Blank Check with Griffin & David

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.

This episode includes a comprehensive discussion of the film "Gallipoli," examining its unique narrative structure, profound anti-war message, and significant impact on Australian national identity. Guest Jennifer Kent offers insights into director Peter Weir's early career, his distinctive filmmaking philosophy, and the broader history of Australian cinema, alongside reflections on the depiction of war and the contrasting career paths of its lead actors.

This episode includes a deep dive into director Peter Weir's early career and distinctive storytelling, centering on his film The Last Wave and its premise of a lawyer experiencing premonitions linked to an Aboriginal murder case and an impending cataclysm. The hosts also explore themes of cultural clash, the nature of dreams, and share numerous filmmaking anecdotes and industry insights.

This episode includes an in-depth analysis of the recent Academy Awards, exploring standout wins, unexpected snubs, and the overall tone of the ceremony. Guests discuss the industry's evolving definition of a movie star, the role of comedy and politics, and even review various film-themed popcorn buckets.

This episode includes a deep dive into a classic Australian film about schoolgirls who mysteriously disappear on a picnic, exploring its dreamlike atmosphere and unresolved mystery. The hosts and guest discuss its significant cultural impact, themes of nature versus civilization, and its influence on modern cinema and filmmakers. They also delve into the unique production challenges and the director's artistic choices that shaped the film's distinctive, unsettling tone.

This episode includes a reflection on the protracted Oscar season, including discussions of bizarre public "discourses" surrounding specific nominees. The hosts and guest then conduct an in-depth analysis of the film "One Battle After Another," covering its allegorical themes of revolution and generational conflict, before making their predictions for major Oscar categories and revisiting Leonardo DiCaprio's career.

This episode includes the launch of a new mini-series on director Peter Weir, focusing on his debut theatrical film, "The Cars That Ate Paris." The hosts delve into Weir's early career and the film's unique blend of dark social comedy and thriller elements, centered around a small Australian town that profits from orchestrating and scavenging car wrecks. They also discuss its unexpected influence on the Mad Max franchise and its commentary on Australian identity.

This episode includes a detailed discussion about the current Oscar season, focusing on the film "Sinners" and its impact on Hollywood as it challenges the traditional norms of the industry. The hosts and guest Sam Sanders engage in a conversation about the importance of representation and the unique way "Sinners" incorporates elements of horror and action to address themes of race and history. Additionally, the episode covers the broader race dynamics of the awards season and highlights other notable films and performances, including insights into Kate Hudson's role in "Songs Unblue."

This episode includes a lively discussion of various film award nominations, covering categories such as supporting actor and actress, original and adapted screenplays, animated features, cinematography, and musical scores. The hosts debate their personal selections and predictions for both their internal awards and external ceremonies, often sharing humorous commentary and specific insights into performances. They also introduce a unique new award for performances delivered entirely while seated.

This episode includes a guest discussing the concept of "Oscar buzz" for films, including those that over- or under-perform expectations. The conversation centers on Joachim Trier's film "Sentimental Value," delving into its themes of filmmaking, complex family dynamics, and the balance between artistic vision and commercial demands. The hosts and guest also examine broader Oscar trends, such as "catch-up" nominations and the evolving role of international films in the awards.

This episode includes a comprehensive discussion of Jennifer Lawrence's career, from her early franchise success to her recent work in films like "Die My Love" and "No Hard Feelings." The hosts explore her nuanced performances, public persona, and the unique challenges of modern movie stardom, alongside reflections on the impact of AI in media.

This episode includes a remembrance of Robert Duvall's illustrious career and an insider's look at the Berlin Film Festival. It delves into the growing presence and unique challenges of international films at the Oscars and American box office, with a particular focus on "The Secret Agent." The discussion explores the film's powerful themes of memory, political corruption, and cultural identity, and its unexpected success in the awards season.