Blank Check with Griffin & David

This episode includes a deep dive into Martin Scorsese's The Last Temptation of Christ, covering its tumultuous production history, the controversial human portrayal of Jesus by Willem Dafoe, and the film's distinct 1980s aesthetic compared to traditional biblical epics. The hosts and guest Jamal Boyce discuss the theological implications of depicting Christ's doubt and humanity, the eccentric casting choices like Harvey Keitel and David Bowie, and how the film's low-budget, fast-paced shoot in Morocco shaped its raw, street-level feel. They also explore Scorsese's career trajectory, the influence of Paul Schrader's script, and the intense religious backlash the film faced upon release.

This episode includes a deep dive into Martin Scorsese's 1986 film The Color of Money, examining its role as a commercial "stabilizer" that financed riskier passion projects like The Last Temptation of Christ. The hosts and guest Chris Ryan analyze Paul Newman’s graceful aging and Oscar-winning performance as Fast Eddie Felson, contrasting it with a young Tom Cruise’s hungry, pre-superstardom energy and the film's depiction of pool hustling culture. They also explore the CAA packaging mechanics behind the production, Scorsese's collaborative process with writer Richard Price, and the cinematography of Michael Ballhaus.

This episode includes a deep dive into Martin Scorsese's The Color of Money, examining its function as a commercial "stabilizer" that secured the director the creative freedom to make The Last Temptation of Christ. The conversation explores Paul Newman's graceful aging and Oscar-winning return as Fast Eddie Felson, the casting of a pre-superstardom Tom Cruise, and the film's depiction of pool hustling culture. The hosts and guest Chris Ryan also discuss Michael Ovitz's package-unit influence, Richard Price's screenplay adaptation, and how the movie bridges Old Hollywood star power with New Hollywood grit.

This episode includes a deep dive into Martin Scorsese's 1985 film After Hours, covering its origins as a student script, the near-hiring of Tim Burton to direct, and the production stories involving Griffin Dunne's celibacy mandate from Scorsese. The hosts and guest Ali Sivy discuss the film's depiction of a vanished downtown New York, its queer subtext amidst the AIDS crisis, and the iconic performances by Linda Fiorentino, Rosanna Arquette, and Catherine O'Hara. They also explore the film's surreal nightmare logic, the famous reshot ending involving a paper-mâché sculpture, and its legacy as a "fire podcast" favorite.

This episode includes a discussion of Martin Scorsese's 1985 film After Hours, covering its production history, initial development with Tim Burton attached to direct, and the cast led by Griffin Dunne and Rosanna Arquette. The hosts and guest Ali Sivey explore the film's depiction of 1980s Soho, its Kafkaesque nightmare logic, and its resonance as a snapshot of a lost New York era tinged with AIDS crisis undertones. They also analyze the film's legacy, Scorsese's career context at the time, and the distinct tonal balance of anxiety and dark comedy that makes the movie a unique entry in his filmography.

This episode includes a deep dive into Martin Scorsese's The King of Comedy, analyzing Robert De Niro's portrayal of Rupert Pupkin and Jerry Lewis's against-type performance as a talk show host. The hosts and guest Stavros Halkias discuss the film's prescient themes of parasocial relationships, delusional ambition, and the grind of stand-up comedy, contrasting it with Taxi Driver and Joker. They also explore the film's initial reception, Scorsese's reluctant production experience, and share personal anecdotes about comedy careers and physical media collecting.

This episode includes a detailed discussion of Martin Scorsese’s King of Comedy, focusing on Robert De Niro’s understated portrayal of Rupert Pumpkin and the film’s blend of fantasy and reality in depicting a delusional aspiring comedian. The hosts also compare De Niro’s performance to Al Pacino’s style, share anecdotes about Jerry Lewis, and weave in cultural touches ranging from The Simpsons references to vintage gaming hardware like the British Super Nintendo.

This episode includes a deep dive into Martin Scorsese's Raging Bull, examining its themes of masculinity, insecurity, and brotherly dynamics, the film's groundbreaking sound editing and black‑and‑white cinematography, and the intense performances of Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci. It also touches on behind‑the‑scenes anecdotes, the film's lasting influence on cinema, and a brief reflection on why AI cannot replicate the human emotional depth that makes such storytelling resonant.

This episode includes a detailed analysis of a challenging 1977 musical film, exploring its chaotic production marked by improvisation and a lack of a complete script. The discussion highlights the difficult and often unlikable nature of Robert De Niro's character, the impressive yet demanding performance by Liza Minnelli, and the film's fascinating legacy, especially the creation of its iconic titular song. The hosts delve into the movie's unique place within its director's career and its contrasting reception.

This episode includes a detailed discussion of "Taxi Driver," delving into its themes of urban alienation and loneliness, the character of Travis Bickle, and Paul Schrader's unique writing process. The conversation also extensively covers the 1976 Academy Awards, analyzing its controversial outcomes, "Taxi Driver's" snubs, and the unexpected triumph of "Rocky," alongside broader reflections on Oscar history and cinematic influences.

This episode includes a deep dive into the 1974 film Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore, exploring its production under director Martin Scorsese and its groundbreaking portrayal of a woman seeking independence. The discussion covers Ellen Burstyn's Oscar-winning performance, the film's realistic mother-child dynamic, and its surprising adaptation into a long-running sitcom.

This episode includes a deep dive into Martin Scorsese's groundbreaking early film "Mean Streets," examining its unique style, including its innovative use of popular music and handheld camera work. Discussions cover Robert De Niro's breakout "wild card" performance as Johnny Boy, the movie's autobiographical elements reflecting Scorsese's Little Italy upbringing, and its themes of masculinity, identity, and tradition amidst production challenges.

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.