Episodes
Friday Sep 29, 2017
GTGC #235 Fallen
Friday Sep 29, 2017
Friday Sep 29, 2017
The sun sets on #ABWD as we discuss Denzel's supernatural thriller Fallen (1998). And though our time with Denzel draws to an end, we use this opportunity to kickstart Shocktober!
We've Fallen and We Can't Get Up
On this week's episode of the GenreCast from GoodTrash Media, your film analysis friends discuss Fallen. Fallen quietly crosses genres, moving from procedural to supernatural thriller to suspense over the course of two hours. It is the story of Detective John Hobbes (Washington)—who is coming off the capture of a notorious serial killer (Koreas). However, after Reese's execution, the string of murders continues. Hobbes must figure out if there is a copycat on the loose, or if something more sinister is taking place.
Fallen is a movie that has come up time and time again, usually from Dustin. We also knew it was perfect for the GenreCast, and it worked as a bridge into Shocktober—which kicks off next week. Before we analyze Fallen, we rank the movies of #ABWD. Some of the movies from this marathon were first time watches for the hosts, so we took this time to reflection the Denzel stories we've watched over the last few weeks (including Devil in a Blue Dress).
Our analysis of Fallen sees a discussion of the apocalyptic thriller that ran rampant through the late 90s. We also discuss the idea of the unreliable narrator and the narrative constructs of Fallen, and whether they work through the end. Arthur also has a lot to say about the intertextuality of the film and how that works in the film's favor at the end.
Now, let us tell you about the time we almost lost a podcast.
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Friday Sep 22, 2017
GTGC #234 The Book of Eli
Friday Sep 22, 2017
Friday Sep 22, 2017
Welcome back to your favorite film analysis podcast, the GenreCast from GoodTrash Media. This week, the Denzel train keeps rolling as we wander the desert in The Book of Eli.
We Read from the Book of Eli
As #ABWD continues, we move into the Old Man Action Hero phase of Denzel's career. Some would argue that the phase begins with Man on Fire, and they wouldn't be wrong. But, we already talked about a Tony Scott film, and The Book of Eli is the definition of a GoodTrash film. The story centers on Eli (Washington) who is trekking across a post-apocalyptic America. He feels he has been supernaturally tasked to deliver a book to the West Coast. With the help of Solara (Kunis), Eli takes on raiders, cannibals and the power-hungry Carnegie (Oldman) on his journey in the wilderness.
This week, Arthur, Dalton and Dustin gather around to discuss the appeal of the Old Man Action cycle. There is an in-depth discussion of the evolution of the cycle as well as thoughts as to why it appeals to audiences. Dalton brings up formalist questions about color palette and visual style. And then, Dustin takes the discussion in the natural direction you would expect—theology. He brings up the mixed signals of the films narrative, and examines why it is a damaging tool for churches to use if not approached in the right context or discussion.
So there you have it, dear listener. We only have one week left with Denzel, but the GenreCast has miles to go before it sleeps. We will continue on the path of righteousness, will you join us? Remember, you must walk by faith—not by sight.. or sound.
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Friday Sep 15, 2017
GTGC #233 American Gangster
Friday Sep 15, 2017
Friday Sep 15, 2017
Hello and welcome back to your favorite film analysis podcast as we continue our Denzel Watch-a-thon with the 2008 gangster biopic, American Gangster.
First You Get the Money, then the Power, then you watch American Gangster
On this week's show, the gang gather around to talk about Ridley Scott's Godfather-esque gangster drama. Based on a true story, American Gangster tells us about Frank Lucas (Washington). Frank starts as a driver/collector-of-debts for local crime boss Bumpy Johnson. After Bumpy passes away, Frank looks to make a mark on Harlem. He soon moves into the Heroin business and creates a drug dynasty, and—according to the film—he becomes something of a folk hero. Frank's story is paralleled with the story of Richie Roberts. Richie is the head of a narcotics drug force trying to stop the use of heroin in New Jersey/New York.
Having discussed Denzel's work with Tony Scott, the gang thought it appropriate to talk about the collaboration with Ridley—Tony's brother. While Dalton and Arthur had previously seen American Gangster, this was Dustin's first watch. Throughout the show, they discuss the differences between the theatrical and director's cuts of the film. There is also much discussion about adaptation—specifically in regards to adaptation of true events. The hosts also question the approach of making Frank into a folk hero, as the film does.
But, before all of that analysis, the gang plays a game. In honor of the marathon, the hosts rundown their Top 3 Denzel Movies that Missed the #ABWD Cut. And when it is all said and done, they decide whether it is shelvable or simply trash—the results may surprise you.
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Friday Sep 08, 2017
GTGC #232 Training Day
Friday Sep 08, 2017
Friday Sep 08, 2017
Ladies and Gentlemen, it is a moment nearly 5 years in the making. After countless jokes and memes, Dustin and Dalton finally sit down to talk about Training Day on your favorite film analysis podcast.
King Kong has nothing on Training Day
That's right, as #ABWD continues it has seemingly all lead to this. Training Day is important as it marks the first pairing between Washington and Fuqua. But, it is also important as it marks Denzel's Best Performance in a Lead Role win. After the win, many considered the win to be an acknowledgement of Denzel's career post Glory. But, in some ways that downplays his performance in Training Day.
Washington plays Detective Alonzo Harris, a narcotics officer who is deep undercover. Told over the course of one day, Harris is set to show Jake Hoyt (Hawke) the ropes of narco. It is a day that will test both men. A day to see what is good, what is bad and what appears in shades of grey.
As many long time listeners know, and fans of The People's History of Film, Training Day is a very personal film for Dalton. And it rightfully takes its place among the great Denzel performances, and the GoodTrash reading list.
Before we analyze Training Day, we go through the usual routine. We talk about our initial thoughts, play a game and of course we decide whether it goes in the trash or on the shelf. But you probably already know the answer to that.
So get ready and dive on in, besides its not like we have a gun pointed at your head.
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