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PODCAST

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights

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.

tv & film film reviews

All Episodes

4:21

The Hidden Lives of Kitchen Staff: Exploring 'La cocina'

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/21

In this episode of *Movies First*, we delve into the gripping world of *La cocina*, a film that exposes the hidden realities behind the kitchen doors of our favorite restaurants. The narrative unfolds in a high-pressure environment where missing money, illegal workers, and romantic entanglements create a volatile atmosphere that will make you reconsider your next dining experience. Drawing from his own past as a dishwasher in London, the director crafts a story that is both personal and universal,

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5:18

Finding Light in Darkness: Exploring 'The Penguin...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/20

In this episode of *Movies First*, we explore the heartwarming yet poignant film *The Penguin Lessons*, set against the tumultuous backdrop of 1976 Buenos Aires, where a military coup looms ominously. The narrative follows Tom Michelle, played by the charming Steve Coogan, as he navigates his role as a new English teacher at the prestigious St. George's College. The strict headmaster, Timothy Buckle, portrayed by Jonathan Price, enforces rigid rules that challenge Michelle’s unconventional approach

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5:02

From Despair to Discovery: The Journey of 'The Salt...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/19

In this episode of *Movies First*, we delve into the inspiring true story depicted in *The Salt Path*, which follows the extraordinary journey of Rainer and Mothwin as they navigate the depths of despair and emerge with newfound resilience. After losing their home, facing a terminal diagnosis, and suffering financial ruin all within a week, this couple's tale challenges our perceptions of strength and hope.The episode paints a vivid picture of their life on a farm in Wales, a sanctuary they built

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5:17

Mental Health and Superheroes: A Deep Dive into...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/16

In this episode of *Movies First*, we dive into Marvel's groundbreaking film *Thunderbolts*, which boldly places mental health at the forefront of its superhero narrative. As we explore the character of Yelena, played by Florence Pugh, we discuss her profound struggles with purposelessness and how this reflects a larger shift in the portrayal of psychological issues in mainstream entertainment. The film introduces Bob, a seemingly ordinary individual whose journey from despair to empowerment serves

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4:08

The Rise and Fall of a Showman: Exploring 'Monsieur...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/14

In this episode of *Movies First*, Alex delves into the captivating biopic *Monsieur Asnavour*, which chronicles the life of the legendary French-Armenian singer-songwriter Charles Aznavour. With a rich musical backdrop featuring both his iconic hits and lesser-known tracks, the film offers an intimate glimpse into Aznavour's journey from a troubled childhood to international stardom. We explore his early years, marked by resilience and creativity, as his family sheltered those persecuted during

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5:00

The Cost of Truth: Unpacking Peter Greste's 400 Days...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/08

In this episode of *Movies First*, we explore the gripping thriller *The Correspondent*, which chronicles the harrowing experience of journalist Peter Greste during his 400-day imprisonment in Egypt. What begins as a routine Christmas assignment for Al Jazeera quickly spirals into a nightmare as Greste faces trumped-up charges that threaten to erase his career and freedom. We discuss the chilling implications of the Egyptian authorities' actions, which effectively criminalize journalism itself, and

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5:41

Unraveling 'Misericordia': Secrets and Tensions in a...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/07

In this episode of *Movies First*, Alex delves into the hauntingly atmospheric French film *Misericordia*, a psychological drama that unfolds in a quaint village rocked by the death of its beloved baker, Jean Pierre Rigal. This pivotal event sets off a series of revelations that peel back the layers of relationships and tensions within this close-knit community, where residents share an unusual habit of staying awake through the night.The narrative centers around Jeremy Pastor, portrayed with

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4:29

Unpacking 'Hysteria': Provocation and Power in Film

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/05/02

In this episode of *Movies First*, we dive into the provocative German film *Hysteria*, a gripping exploration of historical trauma and cultural identity. Directed by Mehmet Akif Büyükatalay, this film boldly confronts the tragic 1993 arson attacks that claimed five Turkish lives, transforming it into a narrative that questions the ownership of storytelling itself. We discuss the innovative approach of Turkish German filmmaker Yigit, who uses real refugees as extras in a recreation that ignites

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5:16

The Balancing Act: Humor and Thriller in 'The...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/04/27

In this episode of *Movies First*, we delve into the intricate layers of *The Accountant 2*, a thrilling sequel that expertly combines high-stakes action with moments of unexpected humor. Ben Affleck returns as Christian Wolf, a neurodivergent antihero whose mathematical genius is matched only by his combat skills. We explore the complexities of his character, highlighting his emotional reserve and the challenges he faces in personal relationships, particularly with his estranged brother, Braxton,

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4:52

Calculated Chaos: Neurodivergence in 'The Accountant 2'

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/04/27

In this episode of *Movies First*, we take a deep dive into the action-packed film *The Accountant 2*, featuring Ben Affleck as Christian Wolf, a neurodivergent character who redefines the role of an action hero. The discussion focuses on how the film flips traditional narratives, showcasing Christian's mathematical prowess as a superpower in both accounting and combat. The contrasting dynamics between Christian and his brother Braxton, played by Jon Bernthal, highlight the tension between logic

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5:04

Art as Resistance in 'The Seed of the Sacred Fig'

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/04/25

In this episode, we explore the powerful narrative of the Oscar-nominated film, "The Seed of the Sacred Fig," directed by Mohammad Rasulov. This gripping story reveals how art can become a form of resistance against oppressive regimes, as Rasulov filmed it in secret while living in exile. We discuss the film's metaphor of the sacred fig tree, the impact of personal freedoms being suffocated, and the chilling family dynamics that reflect broader political tensions. Join us as we delve into the

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5:19

Shadows of Deception: The Psychological Tension in...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/04/22

In this thrilling episode of *Movies First*, Alex dives into the psychological rollercoaster that is *Drop*, a film that transforms an elegant evening into a nightmare of manipulation and fear. At the heart of the story is Violet, a widowed psychologist grappling with the aftermath of domestic violence, who finally agrees to meet Henry, a photographer, at a chic Chicago restaurant. But what begins as a hopeful date quickly spirals into terror when Violet starts receiving ominous text messages—known

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5:04

Melodies of Darkness: Unveiling the Horror in 'Sinners'

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/04/20

In this captivating episode of *Movies First*, the team delves into the genre-defying film *Sinners*, a masterful blend of period drama, blues music, and Southern Gothic horror. Set in 1932 Mississippi, the narrative follows twin brothers Smoke and Stack, portrayed by the talented Michael B. Jordan, as they return home after tumultuous experiences working for Al Capone and serving in World War I. Their arrival, accompanied by bootlegged liquor and a desire to open a juke joint, sets the stage for a

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54:56

Capturing Truth: The Art of Storytelling in Warfare...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/04/20

In this gripping episode of First on Film & Entertainment, host Alex First is joined by critics Sandy Kaye, Peter Chris, and Greg King as they dive into two thought-provoking films: *Warfare* and *Drop*. The discussion begins with *Warfare*, a harrowing portrayal of a Navy SEAL mission gone awry in Iraq. The panel praises Alex Garland's direction, highlighting the film's intense realism and emotional depth, which keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Sandy shares her surprise at how much she

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5:16

Unyielding Truths: The Harrowing Realities of 'Warfare'

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/04/10

In this gripping episode of *Movies First*, the team explores Alex Garland's latest film, *Warfare*, a raw and unflinching portrayal of a real military incident that unfolded on November 19, 2006, in Ramadi, Iraq. The narrative centers on a group of Navy SEALs, supported by Iraqi scouts and Marines, who embark on what is supposed to be a routine surveillance mission in Al Qaeda-controlled territory. However, the operation quickly spirals into chaos, challenging the soldiers in ways they never

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4:36

Pixelated Dreams: The Ambitious Journey of 'A...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/04/08

In this exciting episode of *Movies First*, the team dives into the ambitious adaptation of the world's best-selling video game, *Minecraft*, featuring the comedic talents of Jack Black and the charismatic Jason Momoa. The film transforms the abstract, blocky world of the game into a live-action adventure, centering on Steve, played by Black, who dreams of becoming a miner. This relatable character grounds the fantastical narrative, which cleverly incorporates magical artifacts like the orb of

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4:54

Echoes of Injustice: A Deep Dive into 'Small Things...

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/04/07

In this poignant episode of *Movies First*, the team delves into the harrowing historical narrative presented in the film *Small Things Like These*, which shines a light on the Magdalene Laundries of Ireland, where over 30,000 women were confined between 1922 and 1996. Cillian Murphy delivers a powerful performance as Bill Furlong, a coal merchant whose past as the child of an unmarried mother informs his moral awakening as he uncovers the injustices surrounding him in 1985 Ireland.Listeners will be

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4:56

Legacy in Limbo: The Duality of 'Oh, Canada'

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/03/31

In this thought-provoking episode of *Movies First*, the team delves into Paul Schrader's latest film, *O Canada*, a complex exploration of mortality and truth that intertwines the talents of Richard Gere and Jacob Elordi. The film's unique structure features a documentary filmmaker, Leonard Fife, portrayed by Gere, who unravels his life’s secrets on his deathbed, all while his wife, played by Uma Thurman, bears witness to the confessions that reveal a lifetime of lies and betrayals.Listeners will

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5:17

Statham's Return: The Gritty World of 'A Working Man'

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/03/29

In this electrifying episode of *Movies First*, Alex dissects the latest action thriller, *A Working Man*, featuring Jason Statham as Levon Cade, a former Royal Marines commando turned construction foreman. The film follows Cade as he navigates the complexities of his quiet life in Chicago, strained family relationships, and the emotional weight of his past. When the daughter of his employers is kidnapped by human traffickers, Cade is reluctantly pulled back into a world of violence to save her,

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5:46

Classic Reimagined: The New 'Snow White'

Movies First: Film Reviews & Insights ·

2025/03/25

In this enchanting episode of *Movies First*, Alex takes listeners on a journey through Disney's reimagined classic, *Snow White*. This fresh adaptation breathes new life into the 1937 animated feature, blending modern sensibilities with the beloved fairy tale's magical elements. The discussion highlights the film's transformation into a narrative of female empowerment and leadership, showcasing Snow White's evolution from a servant to a rightful leader in her kingdom.Listeners will discover the

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122 results

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