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Small Beans

598 episodes - English - Latest episode: 16 days ago - ★★★★★ - 953 ratings

Small Beans Podcasting is a place for beans of every sort to come bean it up. Free your soul, eh? Be a frijole.

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Episodes

429. Spielboys! - Hook

October 19, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 120 MB

Tom Reimann and Abe Epperson, the “Spielboys,” have created a new podcast. They will examine the films of Steven Spielberg one by one. They discuss the development of Spielberg as an artist, the themes and execution of the movie, and the behind the scenes trivia you probably didn’t know. This series will alternate releases between the Small Beans network and the Gamefully Unemployed network. To receive all episodes, patronize both channels. You get this one for free though! Features: Tom ...

426. Shooting Threes: The Matrix

October 17, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 127 MB

We begin our new trilogy set with 1999’s The Matrix! Oh boy oh boy, let’s go down this rabbit hole, baby! Bridgett and Sarah discuss the legacy, themes, and gender critique of the Wachowski Sisters’ smash hit. A lot of what we reference was specifically in regards to gender, and how the Wachowskis' coming out recontextualized this film for many, many people. As a cis hosts, we want to make sure the trans authors of these works are credited and our listeners have access for additional reading...

425. Directorpiece Theatre: How Don’t Breathe Spells Out The Movie In One Shot

October 12, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 85.8 MB

Abe walks us through his theory about how the horror flick Don’t Breathe (2016) creates a sequence in the first 20-25 minutes that basically walks through the movie right in front of your eyes and you barely notice. Is this a good technique? Does it make the film more enjoyable? You know, write some stuff in the comments. Let’s get an algorithm going, huh! Features: Abe Epperson: https://twitter.com/AbeTheMighty Adam Ganser: https://twitter.com/therealganz Support Small Beans and access Add...

424. Ander’s Sons: Hard Eight

October 06, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 133 MB

The first episode of our new deep-dive podcast that chronicles the films of Paul Thomas Anderson and Wes Anderson. We start with the star-studded feature debut of PTA: the tale of an older scam artist who takes a young gambler who’s down on his luck under his wing, only to find that there’s always a cost. The hosts return to their patented format of three spectra: diegesis (a plot walkthrough), pedagogy (symbolism and themes), and “Howdy Do Dat?” (behind the scenes trivia and production notes...

421. 1Upsmanship: Resident Evil Village (Feat. Jason Pargin)

September 27, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 123 MB

Big Bean Jason Pargin, award-winning writer and professional podcaster, drops a deuce! By that we of course mean that he joins us for a second episode in a row! This time around the beans tackle the 8th installment of the Resident Evil franchise. They discuss the scares, the development of the series over time, and why don’t they allow you to kill that baby? I mean, that baby needs to die. Why won’t you let us kill the baby? Jason Pargin: https://twitter.com/JohnDiesattheEn Michael Swaim: ...

420. Frame Rate - 2001: A Space Odyssey (Feat. David Bell)

September 25, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 100 MB

We did it! We reached our 420th podcast (not including exclusives)! Join us in what will be forever remembered as “that movie you watch probably because you’re high!” David Bell sits down and discusses the legacy, the meaning, and the methodical production of undeniably the most influential space movie of all time. We also spend some time telling off Kubrick for being a prick! What a brilliant, egotistical prick who makes great movies! Features: David Bell: https://twitter.com/MovieHooligan...

419. Directorpiece Theatre: Why Steven Soderbergh Turned Away From Hollywood

September 20, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 102 MB

Adam walks us through the directorial playbook of the film Full Frontal (2002) and how it’s message, the techniques Soderbergh uses, and it’s annoyingly elusive ending all point to how Steven Soderbergh was never comfortable making Hollywood blockbusters. Features: Adam Ganser: https://twitter.com/therealganz Abe Epperson: https://twitter.com/AbeTheMighty Support Small Beans and access Additional Content: https://www.patreon.com/SmallBeans Check our store to buy Small Beans merch! https://...

418. I'll Show You Mine If You Show Me Yours: Breakup Album

September 18, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 130 MB

Today’s discussion covers the “breakup album” as in the album you would play during a breakup for whatever reason. The reasons and albums our hosts choose could not be more distant which is fascinating in its own right. Adam picked an album that is just as old as Maggie! Also, Maggie drops the knowledge that her dad is a big fan of Michael Swaim, so he’ll be using that as a power move in the future. Bask in the charm of the Show Me Yours-ers! If you patronize us, feel free to email us sugges...

417. Kings of King: Children Of The Corn

September 14, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 110 MB

That’s right! It’s the KOK COC episode! So let’s talk about some murderous kids! Abe and Mike discuss King’s relationship with religious tales, the cult-y love for this film, the numerous sequels it birthed, and it’s rank along other King tales. Features: Michael Swaim: https://twitter.com/SWAIM_CORP Abe Epperson: https://twitter.com/AbeTheMighty Support Small Beans and access Additional Content: https://www.patreon.com/SmallBeans Check our store to buy Small Beans merch! https://www.teepub...

415. 1Upsmanship - Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart

September 07, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 105 MB

Big Bean Jason Pargin drops by to discuss the PS5 platformer Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, the new PS5 installment in the series by Insomniac Games. The gang discusses the game’s ability to immerse you, the mechanical flaws of the game, and if the chaotic action of the game distracts from the narrative. Everything you’d expect from three men discussing a game about a feline mechanic and his awful robot. Jason Pargin: https://twitter.com/JohnDiesattheEn Michael Swaim: https://twitter.com/SWA...

415. 1Upsmanship - Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart (Feat. Jason Pargin)

September 07, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 105 MB

Big Bean Jason Pargin drops by to discuss the PS5 platformer Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, the new PS5 installment in the series by Insomniac Games. The gang discusses the game’s ability to immerse you, the mechanical flaws of the game, and if the chaotic action of the game distracts from the narrative. Everything you’d expect from three men discussing a game about a feline mechanic and his awful robot. Jason Pargin: https://twitter.com/JohnDiesattheEn Michael Swaim: https://twitter.com/SWA...

414. Shooting Threes: 50 Shades Freed

September 04, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 119 MB

We wrap up our first trilogy with the third installment of the 50 shades films. Listen as Sarah and Bridgett discuss how these movies are not actually stories but just series of things that happen, how communication would solve all of the protagonists’ problems in their relationship, and how Christian’s numerous red flags seem to be buried by Ana’s inability to see them! Next month, we’ll start diving into our next trilogy. Bridgett goes over it at the end of the podcast. Please comment bel...

416. BOLD: The Tragedy of Heterosexuality (Feat. Chanelle Gallant)

September 03, 2021 13:00 - 47 minutes - 65.2 MB

Ivette Ale (@dignityandpowernow, @justicelanow) and Dahlia Ferlito (@wp4bl) talk with Chanelle Gallant (@ChanelleGallant) about decriminalization and sex work. This is a collaboration between Small Beans and Showing Up for Racial Justice, produced by White People 4 Black Lives. You can find full show notes, including useful links and recommended reading, at patreon.com/smallbeans.

416. BOLD: Sex Work and Decriminalization (Feat. Chanelle Gallant)

September 03, 2021 13:00 - 47 minutes - 65.2 MB

Ivette Ale (@dignityandpowernow, @justicelanow) and Dahlia Ferlito (@wp4bl) talk with Chanelle Gallant (@ChanelleGallant) about decriminalization and sex work. This is a collaboration between Small Beans and Showing Up for Racial Justice, produced by White People 4 Black Lives. You can find full show notes, including useful links and recommended reading, at patreon.com/smallbeans.

413. Frame Rate: Nocturnal Animals (Feat. Bridgett Greenberg)

August 31, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 104 MB

Big Bean Bridgett Greenberg sits in to discuss Tom Ford’s 2016 psychological thriller/noir Nocturnal Animals. With quick pacing and two simultaneous stories, this film is not a casual viewing experience, but is it a rewarding one? The group discusses the obvious metaphor surrounding the film, the scenes that made them tense, and how the outside life of a director/storyteller scopes the stories they tell. They all agree that Michael Shannon rules in this movie. Features: Bridgett Greenberg: h...

412. Directorpiece Theatre: Filling Mr. Spielberg's Shoes, A Jurassic Park 3 Story

August 28, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 118 MB

This time around Abe tells us about the paint-by-numbers approach of the direction of Jurassic Park 3. It’s not the franchise’s most memorable film by a mile, but the story of Joe Johnston’s artistic involvement in the project makes its production a very unique story. Features: Abe Epperson: https://twitter.com/AbeTheMighty Adam Ganser: https://twitter.com/therealganz Support Small Beans and access Additional Content: https://www.patreon.com/SmallBeans Check our store to buy Small Beans me...

410. 1Upsmanship: Returnal

August 21, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 83.4 MB

A unique game by many accounts: released as the first PS5 only major release during a pandemic and with few PS5s actually around. The boys discuss it’s repetitiveness and the uniqueness of a roguelike FPS Triple-A psychological horror game. Is this a new genre? Is this just Risk of Rain 2? Is the story anything? Adam says Adam things. Michael says Michael things. It’s a 1upsmanship episode! Michael Swaim: https://twitter.com/SWAIM_CORP Adam Ganser: https://twitter.com/therealganz Support S...

409. Bewilderments & Scientifics: Constellations (Feat. Dr. Uvula Tardonis I)

August 17, 2021 13:00 - 53 minutes - 73.8 MB

Usually a patreon-only release, we decided to bring the Professor Scott Bug podcast to you for free this week! Enjoy! For today’s lecture, Professor Scott Bug explains the sneaky nature of stars, constellations, and the creatures that make them. Abe and Scott are joined by Dr. Uvula Tardonis I who helps us put into perspective the unique lives and psychology of stars. They’re just like us! Features: Professor Scott Bug: https://twitter.com/profscottbug Cody Johnston: https://twitter.com/dr...

408. Bean Town II, A 26 Minute Radio Play

August 14, 2021 13:00 - 25 minutes - 35.6 MB

After the events of “Bean Town, A 23 Minute Radio Play,” Trish and Barb float in the void that once was time and space. However, there seems to be remnants of the universe seeping into the void. So, in order to prevent boredom, they manifest a TV to watch their favorite program, Ads. What will become of Trish and Barb? What eerie presence seems to be able to pierce the veil of nothingness? Is “Bean Town” like a Boston joke or is it just a pun on our name? What is this thing? ---- Cast List -...

407. Kings of King: Desperation

August 10, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 107 MB

2006. Tom Skerritt, Ron Perlman, Steven Weber. A god-like earth spirit destroys a town and local motorists. Seems pretty straight forward. So why do Abe and Michael take an hour to discuss King’s fascination with the “outsider” trope in moral tales, the nature of faith in storytelling, and centrism in Hollywood? Because it’s Kings of King, baby! Features: Michael Swaim: https://twitter.com/SWAIM_CORP Abe Epperson: https://twitter.com/AbeTheMighty Support Small Beans and access Additional Co...

405. Directorpiece Theatre: Why Does M. Night Shyamalan Miss The Mark?

August 03, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 106 MB

Old came out this weekend so we wanted to look at Shyamalan’s approach to scene work and camera motivation. In this episode, Adam dissects Unbreakable and offers an explanation as to why some of his films don’t connect with the audience emotionally. Features: Adam Ganser: https://twitter.com/therealganz Abe Epperson: https://twitter.com/AbeTheMighty Support Small Beans and access Additional Content: https://www.patreon.com/SmallBeans Check our store to buy Small Beans merch! https://www.te...

403. Shooting Threes: 50 Shades Darker

July 29, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 102 MB

As we learned, this franchise is not really a story as much as a continuous series of fantasy scenes. Good thing we have Sarah and Bridgett to walk us through it. At one point, Bridgett slams her leg on their table and like a classic dom, Sarah takes over the podcast. I’m just keeping track of how their status changes through these episodes. Anyway, as Sarah says in this podcast: “Let’s get to the fucking. This movie’s about the fucking. Let’s get to the fucking.” Features: Bridgett Greenber...

402. Frame Rate: Garden State (Feat. Daniel O’Brien)

July 24, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 100 MB

Friend of the pod, Daniel O’Brien, a man from the Garden State himself, joins Michael and Abe to discuss writer/director Zach Braff’s debut, Garden State. The gang talks about how the following years have turned against this once beloved film. As one of the seminal Manic Pixie Dream Girl trope films, they unpack it’s at times misguided narrative, it’s attention to style, and how it’s message could be damaging to teens. Features: Daniel O’Brien: https://twitter.com/dob_inc Michael Swaim: http...

404. Star Trek: The Next Futurama - Hell Is Other Robots

July 23, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 148 MB

It’s a free episode! Tell your friends they can listen! This episode covers the topics: Why does the universe exist? What is morality? Do you believe in an afterlife? Are these all human creations? So pretty low stakes stuff for our podcast that pairs Futurama episodes to Star Trek: The Next Generation episodes. This show exclusively releases every other episode here on the Small Beans patreon. Wimmy Wam Wam Wozzle! Features: Michael Swaim: https://twitter.com/SWAIM_CORP David Bell: https:...

401. 1Upsmanship: Bloodborne (Feat. Zach Ryan)

July 19, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 97.2 MB

Zach Ryan returns to discuss the 2015 masterpiece Bloodborne with the fellas. Grab your nearest blood-based weapon and down a few blood vials because it’s time to tackle some heated discussion over the legacy of the game. The hosts discuss its insane story, complexity of games in general, and everyone’s feelings on how good games do optional quests/bosses well. Zachary Ryan: https://twitter.com/ZachariusD Michael Swaim: https://twitter.com/SWAIM_CORP Adam Ganser: https://twitter.com/ther...

400. Kings of King: The Dark Tower

July 17, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 107 MB

Abe and Michael examine the 95 minutes of the 2017 action/adventure film The Dark Tower. Based on an eight book saga, this "sequel" was critically panned and financially a sleeper. Why wasn’t it memorable for some? Does it hold up on a second viewing? Your dads, Abe and Michael, would never fight, but they definitely have a difference in opinion. Look at that! 400 podcasts/videos! Hurrah us! And you! You made this happen! Features: Michael Swaim: https://twitter.com/SWAIM_CORP Abe Epperson...

399. Directorpiece Theatre: How Roland Emmerich Does Exposition

July 13, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 94.3 MB

Adam exposes how The Day After Tomorrow dramatizes science, how it attempts to prepare the viewer for moments of emotional significance, and how Roland Emmerich reels in world-spanning plots into simple parables. As always, we have our theories as to why Emmerich uses specific lenses, staging, and POV to evoke a thesis and an emotional response from you. Does it work? Will we ever figure out what’s happening with the podcast’s introduction guy? Is he dead? Is he a ghost? What’s going on there...

398. The Cast and the Curious - Fast 9

July 10, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 142 MB

The Casters are back and they’re more Curious than ever! Both of them haven’t seen this film yet! And spoilers, as it came out last week, you may have not seen it either! Episode starts with Bridgett and Sarah pre-Fast 9, then you have about an hour and a half of glorious post-Fast 9 clarity. Features: Bridgett Greenberg: https://twitter.com/BridgettTweets Sarah Griffith: https://twitter.com/sk_griffith Support Small Beans and access Additional Content: https://www.patreon.com/SmallBeans ...

397. I'll Show You Mine If You Show Me Yours: Comfort Food Movie

July 06, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 98 MB

In this Show Me Producer chosen episode, Adam and Maggie each bring the film they consume like comfort food. We check in with Maggie’s cat’s grooming situation. So, I think we’re all squared up. If you patronize us, feel free to email us suggestions for episodes at any time at [email protected]. Adam Ganser: https://twitter.com/therealganz Maggie Mae Fish: https://twitter.com/MaggieMaeFish Support Small Beans and access Additional Content: https://www.patreon.com/SmallBeans Check our s...

396. Tales from the Pit: Pride (Feat. Marina Reimann)

July 02, 2021 16:55 - 1 hour - 90.7 MB

This episode’s guest is streamer, cosplayer, and podcaster: Marina Reimann! Per usual for the pit, we have a disclaimer. We cover being queer, feeling impostor syndrome because we're in monogamous long-term relationships, and a bit of our sexual histories, including Marina's assault and how she came back from that. Features: Marina Reimann: https://twitter.com/HeartFistBrain Michael Swaim: https://twitter.com/SWAIM_CORP Check our store to buy Small Beans merch! https://www.teepublic.com/sto...

392. 1Upsmanship: Doom Eternal (Feat. Tom Reimann)

June 20, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 86.6 MB

The Rei Man back, baby! Let’s get that going as a thing! The Rei Man! Did this recent update of the Doom franchise improve the basic game mechanics? Does the lore add much to the game? How do we all feel about “The Rei Man?” Most of these questions are answered and more! Tom Reimann: https://twitter.com/startthemachine Michael Swaim: https://twitter.com/SWAIM_CORP Adam Ganser: https://twitter.com/therealganz Support Small Beans and access Additional Content: https://www.patreon.com/Smal...

391. Kings of King: Apt Pupil

June 15, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 103 MB

Oh great. The Nazi one. Michael and Abe dissect the very problematic production of Apt Pupil as well as the differences between the film’s execution and the novel. Did y’all know that David Schwimmer is in this? Crazy. Anyway, we also decided which Stephen King adaptation we’ll cover next time! So, you know, you can watch it before! See! We’re prepared! Features: Michael Swaim: https://twitter.com/SWAIM_CORP Abe Epperson: https://twitter.com/AbeTheMighty Support Small Beans and access Addit...

393. Shooting Threes: 50 Shades of Grey

June 14, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 105 MB

Strap on your best kicks! Sarah Griffith and Bridgett Greenberg join forces once again for their THIRD Small Beans show, Shooting Threes! The idea behind this podcast is to cover trilogies, one installment at a time. Listen in to these auditory dunks, swishes, and dimes? It’s a basketball theme. We made logos and everything. They of course decided to call their first shot with the steamy, unrated cut of 50 Shades of Grey. The hosts discuss the nuance of their discomfort and we learn fairly e...

390. Rough Stuff: Willie Muse & the Funeral Walk of Shame

June 12, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 92.6 MB

Willie Muse of College Humor drops by and graces us with several pieces of rough stuff. In this episode, he tells a tale of trying to be the hero of camp and his brother’s tale of an inappropriate walk during a funeral. Plenty oofs this time around. Maybe some yeeshes. Features: Willie Muse: https://twitter.com/Williesillie2 Sarah Griffith: https://twitter.com/sk_griffith Bridgett Greenberg: https://twitter.com/BridgettTweets Rough Stuff Pod: https://twitter.com/roughstuffpod Support Small...

389. Directorpiece Theatre: The Horrible Production of 1996’s Twister

June 08, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 131 MB

Abe brings the story of the plagued production of Jan De Bont’s Twister. Not only was it rife with poor weather conditions and rough terrain, but choices made by the production and director made work unbearable for the cast and crew. Adam and Abe also discuss the purview of the director, when it’s invalid, and how to fight for your vision without compromising safety. Features: Abe Epperson: https://twitter.com/AbeTheMighty Adam Ganser: https://twitter.com/therealganz Support Small Beans an...

387. Frame Rate: Monkey Shines (Feat. Maggie Mae Fish)

May 29, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 93.2 MB

As promised, it’s still May and you know what that means! Maggie Mae Monkey Movie Madness! The second Frame Rate this month featuring a discussion with film analyst and friend of the pod, Maggie Mae Fish! This episode, we cover George Romero’s Monkey Shines and discuss how it is seriously grounded for a film about a telepathic murder monkey. Features: Maggie Mae Fish: https://twitter.com/MaggieMaeFish Michael Swaim: https://twitter.com/SWAIM_CORP Abe Epperson: https://twitter.com/AbeTheMight...

385. 1Upsmanship: Disco Elysium

May 22, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 95.8 MB

“What kind of cop are you?” That’s a real loaded question, game studio ZA/UM. First, I’m not a cop. Who said I was a cop? And second, maybe to answer that question we’ll have to get into 1800s-esque geopolitical fiction. And maybe make Michael cry. That’s right! This game opened the floodgates of both Michael’s physical tear ducts and the more philosophical ethical sparring of our hosts, Mike and Adam. Listen to hear what they think and where they disagree. Michael Swaim: https://twitter.com...

384. Directorpiece Theatre: How Michael Mann’s Heat Plays With Your Expectations

May 18, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 112 MB

Adam brings the heat with 1995’s Heat. A discussion about how within Michael Mann’s apparent action film follows the beats and scene work of a family drama. Adam elaborates the bag of tricks the director uses to sneakily get you involved in the interpersonal relationships even amongst sweeping thrills. The conversation starts with a discussion of musical theater for some reason, and even before that, it appears our MC has turned into a ghost. Features: Adam Ganser: https://twitter.com/therea...

386. BOLD: The Immigration Episode (Feat. Justino Mora & Karla Estrada)

May 17, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 89.3 MB

In the last of our three LIVE from UCLA episodes, co-hosts Ivette Ale and Dahlia Ferlito talk with Justino Mora and Karla Estrada on immigration. We talk about borders, the DREAM Act, American foreign policy, and policy reform efforts. You can find full show notes, including useful links and recommended reading, at patreon.com/smallbeans.

383. Frame Rate: Monkeybone (Feat. Maggie Mae Fish)

May 15, 2021 13:00 - 58 minutes - 80.7 MB

HOW COULD YOU HAVE FORGOTTEN MAGGIE MAE’S MONKEY MADNESS MOVIE MONTH?!?! It’s May! At Small Beans, this apparently means we’ll be covering TWO movies this month with our long time collaborator Maggie Mae Fish! And guess what? They both have monkeys in them! And it’s May! What a time to be alive. This episode, we cover the film Monkeybone and discuss its semi-cult status as well as how this insane film was made. Features: Maggie Mae Fish: https://twitter.com/MaggieMaeFish Michael Swaim: https...

382. Rough Stuff: Into the Mailbag 2021

May 11, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 101 MB

It’s a mailbag episode! That means the star is you! You’re the awkward one! But down worry, Sarah and Bridgett open up about being bullies in school. Yes, they feel terrible about it and it wasn’t cool but in their defense they’re horrible. Then, we go through your emails and bask in your delicious rough stuff like schadenfrude-pigs in your awkwardness mud. Stay tuned until the end of the episode when Bridgett and Sarah have a HUGE announcement! Sarah tries to intro the announcement in a ch...

379. Kings of King: Salem’s Lot (1979)

May 01, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 97.7 MB

Michael has been waiting for this one! He loves Salem’s Lot! Can’t get enough of it! Abe brings him back to Earth by reminding him that this TV movie, the second film/TV adaptation of Stephen King’s career, had a small budget, the director was their second choice, and the production attempted to shoot a TV miniseries and a theatrical version at the same time. So, you know, it already looks good on paper. It’s about vampires taking over a town! Features: Michael Swaim: https://twitter.com/SWA...

378. Directorpiece Theatre: We Examined 1994’s The Mask Using Color Theory

April 28, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 104 MB

Abe is out of control. He must be stopped. He just talked for an hour about how The Mask utilizes a very specific color strategy in its set decoration, props, costumes, and make up. Who is this podcast for? Why would you listen to this podcast? Because you gotta. Features: Abe Epperson: https://twitter.com/AbeTheMighty Adam Ganser: https://twitter.com/therealganz Support Small Beans and access Additional Content: https://www.patreon.com/SmallBeans Check our store to buy Small Beans merch! h...

377. Frame Rate: Being John Malkovich (Feat. Brooks Brown)

April 24, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 93.1 MB

Oh my Malkovich! Our resident Charlie Kaufman scholar, Brooks Brown, returns for the first major Kaufman feature release, Malkovich. The trio discusses the writer’s humble beginnings in comedy, his collaboration with Spike Jonze, and ultimately what separates his early scripts from his later scripts and direction. It’s truly a Malkovich you don’t want to miss, Malkovich! Features: Brooks Brown: @quarantine_collective Michael Swaim: https://twitter.com/SWAIM_CORP Abe Epperson: https://twitte...

376. 1Upsmanship: Rocket League (Feat. Abe Epperson)

April 20, 2021 17:29 - 1 hour - 98.8 MB

Michael and Adam considered all their friends and determined that the best Rocket Leaguer of them all is Abe Epperson. Turns out, he’s also bad! They’re all bad! Considering it’s a six-year-old game that still appears to be streamed by many, you’d expect they’d get a guest who’s better at the game. Though it doesn’t help that it’s one of the most challenging learning curves in modern gaming. So let’s chat about what makes Rocket League special and why it still remains relevant. Michael Swaim...

374. I'll Show You Mine If You Show Me Yours: Your Nightmare Fuel Movie

April 13, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 101 MB

As voted on by our patreon “Show Me” producers, this episode features Maggie and Adam’s picks of their nightmare fuel movie. What does Maggie find terrifying? What would Adam never wish to show his mother? Adam and Maggie talk about their failing brains and arms. If you patronize us, feel free to email us suggestions for episodes at any time at [email protected]. Adam Ganser: https://twitter.com/therealganz Maggie Mae Fish: https://twitter.com/MaggieMaeFish Support Small Beans and acce...

372. Directorpiece Theatre: How the Directors of The Book of Eli Prepared You For The Twist

April 04, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 112 MB

Adam walks us through the vision of the Hughes Brothers and the techniques deployed so the film’s final twist isn’t doesn’t feel so hard to swallow. It succeeds and fails in different ways, but there’s plenty of craftsmanship in this extremely flawed film. Sometimes it’s about what you don’t see, you see. It’s like jazz. Sweet, sweet Denzel-Washington-clapping-a-bar-full-of-hooligans-with-a-scimitar jazz. Features: Adam Ganser: https://twitter.com/therealganz Abe Epperson: https://twitter.c...

373. Star Trek: The Next Futurama - Space Pilot 3000

April 02, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 113 MB

Here’s the deal. Our very bean Michael Swaim and Gamefully Unemployed’s David Christopher Bell have decided to create a dream team. A supergroup. The Traveling Wilburys of podcasting. The Cream of audio. So get in here and listen to this audio cream! The whole concept at play here is that Michael and Dave realized that every Futurama episode has a corresponding Star Trek: The Next Generation episode. In other words, whether it be basic plot devices or philosophical questions at the heart of ...

371. Frame Rate: Dark City (Feat. Alebrelle)

March 30, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 98.6 MB

Last week on 1upsmanship, Michael got Adam to play Psychonauts, a beloved game from his childhood. This week on Frame Rate, Michael gets to wax poetic about Dark City, the Alex Proyas film that is basically The Matrix and pre-dated the Matrix by about a year. Twitch streamer Alebrelle joins the party and the three investigate the meaning of this mind-bending noir. They also take cheap shots at it because you know, it’s not like it’s The Matrix or anything. Features: Alebrelle: https://twitt...

370. Kings of King: The Running Man

March 27, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 98 MB

Ah yes, the personification of the Stephen King everyman: Arnold Schwarzenegger. As we’ve learned, King’s protagonists are often nerds, dweebs, heck, even goofballs. So when the producers of the film approached Schwarzenegger with the adaptation of The Running Man, penned by King’s nom de plume, you know King was ecstatic about it. Michael and Abe discuss the outrageous and basic parody that permeates dystopian films as well as fondly remember that time a man named Buzzsaw got chainsawed in t...

Guests

Bridgett Greenberg
4 Episodes
Jamie Loftus
4 Episodes
Christopher Bell
2 Episodes
Jacquis Neal
2 Episodes
Abe Epperson
1 Episode
Brian Brushwood
1 Episode
Colin McLaughlin
1 Episode
Isaac Newton
1 Episode
Max Scoville
1 Episode
Sarah Griffith
1 Episode
Scott Pilgrim
1 Episode

Books

Twitter Mentions

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