• Ep 25 - Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978)
    Aug 26 2025

    "There's nothing to be afraid of. They were right. It's painless. It's good."

    In this episode, we watch Philip Kaufman’s 1978 remake of Invasion of the Body Snatchers. Often praised as a paranoid sci-fi classic, the film has atmosphere, star power, and that unforgettable final shot.

    We found ourselves less enthralled than expected, and our conversation unpacks why the film’s reputation might outstrip the experience of sitting through it today.

    Join us as we dig into what works, what drags, and why this alien takeover didn’t quite capture our hearts.

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    23 mins
  • Ep 24 - Diva (1981)
    Aug 2 2025

    Don’t cry. I’ve got another – genuine plastic. Just right for a little brat like you.

    In this episode of Invasion of the Poddysnatchers, we slip into the neon-soaked, noir-tinged world of Diva (1981), Jean-Jacques Beineix’s cult classic that helped define the Cinéma du Look movement. We caught it on the IMAX at Bristol’s Watershed, where it was featured as part of Cine Rediscovered — a perfect setting to revisit this audacious slice of French cinema.

    Opera, motorbike chases, hitmen, tape recordings — and the coolest sandwich in the history of cinema. But beneath the slick surfaces and iconic visuals, is there substance? Or is Diva all style, no soul?

    Join us as we decode the film’s bold aesthetics, cool detachment, and unexpected charm — and reflect on how it plays today, over 40 years on.

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    25 mins
  • Ep 23 - Network (1976)
    Jun 12 2025

    "We'll tell you anything you want to hear, we lie like hell." This week, the Poddysnatchers tune into the airwaves of righteous rage and media madness with Sidney Lumet’s 1976 classic "Network". From unhinged news anchors to corporate overlords with god complexes, we dive into the prophetic chaos of a film that predicted reality TV, influencer culture, and the commodification of outrage long before the internet ever got its hands dirty.

    Is Howard Beale a tragic hero or a cautionary tale? Has TV ever really stopped exploiting us for ratings? And are we still mad as hell, or just too tired to notice?

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    28 mins
  • Ep 22 - The Bad and the Beautiful (1952)
    Apr 11 2025

    I've told you a hundred times. I don't want to win awards. Give me pictures that end with a kiss and black ink on the books.

    This time on IotPS, we dive into the glitzy shadows of Hollywood’s golden age with Vincente Minnelli’s classic melodrama. From ruthless ambition to romantic ruin, we unravel how this 1952 gem lays bare the cost of chasing cinematic greatness. Join us as we dissect Kirk Douglas’s Oscar-nominated portrayal of a charismatic yet morally bankrupt producer, the film’s striking structure, and why its themes still hit hard in today’s industry. Glamour, betrayal, and the price of legacy — let’s talk about The Bad and the Beautiful.

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    19 mins
  • Ep 21 - Devil in a Blue Dress (1995)
    Feb 9 2025

    "If you got a friend that you know does bad things, I mean real bad things, and you still keep him as a friend even though you know what he's like, do you think that's wrong?"

    Step into the beautifully lit streets of 1940s Los Angeles with our latest podcast episode, where we dive deep into the gripping world of Devil in a Blue Dress. Based on Walter Mosley’s acclaimed novel, this neo-noir film follows Ezekiel “Easy” Rawlins, an African American WWII vet turned reluctant detective, as he unravels a web of secrets, power, and betrayal in a racially divided city. We’ll explore the film’s complex characters, its sharp social commentary, and the timeless allure of film noir through a modern lens. Join us as we examine how Devil in a Blue Dress brings fresh perspectives to the genre in post-war America.

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    22 mins
  • Ep 20 - Amadeus (1984)
    Jan 9 2025

    I speak for all mediocrities in the world. I am their champion. I am their patron saint.

    In this episode, we dive into Amadeus (1984), Miloš Forman’s Oscar-winning masterpiece that explores the rivalry between the brilliant Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the envious Antonio Salieri. From the dazzling performances by Tom Hulce and F. Murray Abraham to the film’s lush cinematography and unforgettable soundtrack, we discuss how Amadeus blurs the line between historical drama and high art.

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    24 mins
  • Ep19 - Sunset Boulevard (1950)
    Nov 10 2024

    We didn't need dialogue. We had faces!

    Join us on this episode as we dive into the iconic world of Sunset Boulevard! This 1950 film noir classic directed by Billy Wilder still leaves us in awe with its haunting story, unforgettable characters, and timeless themes. We break down exactly why we loved this film, from Gloria Swanson's "exceptional" performance as Norma Desmond to the unforgettable line, "All right, Mr. DeMille, I'm ready for my close-up." We explore the film's portrayal of Hollywood, ambition, and the darker side of fame—and why it still resonates today.

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    33 mins
  • Ep 18 - The Sweet Smell of Success
    Oct 13 2024

    I am tasting my favorite new perfume - success!

    In this episode, we're watching The Sweet Smell of Success (1957) starring Burt Lancaster and Tony Curtis. This is a film that critics love but it died at the box office on its release. We try to work out why...

    We also tried out new recording equipment...not too sure if it works!

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    26 mins