Cinematic Void is a curated film series that hosts screenings throughout the Los Angeles area. This is podcast is the audio extension of that.
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Cinematic Void Podcasts
Welcome to Films for the Void!, where, every other week, co-hosts and decade-long friends Eric Spitz and Landon Defever take you on a journey through their recent cinematic ventures, as well as take a deep dive into their favorite movies of all-time.
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Welcome aboard the Orriona—where the galaxy is queer-norm, found families are forged in the fire, and hope burns brightest in the darkest corners of the void. ORRIONA is a multi-voice audio drama series that weaves cinematic sci-fi action with deeply personal character journeys. No coming-out angst. No homophobia. Just grand space adventures where queer love and friendship are as natural as starlight. THE STORY SO FAR: When High Priestess Nienna's ceremonial fleet is ambushed by an ancient e ...
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Out of the ashes of the internet a podcast was formed. Four friends from different backgrounds united to create a pod for the common man. Devoid of the tedium of critically acclaimed podcasts, these brave souls embarked on a holy mission, to bring the light-hearted attitude of discussing movies with friends to the podcasting scene. However, due to unforeseen budget cuts two of their number were lost to the void of the internet. Doomed for eternity to find nothing but cat videos and food chal ...
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The salient point of this discussion centers on the film "The Internship," a comedic exploration of two salesmen navigating the high-tech environment of Google. The discourse delves into the juxtaposition of traditional salesmanship against the backdrop of digital innovation, highlighting the humor found in the characters' misadventures. Both hosts…
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S01E05 · A New Mantra (Rian) (Chapter Four of Legacy, Book One of the Orriona Universe) ORRIONA: S01E05 · A New Mantra Dr. Rian Jengu has spent years working frontier clinics, patching radiation burns and septic prosthetics with equipment older than it has any right to be. His mantra has carried him through countless impossible shifts: Medicine is …
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The principal focus of this podcast episode is the discussion surrounding the film "Half Baked," released in 1998, which features a comedic narrative centered on three not particularly astute individuals attempting to extricate a friend from incarceration through a series of absurd schemes. We delve into the merits and shortcomings of the film, exa…
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S01E04 · Goodbye, Neighbor (Val) (Chapter Three of Legacy, Book One of the Orriona Universe) Engineer Valunara "Val" Jaren has spent five years on Edgepoint Station fixing other people's broken equipment with salvaged parts and scarred knuckles. The pay barely covers a bunk and a meal. The work keeps her moving, but it's not progress—it's drifting.…
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The salient point of this podcast episode centers on the analysis and discussion of the film "The Hangover," which has been deemed a quintessential comedy that resonates with audiences even years after its release. We delve into the film's unique narrative structure, which eschews conventional storytelling by placing the characters in a bewildering…
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This podcast episode delves into the enduring comedic brilliance of "Super Troopers," a film that, despite its unconventional narrative structure, has garnered a devoted following since its release in 2002. We explore the film's unique blend of absurdity and humor, highlighting its ability to resonate with audiences through relatable characters and…
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S01E03 · Folks Like You (Kellan) (Chapter Two of Legacy, Book One of the Orriona Universe) Former Sector Guard Commander Kellan Harr sits alone in Nebula's Edge Bar on Level 9, nursing cheap whiskey and watching his credits drain away. Two years of searching for his father's missing freighter, the Starweaver, have led him here—to Edgepoint Station,…
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The central theme of this episode revolves around the exploration of comedy through the lens of the film "The Ridiculous 6," which is emblematic of Adam Sandler's unique style that oscillates between profound humor and absurdity. We delve into the film's narrative, centering on an outlaw raised by Native Americans who discovers he has five half-bro…
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The primary focus of our discourse today centers upon the cinematic artifact known as "Bloodsport," a film released on April 29, 1988, which has garnered a reputation as a profoundly unintentionally humorous piece of entertainment. We delve into the absurdities inherent in the narrative, wherein Frank Dukes, portrayed by Jean Claude Van Damme, emba…
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S01E02 · Protocol Seven (Orriona) (Chapter One of Legacy, Book One of the Orriona Universe) When the sentient starship Orriona receives High Priestess Nienna's encrypted distress call on a frequency dead for thousands of years, she knows the impossible has happened—Contingency Starfall is active. The message is brief, urgent, and bears quantum auth…
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This podcast episode delves into the cinematic missteps of "Jupiter Ascending," a film that exemplifies the phenomenon of unintended humor despite its earnest intentions. We assert that the film, laden with ambitious concepts and a star-studded cast, ultimately succumbs to a plethora of narrative and casting misjudgments that render it both perplex…
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S01E01 · Attack on the High Priestess (Meyn)
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29:25
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29:25S01E01 · Attack on the High Priestess (Meyn) is the Prologue from Legacy, Book One of the Orriona Universe. When High Priestess Nienna's ceremonial fleet is ambushed by an ancient enemy, her last surviving Warden must witness her final moments—and a desperate sacrifice that will rewrite the timeline itself. As boarding craft rip through the hull an…
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The central theme of this podcast episode revolves around the cinematic exploration of the film "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves," a motion picture released in 1991 that has garnered a significant amount of both admiration and criticism over the years. We delve into the juxtaposition of the film's intended dramatic narrative against the unintentional…
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The primary focus of our discourse delves into the cinematic creation known as "Waterworld," a film that, despite its ambitious narrative premise of an aquatic apocalypse, ultimately falters under the weight of its own execution. Within this discussion, I express a profound incredulity regarding the persistent notion that this film possesses any in…
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The primary focus of this podcast episode revolves around an in-depth analysis of the film "Identity," a psychological thriller that intricately explores themes of dissociative identity disorder. Set against the backdrop of a tempestuous rainstorm in a remote Nevada motel, the narrative unfolds as ten strangers find themselves ensnared in a deadly …
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This podcast episode delves deeply into the film "Serendipity," a romantic comedy that examines the complexities of fate and love. We, the hosts, express our appreciation for John Cusack's performance and the film's charming narrative, despite acknowledging its numerous implausibilities. Throughout our discussion, we highlight the engaging chemistr…
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The primary focus of this episode centers on the film "Better Off Dead," a cinematic piece that, despite its comedic intent, elicits a spectrum of reactions from its viewers. As we delve into the narrative, we explore the absurdity and randomness intertwined within the storyline, wherein the protagonist grapples with rejection and a series of misad…
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This podcast episode delves into the cinematic exploration of "World War Z," a film that portrays a former United Nations employee's harrowing quest to halt a zombie pandemic. While I appreciate the film's ambition and unique depiction of fast-moving zombies, I express reservations regarding its narrative coherence and CGI execution. My co-hosts an…
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The focus of this podcast episode is a critical examination of the film "A River Runs Through It," directed by Robert Redford and featuring Brad Pitt. We delve into the intricate dynamics between the two brothers portrayed in the film, exploring how their distinct personalities and life choices reflect broader themes of familial expectation and per…
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Maura Weaver on Cincinnati Tourism, Returning to Japan, and Her New Album Strange Devotion
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42:52
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42:52Hello, and welcome to Films for the Void, episode #114! I am your host, Landon Defever, and my guest today is an indie/emo singer-songwriter based in Cincinnati, Ohio. For six years, she was the co-vocalist and guitarist for No Sleep Records pop-punk band Mixtapes, releasing three studio albums and touring with the likes of Bayside, Real Friends, a…
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The focal point of this podcast episode is a profound analysis of the cinematic masterpiece "Legends of the Fall," released in 1995 and featuring notable performances by Brad Pitt and Anthony Hopkins. We delve into the intricate narrative that intertwines themes of love, loss, and the haunting specter of war, as it explores the tumultuous relations…
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Mike Maple on the Upper Peninsula, Releasing Six Albums in Five Years, and Why Hell is an Airport
21:58
21:58
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21:58Hello, and welcome to Films for the Void, episode #113! I am your host, Landon Defever, and my guest today is the guitarist and vocalist for Marquette, Michigan power pop band Liquid Mike!5 Forming at the top of the decade, the band combines massive alt-rock riffs and self-depreciating lyrics into an accessibly punchy package, channeling the likes …
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This podcast episode delves into the cinematic experience of "Ocean's Thirteen," a film that exemplifies the blend of humor and heist intricacies inherent in the Ocean's franchise. The discussion opens with a nostalgic reflection on the late Bernie Mac, whose comedic prowess is sorely missed, prompting an exploration of the film's characters and th…
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Cathy and Keith Latinen on Playing Their 49th State, the Lions' Super Bowl Chances, and Building an Empire Empire Together
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31:02Hello, and welcome to Films for the Void, episode #112! My guests today are the husband-and-wife duo behind emo independent record label Count Your Lucky Stars, home to bands like Camp Trash, Star Funeral, and Thank You I’m Sorry, along with alumni such as Foxing, Free Throw, and Snowing. The pair are also the minds behind Michigan emo band Empire!…
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This podcast episode delves into the cinematic masterpiece "Seven," directed by David Fincher and featuring notable performances from Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman. Throughout our discourse, we explore the intricate narrative that revolves around two detectives as they pursue a serial killer who employs the seven deadly sins as his modus operandi. T…
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This podcast episode delves into the intricacies of the film "Nocturnal Animals," a cinematic exploration that intertwines themes of revenge, regret, and the haunting nature of artistic expression. We grapple with our initial reactions to the film's provocative opening, which sets an unsettling tone that persists throughout the narrative. The discu…
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Dissecting NYT's Best Movies of the Century So Far (w/ coreyfromhome): Part Two
1:56:43
1:56:43
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1:56:43Hello, and welcome to Films for the Void, episode #110… part 2. I am your host, Landon Defever, and on a previous episode of Films for the Void, my friend Corey and I took at look at the New York Times’ 100 favorite movies of the century so far, as voted by film industry, as well as the New York Times’ 500 favorite movies of the century so far, as …
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In this episode, we delve into the film "Sunshine Cleaning," an independent cinematic endeavor that intertwines the themes of familial bonds and the complexities of navigating personal trauma through the lens of an unconventional profession: crime scene cleanup. The narrative follows a mother and her sister as they embark on a journey to establish …
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John Galm on Snowing's Reunion, Lehigh Valley, and Swimming Through a River of Blood
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52:27Hello, and welcome to an all-new Films for the Void, episode #111! My guest today is John Galm - bassist and vocalist for the legendary Philadelphia emo band Snowing. The band recently reunited to open for Bear vs Shark back in April, as well as at New Friends Fest in Toronto earlier this month. You still have another chance to catch the band play …
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This podcast episode meticulously examines the film "American Hustle," a cinematic endeavor that seamlessly intertwines themes of deception, ambition, and chaos. The discussion is ignited by the film's exceptional ensemble cast, featuring notable performances by Christian Bale, Amy Adams, and Bradley Cooper, which contribute to its multifaceted nar…
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Dissecting NYT's Best Movies of the Century So Far (w/ coreyfromhome): Part One
2:08:49
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2:08:49Hello, and welcome to an all-new Films for the Void, episode #110! On June 23, 2025, The New York Times released their list of The 100 Best Movies of the 21st Century, composed of the opinions of more than 500 influential directors, actors, and other notable names in Hollywood and around the world. Their thoughts on the best films released since Ja…
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The focal point of our discourse in this episode revolves around the film "Enchanted," a cinematic endeavor that intricately weaves elements of fairy tale and modernity. We delve into the juxtaposition of humor and narrative structure, examining how certain scenes, particularly the restaurant scene, provide comic relief despite their apparent detac…
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Patreon Picks #4 (Stick It, Draft Day, The Ghost & Mrs. Muir, Snatch)
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56:03Hello, and welcome to an all-new episode of Films for the Void! In this episode, Landon does something a little bit different to wrap up the Films for the Void Patreon by giving the team's long-standing patrons one last pick each to discuss. And, boy, do we have a doozy of a lineup: Jessica Bendinger's 2006 film STICK IT (chosen by Tori Langlands),…
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The central theme of this podcast episode revolves around the nuanced examination of the film "The American President," a cinematic work that intertwines romance with political drama. We delve into the complexities of the film's narrative, discussing its portrayal of a widowed U.S. President engaging in an illicit relationship with an environmental…
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Luke Bentham on The Lash, Hailing Rock & Roll, and Two Decades of The Dirty Nil
30:34
30:34
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30:34Hello, and welcome to Films for the Void, bonus episode #31! In this episode, Landon talks to Luke Bentham, guitarist and frontman for the Hamilton, Ontario rock band The Dirty Nil. For nearly two decades now, the band (alongside drummer Kyle Fisher) has taken a love for punk and applied it with massive hard rock riffs and a spirited attitude all i…
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This episode delves into the cinematic exploration of "Patriot Games," a film that encapsulates the tumultuous intersection of personal and political conflict through the lens of CIA analyst Jack Ryan. We commence with an examination of the film's narrative framework, which, while engaging, reveals significant pacing issues that detract from the ov…
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Toby Jones on AJ Goes to the Dog Park, Touring the Midwest, and the Joys of Filming in Fargo
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19:00Hello, and welcome to Films for the Void, bonus episode #30! I am your host, Landon Defever, and my guest today is a writer, director, and storyboard artist whose past credits include Regular Show, Sanjay and Craig, OK KO, The Mighty Ones, and Jellystone. However, he’s making his feature length directorial debut with the new film AJ GOES TO THE DOG…
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Our focus this episode is the cinematic exploration of the film "Miracle," which recounts the remarkable triumph of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team against the formidable Soviet squad. We delve into the nuances of this historical event, examining the intricate dynamics of coaching under Herb Brooks, portrayed by Kurt Russell, and the profound imp…
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Interstellar, The Life of Chuck (w/ Cyrus Zerbe)
1:02:29
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1:02:29Hello, and welcome to an all-new Films for the Void, episode #108! I am your host, Landon Defever, and my guest today is Cyrus Zerbe! Cyrus is a Seattle-based artist and producer who works as a studio and session drummer, but plays in numerous groups, like Brian James was Here and Monitor. His EDM project CymaticZ will be performing at Seattle’s Ca…
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The focus for JJ, Alec and Mattson for this podcast episode revolves around the cinematic exploration of the film "National Treasure," a narrative that intertwines adventure with historical intrigue. We engage in a profound analysis of the film's themes, particularly its depiction of patriotic fervor and the allure of hidden treasures rooted in Ame…
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Alec, Mattson and JJ dive into the absurdity and comedic brilliance of the film "Weekend at Bernie's," a cinematic exploration of two individuals who attempt to maintain the illusion of life surrounding a deceased colleague. The central theme revolves around the juxtaposition of life and death, as the characters navigate a series of increasingly ri…
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Alligator, 28 Years Later (w/ Austin Torres)
1:06:46
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1:06:46Hello, and welcome to an all-new Films for the Void, episode #107! In this episode, Landon welcomes Austin Torres - a Michigan-based podcaster, director, and lover of all things horror. He transferred his love of horror movies into the podcast Would You Die?, where guests decide for themselves at the end of the discussion if they think they’d die i…
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JJ, Mattson and Alec delve into the cinematic masterpiece "The Goonies," which is celebrated for its nostalgic value and lasting appeal. We engage in a thorough analysis of the film's narrative, which follows a group of misfit children on a thrilling quest to uncover hidden treasure, thereby embodying the spirit of adventure and camaraderie. The ep…
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The Sandlot serves as the principal focus of our discourse, wherein we delve into its nostalgic portrayal of childhood adventures and the indelible impact of summer memories. This cinematic gem, released in 1993, encapsulates the essence of youthful exuberance, as it narrates the escapades of a group of boys who navigate the trials of friendship, f…
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Paulie, Friendship (w/ Justine Defever)
1:08:21
1:08:21
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1:08:21Hello, and welcome to an all-new Films for the Void, episode #106! In this episode, Landon has on his older sister Justine Defever, currently an associate professor at Cleary University and a published poet. You can read her work over at her website, Justinedefever.com. The pair take flight in discussing John Roberts' 1998 film PAULIE, along with a…
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JJ and Alec's discussion centers around the cinematic phenomenon of "Independence Day," released on July 3, 1996, a film that serves as a quintessential representation of summer blockbusters. We delve into the intricate dynamics of its narrative structure, particularly emphasizing the film's compelling first act, which establishes a palpable tensio…
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Alec and JJ dive into the multifaceted nature of the film "Dazed and Confused," a quintessential representation of the 1970s high school experience. We examine the film's narrative, which encapsulates the essence of adolescence while simultaneously highlighting the complexities of social dynamics among youth. The discussion addresses the themes of …
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Josie & the Pussycats, Final Destination: Bloodlines (w/ Mike Yablon)
1:04:53
1:04:53
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1:04:53Hello, and welcome to an all-new Films for the Void, episode #105! In this episode, Landon is joined by Mike Yablon, the New Jersey-based owner of the DIY label A Few Good Records, whose mission is to get you closer to bands covering the songs you know and love! For over a decade now, A Few Good Records has been putting together compilation albums …
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Mattson, Alec, and JJ have a discission that revolves around the cinematic exploration of "Hacksaw Ridge," a film directed by Mel Gibson that recounts the extraordinary true story of Desmond Doss, the first conscientious objector to receive the Medal of Honor. We delve into the complexities of Doss's character, who, despite refusing to carry a weap…
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