes you on a journey through the extraordinary life of this timeless star — from his early days to his rise as Hollywood royalty. Along the way, we’ll be celebrating three of his most iconic films: the glamorous caper To Catch a Thief, the thrilling Hitchcock classic North by Northwest, and the stylish romantic mystery Charade.

So grab your popcorn and a martini (shaken with impeccable sophistication, of course) and settle in as we shine the spotlight on Cary Grant — the man who made charm look effortless.

Any Cary Grant specific memories? Is there another icon you'd like to see us cover in a future instalment? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:08:08 - Cary Grant Pt 1

00:16:00 - To Catch a Thief

00:27:27 - Cary Grant Pt 2

00:31:34 - North By Northwest

00:44:23 - Charade

00:53:13 - Cary Grant Pt 4

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Does Warfare carry the same punch as Ex Machina or Annihilation? And, more importantly, where does it sit within the broader canon of war films? We break down how Garland’s cinematic instincts and Mendoza’s lived experience combine on screen, whether the movie earns its place among modern war classics, and how its real-time structure and procedural focus affect the tension and storytelling.

With a stacked cast of young, up-and-coming talent anchored by powerful lead turns, the film pulses with urgency and authenticity. We dissect the performances, the technical craft, the pacing, and the ethical weight of translating trauma to the screen — and finally ask: is this a future classic, a necessary document, or something more complicated?

Tune in for spoiler and non-spoiler takes, scene breakdowns, and a proper debate on where Warfare ranks — both in Garland’s filmography and in war cinema as a whole.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The concept is simple: each of us brings a film to fit the theme, at least one person hasn’t seen it before, and when we watch, it’s no phones, no distractions – full attention. What did the others think of these nostalgic gems? Tune in to find out.

Which theme do you want to see us tackle next? What's a film you'd bring to the table for this theme? Let us know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:07:22 - 3 Ninjas

00:25:03 - Spice World

00:44:00 - Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: The Movie

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Then, for those brave enough, we dive full spoilers: plot twists, character choices, and all the juicy bits that will make you question whether this film finally course-corrects Disney’s remake strategy—or keeps following the same unwanted path.

Agree with our score? What films do you want to see covered in our Reel Kwik series? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:24:19 - Spoiler-Free Thoughts

00:51:25 - Full Spoiler Review

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Last week, Blade Runner powered through the first half of the draw, earning its place in the ultimate final. With Alien already crowned the definitive A film, Ridley Scott is looking pretty pleased with himself right now… but the job’s not done yet.

This week, we dive into the other 16 best films beginning with B, with every chaotic match-up once again decided by the Wheel of Names. By the end, we’ll have our second finalist ready to face Blade Runner for the crown of The Third Reel’s definitive B film.

A quick refresher: We started with 32 of the best and most diverse films beginning with the letter A, battling it out in a tournament-style showdown. Round by round—from the Round of 32 to the Sweet 16, then the Quarterfinals, Semis, and the Final—we’re narrowing it down to just one champion.

Are there any films you think we missed in our list of B films? Any ones you want to see included in future letters? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:04:30 - Round of 16

01:11:20 - Quarters

01:18:30 - Semis

01:23:25 - Final

01:24:37 - Ultimate Final

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Here’s how it works: we’ve shortlisted 32 of the best films starting with B (that we’ve seen), and a trusty Wheel of Names decides the match-ups. Some pairings might make no sense—but that’s exactly what makes it fun and chaotic!

This is Part 1 of 2, with Part 2 dropping next week. In a traditional knockout competition, this week’s winner will face next week’s winner to see which film claims the crown as The Third Reel’s definitive B film.

For reference, Ridley Scott’s Alien took the A competition—so who will triumph this time? Will Back to the Future speed to victory? Can Batman dominate the field? Or will Scott strike again with Blade Runner? Tune in to find out!

Are there any films you think we missed in our list of A films? Any ones you want to see included in future letters? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:11:29 - Round of 16

01:18:32 - Quarters

01:27:12 - Semis

01:34:46 - Final

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Our latest Kwik Episode takes to the skies with Superman (2025), James Gunn’s first step into the brand-new DCU.

From Christopher Reeve’s charm to Henry Cavill’s grit (and maybe one we’d rather forget 👀), Superman has had more reboots than the Batmobile has upgrades — so how does this new take measure up?

Join us as we give our spoiler-free thoughts, then soar straight into full spoiler territory faster than a speeding bullet.

Agree with our score? What films do you want to see covered in our Reel Kwik series? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:15:58 - Spoiler-Free Thoughts

00:40:40 - Full Spoiler Review

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this series, one host takes the hot seat to face their (sometimes irrational) dislike of a particular actor or director, while the other two come armed with three carefully selected films to try and change their mind. Not the best films—just the right ones.

This time, it’s Rachael vs Florence Pugh.

She’s voiced her distaste for Pugh more than once on this podcast—but can Daniel and Dale turn her into a convert?

Expect passionate arguments, pointed roasts, and a whole lot of love (and maybe hate) for one of the most divisive young stars in Hollywood.

What actor/director do you have a dislike of that you want to see covered? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:12:50 - The Debate

00:31:35 - The Films

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Reel Kwik – bite-sized reviews, full-sized opinions.

As always, Part 1 of our review is completely spoiler-free — perfect if you haven’t seen the film yet. Part 2 goes full spoiler mode, so if you’re still waiting to watch, that’s your cue to pause, go sink your teeth into the movie, and come back when you’re ready.

Agree with our score? What films do you want to see covered in our Reel Kwik series? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:09:56 - Spoiler-free thoughts

00:45:52 - Full Spoiler Review

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we dive into the second half of ScarJo’s career — from Black Widow to Marriage Story, Her, Lucy and beyond — as we wrestle with the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

After nearly 40 films and weeks of watching, debating, and occasionally yelling, we finally lock in our definitive 5 Hall of Fame and 5 Hall of Lame picks.

Did your favourite make the cut? Or are we about to break your cinephile heart?

🎬 It’s the conclusion of one of Hollywood’s most fascinating careers — and one of our most stacked episodes yet.

Got a suggestion for our next Hall of Fame/Lame subject? Slide into our DMs — we’re always up for a good film fight.

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - ScarJo Hall of Fame/Lame Pt 2

01:12:36 - Hall of Fame/Lame Debate

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With her latest blockbuster Jurassic World: Rebirth roaring into cinemas, we’re celebrating ScarJo’s legendary (and sometimes questionable) career by sorting her filmography into two distinct categories: five films that earn a coveted place in her Hall of Fame, and five that tumble into the Hall of Lame.

From her early breakout in Manny & Lo in 1996 to nearly 40 films later, Scarlett’s career spans decades — and trust us, this episode took some serious research, viewing, and emotional stamina to pull off. It’s a beast of an episode, so we’re splitting it in two!

In Part 1, we cover the first half of her career — from indie gems to early stardom. Tune in next week for Part 2, where we dive into her Marvel years and beyond, and reveal our final Hall of Fame/Lame picks.

Got a suggestion for our next Hall of Fame/Lame subject? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:26:17 - ScarJo Hall of Fame/Lame Pt 1

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This bittersweet dramedy follows two estranged cousins on a Holocaust pilgrimage that’s as funny as it is devastating, as they uncover buried trauma and confront their tangled family history.

Did Eisenberg deliver on the hype? Is this the beginning of a brilliant directing career? And was Culkin really that good?

Tune in for our thoughts, laughs, and maybe a tear or two.

As always, Part 1 of our review is completely spoiler-free — perfect if you haven’t seen the film yet. Part 2 goes full spoiler mode, so if you’re still waiting to watch, that’s your cue to pause, go sink your teeth into the movie, and come back when you’re ready.

Agree with our score? What films do you want to see covered in our Reel Kwik series? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:04:02 - Spoiler-free thoughts

00:26:49 - Full Spoiler Review

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re heading back 15 years to celebrate the cinematic gems of 2010! From dream heists and dystopian dramas to animated tearjerkers, we each reveal our personal Top 10 films of the year — and no two lists are the same. Expect passionate picks, controversial omissions, and a whole lot of film geekery.

Join us as we rewind to a stacked year in cinema and ask: did Inception blow our minds? Did The Social Network define a generation? And where does Scott Pilgrim fit into all this?

Here’s how it works: we each take turns counting down from #10 to #1 from UK release only. If two (or more) of us have the same film on our lists, we’ll hold off discussing it until it appears at its highest placement. That way, we can give it the spotlight it deserves. Once the lists are complete, we will rattle off our honourable mentions.

Let us know your 2010 rankings!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through the socials @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:18:14 - Daniel's #10

00:22:30 - Rachael's #10

00:25:55 - Dale's #10

00:26:47 - Daniel's #9

00:31:11 - Rachael's #9

00:37:30 - Dale's #9

00:37:58 - Daniel's #8

00:43:32 - Rachael's #8

00:47:22 - Dale's #8

00:51:32 - Daniel's #7

00:55:10 - Rachael's #7

00:55:18 - Dale's #7

00:58:45 - Daniel and Dale's #6

00:59:21 - Rachael's #6

01:03:29 - Daniel and Dale's #5

01:08:44 - Rachael's #5

01:09:00 - Daniel and Dale's #4

01:16:14 - Rachael's #4

01:20:55 - Daniel and Dale's #3

01:21:50 - Rachael's #3

01:28:28 - Daniel and Dale's #2

01:34:42 - Rachael's #2

01:43:00 - Daniel, Rachael and Dale's #1

01:55:17 - Honourable Mentions

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If you’ve ever played fantasy football, you’ll get the gist. We’re drafting from Williams’ entire filmography, taking turns to fill six distinct categories. Once a player locks in a pick, it’s final—and that movie is off the board for everyone else. Draft order? Decided by the legendary Wheel of Names. And since we’re using a snake draft, the playing field stays even.

This week, we channel that nostalgic energy into a full-blown draft as we go head-to-head, choosing our favourite films from his incredible and diverse filmography. The draft is divided into six categories:

🎭 Drama

🤣 Comedy

🎬 Pre-1999

🎥 Post-2000

🏆 Award Recognition

🎲 Free Pick

With a career spanning decades and genres, this one’s going to be tough.

And let’s not forget: Daniel is the reigning champ of the draft and so far, unbeaten. Heavy is the head that wears the crown — but can he finally be dethroned?

We’ll be posting our full draft picks on social media, where you can vote for the ultimate Robin Williams Draft champion. And to top it all off, we’re wrapping things up with our classic IMDb film guessing game—Williams edition!

Get ready for laughs, heated debate, and a whole lot of love for Robin Williams. Let the drafting begin!

Who won? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com and vote through our Instagram poll or via TikTok @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:09:30 - Robin Williams Biography

00:22:12 - Draft Rules

00:24:47 - The Draft

01:36:24 - Quiz

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Does Mangold recapture the magic of Walk the Line? Does Chalamet deliver a performance worth singing about? And do you need to be a Dylan devotee to connect with this film — or is it just another hit in the biopic factory line?

We’re tackling all that and more as we compare this one to other recent biopics, question whether biopic fatigue is real, and ask the big question: does A Complete Unknown do anything new?

Agree with our score? What films do you want to see covered in our Reel Kwik series? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:09:39 - Spoiler-free thoughts

00:36:16 - Full Spoiler Review

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re diving into Sinners, the latest team-up from Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan. One of the biggest and most talked-about films of the year, Sinners has taken both critics and audiences by surprise with its bold, genre-bending take on the vampire mythos.

But how does it stack up with The Third Reel? Tune in to find out.

As always, Part 1 of our review is completely spoiler-free — perfect if you haven’t seen the film yet. Part 2 goes full spoiler mode, so if you’re still waiting to watch, that’s your cue to pause, go sink your teeth into the movie, and come back when you’re ready.

Agree with our score? What films do you want to see covered in our Reel Kwik series? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:04:02 - Spoiler-free thoughts

00:26:49 - Full Spoiler Review

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re diving into the sci-fi worlds of Ex Machina and Her—two films that couldn’t be more different in tone (one a sleek thriller, the other a tender love story), yet both explore the moral and emotional complexities of artificial intelligence.

They may flatter to deceive, but beneath the surface, both films are packed with meaning, questions, and chilling relevance in today’s AI-driven world. So… which is better? Which film offers a stronger portrayal of AI? And which one sticks the landing with a more impactful ending?

We break it all down across five categories:

• Story
• AI Representation & Design
• Themes of Humanity & Consciousness
• Visual & Cinematic Style
• Ending and its Ethical Implications

Each film is scored out of 5 in every category, with a total of 25 points up for grabs. It’s Ex Machina vs Her—let the battle begin.

FULL SPOILERS FOR EX MACHINA AND HER IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

Agree with our scores? What would you score these films? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:13:21 - Category 1: Story

00:42:46 - Category 2: AI Representation & Design

01:09:02 - Category 3: Themes of Humanity & Consciousness

01:36:02 - Category 4: Visual & Cinematic Style

01:53:11 - Category 5: Ending & its Ethical Implications

02:14:20 - Final Scores

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We’re back for one final trip to Hogwarts with a special debrief episode, reflecting on the entire film series and the franchise as a whole. It’s been a magical journey, and now it’s time to take a step back, look at the bigger picture, and maybe cause a little more chaos while we’re at it.

And who better to join us than The Third Reel’s very first guest—Demi Snape! A close friend of the pod and the biggest Harry Potter fan we know (yes, even more than us), Demi is here to help us reflect, challenge our scores, and sort out that final ranking once and for all. Just a heads-up: we briefly lost Demi during the awards section due to some technical issues, so you might notice a few awards where her picks are missing. Annoying, we know—and we can only apologise. Sometimes tech just isn’t on our side!

Expect laughs, debates, a few awards, and Rachael getting pulled up on her very passionate attack of a certain controversial character…

PLUS – we reveal the next film franchise we’ll be tackling in our review series. You won’t want to miss it!

Excited for our next Review Series? Do you agree with our final ranking? We want to know! Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:15:15 - Review of the Reviews

01:13:10 - Final Rankings Debate

01:19:13 - Molly's Chambers

01:35:26 - Awards

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we’re wrapping things up with a deep dive into Acts 2 and 3 of the final film, before sharing our overall thoughts and scores.

As always, we’re breaking it all down scene by scene and scoring it out of 10. It’s time to see where this final instalment lands in The Third Reel’s full Harry Potter film ranking.

It’s been emotional. It’s been magical. But now… it’s time to end the series.

FULL SPOILERS FOR HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS PART 2 IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

What's your score of Deathly Hallows Part 2? Do you agree with our final ranking? We want to know! Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Review: Act 2

01:03:17 - Review: Act 3

01:48:35 - Final Thoughts and Scores

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We made it—the end of the Harry Potter film series and the final chapter in our first-ever review series. It’s been a wild ride through spells, secrets, and a whole lot of Snape, and now we’re here to find out: did they land the plane? Does the final instalment deliver the epic conclusion this franchise deserves?

As with the rest of our reviews—and since this film is part of a two-parter—we’re splitting our coverage into two episodes. In Part 1, we dive into the opening act of Deathly Hallows: Part 2, continuing our deep-dive, scene-by-scene approach and rating it out of 10.

This film is a rollercoaster packed with high-stakes action and some of the biggest reveals of the entire series. So grab your wands and settle in.

Part 2 drops tomorrow, where we’ll tackle Acts 2 and 3, and share our final thoughts and scores for the film—and the series as a whole.

FULL SPOILERS FOR HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS PART 2 IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

If you have any things you want to discuss about this film or Harry Potter in general, email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:13:17 - Review: Act 1

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This time, we’re diving into Gladiator II – Ridley Scott’s epic sequel to his own modern classic.

Was it worth the wait? Does it live up to the original? And can it stand tall without Maximus?

We covered Gladiator in our Versus series, so we had high expectations going in – and a lot to say coming out.

As introduced in last week’s ep, here’s how Reel Kwik works:

1️⃣ Spoiler-Free Thoughts – first impressions, tone, performances

2️⃣ Spoiler Deep Dive – full breakdown of what worked (and what didn’t)

Agree with our score? What films do you want to see covered in our Reel Kwik series? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:03:34 - Spoiler-free thoughts

00:17:01 - Full Spoiler Review

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Welcome to our brand new format – Reel Kwik – where we pick one film and review it… well, real kwik(ish).

Each episode is split into two parts:

🎞️ Part 1 – Spoiler-free thoughts and first impressions.

🧠 Part 2 – A full deep-dive review with all the spoilers.

If you haven’t seen the film yet, that’s your cue to pause after Part 1, watch it, then come back for the full discussion.

In today’s episode, we’re sinking our teeth into Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu remake – our most anticipated film of the year. But did it live up to the hype and our (very) lofty expectations?

Listen now to find out.

Agree with our score? What films do you want to see covered in our Reel Kwik series? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:05:15 - Spoiler-free thoughts

00:26:08 - Full Spoiler Review

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Often hailed as the male and female counterparts of the same concept, these two comedy heavyweights are constantly compared—but which one truly comes out on top? Which delivers the bigger laughs? Which tells the better story? We’re here to settle the score in the long-awaited return of our Versus series!

These iconic comedies go head-to-head across five key categories: Comedy, Ensemble Cast, Storyline, Cultural Influence, and Rewatchability. Each film will be scored out of 5 in each category, with a maximum of 25 points up for grabs. Only one can walk away with the win—so let the showdown begin!

FULL SPOILERS FOR BRIDESMAIDS AND THE HANGOVER IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

Agree with our scores? What would you score these films? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:11:24 - Category 1: Comedy

00:39:06 - Category 2: Ensemble Cast

01:00:47 - Category 3: Storyline

01:18:27 - Category 4: Cultural Influence

01:35:50 - Category 5: Rewatchability

01:45:04 - Final Scores

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With Daniel off on holiday, it’s just Rachael & Dale this week, and we’ve brought some big ones to the table: Sex and the City and Hook. One’s full of fashion and feelings, the other’s got pirates and Peter Pan – but will they win each other over?

Honest opinions incoming.

Don’t worry – all three of us will be back to our regular podcast antics next week!

Which films do you want your partner or friends to see that's close to you? Let us know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through our Instagram or TikTok @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:11:33 - Sex and the City

00:46:57 - Hook

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Just like always, we’re breaking the film down act by act, scene by scene, and scoring it out of 10. Deathly Hallows – Part 1 might be a slower, more introspective entry, but does it hit the emotional beats it aims for—and how well does it set up the finale?

Join us as we continue our journey through the Wizarding World and see where this chapter lands in our rankings!

FULL SPOILERS FOR HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS PART 1 IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

What's your score of Deathly Hallows Part 1? Do you agree with ours? We want to know! Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Review: Act 2

00:59:13 - Review: Act 3

01:21:40 - Final Thoughts and Scores

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As with the other instalments—and with this one being part of a two-parter itself—we’re splitting our review in two. In Part 1, we’ll delve into the opening act of the film, and in Part 2 (dropping tomorrow), we’ll explore Acts 2 and 3 before sharing our final thoughts and scores.

We’re continuing our deep-dive approach, breaking the film down scene by scene and rating it out of 10. Deathly Hallows – Part 1 is a slower, moodier entry, dividing fans with its pacing and tone—but does it hold up under scrutiny?

Join us as we dissect, discuss, and rank this penultimate chapter in the Wizarding World saga!

FULL SPOILERS FOR HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS PART 1 IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

If you have any things you want to discuss about this film or Harry Potter in general, email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through TikTok or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:09:31 - Review: Act 1

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If you’ve ever played fantasy football, you’ll get the gist. We’re drafting from Hanks’ entire filmography, taking turns to fill six distinct categories. Once a player locks in a pick, it’s final—and that movie is off the board for everyone else. Draft order? Decided by the legendary Wheel of Names. And since we’re using a snake draft, the playing field stays even.

Dan is riding high as a two-time, undefeated draft champion after his Christmas draft victory. Can Rachael or Dale finally dethrone him? There’s only one way to find out…

The Categories:

🎭 Comedy

🎬 Drama

📽 Biographical

🏆 Award-Winning

🎞 Pre-2002

🎥 Post-2003

We’ll be posting our full draft picks on social media, where you can vote for the ultimate Tom Hanks Draft champion. And to top it all off, we’re wrapping things up with our classic IMDb film guessing game—Hanks edition!

Who will take the crown? Let’s draft! 🎙🎬

Who won? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com and vote through our Instagram poll or via X/Twitter @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:11:24 - Tom Hanks Biography

00:19:30 - Draft Rules

00:22:25 - The Draft

01:38:14 - Quiz

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A quick refresher: We started with 32 of the best and most diverse films beginning with the letter A, battling it out in a tournament-style showdown. Round by round—from the Round of 32 to the Sweet 16, then the Quarterfinals, Semis, and the Final—we’re narrowing it down to just one champion.

Now, in Part 2, we take on the remaining 16 films to determine who will face Aladdin in the final fight for the crown. Who will come out on top? Tune in to find out!

Are there any films you think we missed in our list of A films? Any ones you want to see included in future letters? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through Instagram and X/Twitter @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:10:37 - Round of 16

01:29:28 - Quarters

01:39:45 - Semis

01:45:50 - Final

01:49:39 - Ultimate Final

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The goal? To build the ultimate movie alphabet by choosing just one film per letter. In this series, we put 32 of the best and most diverse films starting with a given letter into a tournament-style showdown. They’ll battle head-to-head, round by round—from the Round of 32 to the Sweet 16, then on to the Quarterfinals, Semis, and the Final.

Since 32 films is a lot to cover, we’re splitting each letter into two parts. This week, we’ll go through the first 16 matchups. Next week, we’ll tackle the other 16, with both winners facing off in the ultimate final round to claim the top spot for Letter A.

This was an absolute blast to record, and let’s just say—the Wheel of Names really knows how to throw a curveball! We might have just found our new favourite format.

Are there any films you think we missed in our list of A films? Any ones you want to see included in future letters? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through Instagram and X/Twitter @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:04:07 - Concept

00:10:37 - Round of 16

01:27:01 - Quarters

01:42:00 - Semis

01:46:46 - Final

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As a reminder, we'll be breaking down the film act by act and scene by scene, scoring each film on a scale of 1 to 10.

FULL SPOILERS FOR HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF BLOOD PRINCE IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

What's your score of Half Blood? Do you agree with ours? We want to know! Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Review: Act 2

00:52:13 - Review: Act 3

01:17:40 - Final Thoughts and Scores

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Like with the previous films—and likely the ones ahead—we’re splitting our review into two parts. In Part 1, we’ll break down Act 1, and in Part 2 (dropping first thing tomorrow), we’ll tackle Acts 2 and 3, followed by our final thoughts and scores.

We’re analysing this film scene by scene, act by act, and rating it on a scale of 1 to 10. Half-Blood Prince is a divisive chapter in the series—some love its humor and lighter tone, while others crave more depth and substance.

Join us as we unpack, critique, and rank this instalment in the Wizarding World!

FULL SPOILERS FOR HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF BLOOD PRINCE IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

If you have any things you want to discuss about this film or Harry Potter in general, email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:08:27 - Review: Act 1

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From her unforgettable role as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz to her heartbreaking performance in A Star Is Born, Judy’s career was filled with cinematic triumphs and timeless moments. But behind the dazzling spotlight lay a life of immense pressure, struggles with substance abuse, and the weight of impossible expectations.

In this episode, Rachael takes us on a deep dive into Judy’s life, from her early beginnings to her tragic passing. Along the way, we’ll review three of her most iconic films: The Wizard of Oz (1939), Meet Me in St. Louis (1944), and A Star Is Born (1954).

Whether you’re a lifelong Judy fan or discovering her brilliance for the first time, join us as we celebrate the life, legacy, and enduring magic of one of Hollywood’s most legendary stars—only on The Third Reel: A Movie Podcast.

SPOILERS FOR THOSE 3 FILMS IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

Any Judy Garland specific memories? Is there another icon you'd like to see us cover in a future instalment? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through Instagram and X/Twitter @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:08:02 - Judy Garland Pt 1

00:11:43 - The Wizard of Oz

00:30:43 - Judy Garland Pt 2

00:33:27 - Meet Me in St. Louis

00:51:09 - Judy Garland Pt 3

00:56:54 - A Star is Born

01:19:43 - Judy Garland Pt 4

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With that in mind, it’s the perfect time to reflect on 2024 and decide our own personal top 10 films of the year.

Here’s how it works: we each take turns counting down from #10 to #1. If two (or more) of us have the same film on our lists, we’ll hold off discussing it until it appears at its highest placement. That way, we can give it the spotlight it deserves. Once the lists are complete, we will rattle off our honourable mentions.

Let us know your 2024 rankings!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:13:02 - Dale and Rachael's #10

00:21:40 - Daniel's #10

00:24:31 - Dale's #9

00:29:48 - Rachael's #9

00:34:54 - Daniel's #9

00:35:02 - Dale's #8

00:35:14 - Rachael's #8

00:35:21 - Daniel's #8

00:39:22 - Dale's #7

00:43:27 - Rachael's #7

00:49:50 - Daniel's #7

00:50:04 - Dale's #6

00:58:09 - Rachael and Daniel's #6 and Dale's #5

01:03:08 - Rachael's #5

01:10:52 - Daniel's #5

01:20:00 - Dale's #4

01:29:00 - Rachael's #4

01:29:10 - Daniel's #4

01:36:58 - Dale's #3

01:37:03 - Rachael's #3

01:41:07 - Daniel's #3

01:51:10 - Dale's #2

01:51:22 - Rachael's #2

01:56:40 - Daniel's #2

02:02:15 - Dale and Daniel's #1

02:10:38 - Rachael's #1

02:22:22 - Honourable Mentions

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As a reminder, we'll be breaking down the film act by act and scene by scene, scoring each film on a scale of 1 to 10.

FULL SPOILERS FOR HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

What's your score of Order? Do you agree with ours? We want to know! Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Review: Act 2

00:45:42 - Review: Act 3

01:16:49 - Final Thoughts and Scores

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As with the previous films—and likely the ones ahead—we’ve split our review into two parts. In Part 1, we’ll break down Act 1, while Part 2 (dropping first thing tomorrow) will cover Acts 2 and 3, followed by our final thoughts and scores.

We’re analysing this movie act by act, scene by scene, and rating it on a scale of 1 to 10. Order of the Phoenix marks the debut of David Yates, who would go on to direct every remaining film in the series. It’s also widely recognised for Daniel Radcliffe’s strongest performance yet—and, of course, that unforgettable duel between Dumbledore and Voldemort.

Tune in as we discuss, critique, and rank this chapter in the Wizarding World!

FULL SPOILERS FOR HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

If you have any things you want to discuss about this film or Harry Potter in general, email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:07:49 - Review: Act 1

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Which film has the stronger lead? Which is more deeply woven into British culture? Which delivers the better love story? And does more Hugh Grant automatically mean a better movie? We’re answering all these questions in the latest installment of our Versus series.

We’ll be putting these two rom-com staples head-to-head across five key categories: Story, Lead, Supporting Cast, Comedy, and Britishness. Each film will be scored out of 5 in each category, for a total of 15 possible points. In the end, only one can claim the crown—so let the battle begin!

FULL SPOILERS FOR BRIDGET JONES'S DIARY AND NOTTING HILL IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

Agree with our scores? What would you score these films? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:11:27 - Category 1: Story

01:00:02 - Category 2: Lead

01:19:27 - Category 3: Supporting Cast

01:46:03 - Category 4: Comedy

01:57:28 - Category 5: Britishness

02:10:00 - Final Scores

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If you’re familiar with fantasy football, you’ll know the drill. Each of us takes turns selecting movies from Mark Ruffalo’s entire filmography, filling out six distinct categories. Once a category is locked in, it’s final for that player, and that movie is off the board for everyone else. The draft order? Determined by the legendary “Wheel of Names.” And since we’re running a snake draft, everyone gets a fair shot at the best picks.

Last time, Daniel took the crown in the Emma Stone draft—can he defend his title, or will Rachael or Dale snatch it away? Only one way to find out: listen, vote, and let the best Ruffalo roster win!

The Categories:

🎭 Starring

🎭 Supporting

🎭 Drama

😂 Comedy

🟢 Marvel (MCU) 🏹

🎬 Free Pick

We’ll be posting our full picks on social media, where you can cast your votes to decide the ultimate Mark Ruffalo Draft champion. And to top it all off, we’ve got a fun, Ruffalo-themed bonus game for you to play along with—so stick around till the end!

Who won? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com and vote through our Instagram poll or via X/Twitter @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:09:10 - Mark Ruffalo Biography

00:17:40 - Draft Rules

00:19:58 - The Draft

01:29:03 - Quiz

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Join us at The Third Reel: A Movie Podcast as we rank 5 of his best films for the Hall of Fame and 5 of his worst for the Hall of Lame. Will your favourites make the cut, or will they end up in the shadows? It's a whimsical, spooky, and hilariously judgmental episode you won't want to miss! Agreeing on those 5 for each Hall? Well, disagreeing is all part of the fun...

Agree with our Hall of Fame? What about the Hall of Lame? Got a suggestion for our next Hall of Fame/Lame subject? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s how it works: we each take turns counting down from #10 to #1. If two (or more) of us have the same film on our lists, we’ll hold off discussing it until it appears at its highest placement. That way, we can give it the spotlight it deserves. Once the lists are complete, we will rattle off our honourable mentions.

Let us know your 2011 rankings!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:14:28 - Rachael's #10

00:17:07 - Daniel's #10

00:19:48 - Dale's #10

00:20:22 - Rachael's #9

00:23:52 - Daniel's #9

00:28:35 - Dale's #9

00:28:55 - Rachael's #8

00:30:43 - Daniel's #8

00:30:52 - Dale's #8

00:35:15 - Rachael's #7

00:40:14 - Daniel's #7

00:45:11 - Dale's #7

00:45:40 - Rachael & Daniel's #6

00:51:02 - Dale's #6

00:55:11 - Rachael's #5

00:55:37 - Daniel's #5

00:55:52 - Dale's #5

00:55:57 - Rachael's #4

00:59:55 - Daniel's #4

01:00:12 - Dale's #4

01:03:29 - Rachael's #3

01:04:55 - Daniel's #3

01:05:12 - Dale's #3

01:11:29 - Rachael's #2

01:16:45 - Daniel's #2

01:22:41 - Dale's #2

01:27:55 - Rachael's #1

01:32:04 - Daniel & Dale's #1

01:39:25 - Honourable Mentions

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As a reminder, we'll be breaking down the film act by act and scene by scene, scoring each film on a scale of 1 to 10.

FULL SPOILERS FOR HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

What's your score of Goblet? Do you agree with ours? We want to know! Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Review: Act 2

00:35:29 - Review: Act 3

01:21:50 - Final Thoughts and Scores

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Like the previous installments—and likely those to come—we’ve split this review into two parts. In Part 1, we break down Act 1 of the film, while Part 2 (dropping bright and early tomorrow) will pick up with Act 2, wrap up with Act 3, and conclude with our final thoughts and scores.

We’ll be dissecting the film act by act, scene by scene, and scoring it on a scale of 1 to 10. With a new director at the helm, Goblet of Fire stands out as one of the most action-packed entries in the series. Frequently cited as a fan favorite for kicking off Harry Potter marathons, this movie has a special place in the hearts of many.

Join us as we share our thoughts, critiques, and where this installment ranks among the rest of the Wizarding World!

FULL SPOILERS FOR HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

If you have any things you want to discuss about this film or Harry Potter in general, email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:08:33 - Review: Act 1

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Both are adaptations of Bram Stoker’s legendary novel—one unofficial (Nosferatu) and the other the definitive authorised version (Dracula). We delve into the fascinating histories of these horror heavyweights before putting them head-to-head in five key categories: Cinematography, Vampire, Set Design & Location, Storytelling, and Legacy. Each film earns a score out of 5 in each category, for a maximum of 15 points. At the end, we’ll tally up the scores to see which film reigns supreme.

It’s Orlok vs. Dracula. Max Schreck vs. Bela Lugosi. Rat vs. Bat. Who comes out on top? Tune in and sink your fangs into this thrilling showdown to find out!

FULL SPOILERS FOR NOSFERATU AND DRACULA IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

Agree with our scores? What would you score these films? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:17:22 - Category 1: Cinematography

00:42:26 - Category 2: Vampire

01:01:55 - Category 3: Set Design & Location

01:20:55 - Category 4: Storytelling

01:46:54 - Category 5: Legacy

01:59:42 - Final Scores

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Since recording this episode, there have been release date changes, new trailers dropped, and fresh posters revealed—Hollywood moves fast! So, please bear with us and keep that in mind as you listen. But rest assured, our excitement for these upcoming films hasn’t wavered, and we can’t wait to see what they bring to the big screen.

What are your most anticipated films of the upcoming year? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:09:34 - 2025 Most Anticipated

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This time, we're bringing you our Christmas Special Draft. If you caught our Emma Stone draft, you know how this works: we’re each picking our top Christmas films for a specific category, all while trying to sabotage each other's choices along the way. It's a snake draft with random order – and when it comes to Christmas, everything’s fair in love and war!

We kick things off by chatting all things Christmas – from our favourite festive treats and time-honoured traditions to, of course, the best holiday movies. Then, we dive into the Draft, followed by a fun Christmas quiz hosted by Dale to see who’s the ultimate Christmas movie master.

Tis the season for some holiday cheer – and a little bit of chaos!

The categories for the Draft are:

• Classic Xmas Film (Pre 1990)
• Modern Xmas Film (Post 1990)
• Animated Xmas Film
• Comedy Xmas Film
• Non-Traditional Xmas film
• Free Pick

Now, who wins? Well, that’s up to you! We’ll be sharing our full picks on social media, where you can vote in polls to crown the winner of the Christmas Special Draft.

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or connect through Instagram and X/Twitter @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Xmas Preamble

00:17:23 - Xmas Draft Rules

00:19:45 - The Xmas Draft

01:26:38 - Xmas Quiz

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As a reminder, we'll be breaking down the film act by act and scene by scene, scoring each film on a scale of 1 to 10. Time to find out where Prisoner of Azkaban measures up to our thoughts on the first 2 films...

FULL SPOILERS FOR HARRY POTTER AND THE PRISONER OF AZKABAN IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

What's your score of the third Harry Potter movie? Do you agree with ours? We want to know! Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Review: Act 2

00:34:14 - Review: Act 3

01:00:13 - Final Thoughts and Scores

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As per the last in this series, we've had to split this episode into 2 parts (expect this with future instalments moving forward). Part 1 covers Act 1, while Part 2 (which will be released tomorrow) picks up with Act 2 and wraps up with Act 3, along with our final thoughts and scores.

We'll be breaking down the film act by act and scene by scene, scoring each film on a scale of 1 to 10. We weren't as hot on Chamber of Secrets last time out, especially compared to Philosopher's Stone. But with a change of director and tone, you'll have to tune in tomorrow to see how Prisoner of Azkaban measures up!

FULL SPOILERS FOR HARRY POTTER AND THE PRISONER OF AZKABAN IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

If you have any things you want to discuss about this film or Harry Potter in general, email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:14:25 - Review: Act 1

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A decade on, 2014 feels like a lifetime ago, but it’s also a standout year for us—we finished university and stepped into the next chapter of our lives. It also happens to be a phenomenal year for movies, so what better excuse to rank our favourites?

Here’s how it works: we each take turns counting down from #10 to #1. If two (or more) of us have the same film on our lists, we’ll hold off discussing it until it appears at its highest placement. That way, we can give it the spotlight it deserves. Once the lists are complete, we will rattle off our honourable mentions.

Let’s dive in!

This was our toughest assignment yet and I'm sure there will be many disagreements in terms of our individual rankings so please let us know and share your rankings!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:13:13 - Top 10 Rules

00:14:22 - Daniel's #10

00:17:10 - Dale's #10

00:20:16 - Rachael's #10

00:23:28 - Daniels #9

00:24:00 - Dale's #9

00:24:17 - Rachael's #9

00:27:17 - Daniel's #8

00:27:53 - Dale's #8

00:28:07 - Rachael's #8

00:30:32 - Daniel's #7

00:30:52 - Dale's #7

00:34:17 - Rachael's #7

00:39:54 - Daniel's #6

00:40:13 - Dale's #6

00:40:32 - Rachael's #6

00:41:00 - Daniel's #5

00:45:25 - Dale's #5

00:46:04 - Rachael's #5

00:46:14 - Daniel's #4

00:51:34 - Dale's #4

00:57:46 - Rachael's #4

01:03:35 - Daniel's #3

01:10:47 - Dale's #3

01:20:43 - Rachael's #3

01:20:51 - Daniel's #2

01:25:55 - Dale's #2

01:26:00 - Rachael's #2

01:26:05 - Daniel's #1

01:36:49 - Dale's #1

01:42:45 - Rachael's #1

01:50:37 - Honourable Mentions

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Rachael takes us on a captivating journey through Wood’s early life and career, from her rise to fame to her tragic passing, all while exploring her enduring legacy. Along the way, we review three of her most iconic films: Miracle on 34th Street (1947), Rebel Without a Cause (1955), and West Side Story (1961). Whether you're already a fan or new to her work, this episode serves as both a fascinating history lesson and a deep dive into the career of one of Hollywood's greatest stars.

SPOILERS FOR THOSE 3 FILMS IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

Any Natalie Wood specific memories? Is there another icon you'd like to see us cover in a future instalment? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through Instagram and X/Twitter @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:09:45 - Icon Series Intro

00:15:40 - Natalie Wood Pt 1

00:21:35 - Miracle on 34th Street

00:35:25 - Natalie Wood Pt 2

00:38:47 - Rebel Without a Cause

00:58:03 - Natalie Wood Pt 3

01:02:59 - West Side Story

01:19:43 - Natalie Wood Pt 4

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If you’ve ever played fantasy football or are familiar with the concept, you’ll know how this works. Each of us takes turns selecting movies from Emma Stone's entire filmography, filling out five distinct categories. Once a category is filled, it's locked for that player, and that movie is off the table for everyone else. The draft order was determined by the fabled "Wheel of Names," and we're doing a snake draft, so everyone gets a fair shot. Think going first guarantees a win? Think again—because that player won’t pick again until the fifth round! There’s plenty of strategy involved, and we had a blast playing.

The categories are:

• Starring
• Supporting
• Drama
• Comedy
• Free Pick

Now, who wins? Well, that’s up to you! We’ll be sharing our full picks on social media, where you can vote in polls to crown the winner of the Emma Stone Draft.

To wrap things up, we’ve got one more quick Emma Stone-related game for you to play along with. It’s a games galore kind of episode, so don’t miss it!

Who won? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through Instagram and X/Twitter @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:12:53 - Draft Rules

00:17:43 - The Draft

01:14:5 - Quiz

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As a reminder, we'll be breaking down the film act by act and scene by scene, scoring each film on a scale of 1 to 10. Philosopher’s Stone earned a TTR median score of 7, with Daniel giving it 7.5, Dale scoring it a 7, and Rachael at 6.5. Listen now to see how Chamber of Secrets measures up...

FULL SPOILERS FOR HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

This episode was recorded prior to passing of the legendary Dame Maggie Smith, whose iconic portrayal of Professor McGonagall remains forever in our hearts. So please forgive the lack of acknowledgement in this episode and know we will honour her in a future Harry Potter episode.

What's your score of the second Harry Potter movie? Do you agree with ours? We want to know! Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Review: Act 2

00:53:20 - Review: Act 3

01:23:12 - Final Thoughts and Scores

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This episode ended up running longer than expected, so we’ve decided to split it into two parts. Part 1 covers Act 1, while Part 2 (which will be released tomorrow) picks up with Act 2 and wraps up with Act 3, along with our final thoughts and scores.

We'll be breaking down the film act by act and scene by scene, scoring each film on a scale of 1 to 10. If you remember, Philosopher’s Stone earned a TTR median score of 7, with Daniel giving it 7.5, Dale scoring it a 7, and Rachael at 6.5. Tune in tomorrow to see how Chamber of Secrets measures up!

FULL SPOILERS FOR HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

This episode was recorded prior to passing of the legendary Dame Maggie Smith, whose iconic portrayal of Professor McGonagall remains forever in our hearts. So please forgive the lack of acknowledgement in this episode and know we will honour her in a future Harry Potter episode.

If you have any things you want to discuss about this film or Harry Potter in general, email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:08:47 - Review: Act 1

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(Note: All responses have been kept anonymous.)

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In the return of our Versus series, it's Maximus against William Wallace. Ridley Scott against Mel Gibson. Russel Crowe against, uhh, Mel Gibson again. Who will win? Well give it a listen to find out.

Each Versus episode brings with it new categories to score against and in today's one, they are as follows: Protagonist / Story / Action Set Pieces / Production Design / Soundtrack.

As a reminder, we score each film out of 5 for each of these categories so a max score of 25, add them up at the end and see which film bested the other.

FULL SPOILERS FOR GLADIATOR AND BRAVEHEART IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

Agree with our scores? What would you score these films? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

To battle!

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:13:37 - Category 1: Protagonist

00:36:50 - Category 2: Story

01:08:22 - Category 3: Action Set Pieces

01:29:35 - Category 4: Production Design

01:45:43 - Category 5: Soundtrack

02:00:22 - Final Scores

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We go through each of the Sandman's starring films in chronological order and debate, before unanimously deciding, which 5 films should be placed in his Hall of Fame, and which 5 films into his Hall of Lame. Now this assignment was extremely tricky, as forming one Hall was certainly easier than forming the other...

How do we decide on which films go into each Hall? Well, mostly we don't, so there is a lot of disagreement and eventual compromise. But ultimately, it's about deciding which 5 films paint the fairest reflection, both good and bad, of Adam Sandler - the comedian, actor and film star.

Agree with our Hall of Fame? What about the Hall of Lame? Got a suggestion for our next Hall of Fame/Lame subject? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter and Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:21:40 - Sandler's Films

02:02:54 - Hall of Fame/Lame Decision

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So in today's episode of The Third Reel: A Movie Podcast, we do a little throwback to our first episode as we each pick the 3 horror films that made us. We will first discuss our Halloween traditions, and why we love this commercialised holiday before delving into our own personal horror flick picks. We end today's episode with a fun little horror film themed quiz which you can play along with (and probably beat us at).

What were the horror films that made you? What were your Halloween traditions? We want to know!

Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:22:38 - Dale's 1st Film

00:27:56 - Rachael's 1st Film

00:32:33 - Daniel's 1st Film

00:40:57 - Dale's 2nd Film

00:46:50 - Rachael's 2nd Film

00:53:23 - Daniel's 2nd Film

01:00:55 - Dale's 3rd Film

01:07:16 - Rachael's 3rd Pick

01:13:08 - Daniel's 3rd Pick

01:23:38 - Other Halloween Content

01:29:45 - Quiz

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And in today's episode of The Third Reel: A Movie Podcast, we've chosen to dive into the tense, heart-pounding world of home invasion horror as we pit Hush against Don't Breathe! Which film utilises disability in their narrative better? Who has the best villain? What film made you feel more tense? These are just some of the categories we will cover and critique to find out which one reigns supreme. 5 categories in total, rated out of 5 each. Let's do it.

Join us as we break down the nerve-wracking suspense, clever twists, and terrifying villains in these modern horror gems. Whether you're a thriller fan or just looking for some Halloween movie night inspiration, TTR is the place to listen for a scary night in.

FULL SPOILERS FOR HUSH AND DON'T BREATHE IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

Agree with our decision? What would you rate these films in each of these categories? Any more suggestions for future Vs. episodes? We want to know! Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:16:47 - Category 1: Sound

00:38:40 - Category 2: Tension

00:55:47 - Category 3: Villain

01:14:54 - Category 4: Disability Impact on Story

01:35:00 - Category 5: Space

01:55:07 - Final Score

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This is part of our Review Series where we will be going act by act, scene by scene, and scoring out of 10 each film in the franchise from Harry's measly beginnings to his triumphant end. 8 films in total, better get going then. Once we reach that last film, we shall see TTR's definitive ranking of the Harry Potter universe...

FULL SPOILERS FOR HARRY POTTER AND THE PHILOSOPHER'S STONE IN THIS EPISODE. You have been warned.

This episode was recorded prior to passing of the legendary Dame Maggie Smith, whose iconic portrayal of Professor McGonagall remains forever in our hearts. So please forgive the lack of acknowledgement in this episode and know we will honour her in a future Harry Potter episode.

What's your score of the first Harry Potter movie? Do you agree with ours? We want to know! Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00:00 - Preamble

00:12:20 - Review: Act 1

00:59:16 - Review: Act 2

01:33:29 - Review: Act 3

01:52:25 - Final Thoughts and Scores

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What films made you? We want to know! Email us at thirdreelpod@gmail.com or through X/Twitter or Instagram @third_reel_pod

https://linktr.ee/thirdreelpod

All music used in this podcast is for commentary and review purposes under fair use. We give full credit to the original composers and right holders, and acknowledge that we do not own any of the music featured.

TIMESTAMPS

00:14:35 - Rachael 1st film

00:20:40 - Dale 1st film

00:27:50 - Daniel 1st film

00:37:04 - Rachael 2nd film

00:47:05 - Dale 2nd film

00:55:13 - Daniel 2nd film (and Dale's 3rd...)

01:14:36 - Rachael 3rd film

01:27:45 - Daniel 3rd film

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