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Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights

By: bitesz.com
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 Movies, reviewed and rated. If you love movies you’ll love Movies First with well-known and respected reviewer Alex First and his sidekicks Chris & Jessica. Answering the big question...should I see this movie?

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/movies-first-film-reviews-insights--2648009/support.Copyright bitesz.com Art
Episodes
  • Afterlife Affairs: The Cosmic Love Triangle of 'Eternity'

    Afterlife Affairs: The Cosmic Love Triangle of 'Eternity'
    Feb 1 2026
    In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica embark on a thought-provoking journey through the afterlife with the new film *Eternity*. This unique romantic comedy presents a bureaucratic twist on the age-old question of eternal love, placing protagonist Joan, played by Elizabeth Olsen, in an impossible position between her first husband, Luke, who died young in the Korean War, and Larry, her partner of 65 years. With only a week to decide before facing a celestial basement, the time pressure adds an intriguing layer to the story.

    Listeners will be captivated as Chris and Jessica unpack the film's clever structure, featuring coordinators portrayed by Divine Joy Randolph and John Early, who act as competing advocates in this cosmic custody battle for Joan's soul. They delve into how the film balances heavy themes of love and mortality with light-hearted humor, exemplified in scenes like the bickering couple heading to a gender reveal party.

    The discussion also highlights the film's exploration of different kinds of love, contrasting the fleeting perfection of first love with the complexities of a long-term relationship. The performances of Miles Teller and Callum Turner as young Larry and Luke, respectively, are noted for making both relationships feel equally valid yet distinct.

    With a score of 7.5 out of 10, this episode invites listeners to reflect on the meaningful questions surrounding love and choice, making *Eternity* a film that resonates universally, even amid its fantastical premise. Join Chris and Jessica as they explore how this engaging narrative manages to entertain while provoking deeper thoughts about life and the afterlife.
    https://www.bitesz.com/podcast/movies-first

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/movies-first.

    To access the Movies First reviews archive visit our website at www.bitesz.com/podcast/movies-first

    To access the Movies First reviews archive visit our website at www.bitesz.com/podcast/movies-first

    This episode includes AI-generated content.
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    5 mins
  • Sinister Services: The Dark Comedy of 'Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery'

    Sinister Services: The Dark Comedy of 'Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery'
    Jan 2 2026
    In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica delve into the intriguing world of *Wake Up Dead Man*, the latest installment in the Knives Out franchise that takes murder mysteries to a new level within the confines of a church. The hosts explore the darkly ironic setting of Our Lady of Perpetual Fortitude, where the past sins of Father Duplentice, played by Josh O'Connor, collide with a shocking murder during a service, challenging the very notion of divine intervention.

    Listeners will be captivated as Chris and Jessica discuss the power dynamics at play, particularly with Josh Brolin's Monsignor Wicks, who runs the parish like a personal empire. They highlight the film's ensemble cast, featuring Glenn Close, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, and others, creating a rich tapestry of characters that embody various forms of suffering and redemption.

    The episode also examines how director Rian Johnson masterfully uses the church setting to delve into themes of faith, doubt, and collective guilt, especially with the murder occurring in front of a congregation that becomes both witnesses and suspects. Chris and Jessica reflect on the clever symbolism and the tension brought forth by Daniel Craig's Benoit Blanc, navigating the intersection of earthly justice and divine judgment.

    With a score of 8 out of 10, this episode invites listeners to ponder the complex layers of morality, redemption, and the human condition, all while enjoying the sophisticated mystery and dark humor that the Knives Out series is known for.
    https://www.bitesz.com/podcast/movies-first

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/movies-first.

    To access the Movies First reviews archive visit our website at www.bitesz.com/podcast/movies-first

    To access the Movies First reviews archive visit our website at www.bitesz.com/podcast/movies-first

    This episode includes AI-generated content.
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    5 mins
  • The Duality of Wicked: Unpacking Good and Evil in 'Wicked: For Good'

    The Duality of Wicked: Unpacking Good and Evil in 'Wicked: For Good'
    Dec 30 2025
    In this episode of *Movies First*, Chris and Jessica dive deep into the enchanting yet thought-provoking world of *Wicked: for Good*, exploring the transformative journey of villains into heroes and how the narrative challenges our understanding of good and evil. They discuss the revolutionary portrayal of power, truth, and justice, particularly through Michelle Yeoh's chilling role as Madame Morrible, who orchestrates a propaganda campaign that resonates with today's media landscape.

    Listeners will be captivated by the hosts' analysis of Ariana Grande's performance as Glinda, highlighting her authentic evolution from a popularity-obsessed student to a character faced with moral dilemmas. The dynamic chemistry between Grande and Cynthia Erivo, who portrays Elphaba, adds depth to their contrasting paths, showcasing how shared histories can shape divergent choices.

    Chris and Jessica emphasize the musical's technical achievements, particularly the tornado sequence as a metaphor for societal upheaval driven by fear and manipulation. They also explore the allegorical representation of marginalized voices through the innovative use of technology in the depiction of animals in Oz, enhancing the film's themes of power and resistance.

    The hosts delve into the visual storytelling elements, like costume design, which reflects the power dynamics between Glinda and Elphaba, and the commentary provided by Jeff Goldblum's wizard character. They appreciate how director John M. Chu balances spectacular fantasy with complex ideas, making the film both entertaining and intellectually engaging.

    With a score of 8 out of 10, this episode invites listeners to reflect on the evolving narratives of morality and the potential for more nuanced storytelling in the future, proving that entertainment can be both commercially successful and thought-provoking.
    https://www.bitesz.com/podcast/movies-first

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/movies-first.

    To access the Movies First reviews archive visit our website at www.bitesz.com/podcast/movies-first

    This episode includes AI-generated content.
    Show More Show Less
    5 mins
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