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PODCAST

Midday Movies

Laura Fones and Stephen Frothingham

Welcome to the Midday Movies podcast, provider of fun, funny, and thoughtful media reviews 2-3x a week. Streaming on @radiotacoma101.9 every Tues/Thurs/Sat at 3pm.

tv & film

All Episodes

00:32:02

Ep 281: Top 10 Holiday Movies According to American...

Midday Movies ·

2025/12/09

In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen take a lunch break to delve into the American Film Institute's (AFI) Holiday Movie Guide, covering the top 10 of the 21 best US holiday films. They discuss a range of historically great holiday films touching on Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. Highlights include 'Love Actually,' 'Miracle on 34th Street,' 'The Muppet Christmas Carol,' 'White Christmas,' and the number one pick, 'Yentl.' The episode

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00:29:44

Ep 280: AFI's Top 21 Classic Holiday Movies to...

Midday Movies ·

2025/12/04

Join hosts Laura and Stephen on 'Midday Movies' as they dive into the first half of the American Film Institute's list of top 21 holiday films. From the beloved 'A Christmas Story' and 'Home Alone' to lesser-known gems like 'Crossing Delany', this episode covers movies for Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. Listen in for lively discussions, personal anecdotes, and holiday cheer. Stay tuned for Part 2 where they reveal the top 10 films on the list!00:00 Introduction to Midday Movies Podcast00:08

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00:51:56

Ep 279: Reimagining “Frankenstein” (2025, Guillermo...

Midday Movies ·

2025/12/02

Guests: Jen and Sarah of the “Movies & Us” Podcast In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen, are joined by Jen and Sarah from the Movies & Us Podcast, to explore Guillermo del Toro's reimagining of Mary Shelley's 1818 novel, “Frankenstein” (2025). The movie stars Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, and Mia Goth, and presents themes of mad ambition, family trauma, and the inhospitable Arctic Circle. The discussion touches on del Toro's unique approach to humanizing monsters, the film’s

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00:53:43

Ep 278: Reviewing “Blade Runner 2049” (2017) with...

Midday Movies ·

2025/11/26

Guest: Steven Bernstein (Writer, Director, Cinematographer)In this special episode of Midday Movies, Laura and Stephen are joined by acclaimed cinematographer Steven Bernstein (Monster, White Chicks) to deconstruct the visually haunting masterpiece, Blade Runner 2049 (2017).Moving beyond simple plot summary, the trio dives deep into the philosophy of filmmaking, challenging the modern orthodoxy that "everyone is a storyteller." Steven Bernstein offers a masterclass on visual language, explaining how

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00:10:43

Ep 277: Reviewing “Weapons” (2025) and The...

Midday Movies ·

2025/11/20

In this episode, Laura and Stephen discuss the 2025 film “Weapons,” a spooky and mysterious movie featuring a unique plot and stellar performances from actors linked to the MCU. They delve into the film's strange story about the disappearance of 17 third graders, the intriguing roles played by Julia Gardner, Benedict Wong, and Josh Brolin, and the unexpected horror elements that make it a standout. Tune in to hear more about the film's peculiar scenes, character dynamics, and the upcoming prequel

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01:07:24

Ep 276: Industry Insights & “GRQ the Movie” with...

Midday Movies ·

2025/11/18

Insights on Filmmaking and Creativity with Steven BernsteinIn this episode of “Midday Movies,” hosts Laura and Stephen are joined by veteran filmmaker Steven Bernstein. Known for his work on seminal films like “Monster” (2003) and “Like Water for Chocolate” (1992) (as well as fan favorites like “Water Boy” and “White Chicks”) Bernstein shares his deep insights into the filmmaking industry. The discussion delves into the importance of character over story, the chaotic nature of creation, and

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00:14:12

Ep 275: Reviewing “The Unbinding” (2023, Documentary)...

Midday Movies ·

2025/11/13

The Unbinding: A Paranormal Dive Into Haunted ArtifactsIn this episode of Midday Movies, Laura and Stephen discuss their latest Halloween recommendation, “The Unbinding,” a gripping 2023 documentary available on Tubi. They delve into the story discovered on the r/Paranormal subreddit, featuring husband-and-wife supernatural investigators Greg and Dana Newkirk. The documentary explores the terrifying events following the discovery of a haunted statue in the Catskills. Listen as Steven and Laura

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00:34:27

Ep 274: Reviewing “28 Years Later” (2025, Danny...

Midday Movies ·

2025/11/11

In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen delve into '28 Years Later', the latest addition to Danny Boyle and Alex Garland's iconic zombie series. Set in a quarantined British Isles, the film follows 12-year-old Spike on his journey through a post-apocalyptic world. The duo discuss the film's medieval undertones, stunning iPhone cinematography, and rich connection to English history. They analyze the character dynamics, especially focusing on Spike's relationship

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00:20:18

Ep 273: Reviewing “1923” (2022) The “Yellowstone”...

Midday Movies ·

2025/11/06

Laura and Stephen delve into the historical drama series “1923,” (2022-2025) a prequel to the popular Paramount show “Yellowstone.” This discussion covers the main plotlines involving the 1920s Dutton family's struggle during an economic crash and a range war in Montana, a World War I veteran's survival and romance in Africa, and the harrowing realities of a Native girl's life in a Catholic residential school. The show features notable performances by Helen Mirren and Harrison Ford and blends themes

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00:18:52

Ep 272: Exploring HBO's “John Adams” (2008) We Talk...

Midday Movies ·

2025/11/04

In this episode of “Midday Movies,” Laura and Stephen delve into HBO's acclaimed 2008 mini-series “John Adams.” They highlight the series' meticulous historical accuracy and its nuanced portrayal of key historical figures like John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and George Washington. They discuss favorite scenes, including John Adams' diplomatic encounter with King George III and Benjamin Franklin's unique fashion choices in the French court. The hosts also touch on the broader theme of America's

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00:23:58

Ep 271: Ode to “Scream” (1996, Wes Craven) Harper...

Midday Movies ·

2025/10/30

In this final installment of their Halloween series for 2025, Laura and Stephen discuss the iconic horror film “Scream,” directed by Wes Craven. They delve into its meta-commentary on the horror genre, its memorable characters like Ghostface, Sidney Prescott, and Gale Weathers, and how it subverted the established rules of slasher films. The hosts also touch on the film's impact on the horror genre, its timeless appeal, and why it remains a standout classic. The episode wraps up with musings on the

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00:32:21

Ep 270: Returning to “Psycho” (1960) Hitchcock’s...

Midday Movies ·

2025/10/28

In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen delve into Alfred Hitchcock's 1960 horror classic “Psycho,” exploring its historical significance, Freudian psychological influences, groundbreaking moments, and unparalleled impact on the horror genre and cinema censorship. They discuss the clandestine marketing strategy that kept Norman Bates' character a secret, analyze the film's shocking twists, and consider the roles of Marion Crane and Norman Bates through a psychological lens. Join

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00:26:54

Ep 269: Gothic Horror and French New Wave Collide in...

Midday Movies ·

2025/10/23

In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen discuss Ana Lily Amirpour's 2014 debut film, “A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night,” described as the world's first Iranian vampire western. Set in a fictional and decaying Bad City, the film follows Arash, a kindhearted boy, and a girl who loves pop music and happens to be a vampire. Filmed entirely in black and white, the movie blends elements of gothic horror, Nouvelle Vague, and Persian-American culture. The discussion delves into the film's

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00:24:37

Ep 268: Japanese Folkloric Horror & the War-Torn...

Midday Movies ·

2025/10/21

In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen dive deep into the 1964 Japanese art house horror film “Onibaba.” Set in war-torn medieval Japan the movie follows the grim story of two nameless women and a deserting soldier caught in a love triangle amidst the ominous tall reeds until the arrival of a samurai general in a demonic mask changes everything. With themes of survival, sin, and potentially supernatural elements, the film offers a stark critique of war and its dehumanizing

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00:37:16

Ep 267: Reclaiming “Jennifer's Body” (2009)...

Midday Movies ·

2025/10/16

In this episode of Midday Movies, hosts Laura and Stephen take a deep dive into the 2009 film “Jennifer's Body,” written by Diablo Cody, directed by Karyn Kusama and starring Megan Fox and Amanda Seyfried. Initially panned by critics, the film has since gained cult status for its exploration of themes like fame, friendship, and femininity. The hosts discuss the film's misunderstood reception, its clever script by Diablo Cody, and its cultural re-evaluation in the post-#MeToo era. They also touch

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00:19:38

Ep 266: Remember the Witchy Halloween Romance Classic...

Midday Movies ·

2025/10/14

In this episode of 'Midday Movies,' hosts Laura and Stephen dive into the 1998 cult classic 'Practical Magic,' directed by Griffin Dunn and starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman. They discuss the movie's whimsical and cozy vibes, despite its tonal inconsistencies, and highlight its appeal as the perfect feel-good fall staple. Shot in the idyllic town of Coupeville, Washington, the film features charming family dynamics, magical elements, and a soundtrack saturated with Stevie Nicks. The hosts

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00:32:25

Ep 265: “Midsommar” (2019, Ari Aster) Is the Cult...

Midday Movies ·

2025/10/09

In today's episode of Midday Movies, Laura and Stephen delve into Ari Aster's 2019 cult horror film 'Midsommar.' They discuss the disturbing tale set in a remote Swedish commune, featuring Florence Pugh as the emotionally scarred Dani. The podcast explores the film's cult tactics, its folklore inspirations, and the powerful catharsis intertwined with Danny's traumatic journey. The hosts also touch on the film's thematic parallels to classics like 'The Wizard of Oz' and highlight its haunting impact

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00:31:57

Ep 264: Reviewing “Train to Busan” (2016) The Korean...

Midday Movies ·

2025/10/07

Hosts Laura and Stephen discuss the South Korean breakout hit zombie horror film “Train to Busan” (2016) on their podcast 'Midday Movies.' This deep dive conversation delves into the movie's plot, which centers on a father-daughter relationship strained by the father's workaholism, set against a zombie outbreak on a high-speed train. They explore themes such as social commentary, character development, and the film's subversion of typical zombie tropes. Highlights include the father’s transformation

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00:30:59

Ep 263: Ultimate List of 25 Best Halloween Movies...

Midday Movies ·

2025/10/02

Hosts Laura and Stephen conclude their discussion on Harper Bazaar's list of the 25 best Halloween films in their podcast, Midday Movies. They cover influential horror titles from the last 50 years, focusing on films released post-2016. The discussion includes detailed critiques of 'Midsommar,' 'It,' 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show,' and 'Jennifer's Body,' among others. They delve into film themes, notable performances, and how these movies can inspire Halloween costumes. They finalize their top

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00:25:32

Ep 262: Ultimate List of 25 Best Halloween Movies...

Midday Movies ·

2025/09/30

In this episode of Midday Movies, Laura and Stephen dive into the Halloween spirit with an engaging discussion on fall ambiance and costume ideas. They explore a curated list from Harper's Bazaar of the top 25 Halloween movies, providing detailed insights and personal anecdotes about each film's significance and impact. Covering classics like 'Hocus Pocus,' 'Nosferatu,' and 'Silence of the Lambs,' the pair shares their excitement for the spooky season and hints at their own Halloween plans. The

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308 results

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