The Director's Chair Network

Join us on Bloody Sam: A Peckinpah Fan Podcast for an in-depth discussion of *Ride the High Country* (1962), Sam Peckinpah's underrated early Western masterpiece starring Joel McCrea and Randolph Scott. In episode 2 of our 14-month journey through all of Peckinpah's feature films, host Scott Murphy is joined by writer and film expert Pierce Duncan to explore themes of aging gunfighters, changing times, moral codes, redemption, and the shift from classic to revisionist Westerns.
We dive into the film's two distinct halves: the clean, traditional setup and the darker, grittier Coarse Gold sequences that foreshadow Peckinpah's later violent style (The Wild Bunch, Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid). Discover behind-the-scenes facts, the actors' career swan songs, the Hammond brothers as proto-Gorchs, and why this 1962 gem earned a spot in the National Film Registry.
Whether you're a Peckinpah completist, a classic Western fan, or new to his work, this episode unpacks why *Ride the High Country* remains essential viewing.

Dive into the world of acclaimed director Terrence Malick with the season premiere of the Director's Chair Podcast! Host Ryan Rebalkin welcomes guest Katie for an engaging discussion on Malick's 1973 debut film, Badlands. From Ryan's personal journey discovering Malick through The Thin Red Line to Katie's first-time watch, we explore the film's tight script, stunning cinematography, iconic music (including nods to True Romance and Hans Zimmer), and standout performances by Martin Sheen and Sissy Spacek. We break down the story of lovers on the run inspired by real-life killers, themes of innocence mixed with violence, animal symbolism, and Malick's poetic narration style. Whether you're a film buff or new to Malick's work, this episode highlights why Badlands remains a 70s cinema gem on a shoestring budget. Don't miss our thoughts on comparisons to Bonnie and Clyde, Dirty Dancing soundtrack ties, and Malick's eccentric career hiatus.
 For more retro film discussions, visit Katie's Retro Made podcast.

Dive deep into John Hughes' 1987 teen romance *Some Kind of Wonderful* – the gender-flipped spiritual successor to Pretty in Pink that's often called the better film! We break down the heartfelt story of unrequited love, class divides, standout performances (Eric Stoltz as Keith, Mary Stuart Masterson as Watts, Lea Thompson as Amanda Jones), iconic moments (diamond earrings, drum solos, that epic kiss), the killer 80s soundtrack, and why this underrated gem holds up with more emotional depth and smarter writing than many Hughes classics. Special guest Steve Smith joins for trivia, behind-the-scenes stories, and honest takes on the tropes, twists, and timeless themes.

Dive into the ultimate breakdown of **RoboCop (1987)**, Paul Verhoeven's groundbreaking sci-fi action film! Join host and guest Sean (from the defunct "I Must Break This" Dolph Lundgren podcast) as we explore why this violent, satirical masterpiece still holds up 40 years later. We cover Verhoeven's culture shock satire of American society, the over-the-top violence, Christian metaphors (RoboCop as the American Jesus), behind-the-scenes chaos with Peter Weller's suit, Kurtwood Smith's iconic villain Clarence Boddicker, strong female sidekick Lewis, and why sequels and the remake pale in comparison.
From the shocking Murphy death scene to the ultraviolent director's cut elements, we unpack the film's social commentary on corporate greed, media sensationalism, and resurrection themes. Perfect for fans of 80s action, Verhoeven's filmography (Total Recall, Starship Troopers), or anyone revisiting this cyberpunk classic.

Join Ryan  as he ranks all of Michael Mann's films, pulling from his detailed reviews on The Director's Chair Network podcast where he's broken down the legendary director's entire filmography in an epic retrospective. This is a must-watch for film buffs craving honest critiques and fresh perspectives on one of cinema's most influential directors. Whether you agree with Ryan's top picks or have your own hot takes, this ranking will spark debate!