Best Alec Mallmann Podcasts (2025)

1
Rear Window (1954) revisited 31:09

Play Pause

3d ago31:09

31:09

The stunning set piece, the performances, the suspense... join Alec and Ben for an in depth discussion on the 1954 Alfred Hitchcock masterpiece starring James Stewart, Grace Kelly and Raymond Burr. Ben ranks the film among the rest of Hitchcock's catalogue while Alec explains why the New York set piece was so ground breaking. The guys celebrate the…

1
Warcraft (2016) revisited 35:51

10d ago35:51

35:51

Back from their summer hiatus the guys take another look at the 2016 video game film adaptation Warcraft starring Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Ben Foster and Dominic Cooper. Alec explains what worked and what didn't with the film's casting. Ben pinpoints big issues with the film's narrative while praising its visuals. The guys share their own exper…

1
Jaws (1975) revisited 37:11

1M ago37:11

37:11

Alec and Ben celebrate the 50th anniversary of Steven Spielberg's iconic film Jaws. They discuss its impact on cinema, the challenges faced during production, and the film's masterful storytelling and character dynamics. The conversation delves into the thematic elements and symbolism present in the film, as well as its lasting cultural relevance a…

1
F1: The Movie (2025) 38:15

2M ago38:15

38:15

A spoiler filled discussion on the 2025 racing blockbuster from director Joseph Kosinski and starring Brad Pitt, Damson Idris, Javier Bardem and Kerry Condon. The guys explain why the film demands to be seen in the IMAX format. Alec critiques the performances of Pitt and Bardem while Ben explains what worked and what didn't with the character confl…

1
Attack the Block (2011) revisited 21:01

2M ago21:01

21:01

The guys take another look at the 2011 sci-fi comedy Attack the Block from writer-director Joe Cornish and starring John Boyega and Jodie Whittaker. Alec and Ben reflect on the film's merits. Alec explains why he disagreed with friends back in 2011 who raved about the movie. Ben gives two key reasons the film never found an audience. The guys lamen…

1
Whiplash (2014) revisited 31:55

2M ago31:55

31:55

Alec and Ben take another look at Damien Chazelle's acclaimed film Whiplash starring Miles Teller and J.K. Simmons. They discuss the film's technical brilliance, the powerful performances, particularly by J.K. Simmons, and the moral questions raised by the film. The conversation also touches on the importance of editing, the challenges of filmmakin…

1
Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning (2025) 29:45

2M ago29:45

29:45

A spoiler filled conversation on the 8th entry in the Mission Impossible franchise starring Tom Cruise. The guys discuss the benefits of seeing the film in IMAX, pacing and exposition issues, as well as the film's two massive action sequences. Ben discusses the impact Covid had on production while Alec delves into the film's villain as well as fran…

1
Unbreakable (2000) revisited 31:38

3M ago31:38

31:38

The guys revisit the M. Night Shyamalan thriller starring Bruce Willis, Samuel L. Jackson, Robin Wright and Spencer Treat Clark. Ben explains how the film's main theme is more timely than ever. Alec compares the film's twist with other Shyamalan films. Alec and Ben converse on the complex nature of the film's villain. The conversation wraps up on t…

1
Andor - Season 2 (2025) 1:34:06

3M ago1:34:06

1:34:06

An expanded and spoiler filled episode as Alec and Ben unpack their most anticipated show of 2025 with the second and final season of Andor. Alec discusses how a Star Wars outsider in Tony Gilroy breathed new life into the franchise. Ben compares and contrasts the shows first and second seasons. The guys converse on the challenge of viewer expectat…

1
Guest Richard Bazley: From Disney Animator to Film Director 56:09

3M ago56:09

56:09

Hollywood veteran Richard Bazley recounts his path from growing up in rural England to Disney animator, CGI artist, storyboard artist and ultimately a transition to Emmy-nominated director. Richard's animation credits include Who Framed Roger Rabbit, All Dogs Go to Heaven, Hercules and The Iron Giant. Richard gives insight into the demise of 2D ani…

1
Warfare (2025) 31:50

3M ago31:50

31:50

SPOILER WARNING. Alec and Ben break down the war film directed by Alex Garland and former US Navy SEAL Ray Mendoza based on Mendoza's combat experience in Ramadi, Iraq in 2006. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/…

1
The Game (1997) revisited 27:37

3M ago27:37

27:37

A look back at the 1997 David Fincher thriller starring Michael Douglas, Deborah Kara Unger and Sean Penn. The guys explore The Game's aesthetic, character development, and thematic elements. They discuss Michael Douglas's performance, the film's cinematography, and the impact of its minimal score. The conversation also touches on the film's pacing…

1
A Real Pain (2024) 33:28

4M ago33:28

33:28

A spoiler-light discussion on the Jesse Eisenberg written and directed dramedy starring Kieran Culkin (Best Supporting Actor Winner) and Jesse Eisenberg. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/…

1
Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood (2019) revisited 35:01

4M ago35:01

35:01

Join Cinema: A to B for a celebration of the golden age of Hollywood with a humor filled look back at Quentin Tarantino's 9th film starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie. Alec discusses the performances and chemistry of DiCaprio and Pitt. Ben converses on the film's historical context and how that conflict affects the viewer. The …

1
The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004) revisited 33:55

4M ago33:55

33:55

A return to the 2004 Wes Anderson comedy starring Bill Murray, Owen Wilson, Cate Blanchett, Anjelica Huston, and Willem Dafoe. Ben compares and contrasts Anderson's early vs. recent filmography. Alec praises the performances of Bill Murray and Willem Dafoe. The guys converse on the film's incredible set pieces and frequent nods to the process of fi…

1
Tombstone (1993) revisited 27:45

4M ago27:45

27:45

Alec and Ben revisit the 1993 Western film Tombstone, discussing its all-star cast, particularly the late Val Kilmer's iconic performance as Doc Holliday. The guys explore the film's controversial direction, character dynamics, and the historical context surrounding the events depicted. The conversation also touches on the cinematography and visual…

1
Interstellar (2014) revisited 49:44

5M ago49:44

49:44

A closer look at Christopher Nolan's 2014 space epic Interstellar starring Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain and Matt Damon. Join Alec and Ben as they rank the film in their own hierarchy of Nolan pictures as well as performance breakdowns, cinematography, editing, and a discussion on the film's iconic score by Hans Zimmer. The c…

1
High Fidelity (2000) revisited 32:07

5M ago32:07

32:07

25 years removed Alec and Ben revisit the Stephen Frears directed rom-com exploring its themes, character dynamics, and cultural impact. They discuss the evolution of John Cusack's character, Rob, and the comedic brilliance of Jack Black. The conversation touches on masculinity, relationships, and the role of music in shaping the narrative. The hos…

1
Hoosiers (1986) revisited 40:34

5M ago40:34

40:34

The guys revisit the 1986 basketball drama directed by David Anspaugh and starring Gene Hackman, Barbara Hershey, and Dennis Hopper. Ben shares his own personal connection with Indiana basketball while Alec marvels at the acting prowess of Hackman. The guys discuss the film's character development, casting, and sometimes contentious production. The…

1
Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One (2023) 39:57

5M ago39:57

39:57

A conversation on the seventh entry in the Mission: Impossible franchise starring Tom Cruise quickly turns into a larger discussion on the past, present, and potential future of the spy series. Alec compares and contrasts MI with James Bond while Ben reflects on his favorite entries in the franchise as well as its problematic departure from the ori…

1
The Quiet Man (1952) revisited 37:13

6M ago37:13

37:13

A listener request comes in the form of the 1952 dramedy The Quiet Man directed by John Ford, starring John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara, and set in 1920s Ireland. The guys get out of their comfort zone to discuss this piece of early 1950s cinema. Join Alec and Ben as they converse on what has aged well, what hasn't, and their thoughts on a titan of th…

1
The Rock (1996) revisited 32:49

6M ago32:49

32:49

A laughter and quote filled look back at the 1996 Michael Bay action film starring Sean Connery, Nicolas Cage, and Ed Harris. Ben discusses how two of the main cast completely elevate the film as well as what made 90s action film cinematography so great. Alec celebrates the complexity of the film's antagonist General Hummel. The guys reflect on the…

1
Léon: The Professional (1994) revisited 36:22

6M ago36:22

36:22

A listener request centered around Gary Oldman comes in the form of a discussion on the 1994 Luc Besson film also starring Jean Reno and Natalie Portman. Join Alec and Ben for a conversation on the good, the bad, and the uncomfortable aspects of the iconic action thriller. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.you…

1
The Bear - Season 1 (2022) 28:36

6M ago28:36

28:36

A spoiler filled conversation on season one of FX's The Bear. Ben shares misguided concerns he had during the show's first episode while Alec lauds the acting talents of Jeremy Allen White. The guys converse on the show's writing, cinematography, and complex characters. Ben explains how the season one finale accomplished something few films are eve…

1
The Social Network (2010) revisited 33:57

7M ago33:57

33:57

Alec and Ben revisit the 2010 Facebook drama directed by David Fincher and written by Aaron Sorkin and Ben Mezrich. Ben discusses the film's distinct look and gives some background on cinematographer and frequent Fincher collaborator Jeff Cronenweth. Alec praises the film's soundtrack from artists Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross. The guys discuss the…

1
The Rocketeer (1991) revisited 31:39

7M ago31:39

31:39

A nostalgia filled conversation on the 1991 Disney adventure film directed by Joe Johnston. The guys discuss the film's balanced blend of action, comedy, and sense of wonder. The guys also praise the depth of a cast that includes Billy Campbell, Jennifer Connelly, Alan Arkin, Timothy Dalton, and Paul Sorvino. Alec discusses the movie's ability to c…

1
Suicide Kings (1997) revisited 28:02

7M ago28:02

28:02

It's a listener request as Alec and Ben take a look back at the 1997 crime-comedy Suicide Kings directed by Peter O'Fallon. Ben credits a famous director for paving the way for these types of films in the late 90s and early 2000s. Alec praises the performances of Denis Leary and Christopher Walken while Ben lauds an early comedic performance from J…

1
Collateral (2004) revisited 45:52

7M ago45:52

45:52

Over two decades removed Michael Mann's 2004 crime thriller demands a re-watch. Join Alec and Ben as they explore the film's themes, character dynamics, and Mann's early adoption of digital filmmaking. The guys discuss the performances of Tom Cruise, Jamie Foxx, and a breakout role for Javier Bardem. Ben discusses the film's portrayal of Los Angele…

1
The Wild Robot (2024) 25:56

7M ago25:56

25:56

Some spoilers ahead as Alec and Ben discuss the 2024 animated feature 'The Wild Robot' directed by Chris Sanders and adapted from the Peter Brown book. Alec explains why the film's visual aesthetic is so impressive and what went into creating it. Ben discusses the film's primary themes and the 1999 animated feature film that feels like an inspirati…

1
Civil War (2024) 30:09

8M ago30:09

30:09

Spoilers ahead as the guys unpack the 2024 Alex Garland thriller Civil War. Alec and Ben share their initial thoughts on the film's themes, cinematography, character development, and overall execution. The conversation delves into the film's visual style and narrative structure before conversing on the film's performances notably Kirsten Dunst and …

1
The Right Stuff (1983) revisited 41:04

8M ago41:04

41:04

A look back at the historical epic The Right Stuff adapted from the Tom Wolfe book and directed by Philip Kaufman. Join Alec and Ben as they revisit the film that documents the dawn of the space race and the men and women who lived it. Alec explains why the film is more akin to a 1970s motion picture while Ben discusses the central themes of the mo…

1
Band of Brothers (2001) revisited 54:42

8M ago54:42

54:42

For the 100th episode Alec and Ben livestream the podcast and delve into the intricacies of the acclaimed series 'Band of Brothers,' discussing its unique presentation, production techniques, and the emotional weight of its storytelling. They explore the behind-the-scenes efforts that contributed to its success, the character development that reson…

1
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) revisited 35:24

8M ago35:24

35:24

It's a special Christmas episode of Cinema: A to B as Alec and Ben look back at the The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992). The guys contrast their differing ages first seeing the film and the power of nostalgia. Michael Caine's portrayal of Scrooge is analyzed along with Brian Henson's directorial debut. Ben explains why this adaptation is so important…

1
LOTR: The Rings of Power - Season 2 (2024) 36:36

9M ago36:36

36:36

It's finally time to evaluate the second season of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. Has the creative team addressed the issues from Season 1 and what is the show's current trajectory? Join Cinema: A to B for another discussion and critique of Amazon Prime's Tolkien adaptation. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - h…

1
Gladiator II (2024) 41:13

9M ago41:13

41:13

SPOILER WARNING. The guys unpack what worked and what didn't in the Ridley Scott directed sequel Gladiator II (2024) starring Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, Connie Nielsen, Joseph Quinn, and Fred Hechinger. Ben questions the why behind greenlighting a sequel to the widely beloved Gladiator. Alec lauds the performance of Denzel Washin…

1
The Terminator (1984) and Terminator 2: Judgement Day (1991) revisited 58:28

9M ago58:28

58:28

The fifth and final episode in a Season of Schwarzenegger sees Alec and Ben dive deep into the first two films in the Terminator franchise, focusing on the original film and its iconic sequel, Terminator 2: Judgment Day. They explore the evolution of genres, character arcs, and the impact of practical effects versus CGI. The discussion highlights t…

1
Conan the Barbarian (1982) revisited 39:33

9M ago39:33

39:33

Entry number four in the mini Season of Schwarzenegger comes in the form of Conan the Barbarian written and directed by John Milius and starring Arnold along with James Earl Jones, Max von Sydow, and Sandahl Bergman. Ben makes his case why this might be the most important role in Arnold's filmography. Alec discusses the power of minimal dialogue in…

1
Total Recall (1990) revisited 34:11

10M ago34:11

34:11

In this third episode of A Season of Schwarzenegger Alec and Ben dive into the 1990 sci-fi action film Total Recall, directed by Paul Verhoeven and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sharon Stone, Michael Ironside, and Rachel Ticotin. The guys discuss the film's engaging plot, memorable characters, and the impact of Jerry Goldsmith's score. The conver…

1
True Lies (1994) revisited 41:38

10M ago41:38

41:38

The second entry in a 5 episode mini "Season of Schwarzenegger" is a discussion on James Cameron's True Lies exploring its themes, character dynamics, and the unique blend of action and comedy. The conversation highlights the performances of Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jamie Lee Curtis, Tom Arnold and the late Bill Paxton. The guys also discuss the film…

1
The Running Man (1987) revisited 30:40

10M ago30:40

30:40

The first entry in a 5 episode mini "Season of Schwarzenegger" is a laughter filled look back at the sci-fi action film The Running Man starring Arnold Schwarzenegger and Richard Dawson and loosely adapted from the Stephen King novel. Alec and Ben discuss what still works, what doesn't, and why they still enjoy this big loud 80s Arnold flick. Offic…

1
The Thing (1982) revisited 38:00

10M ago38:00

38:00

After over 40 years is John Carpenter's The Thing still a standard bearer in the genre? Plus, something extremely unexpected happens as Alec and Ben start to unpack this sci-fi horror classic. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merch! - https://www.bonfire.com/store/cinema-a-to-b/…

1
The Boondock Saints (1999) revisited 29:43

10M ago29:43

29:43

25 years removed, the guys take a look back at the crime-comedy The Boondock Saints from writer-director Troy Duffy and starring Willem Dafoe, Sean Patrick Flanery, Norman Reedus, and David Della Rocco. They reflect on their nostalgia for the film, discussing its comedic elements, character dynamics, and the directorial choices made by Troy Duffy. …

1
First Man (2018) revisited 35:35

11M ago35:35

35:35

Cinema: A to B brings attention back to an overlooked film from 2018 in the form of First Man directed by Damien Chazelle and starring Ryan Gosling and Claire Foy. Alec explains how his opinion has changed after giving the film a second chance. Ben discusses why this was his favorite film from 2018 and why IMAX was the preferred format. Alec delves…

1
Black Hawk Down (2001) revisited 37:26

11M ago37:26

37:26

A look back at the 2001 Ridley Scott film Black Hawk Down adapted from the novel by Mark Bowden and starring Josh Hartnett, Ewan McGregor, Tom Sizemore, and Eric Bana. Alec praises Scott's direction and ability to quickly establish the large cast of characters. Ben explains the elite nature of US Army Rangers and Delta Force. Alec explains how the …

1
Jurassic Park (1993) revisited 38:40

11M ago38:40

38:40

Venture back 200 million... er... 31 years to revisit the Steven Spielberg blockbuster Jurassic Park adapted from the Michael Crichton novel. Alec and Ben discuss the minimal use of computer generated visual effects and why the film has largely aged well. Ben explains the differences between the novel and the film particularly tone and some key cha…

1
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (2024) 22:29

11M ago22:29

22:29

Spoilers ahead as the guys unpack the 4th film entry in the original Ghostbusters timeline - Frozen Empire. Alec compares and contrasts the movie with 2021's Afterlife. Ben explains how the film suffered a similar final act issue as Ghostbusters 2. Alec discusses the film's reliance on nostalgia. The guys evaluate the film's story and massive cast …

1
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024) 25:28

12M ago25:28

25:28

A Spoiler filled conversation on what worked and what didn't in George Miller's 2024 follow-up to Mad Max: Fury Road. Ben discusses where he feels Furiosa fell short of its predecessor. Alec explains the inherent weakness in a prequel movie. The guys converse on the performances of Anya Taylor-Joy as Furiosa and Chris Hemsworth as Dementus. Alec cr…

1
Deadpool & Wolverine (2024) 35:24

12M ago35:24

35:24

A spoiler filled conversation on the third entry in the Deadpool franchise. Alec recounts a technical issue filled first theatrical viewing. Ben explains why the timing is perfect for this film given the current state of the MCU. The guys appreciate the attention to detail and sheer volume of easter eggs and comedic nuggets. Alec poses a question t…

1
The Dark Knight (2008) revisited 43:08

12M ago43:08

43:08

A look back at the 2008 genre defining second entry in Christopher Nolan's Batman Trilogy. Alec describes an awe inspiring 70mm IMAX theatrical viewing of the film. The guys compare and contrast The Dark Knight with 2022's The Batman. Alec shares anecdotes revealing the acting genius of the late Heath Ledger. Ben explains how the film's subtext mak…

1
Killers of the Flower Moon (2023) 36:12

1y ago36:12

36:12

A long overdue and Spoiler Filled discussion of the Martin Scorsese film starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro and Lily Gladstone. Ben opines on what he feels held the film back from achieving greatness. Alec evaluates the film's acting performances particularly DiCaprio as Ernest Burkhart and Gladstone as Mollie Burkhart. The guys discuss the…