The Watchlist

Episode Summary:

In this riveting episode of "The Watch List," host Russ Matthews dives deep into the much-anticipated film "Joker: Folie à Deux," starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga. With "Joker" having made a significant impact both culturally and financially with its first installment, expectations for its sequel are notably high. However, Russ offers a critical review, suggesting that despite its star-studded cast and intrig...

Episode Summary:

Russ Matthews and Ben McEachen dive into "The Wild Robot," exploring why it’s not only the best animated film of the year but also one of the best films overall. They discuss the visual splendor, rich themes, and emotional depth of the movie, comparing it to classics like "The Iron Giant" and Studio Ghibli films. With voices from Mark Hamill and Pedro Pascal, this film touches on themes of motherhood, grief, and be...

In this episode of The Watch List, Russ Matthews and Ben McEachen visit the spine-tingling world of Tim Burton's latest release, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. The duo explores the sequel, which revives the beloved characters and macabre humor that first captured audiences over 36 years ago. While Michael Keaton reprises his iconic role as the titular Beetlejuice, much of the film centers on its female stars, Winona Ryder, Jenna Ortega a...

In this episode of "The Watch List," Russ Matthews and Ben McEachen dive deep into the faith-driven narrative of "The Forge," a new film by the Kendrick Brothers. They scrutinize the film’s approach to mentorship, discipleship, and the depiction of Christian values within modern culture. A blend of praise, critique, and insightful, making it a must-listen for film enthusiasts and faith-focused audiences alike.

As they dissect vario...

In this engaging episode of "The Watch List," host Russ Matthews joins forces with Ben McEachen from Hope 103.2 to delve into two captivating films, Trap by M. Night Shyamalan and It Ends With Us, an adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel. The episode kicks off with an exploration of Trap, a thriller set against a concert backdrop in Philadelphia, where a father and daughter encounter unexpected chaos due to a serial kill...

Russ Matthews and Ben McEachen dive deep into the highly anticipated yet controversial film, 'Deadpool and Wolverine.' This film, which brings together Ryan Reynolds' Deadpool and Hugh Jackman's Wolverine into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), is dissected and analyzed from multiple angles. They discuss everything from the film’s unprecedented level of crudeness and violence to its surprising depth and underlying themes of frien...

Russ Matthews and Laura Bennett get caught up in "Twisters", a brand-new, standalone sequel the disaster film "Twister" from 1996. Starring Daisy Edgar-Jones, Anthony Ramos and Glen Powell, this exciting disaster flick will have you on the edge of your seats. 

With a keen eye on the evolution of disaster films, they explore the dynamic performances of the cast, the jaw-dropping special effects, and the deeper, more nuanced storytel...

Russ Matthews and Laura Bennett tackle "The Bike Riders," a new film by Jeff Nichols featuring Tom Hardy, Jodie Comer, and Austin Butler. They delve into the film's exploration of male camaraderie, the transformation of a motorcycle club into something darker, and the significance of belonging and community. Laura critiques the narrative approach, while Russ appreciates its visceral portrayal of gang life. They discuss the unexpect...

Russ Matthews and Laura Bennett dissect two films: The anticipated "Inside Out 2" and Netflix’s "Hitman." They explore the emotional depths and belief systems in "Inside Out 2," praising its family-friendly approach without hidden agendas. Diverging on "Hitman," they debate its entertainment value and thematic depth, with Laura having strong opinions on Glenn Powell’s portrayal, while Russ applauds its philosophical undertones.

Dis...

Laura Bennett and Russ Matthews discuss the film "Unsung Hero" directed by Richard L. Ramsey and Joel Smallbone. Based on a remarkable true story, a mum's faith stands against all odds and inspires her husband and children to hold on to theirs. The family that raised Rebecca St James and For King and Country, share their story.

Have your say on their take or just drop us a comment at hopepodcast.com.au. 

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Laura Bennett and Russ Matthews discuss the film "If," directed by John Krasinski and starring Ryan Reynolds. They explore the concept of imaginary friends and how it relates to faith and the need for support beyond ourselves. The film delves into the importance of imagination and curiosity in both childhood and adulthood. While it may not be what viewers expect from a Ryan Reynolds film, it offers a heartfelt and thought-provoking...

Russ from Reel Dialogue and Ben McEachen from Hope 103.2 talk about big Hollywood hits and those who take them! From real life stunt man and director David Leitch, the blockbuster director of Bullet Train, Deadpool 2, Atomic Blonde and Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw and the producer of John Wick, Nobody and Violent Night, comes his most personal film yet. A new hilarious, hard-driving, all-star apex-action thriller a...