After the success of Patriot Games, Paramount Pictures was eager to continue the Jack Ryan series with another adaptation of a Tom Clancy novel. With Harrison Ford set to return as the intrepid CIA analyst and Phillip Noyce back in the director’s chair, the stage was set for Clear and Present Danger. The film, released in 1994, brought a new level of complexity to the series, delving into the murky world of covert operations and political machinations. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the Jack Ryan series with a conversation about Clear and Present Danger.

In our discussion, we dive into the intricacies of Clear and Present Danger, exploring how the film captures the complexities of—Hold on there! This is currently only available for members. It’ll be available to everyone else soon, but why not become a member so you can listen to it now? We’d love it if you became a member to support our show, but you’d love it because of everything you get. We have monthly member bonus episodes that only members can access. You also get access to members-only Discord channels, and early ad-free releases for every episode. Plus, you get to vote on the movies we discuss in our members only episodes! What can we say? It pays to be a member. Learn more about supporting The Next Reel film podcast through your own membership — visit TruStory FM.

In the early 1970s, Roger Corman was producing a slew of women-in-prison films, capitalizing on the exploitation genre that had been popular then. When wannabe director Jonathan Demme approached Corman with the idea for Caged Heat, Corman initially declined, believing the subgenre had run its course. Undeterred, Demme raised the funds independently and eventually secured Corman as the distributor. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our member bonusRoger Corman series with a conversation about Demme’s 1974 film Caged Heat.

In our discussion, we delve into the themes and statements Demme makes about institutional oppression, mental health, and unethical medical practices within the prison system. We also examine how the film attaches power to sexuality, potentially empowering the female characters in a way that was uncommon for the era. Additionally, we touch on the interesting casting choices, particularly Barbara Steele as the prison warden and Warren Miller as the sociopathic doctor, and how these decisions subvert audience expectations.

Throughout the episode, we discuss:

While Caged Heat may not be a perfect film, it offers an intriguing look at the women-in-prison subgenre through the lens of Jonathan Demme’s early directorial work. The movie’s exploration of serious themes, combined with its exploitation elements, makes for an engaging and thought-provoking viewing experience. Although we have some reservations about the film and the subgenre as a whole, we appreciate the conversations it sparks. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!

In the late 1950s, American International Pictures approached Roger Corman to create a low-budget horror film in just five days, using sets from another project. Corman, along with screenwriter Charles B. Griffith, decided to take a satirical approach, crafting a black comedy that poked fun at the beatnik culture of the era. The result was A Bucket of Blood, a quirky and entertaining film that showcases Corman’s ability to deliver a memorable movie on a shoestring budget. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the member bonus Roger Corman series with a conversation about A Bucket of Blood.

 

In our discussion of A Bucket of Blood, we delve into the film’s clever satirical elements and its comical take on the horror genre. We explore how the movie lampoons both the beatnik scene and the pretentiousness of the art world, with Corman and Griffith drawing from their own experiences and observations. The film’s lead actor, Dick Miller, delivers a standout performance as the lovable yet misguided busboy-turned-artist Walter Paisley, whose quest for fame and acceptance takes a dark and murderous turn.

 

Throughout our conversation, we touch upon various aspects of the film that showcase Roger Corman’s signature style and his ability to infuse social commentary into his low-budget productions. We examine how A Bucket of Blood addresses themes of social mobility, the search for identity, and the folly of pursuing success at any cost. Additionally, we discuss how the film fits into the broader context of 1950s cinema, drawing comparisons to other notable works of the era, such as Rebel Without a Cause and film noir.

 

 

A Bucket of Blood may be a product of its time, but its themes and humor remain relatable and entertaining decades later. Corman’s ability to craft a compelling and thought-provoking story within the constraints of a tight budget and schedule is a testament to his skill as a filmmaker. While the film’s low-budget origins are evident, its clever writing, memorable performances, and biting satire more than compensate for any technical limitations. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!