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Before diving into Robert Eggers' Nosferatu (2025) for our Now Showing series, we decided to shine a pale moonlight (get it?) on a film that blurs the line between horror and history: Shadow of the Vampire (2000) Part of our Lead Up Series , this episode explores the eerie, fictionalized making of F.W. Murnau’s Nosferatu (1922) — a film that helped define the horror genre. But instead of just honoring the silent classic, Shadow of the Vampire  imagines a much darker twist: what if Max Schreck, the actor playing Count Orlok, was an actual vampire? Directed by E. Elias Merhige and starring John Malkovich and Willem Dafoe (in a deliciously monstrous performance), the film turns the act of filmmaking into something otherworldly, obsessive, and terrifying. In this episode, we discuss: The film’s surreal blending of fact and fiction Willem Dafoe’s Oscar-nominated transformation into Max Schreck The meta-commentary on artistic obsession and sacrifice How Shadow of the Vampire  sets the stage for understanding Nosferatu  as both horror and myth Whether you’re a horror historian or just love watching genre films deconstruct themselves, this episode is for you. And if you've already seen Eggers’ Nosferatu , check out our Now Showing episode where we take all about it!

Season 21, Episode 2 Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts bring the star power, but is that enough to make Larry Crowne memorable? In this episode of Forgotten Cinema, we head back to 2011 for a charming-but-lightweight romantic dramedy written and directed by Hanks himself. It plays like cinematic comfort food — pleasant while you're watching, but not much to chew on afterward. We talk about the film’s easygoing vibe, Hanks’ likable lead performance, and the strange sense that nothing ever really happens. Is that the point? Or is Larry Crowne just too laid-back for its own good? Plus, shoutout to a surprisingly stacked supporting cast—including Cedric the Entertainer, Taraji P. Henson, and Bryan Cranston. Larry Crowne Written by Tom Hanks and Nia Vardalos Directed by Tom Hanks Starring Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, Cedric the Entertainer, Taraji P. Henson, Bryan Cranston Listen on your favorite podcast platform! Spotify  | Apple Podcasts  | Amazon Music  | More Links

Before we ventured into Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes , we knew we had to revisit the incredible trilogy that laid the foundation for this new era of storytelling. The modern Planet of the Apes  films— Rise , Dawn , and War —quietly became one of the most critically acclaimed and emotionally resonant sci-fi trilogies of the 21st century. So, as part of our Lead Up Series , Forgotten Cinema  went back to explore how this rebooted franchise evolved into something far more than just CGI monkeys and dystopian battles. We examined what made each film work (or not), how the storytelling grew, and why Caesar’s journey continues to resonate today. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the series, these episodes will get you caught up—and ready—for Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes . Rise of the Planet of the Apes  (2011) It all starts with Caesar. We look at how Rise  set the tone for the trilogy with grounded storytelling, emotional depth, and an unforgettable motion-capture performance from Andy Serkis. A reboot that had no right being this good—and yet, it’s still powerful over a decade later. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes  (2014) The humans and apes are on the brink. In Dawn , director Matt Reeves takes the franchise into darker, more complex territory. We explore the rise of internal conflict, the tragic breakdown of trust, and why this might be the strongest entry in the trilogy. War for the Planet of the Apes  (2017) The trilogy ends with a whisper, not a roar—and it’s all the better for it. In War , Caesar faces his greatest test as he battles both external enemies and internal demons. We dive into the film’s somber tone, biblical parallels, and stunning visual storytelling. These films deserve to be remembered not just as blockbusters, but as deeply human stories told through the eyes of apes. And now, with Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes  in theaters, we’re excited to see where this legacy continues. Don’t forget to check out our Now Showing  episode covering Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes  for our thoughts on how the story evolves beyond Caesar’s time. Make sure to subscribe to Forgotten Cinema  on YouTube and follow us on Instagram  and TikTok  for more film deep dives and cinematic nostalgia.

Season 21, Episode 1 The 21st season of Forgotten Cinema kicks off with a bang as we dive into Robert Redford’s "Quiz Show"! We unpack this compelling look at one of the biggest scandals in television history, discussing everything from the powerhouse performances by Ralph Fiennes and John Turturro to Redford’s sharp direction. We explore how the film examines truth, manipulation, and the cost of fame—yet Butler's jaded 21st century brain doesn't think it's that big a deal. He's used to TV lying to him I guess. Quiz Show Written by Paul Attanasio Directed by Robert Redford Starring Ralph Fiennes, John Turturro, Rob Morrow, Paul Scofield, David Paymer, Hank Azaria, Christopher McDonald Check us out on YouTube! Listen on your favorite podcast platform! Spotify  | Apple Podcasts  | Amazon Music  | More Links

Who ya gonna call? A while ago, we revisited one of cinema’s most iconic franchises in preparation for the release of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire . As part of our Lead Up series , we've covered all four previous Ghostbusters  films — from the legendary 1984 original to the legacy sequel that reignited the proton packs. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer just hopping aboard Ecto-1, our latest episodes take a deep dive into what made each film stand out—or in some cases, fall short. Ghostbusters  (1984) We kick off with the film that started it all. Ivan Reitman's blend of comedy, horror, and sci-fi created something lightning-in-a-bottle in Ghostbusters  (1984). We talk about what made this movie a cultural juggernaut, how its humor still holds up, and why the original team is so unforgettable. Ghostbusters II  (1989) Often overshadowed by its predecessor, Ghostbusters II  has developed a complicated reputation over the years. But is it really deserving of all the negativity? In this episode, we examine the sequel's tone, themes, and legacy—from mood slime to Vigo the Carpathian. Ghostbusters: Answer the Call  (2016) Few reboots have stirred up as much controversy as Ghostbusters: Answer the Call . We set aside the noise and take a thoughtful look at the 2016 all-female reboot on its own terms. Does the cast’s chemistry work? Does the comedy land? And where does it sit in the broader Ghostbusters canon? Ghostbusters: Afterlife  (2021) Our Lead Up concludes with Ghostbusters: Afterlife , a film that bridges generations. Directed by Jason Reitman, this legacy sequel brings emotional depth and reverence for the past—but does it chart a strong path forward? We discuss the balance between nostalgia and storytelling, and what it means for the future of the franchise. Whether you’re reliving these films for the hundredth time or discovering them for the first, our Lead Up series is the perfect way to prepare for the next chapter in ghostbusting history. Don't forget to subscribe to Forgotten Cinema  on YouTube and follow us on Instagram  and TikTok  for more movie talk, deep dives, and nostalgia-fueled fun.

Must be summer movie season because here's another Now Showing episode of Forgotten Cinema! We team up like Ben Affleck and Jon Bernthal for The Accountant 2 and we both dig this one. From the brother comedy coming from leads Affleck and Bernthal, to the action throughout. We definitely recommend you check this out as a good kick-start to the summer movie season and as a type of mid budget, more personal action film that you don't normally get to see on the big screen anymore. Check out the episode on YouTube! Listen on your favorite podcast platform! Spotify  | Apple Podcasts  | Amazon Music  | More Links

Season 20, Episode 13 Despite Death to Smoochy flopping at the box office and critics tearing it apart, we're here to give this film the love it deserves. We dive into Danny DeVito's darkly absurd comedy and explore why it actually holds up better than some people remember and became a cult classic. From Robin Williams' unhinged Rainbow Randolph to Ed Norton's squeaky-clean Smoochy the Rhino, there's a lot to appreciate in this twisted tale of children's TV gone corporate and corrupt. We talk performances, DeVito’s sharp direction, and why they both think this film deserves a second chance. Death to Smoochy Written by Adam Resnick Directed by Danny DeVito Starring Edward Norton, Robin Williams, Catherine Keener, Danny DeVito, Jon Stewart Watch us on YouTube! Listen on your favorite podcast platform! Spotify  | Apple Podcasts  | Amazon Music  | More Links

Mike Butler is trying something new! A Now Showing...Lite! Get it? Like a lite be...nevermind. Name pending, just like in Marvel Studios' "Thunderbolts*" starring Florence Pugh, Sebastion Stan, David Harbour, and Lewis Pullman. Butler flies solo as he discusses if Marvel's take on Suicide Squad is worth your time. Enjoy! Thunderbolts* Story by Eric Pearson Screenplay by Eric Pearson and Joanna Calo Directed by Jake Schreier Starring Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan, Julia Louis-Dreyfuss, Lewis Pullman, David Harbour, Wyatt Russell Watch Butler on YouTube! Listen on your favorite podcast platform! Spotify  | Apple Podcasts  | Amazon Music  | More Links

Season 20, Episode 12 You want gritty? We got Narc ! This entry in the early 2000s popular genre of gritty, anti-hero, crime noir from fresh-on-the-scene (kind of) Joe Carnahan attacked the big screen with some help from producer, Tom Cruise. In fact, Cruise is one of 21 producers who helped fund this movie. Ray Liotta and Jason Patric each grime it out for our enjoyment, but did we enjoy? Did we like this movie? Seriously, I'm asking. I never remember what we say on the episodes. Narc Written & Directed by Joe Carnahan Starring Ray Liotta, Jason Patric, Chi McBride Watch us on the YouTubes! Listen on your favorite podcast platform! Spotify  | Apple Podcasts  | Amazon Music  | More Links

We've got vampires in this here town and they're Irish folk dancing?! RUN!!!!! We've been looking forward the movie, Sinners , for a few months now, as we're both fans of Ryan Coogler and his films. And Coogler and this film did not disappoint. Spoiler alert: We both liked this movie, despite Field's insistence on wanting to see it again to firm up his thoughts on the movie. (What a nerd) Sinners Written and Directed by Ryan Coogler Starring Michael B. Jordan (x2), Hailee Steinfeld, Miles Caton, Jack O'Connell, Bo Chow, Delroy Lindo, Li Jun Li, Wunmi Mosaku Check out our latest episode of Now Showing! Listen on your favorite podcast platform! Spotify  | Apple Podcasts  | Amazon Music  | More Links