Once More, With Feelings!

In & Out (1997)

In this episode, Beth and Michelle dive deep into the 1997 film "In & Out." We explore the themes of identity, acceptance, and the pressures of societal expectations. Join us as we unpack Howard Brackett's journey, his struggles with self-discovery, and the impact it has on his relationships.
We discuss the film's portrayal of LGBTQ+ issues in the 90s and how a modern day lens changes the context. We also share our personal experiences of feeling like outsiders and the importance of finding your true self.
This episode is a safe space for anyone who has ever felt like they didn't belong. We encourage open and honest conversations about mental health and self-acceptance.
Resources:
The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
Crisis Text Line: https://www.crisistextline.org/about-us/faq/
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org/
General Strike: https://generalstrikeus.com/
Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of homophobia, societal pressures, and mental health challenges. Listener discretion is advised.
 
 

What's Your Number? w/ Bri Castellini

Bri Castellini, our first guest and the author of the Castellini Test we use in our episodes, joins us with her movie pick for us to discuss. Follow along as we discuss purity culture, doggy style, and how sometimes a flawed comedy can just be a good comedy despite it's flaws. You can find Bri at the following, be sure to check her out!
Instagram:
@BrisOwnWorld (personal/author account)
@CastelliniFilmSchool (consulting & filmmaking account)Bluesky: @brisownworld.bsky.socialWebsite: BriCastellini.comRomance novel newsletter: forcedproximity.substack.comHer book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D1RWK2WS

Dave (1993)

Beth and Michelle try to find the lighter side of Dave, a movie that is cute with a hint of romance, but is fraught with unintended analogies to a current political atmosphere. 

A Knight's Tale (2001) Part 2

We can't stop talking about this movie! This is Part 2, where we find all manner entertainment in forgetting Rufus' character name, and praising facial expressions of a blind man and his long lost son. Join us because you've come too far to turn back and we know where the balsa is buried.

A Knight's Tale 2001 - Part 1 of 2

Beth and Michelle pontificate upon this modern re-imagining of Chaucer's "The Knight's Tale". A love story that bears lengthy discussion and two parts to encapsulate a deceptively nuanced narrative. 

Personal Musical Themes

In this episode, Beth and Michelle each choose three songs that fit their lives thematically and share how these songs have deeply affected them. Through personal stories and emotional reflections, they explore the profound impact these songs had in their lives. Be sure to stay to the end as there is a wonderful indie folk rendition of "I Will Follow You Into the Dark" performed by Annie McD, her TikTok link is below. Links provided to the music in the order they are discussed:
"We Can Work it Out" - The Beatles  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2IbPn5j2YKk
"No Roots" - Alice Merton  https://youtu.be/PUdyuKaGQd4?si=WEoh2qw9-SUsPCrt
"I Will Follow You Into the Dark" - Death Cab for Cutie  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iV_1ESMHaI
"Mystery Girl" - Yeah Yeah Yeahs  https://youtu.be/dunHh0VcXwY?si=sPthEkcTuETWXYUB
"I Don't Want To Be" - Gavin DeGraw  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gFCW3PHBws
"When I Need You" - Leo Sayer  https://youtu.be/obC0MFHWJ0A?si=an63Ye1-bOnaUyjm
In the Outro - Performing her Indie Folk version of "I Will Follow You Into the Dark", Annie McD. You can find her here - https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTYEVre5j/

Moonstruck (1988)

In this episode, we discuss a Brooklyn Heights romantic comedy featuring a stolid bookkeeper and an overwrought baker. Michelle reflects on familial memories that are evoked by the story, while Beth ponders hidden social cues, the significance of the ruby shoes and their deeper meaning. 

Bachelor Mother (1939)

To ring in the New Year, we wrestle with feminism, the lack agency and Donald Duck shenanigan's with this quirky RomCom from the olden days.

The Hard Nut (2007)

Join Beth and Michelle as we paint our Aldi brand Nutcracker figurines and watch The Hard Nut. A Mark Morris production of a holiday classic retelling of The Nutcracker, one of our holiday favorites. Presented to you in our holiday special watch-along unedited podcast. While the DVD released in 2007, it was of the 1991 performance. Please watch along with us free at: Part 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jnj5DAjupZc  & Part 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KX1Hm5kzc6s
 

The Holiday (2006)

We lean into the holidays with a new movie for Beth and an old favorite for Michelle. This hopeful and uplifting movie will help you find what you didn't know you needed. The soundtrack alone is like a gift to the viewer. Beth tacks on the Castellani test at the end because of impulsivity and inattention to detail.