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PODCAST

Four Play

Last Free Nation

Four Play selects four iconic films from a theme or genre to meticulously analyze and place in their proper historical context. Hosted by veteran esports commentators Richard Lewis, Duncan "Thorin" Shields, and Christopher "MonteCristo" Mykles, Four Play showcases both legendary Hollywood movies as well as hidden gems outside the mainstream. Be sure to watch along with our hosts each week to get the most of each conversation!

tv & film film reviews

All Episodes

01:27:57

RUDY: Obsession and Cliché Collide In The Purest...

Four Play ·

2025/07/06

In this episode of 'Four Play,' we delve into the inspirational sports film 'Rudy.' Join us as we discuss key themes, memorable moments, and the unbelievable true story behind the movie. From Rudy's persistence and hard work to the cinematography and remarkable performances by Sean Astin and the supporting cast, we cover it all. We also touch upon how the movie compares to other sports films like 'Hoosiers,' also directed by David Anspaugh and written by Angelo Pizzo, and its cultural impact. Plus,

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01:52:17

FIELD OF DREAMS: Nobody Knows the Rules of Ghost...

Four Play ·

2025/06/29

In this episode of Four Play, the hosts dissect the 1989 film 'Field of Dreams.' They delve into the peculiar rules of 'ghost baseball,' critique the film's sentimentality, and analyze its deeper themes of American tradition, intergenerational relationships, and personal regret. The discussion explores the broader impact of sports films in American culture, the significance of baseball in connecting different eras, and how this film uniquely stands out despite its flaws. Notably, the hosts praise

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01:36:20

HOOSIERS: A Sports Cliché or the Ultimate Sports Film?

Four Play ·

2025/06/22

Join us as Richard Lewis, Thorin, and Monte discuss the classic sports film 'Hoosiers.' In this episode, we explore the film's timeless appeal, Gene Hackman's nuanced performance, and why this movie, despite its predictable plot and sentimental moments, remains a beloved staple in sports cinema. From the cultural significance of small-town basketball to the profound human stories told through sports, we examine what makes 'Hoosiers' a blueprint for all feel-good sports movies. Also, enjoy some

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01:28:23

NIGHT MOVES: Gene Hackman's Forgotten Performance?...

Four Play ·

2025/06/15

In this episode of Foreplay, the hosts explore one of Gene Hackman's most enigmatic and forgotten performances in the 1975 film 'Night Moves.' As the final film in their Gene Hackman Arc, they analyze the movie's subtle brilliance, its portrayal of middle-aged malaise, and its deconstruction of film noir tropes. From discussing Hackman's character, Harry Moseby, and his personal struggles to addressing the film’s puzzling plot and tonal inconsistencies, they unpack why 'Night Moves' remains a

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01:26:41

UNFORGIVEN: An Uncensored Reimagination Of The Wild West

Four Play ·

2025/06/08

Welcome back to Foreplay! In this episode, we explore the third film in our Gene Hackman Arc: 'Unforgiven' (1992), directed by and starring Clint Eastwood. Join us as we discuss the intricate details, character portrayals, and thematic elements of this legendary Western. We'll delve into Gene Hackman's award-winning performance as Little Bill, the slow-burn storytelling, and the cinematic parallels that make 'Unforgiven' a timeless classic. We also touch on Richard Harris' memorable role as English

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01:53:52

THE CONVERSATION: Is This Gene Hackman's Best...

Four Play ·

2025/06/01

In this episode, we delve deep into Francis Ford Coppola's 1974 classic, 'The Conversation,' starring Gene Hackman. We explore Hackman's exceptional performance as Harry Caul, the film's intricate narrative structure, and the thematic elements of surveillance, privacy, and paranoia. Our discussion also touches on the movie's compelling soundtrack, its connection (or lack thereof) to the Watergate scandal, and how it fits within the broader context of cinema and film noir. Additionally, we compare it

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01:32:42

THE FRENCH CONNECTION: Is This An Accurate Depiction...

Four Play ·

2025/05/18

Dive deep into the critically acclaimed 1971 classic, 'The French Connection,' directed by William Friedkin. Join us as we explore Gene Hackman's Oscar-winning portrayal of the gritty, obsessed NYPD detective Popeye Doyle, and the film's groundbreaking car chase that set new standards in cinema. We discuss the film's raw depiction of 1970s New York, Hackman's method acting, and the influences this movie has had on crime and thriller genres. This episode also touches on the unsung hero behind the

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01:33:52

NOSFERATU (2024): Where Does it Stand in the Vampire...

Four Play ·

2025/05/11

In this episode of Four Play, we conclude our Robert Eggers arc by diving into his 2024 film, 'Nosferatu.' Before discussing this modern take on the classic vampire tale, we announce our next arc focusing on Gene Hackman's impressive acting career in homage to his recent passing. We explore Nosferatu's compelling cinematography, its thematic exploration of romantic and period elements, and critique the film's strengths and shortcomings. We also touch upon the broader impact of Eggers' work on the

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01:44:27

THE NORTHMAN: Understanding Masculinity and Norse...

Four Play ·

2025/05/04

We continue our Robert Eggers' Arc on Four Play with his third film, 2022's 'The Northman.' Thorin, Richard Lewis, and MonteCristo break down the film's rich Viking mythology, stunning cinematography by Jarin Blaschke, and intense performances, especially highlighting Alexander Skarsgård's transformative role as Amleth. Explore how Eggers' dedication to historical accuracy and mythological realism brings a unique and immersive cinematic experience. From epic battle scenes to intricate mythological

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01:42:22

THE LIGHTHOUSE: Analyzing the Mysteries, Mythology,...

Four Play ·

2025/04/27

Four Play dives deep into Robert Eggers' enigmatic film 'The Lighthouse'. Richard Lewis, MonteCristo, and Thorin analyze the intricate storytelling, impeccable cinematography, and the remarkable performances by Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson. We explore the film's Lovecraftian themes, Greek mythological references, and its unique ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, from horror to comedy. Whether you're a fan of psychological horror or artistic cinema, this discussion highlights why 'The

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01:54:55

THE VVITCH: Why is Eggers' Puritanical Horror an...

Four Play ·

2025/04/20

We kick off a new arc with the works of director Robert Eggers, focusing on his debut feature film 'The Witch.' We explore the psychological and supernatural elements of this chilling 2015 horror film, set in 17th-century Puritan New England, that has since become a modern classic. Join us as we analyze the cultural impact, historical accuracy, religious undertones, and cinematographic artistry that makes 'The Witch' stand out. This discussion also touches on Eggers' meticulous research, the film's

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01:38:58

MULHOLLAND DRIVE: Masterpiece or Mess? Explaining...

Four Play ·

2025/04/06

In this final episode of our David Lynch arc, we delve into one of his most acclaimed and complex films, 'Mulholland Drive' from 2001. Richard Lewis, Thorin, and MonteCristo offer contrasting views, discussing the film's plot, themes, and surrealistic elements. They debate whether the film is a profound commentary on Hollywood and the nature of reality or an overly pretentious piece. Our hosts explain the plot of this famously non-linear film and provide their interpretations of its more enigmatic

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01:36:21

LOST HIGHWAY: Explaining Lynch's Surreal Landscape

Four Play ·

2025/03/16

In this episode of Four Play, the hosts delve into David Lynch's 1997 film 'Lost Highway.' They discuss the film's visual and auditory splendor, its star-studded cast, the complexities of its narrative, the concept of the dissociative fugue, and explain the role of the Mystery Man. Comparing it to Lynch's other works, the hosts explore themes of psychological trauma, identity, and surrealism. Thorin, Richard Lewis, and MonteCristo gush about the film's score, provided by Angelo Badalamenti and Trent

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01:26:39

WILD AT HEART: A Violent, Erotic, and Optimistic...

Four Play ·

2025/03/10

We continue our David Lynch arc with his 1990 film 'Wild at Heart.' This episode dissects the film's frenetic energy, its blend of surrealism and conventional storytelling, and its status as a Southern Gothic road movie. We examine standout performances by Nicolas Cage and Laura Dern, discuss the film's controversial scenes and critical reception, specifically Roger Ebert's divisive review, and explore Lynch's recurring themes of innocence, optimism, and Americana. Tune in for a comprehensive look

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01:54:38

BLUE VELVET: Contrasting "Picture-Perfect" America...

Four Play ·

2025/03/10

With the unfortunate passing of David Lynch, the Four Play hosts decided to dedicate this arc to the director and his unique vision in cinema. The 1986 film Blue Velvet still stands as an all-time classic with memorable performances by Dennis Hopper and Isabella Rossellini and a signature touch of Lynch's surrealism. The film mixes Lynch's love of Americana with a shocking exploration of sexual violence and the dark activities of the criminal underworld.

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114:38

BLUE VELVET: Contrasting "Picture-Perfect" America...

Four Play ·

2025/03/02

With the unfortunate passing of David Lynch, the Four Play hosts decided to dedicate this arc to the director and his unique vision in cinema. The 1986 film Blue Velvet still stands as an all-time classic with memorable performances by Dennis Hopper and Isabella Rossellini and a signature touch of Lynch's surrealism. The film mixes Lynch's love of Americana with a shocking exploration of sexual violence and the dark activities of the criminal underworld.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit

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149:59

GLADIATOR 1 & 2: Why make a BAD sequel to this...

Four Play ·

2025/02/16

Two Ridley Scott films close out our Sword-and-Sandal Arc, the legendary Gladiator from 2000 and the repetitively terrible Gladiator 2 from 2024. While iconic performances from Russell Crowe, Oliver Reed, Richard Harris, and Joaquin PhControl Body Odor ANYWHERE with Mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code FOURPLAY at https://www.shopmando.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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121:51

TROY: A flawed gem reviewed 20 years later

Four Play ·

2025/02/09

We return to Wolfgang Petersen's Troy: Director's Cut 20 years after its initial release and discover a film that's aged surprisingly well. Featuring an incredible cast including Brad Pitt, Eric Bana, Peter O'Toole, Sean Bean, Brian Cox, Brendan Gleeson, and Orlando Bloom, Troy is carried by the actors' strong performances. While not strictly true to the Iliad, Troy's daring attempt to place the Trojan War on film deserves praise, as do the incredible combat and battle sequences. While the quality

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79:46

SPARTACUS: Kubrick's Hollywood Epic that Inspired...

Four Play ·

2025/02/02

We follow up Ben-Hur with another Hollywood epic, 1960's Spartacus directed by Stanley Kubrick. While set in the era of the Roman Republic, the film obliquely tackles many subjects of its era including McCarthyism, communist revolution, and the legacy of slavery. With stand-out performances by Kirk Douglas, Laurence Olivier, and Peter Ustinov, Spartacus delivers an entertaining spectacle whose legacy continued to influence films like Gladiator decades later.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit

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102:43

BEN-HUR: The 1950s Hollywood Blockbuster That Defined...

Four Play ·

2025/01/26

Four Play's new Sword-and-Sandal arc takes us back to the age of Hollywood epics with 1959's legendary Ben-Hur. The film weaves in the birth of Christianity into the background of the heartbreaking story of the titular character Judah Ben-Hur, played by the legendary Charlton Heston. The most expensive movie ever made when it released, Ben-Hur achieves a scope of sets, costumes, extras, and an iconic chariot racing sequence almost unrivaled in cinema history. The movie remains one of the most

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84 results

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