Blank Check with Griffin & David

This episode includes the launch of a new series delving into a legendary director's filmography, beginning with his formative early life and influences. It then examines his first two features, Who's That Knocking at My Door and Boxcar Bertha, highlighting the former as a raw, personal exploration of male camaraderie and guilt that served as a vital blueprint for his future distinctive style.

This episode includes a deep dive into an acclaimed director's animation philosophy, covering his journey from early Pixar commercials to helming major features. Discussions highlight the unique collaborative process at Pixar, the challenges of character development in iconic films, and his perspective on storytelling and the distinct demands of animated versus live-action production.

This episode includes a detailed discussion of Toy Story 5, focusing on its exploration of children's relationship with technology, screen time, and the challenges of making friends. The hosts delve into the movie's plot and themes, examining how it advances the franchise by placing Jesse in a new leadership role and introducing high-tech Buzz Lightyears and the "Lily Pad" tablet.

This episode includes a deep dive into Andrew Stanton's recent live-action film, "In the Blink of an Eye," examining its ambitious sci-fi themes of time, mortality, and the future of humanity. The discussion covers the film's interwoven narratives, critical reception, and perceived pacing issues, while highlighting Kate McKinnon's performance as a standout. Hosts also reflect on Stanton's career transition from animation to live-action projects and the challenges of ambitious storytelling.

This episode includes a deep dive into a recent epic film adaptation of "The Odyssey," examining its unique narrative structure, Christopher Nolan's directorial vision, and his reinterpretation of classic mythological elements. The hosts praise standout performances from a diverse cast including Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, John Leguizamo, Tom Holland, and Zendaya, discussing their favorite sequences like the Cyclops encounter. They also share varied screening experiences and explore the film's themes of guilt, hospitality, and the human consequences of war.

This episode includes a detailed discussion of the film Finding Dory, examining its significant box office success and Pixar's strategic shift towards creating more sequels. The hosts explore the challenges of writing a main character with short-term memory loss, the film's themes of neurodivergence and caregiving, and the experiences of its star-studded voice cast, including Ellen DeGeneres.

This episode includes an in-depth look at the catastrophic marketing and long development hell of a major sci-fi blockbuster, including discussions about its generic title and the studio's conflicting fears about "princess" and "Mars" in movie titles. It also analyzes the lead actor's performance and the film's comparison to other Mars movies and franchises like "Avatar" and "Star Wars," reflecting on Hollywood's changing blockbuster landscape.

This episode includes an in-depth discussion of the animated film "WALL-E," exploring director Andrew Stanton's creative process, early story concepts, and technical innovations like its unique sound design and virtual cinematography. It delves into the movie's themes of consumerism, environmentalism, and humanity's relationship with technology, highlighting Pixar's creative freedom during its production and the film's personal impact on viewers.

This episode includes a comprehensive look at the production and enduring legacy of Finding Nemo, detailing its director's personal inspirations and the pivotal creative decisions, like a major script rewrite and transformative casting, that shaped its success. The discussion also contextualizes the film within the changing landscape of early 2000s animation and touches on other movies and their storytelling nuances.

This episode includes a deep dive into Steven Spielberg's latest film, "Disclosure Day," exploring its themes of trauma, empathy, and the potential for a fractured world to be unified by an alien encounter. The hosts praise Emily Blunt's performance and discuss the movie's unique blend of classic Spielbergian wonder with a darker, contemporary tone, alongside various cinematic tangents and pop culture observations.

This episode includes a comprehensive look at director Peter Weir's film 'The Way Back,' delving into its arduous production, questionable source material, and the film's impact on Weir's decision to retire from filmmaking. The discussion highlights his artistic integrity versus the shifting priorities of Hollywood studios. The hosts also engage in several spirited debates about other movies, actors, and film industry trivia.

This episode includes a deep dive into the making and cultural impact of Peter Weir's 2003 film adaptation of "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World." The hosts discuss how the movie's focus on historical accuracy, naval procedure, and the camaraderie among the ship's crew contributes to its appeal, as well as its status as a "dad movie." They also explore the production challenges, the film's box office performance, and its rising reputation as a respected classic over the years.

This episode includes a detailed discussion on a recent Star Wars film featuring characters like Mandalorian and Grogu. The hosts debate various aspects of the film's plot, character development, and overall impact on the Star Wars saga, while also touching on how recent cultural shifts and industry practices affect storytelling. Guest Chris Gethard offers his perspective, leading to an engaging conversation about the emotional and moral expectations surrounding beloved franchises like Star Wars.

This episode includes a discussion on the cast and filmmakers of a notable film, focusing on casting choices and behind-the-scenes decisions. The hosts also explore themes of reality television, the impact of media and reality on personal identity, and the cultural significance of movies in shaping our perceptions. They delve into the specific creative choices made in the film, including the casting of actors and the vision of the director, analyzing how these elements contribute to the film's enduring appeal and relevance.

This episode includes a thorough examination of Jeff Bridges' illustrious career, highlighting his standout performances in movies like "The Last Picture Show," "Starman," and "Fearless." The hosts discuss Bridges' unique appeal as a "consolation movie star," perfect for roles that required a nuanced, thoughtful approach. The episode also covers the making of Peter Weir's "Fearless," exploring its spiritual themes and how Weir's direction and Bridges' performance elevate the story of a plane crash survivor.

"This episode includes an engaging discussion about a classic romcom featuring an odd couple dynamic, where the central tension revolves around a marriage of convenience that ultimately leads to genuine affection. The hosts delve into the history of international film stars breaking into Hollywood, focusing on the careers of the film's leads and exploring how the movie fits into its director's larger body of work. They also touch on cultural perceptions and the evolving nature of romantic comedies over time."

This episode includes a deep dive into the career and posthumous impact of Robin Williams, especially focusing on his dramatic roles and Oscar-nominated performances. It examines the cultural significance and reception of a particular beloved film, dissecting its themes, character arcs, and emotional moments, while also addressing the comedic and serious elements that define Williams' work. Additionally, the discussion touches on the film's production history, directorial choices, and its place in the late 1980s cinematic landscape.

This episode includes a discussion exploring the polarizing reception of a film starring a major movie star playing an unlikable lead character. The hosts delve into the film's complex production history, the implications of its critical and commercial failure, and the broader context of the actor's career choices, particularly his attempts to challenge his public persona. The conversation also touches on related cultural and industry trends, as well as the nuances of adapting literature to film.

This episode includes a detailed discussion of the making of a classic film from the 1980s, focusing on its themes, casting, and production challenges. The hosts delve into the director's approach to creating genuine performances and the actor's commitment to their roles, emphasizing the film's exploration of cultural differences and moral dilemmas. Additionally, the conversation touches on broader movie industry trends and the legacy of the film's key contributors.

This episode includes a detailed discussion of Peter Weir's film, "The Year of Living Dangerously," exploring its themes, production, and impact on the Australian New Wave. Guest Tracy Letts shares insights into the movie, while also engaging in a lively challenge to see if the hosts can gift him any films he doesn't already own for his vast physical media collection.