Best Alec Mallmann Podcasts (2025)

1
Sherlock Holmes (2009) revisited 28:34

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4h ago28:34

28:34

A rewatch and conversation on director Guy Ritchie's take on the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle detective starring Robert Downey Jr., Jude Law, Rachel McAdams and Mark Strong. 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 Last of the Mohicans (1992) revisited 34:03

4d ago34:03

34:03

The guys discuss the strengths and weaknesses of Michael Mann's 1992 adaptation of the James Fenimore Cooper novel, The Last of the Mohicans, starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Madeleine Stowe, Russell Means, Eric Schweig, Jodhi May, Steven Waddington and Wes Studi. Image by Loren Biser from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channe…

1
Fletch (1985) revisited 31:40

16d ago31:40

31:40

A listener request arrives in the form of the 1985 Chevy Chase comedy Fletch. Join the guys as they discuss what makes this 80s comedy centered around a wise-cracking newspaper reporter both unique and worth a rewatch. Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bonfire.…

1
Spy Game (2001) revisited 34:30

23d ago34:30

34:30

The guys converse on why the espionage thriller from the late great director Tony Scott is worth a rewatch. It's Spy Game (2001) starring the late Robert Redford, Brad Pitt, Catherine McCormack and Stephen Dillane. Image by Mary Campos from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merc…

1
Mickey 17 (2025) 30:18

1M ago30:18

30:18

Spoiler Warning. Alec and Ben break down writer-director Bong Joon Ho's sci-fi satire Mickey 17 adapted from the Edward Ashton novel (Mickey 7) and starring Robert Pattinson, Steven Yeun, Naomi Ackie, Mark Ruffalo and Toni Collette. Image by Parker_West from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.co…

1
Manhunter (1986) revisited 33:31

1M ago33:31

33:31

A look back at the 1986 Michael Mann adaptation of the Thomas Harris Red Dragon novel starring William Petersen, Brian Cox, Dennis Farina and Tom Noonan. Alec details a very recent first time viewing and the guys compare and contrast the film with its later version (2002's Red Dragon) as well as the Hannibal TV series starring Mads Mikkelsen. From …

1
Superman (2025) 37:06

1M ago37:06

37:06

Spoiler Warning. The guys unpack the James Gunn Superman reboot starring David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan and Nicholas Hoult. Join Alec and Ben for performance breakdowns, super-hero fatigue, the relaunch of the DCEU, Man of Steel comparisons and more! Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob…

1
Sinners (2025) 34:50

2M ago34:50

34:50

Spoilers ahead as Alec and Ben discuss the 2025 folk horror film from writer/director Ryan Coogler. The guys break down the performances of Michael B. Jordan, Miles Caton, Jack O'Connell and Delroy Lindo. Alec and Ben discuss the film's cinematography while second guessing their decision to not see the film in IMAX. The guys wrap up by delving into…

1
Secondhand Lions (2003) revisited 21:38

2M ago21:38

21:38

Alec and Ben take on another listener request this time in the form of the 2003 coming-of-age film Secondhand Lions written and directed by Tim McCanlies and starring Haley Joel Osment, Michael Caine and Robert Duvall. Image by Thorsten Dahl from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaato…

1
Backdraft (1991) revisited 36:31

2M ago36:31

36:31

It's a listener request for the 1991 Ron Howard firefighter action-drama starring Kurt Russell, William Baldwin, Robert De Niro and Donald Sutherland. Ben explains why the film is both a standard bearer for the genre as well as wildly uneven. Alec discusses notable differences in the film's early transfers vs the more recent 4K remaster. The guys m…

1
Shogun - Season 1 (2024) 35:13

2M ago35:13

35:13

A spoiler filled discussion on the FX/Hulu original series starring Cosmo Jarvis, Anna Sawai, Tadanobu Asano and Hiroyuki Sanada. Alec compares and contrasts the series with the novel from James Clavell. Ben praises the series technical prowess while expressing his concerns over pacing. The guys discuss the standout performances and Ben notes a fav…

1
Rear Window (1954) revisited 31:09

3M 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

3M 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

4M 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

4M 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

4M 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

5M 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

5M 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

5M 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

5M 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

5M 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

6M 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. Image by Aline (Алевтина) Mueller from Pixabay Official Site - https://www.cinemaatob.com YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@cinemaatob Merchandise - https://www.bon…

1
The Game (1997) revisited 27:37

6M 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

6M 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. Image by Enrique from Pixabay 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

6M 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

7M 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

7M 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

7M 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

7M 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

8M 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

8M 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

8M 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

8M 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

8M 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

9M 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

9M 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

9M 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

9M 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

10M 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

10M 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

10M 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

10M 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

11M 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

11M 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

11M 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

11M 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

12M 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

12M 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

12M 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

1y 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…