I was really stumped when I first heard they were doing this episode. Had to do a little digging to find this poster which not only was appropriate but also a nice design.
Amy and Paul grab their ice picks this week, as they get into the 1992 erotic thriller Basic Instinct. They chat about the controversy the film stirred up with LGBT activists, break down that iconic interrogation scene, and talk about how Sharon Stone waited years for her breakout role.
I found this fantastic photo of Bogart and Bacall used on a poster, so I built my own layout from there. Sometimes I can find the exact right angle of a face and it matches even better than I could have hoped for.
We're turning the clock way back, and Amy and Paul are exploring the 1946 classic The Big Sleep. They discuss the electric chemistry between Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, the film’s influence on The Big Lebowski, and how the writers sidestepped the old Hollywood production code.
I was so happy with the artwork I found for the poster. Most versions show Han and Leia pre kiss which I was trying to avoid.
It’s been 45 years since The Empire Strikes Back hit us with one of the most iconic twists in movie history, so Amy and Paul are hopping in the Millennium Falcon and heading to a galaxy far, far away. This week, they talk about how Mark Hamill struggled as the only human on set, the impact it had on movies, and why R2-D2 can be a little bit annoying.
I can't explain how much this poster immediately took me back to every design project I saw in the mid 90s. Everyone wanted to do something this cool and stark and simple. I love it so much.
Amy and Paul choose life this week by visiting the 1996 British black comedy-drama, Trainspotting. They discuss Iggy Pop's reaction to the film, Amy's favorite Scottish dish, and Ewan McGregors dive into the filthiest toilet in Scotland.
For this one I actually found an Italian version of the poster that gave me the pieces that I needed. The tricky part was just hiding the Italian title built of stones behind the English version.
In the spirit of Easter Sunday, Amy and Paul dive into the Monty Python classic Life of Brian. They chat about the Beatles' surprising role in getting the film made, the controversy it stirred up, and how it ultimately became a massive hit.
I had some art direction from Amy on this one when I got stuck figuring out how to approach it.
Amy and Paul are chatting about the movie that really shifted how people saw director Ang Lee—Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. They dive into the intense training Michelle Yeoh went through, how they brought in choreographer Yuen Woo-ping, and the lasting impact the film has had on cinema.
I considered using the Unspooled artwork of Amy and Paul and replacing their faces with John Malkovich which would have been fun but this one was more visually appealing to me.
Amy and Paul dive into the wild and inventive world of Being John Malkovich, the film that really put writer Charlie Kaufman on the map. The two discuss John Malkovich's hesitancy to join the film, how director Spike Jonze came across Kaufman's script, and that the film’s original ending involved a Harry Truman puppet.
Even though this one is straight forward finding an angle of the faces is tricky. It never lines up exactly but it turned out far better than I was expecting.
This week Amy and Paul break down the 1990 iconic romantic comedy, Pretty Woman. They talk about how it was originally penned as a serious drama, that Richard Gere wasn’t initially interested in the role, and how it made Julia Roberts a star.
This one had to be individual ones and I had to go for more of the vibes than a 1 to 1 remake.
Amy and Paul dive into the 2005 March Movie Madness winner, The 40-Year-Old Virgin. They discuss Universal's buyer's remorse, concerns over Steve Carell's "serial killer" appearance, and how director Judd Apatow nailed the film's tone.
For this I just had to come up with a cute little bracket logo. Making what would normally be a very horizontal logo fit on very vertical backgrounds was the only issue.
This week, Amy and Paul are throwing their hats in the ring for their own Movie Madness Bracket: 2005 edition. Instead of rewatching all 8 films, they're judging based on which films they think had the biggest impact on pop culture. Which 2005 film will take the crown?
I had no idea what to expect for this one but it’s now maybe one of my favorites.
Amy and Paul dive into the 2025 Oscar-winning film Anora. The two discuss the power dynamics between the characters, its exploration of the American worker experience, and Director Sean Baker's background in Russian wedding videos.
Always a fun one. Looking through Oscar portraits over the years to find a photo I like is a most enjoyable rabbit hole.
This week, Amy and Paul are jumping headfirst into their prediction's for the 2025 Oscars! They’re giving their hot takes on the Best Picture noms, dishing about the snubs, predicting which films will be forgotten next year, and placing their bets on which nominee will get the biggest post-Oscar bump.
I continue my love/hate relationship to the early 2000s movie poster style of saturated, high contrast grainy images. Enough grain can really hide a lot though.
Paul and Amy take a surreal ride this week, diving into the 2001 mind-bender Mulholland Drive by the legendary, late David Lynch. They discuss the eerie parallels between Naomi Watts' real life and her character Betty, uncover nods to iconic films, and delve into Hollywood’s dark side.
This one felt so simple until I got into it and just the uncanny valley of making the face line up with the arm was alot. I actually had to move the whole body and top of the chair down.
Paul & Amy are celebrating Valentines with the 1999 film, 10 Things I Hate About You! They discuss the many careers this film started, Julia Stiles Shakespeare movie run, and, of course, that oh so good ending poem. Plus: they get into why this film is so beloved by fans.
These were both banger posters so I just had to find a way you could see both of these highlighted. They actually compliment each other with out competing.
Paul & Amy are finally jumping into the Marvel universe with 2014 film, Captain America Winter Soldier! But it wouldn't be Unspooled if they didn't do it their way, by combining this conversation with the 1975 film, Three Days of the Condor. They discuss the Captain America's Condor origins, the purpose of the superhero film 2025, and, of course, that shield. Plus: they get into Hydra and it's impact on the Marvel Universe.
I couldn’t find a way to make PAUL•E into WALL•E so I took elements from their podcast image of vhs, dvds, and film canisters and included them in the environment around WALL•E.
Paul & Amy are continuing their dusty future saga this week with 2008 film, WALL E! They discuss how the film's future seems frighteningly possible, the blob-like character designs that didn't make the final cut, and (once again) the power of love. Plus: they get into that famous Pixar lunch that resulted in three of their biggest hits... and Trash Planet.
Another where an individual graphic feels like the only option. Getting the right tone was more tricky than it seemed before I got into it.
Paul & Amy are in the zone this week for 2010 film, The Social Network! They discuss how the film holds up in 2025, how many times they show that opening bar scene, and why everyone is talking so quickly. Plus: they get into the very powerful desire of wanting to be cool.
It was a little tricky to find a version of the poster without just a singular person or no person at all.
Paul & Amy are holding space this week for 2014 fan favorite Christopher Nolan film, Interstellar! They discuss the films parallels with Nolan’s family life, the “real” science used to create stunning visual effects, and Hans Zimmer’s very stressful score. Plus: they get into the films big Matt Damon shaped twist.
Had to kind of make up my own on this one but it was fun.
This week Paul & Amy break down Stanley Kubrick’s 1999 erotic thriller Eyes Wide Shut. They talk about the arduous shooting schedule, the real life impact on Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman’s marriage, and more.
A nice simple replacement for a change.
This week Paul & Amy break down Paul Thomas Anderson’s 1999 drama Magnolia. They talk about the sprawling narrative, giving PTA final cut, Tom Cruise’s performance and more.
Really thought the perspective words at the bottom looked fun.
This week Paul & Amy break down the 1998 crime comedy film The Big Lebowski! They talk about the film’s lasting legacy as one of the Coen brothers’ best and most beloved movies, Jeff Bridges embodying The Dude, and so much more.
I struggled at first to figure out how to make this a two person poster.
This week Paul & Amy break down the 2000 action/adventure blockbuster Gladiator starring Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielsen & Richard Harris. They talk about reviving the sword & sandals genre, the ever evolving script, how relevant it is to today and more.
The original poster I find kind of boring. I luckily found an image from the end of the movie that was way more fun to work with.
This week Paul & Amy break down the 1989 dark comedy classic Heathers starring Winona Ryder, Christian Slater and Shannen Doherty. They talk about how it subverts the high school comedy genre, how relevant it is today and more.
Took some work to get the colors closer to what was on the poster but it worked out ok since you can hide alot with the beam of the flashlight.
This week Paul & Amy break down the 1995 David Fincher crime thriller Seven starring Morgan Freeman, Brad Pitt and Gwyneth Paltrow. They talk about how this movie reinvented the cop movie, how there were 12 drafts of the script, Brad and David’s allergy to “the cheese” and more.
I was at a loss at first because the poster is so iconic but i wasn't sure I could make it work. Sometimes the solution isn't to find another way but just to plow straight on thru.
This week Paul and Amy are catching the rhythm as they break down Carl Reiner’s slapstick comedy The Jerk, starring Steve Martin. Paul and Amy praise Steve Martin and his style of comedy for always punching up, his physical commitment, and how he looks out for others through his comedies. They discuss Martin’s favorite joke in the film, the special trailer sent to theater managers, and how Carl Reiner showed us Steve’s heart. Plus, we can thank The Jerk for pizza in a cup. You can rent The Jerk on your platform of choice, but don’t forget to check your local library or apps like Hoopla and Kanopy!
My plan was to find images of Lumberg and Jennifer Aniston to use since Paul basically wears that outfit in Black Monday and I was going to make a bunch of Amy-centric flair. BUT those images do not exist! So I went with a type treatment instead., which did turn out cute if not the plan.
This week Paul and Amy are breaking out their staplers and adding cover letters to their TPS reports. That’s right, they’re breaking down the 1999 dark comedy Office Space, starring Ron Livingston and Jennifer Aniston. Paul and Amy discuss the similarities between Office Space and The Matrix, the origins of Milton, and Amy’s Lumbergh Sex Theory. Next week we’ll be discussing The Jerk. You can rent Office Space on your platform of choice or stream it on on Hulu but don’t forget to check your local library or apps like Hoopla and Kanopy!
For so much to be hidden behind masks this still works really nicely. One of the few times I had to make Amy's lipstick brighter.
This week Paul & Amy break down the 1992 Tim Burton sequel Batman Returns. They talk about how THIS is the Batman movie Tim Burton originally wanted to make, how Danny Devito came up with having black bile, how this movie predicts modern day political figures and more.
The hardest part of this one as deleting all of Geena Davis' 80s hair.
This week Paul & Amy break down the 1988 dark fantasy comedy horror film Beetlejuice starring Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Alec Baldwin, Geena Davis and Katherine O’Hara. They talk about what a swing it is for Tim Burton’s second film, who he originally wanted to play Beetlejuice, how the film depicts death and so much more.
I didn't want to make it to subtle but I did update the name tag to "Paul".
This week Paul & Amy break down the 2004 zom-rom-com Shaun of the Dead directed by Edgar Wright and starring Simon Pegg and Nick Frost just in time for it’s 20th anniversary theatrical re-release. They discuss how it pays homage to zombie films that came before it, how it introduced British comedy to a wider audience, and so much more.
Those late 90s filters they would throw on photos are WILD! So saturated! So bright! So low res?
This week Paul & Amy break down the 1998 Michael Bay action/sci-fi film Armageddon starring Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck and Liv Tyler. They discuss how the film and Bay goes after the “nerds,” the birth of Bayhem, Affleck mocking the film on the DVD commentary, and more.
This one was tricky to find something that would work. And I had a cartoon Paul I had found along the way so I figure let's be as silly as the movie.
This week Paul & Amy break down the 1980 comedy classic Airplane! They talk about Leslie Nielsen’s fart machine, what makes the jokes hold up, and more.
I couldn't believe how perfectly this was set up to be able to drop Amy and Paul in.
This week Paul & Amy break down the 2014 action/sci-fi sequel Dawn of the Planet of the Apes. They discuss how the Planet of the Apes series has endured, Andy Serkis’ incredible performance as Ceasar, siding with the apes or the humans, and more. Apes together strong.
https://www.earwolf.com/episode/dawn-of-the-planet-of-the-apes/
This one is a little boring after the last few but they can't all be amazing. The poster is cool but tricky to wedge other things into.
This week Paul & Amy break down the 2013 apocalyptic comedy horror film This Is The End. They discuss Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg’s directorial choices, what makes a good comedy ensemble movie, and who is the MVP of the movie: Danny McBride or Jay Baruchel?
I love a good mech suit image! The images with epic poses and grand, heroic settings are so fun to do.
This week Paul & Amy break down the 2014 Sci-Fi action movie Edge of Tomorrow aka Live. Die. Repeat. aka All You Need is Kill. The two discuss Tom Cruise’s rise in becoming the action star he is today, how incredible Emily Blunt is, and the film’s brilliant combination of video gaming and war movie aesthetics.
What a fun one to do. I had never noticed how much of that mid 90s grain and scratch effect was on this poster. I don't always have a lot of choices for "scared" images of Paul and Amy but these pull it off.
This week, Paul & Amy are breaking down the 1996 weather disaster movie Twister, starring Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton (not Pullman). The two chat about the link between Godzilla and Twister, this being the first movie to come out on DVD, and how dangerous it was to be on the set of this film. Plus: Paul and Amy break down the original Van Halen songs made for the Twister soundtrack.
I knew I needed something typographical and when I found this image I immediately knew what would work.
Paul & Amy are baking the biggest cake in the world for Godzilla and congratulating him for finally winning an Academy Award after seven decades. The two praise the film for balancing “popcorn movie” energy while locking you into an emotional personal story. Paul marvels at the film only having 35 visual effects artists, and how director Takashi Yamazaki in an Ocean’s 11 style assembled his team, highlighting their specialties. Plus, Amy discovers the Spielberg and Jaws inspiration in the final water sequence.
My favorite part of this is small, but I like how I kept their names inside the explosion.
This week, Paul & Amy are breaking down the 1996 Will Smith disaster vehicle Independence Day. The two dig into what makes a great “popcorn movie,” why this movie still works, and this particular era of Jeff Goldblum box office “gold.” Plus, Paul gives us a bonus breakdown of the 2016 sequel Independence Day: Resurgence.
This one is so epic. I really like it in contrast to Dune 1 as well... that one being blue and grey and cool. And anytime I can just have something with two people as the focus I love it.
This week, Paul and Amy dig into the 2024 release Dune: Part Two, starring Timothée Chalamet, Austin Butler and Zendaya. Paul reveals his disappointment with the movie while Amy stands up for the brilliance of the storytelling, and then the two dig into why Frank Herbert wrote Dune as a reaction to Lawrence of Arabia. Plus, Amy reveals questions omitted from her NYT interview with Dune director Denis Villeneuve about the Dune movies. Hint: It involves sex and what the sandworms poop out.
Another straight forward one that really work because of Paul's expressions.
This week Paul & Amy are breaking down the 1979 film Mad Max directed by George Miller. The two discuss this modern-day silent film, all the dangers and injuries that happened on set and how this untamed film is a necessary watch. We’re not a bad podcast, we’re sick! Meow!
This was a poster I had hanging on my wall for a very good amount of my childhood so I feel like I could recreate it with one hand tied behind my back.
This week, Paul and Amy are delving into nostalgia as they analyze the 1985 film The Goonies. They discuss the collaboration between Richard Donner and Steven Spielberg and the film’s frenetic energy, and wonder what Martha Plimpton was doing with that crab! Bonus: Paul reveals The Goonies’ connection to Back To The Future!
I knew I had to use a prom photo. I almost added the giant blonde hair for Paul to complete the look.
This week Paul & Amy are breaking down the 1976 Brian De Palma film, Carrie, starring Sissy Spacek. The two dig into the Stephen King of it all, bad moms, the trauma of menstruation, and to Amy’s dismay Paul reveals that he does NOT love this film.
This one was straight forward. Which is always nice. I did add some water droplets to Amy’s face but it may not be super obvious.
This week Paul and Amy are breaking down the 1991 Kathryn Bigelow film Point Break, starring Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze. The two dig into this elevated action movie and discuss how Kathryn Bigelow helped launch Keanu Reeves into action stardom. Then, Paul asks if this movie is shaped around the “Female Gaze,” and Amy fills us all in about the stunts in this movie and which Red Hot Chili Peppers member didn’t take the stunt training seriously. Vaya con dios, friends.
Really wasn’t sure how to tackle this one. Thought about the opening credits and how lovely they are and wanted to try that. Then I added a little Unspooled playing card easter egg.
This week, to celebrate the release of Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers, Paul and Amy break down the 2018 film, Call Me By Your Name, starring Timothée Chalamet (sorry, no Zendaya in this one). The two talk about the beauty of the film’s title, Guadagnino’s obsessive messiness, and the delicate CGI’ing of a certain actor’s nether region. Plus, this movie has us all nostalgic over our first loves and our first heartbreaks.
Had to think outside the box on this one… made a lil easter egg.
This week, Paul & Amy look at the other side of divorce with the 2013 Spike Jonze film, HER. The two break down the incredibly charming performance of Joaquin Phoenix, discuss the AI of it all, dig into all the messiness that is being in romantic relationships, and ask, “Was Scarlett Johansson acting as an avatar for the Jonze-Coppola divorce?”.
I wasn’t sure what was gonna work but it turned out better than I could have guessed.
This week Amy and Paul are rocking out to the 1973 film Jesus Christ Superstar, starring Ted Neeley and directed by Norman Jewison. This musical stage play turned Burning Man Christ film was shot in the Israeli desert, leaving everyone mystified by the budget’s lack of generosity in only affording the actors one set of costumes. Plus, why Ted Neeley was always the best fit for the role of Jesus, competing against John Travolta, John Lennon, and many others, and Paul and Amy share a little about their own upbringings within their parents’ churches!
https://www.earwolf.com/episode/jesus-christ-superstar/
Another alone(ish) in space movie so I made another set of individual posters. They really kind of compliment last week’s poster too.
This week Paul and Amy’s clones are breaking down the 2009 film, Moon, starring Sam Rockwell and directed by Duncan Jones. But first things first, honoring our Oscars bet, Paul announces his removal of the film Intolerance from the Paul and Amy Institute list, much to Amy’s chagrin. Then, Paul and Amy dig into Moon, it being a “holy shit” movie in 2009, ponder how and what clones remember, and finally Amy makes the connection between this movie and space’s darling George Clooney and the hair-cutting device, Flowbee.
A stranded alone movie calls for individual graphics but when the original poster is this good I couldn’t be happier.
This week Amy & Paul are eating potatoes while discussing the 2015 film The Martian, starring Matt Damon and directed by Ridley Scott. They highlight the very grounded comedy throughout the film, draw comparisons between Mark Watney and Richard Hatch from Survivor, and respect that this film has no villains. Plus: This movie really makes us appreciate smart people being good at their jobs.
I really love trying to find the correct couple from the Oscar portraits to use for this episode each year.
This week Paul & Amy are digging into all things Oscars and the Best Picture Nominees of 2024. The two ask, “was Barbie the most culturally significant film of 2023 and could it win Best Picture?” and “should Killers of the Flower Moon and Poor Things be thirty minutes shorter?” Then, Paul and Amy challenge each other to get every Oscar category wrong, because they can’t help but to vote with their hearts. We invite you, the listener, to get the Oscars wrong with us!
The only way we will ever see Amy in earth tones.
This week the Spice is flowing, and Paul & Amy are covering the 2021 film Dune. The two discuss the complicated feelings of going to the movies in the year 2021, Dune’s 2022 Oscar snub, ask “is this Beetlejuice?”, and dig into the undeniable influence Dune has had on Sci-Fi.
Until I started doing these I never realized how many movie posters are in this Norman Rockwell style. You can kind of learn to fake it eventually.
Amy & Paul con their way into 1973 and stake out The Sting and all its nostalgia. They evaluate The Sting’s Oscar triumph over The Exorcist, praise the lightness and good-time feel over previous winners with heavier meaning, and take in the chemistry between Paul Newman and Robert Redford on screen that simply wasn’t true in real life. Plus: The “con” in “conman” is short for confidence.
I considered doing an Amy graphic with the Mena Suvari pool of roses poster but that felt creepy. Then I considered doing that with Paul. Also creepy. But I decided the poster is so striking that the image alone was enough to know what the movie is without even saying it.
Paul & Amy curiously ask, what was our mindset in September 1999 when American Beauty was released as a smash hit? They examine Wes Bentley’s character and his emotional core to the consciousness of this movie, Amy Fisher’s “Long Island Lolita” influence, and how this film earned prestige with a modern feel at the time, while its legacy continues to fade. Plus: Is Lester Burnham just Edward Norton without Tyler Durden?
There were several versions to choose from but few of them that were useable for my needs. This one worked nicely tho and still keep the black figure and the interesting painting style.
Amy & Paul hum along to 1984’s classical fantasia Amadeus! They learn how closely this unusual biopic matches the true history of Mozart, discover a Marvel reference to Salieri, and praise director Milos Forman for highlighting what made Mozart’s compositions endure. Plus: The phenomenon that inspired a smash novelty single.
I didn’t remember this version of the poster so when I saw the ensemble cast I was happy to replace Robert DeNiro and Bridget Fonda.
Amy & Paul jam to The Delfonics with 1997’s Quentin Tarantino crime saga Jackie Brown! They learn what Elmore Leonard thought of this Rum Punch adaptation, praise a sneakily scary Samuel L. Jackson performance, and discuss how this film, which initially befuddled critics expecting the next Pulp Fiction, became one of Tarantino’s most beloved works. Plus: was Sylvester Stallone really up for a role?
A little bit of a boring one after T2 and Wayne’s World but you have to go where the poster leads you.
Paul & Amy get in the trunk with 1998’s sly George Clooney & Jennifer Lopez crime comedy Out of Sight! They discuss why Elmore Leonard’s stories lend themselves so well to Hollywood adaptations, learn how Lopez’s fearlessness made her the perfect match for Clooney, and ask if this is the Steven Soderbergh movie that deserves to go to space. Plus: How to have charisma like Clooney.
I love this one! It could have been a photoshoot. And this one following after T2 just makes me happy.
Amy & Paul party on with 1992’s Mike Myers & Dana Carvey SNL buddy comedy Wayne’s World! They dive into the creative conflicts between Myers and Carvey, learn how Penelope Spheeris landed the directorial role after finding fame as a rock documentarian, and ask what sets this film apart from the rest of the SNL spinoffs. Plus: Right Said Fred, but acoustic.
I try to not have Paul and Amy holding guns whenever possible. But trying to stop the machine uprising seems like the right exception.
Amy & Paul go back in time to save 1991’s blockbuster James Cameron action sequel Terminator 2: Judgment Day! They praise Cameron’s control of both CGI and practical effects, find parallels to Oppenheimer in the film’s depiction of a devastating scientific breakthrough, and ask why Linda Hamilton didn’t get an Oscar for her portrayal of Sarah Connor. Plus: Danny Cooksey, the ultimate 90’s best friend.
These were very fun to set up and figure out. Love switching up the style.
Paul & Amy wrap up another year of Unspooled by choosing which films they covered this season are going to space! Josh, Jess and Devon return as the gang determines which movies deserve inclusion on Unspooled’s official list of the 100 greatest films of all time. The contenders include an action film that’s become a holiday classic, an underdog sports story that might out-Rocky Rocky, and a minimalist French masterwork that topped another prestigious list – but there’s only so much room on the API spaceship…
I wanted to find a nice clean way to represent these last two episodes that matched each other but also not be too themed with holidays or New Years. These illustrations were perfect with a little bit of tweaking.
Paul & Amy are throwing an end-of-year party, and you’re invited! Joined by lots of film and podcast friends, Unspooled producers of past, present, and (maybe?) future all ask this year’s hot question: What was your favorite film of the year? Was it Barbie, Oppenheimer, or Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, or was it perhaps The Zone of Interest, Polite Society, or The Holdovers? At this party, they cover it all! Plus: What do you think? Was this a good year for films?
The heart hands was apparently an “upgrade” for a DVD cover. It was definitely not a thing in 1990. But that hair really works on Paul.
Paul & Amy slice into Tim Burton’s 1990 gothic fairytale Edward Scissorhands! They try to determine what year the film takes place in, discover why a story about being an outsider resonated so widely, and ask if Burton’s artistic preoccupations have become shtick. Plus: A brief sidebar on Edward Penishands.
They can’t all be gems. I really struggled to figure this one out and almost gave up and went with a title treatment instead.
Paul & Amy embrace the groove for Disney’s madcap Incan comedy The Emperor’s New Groove! They learn about the calamitous development period that led to the final film, dive into the history of shoulder angels and devils in animation, and debate whether the chaotic production created something unique and special in the Disney canon. Plus: a lost song from Eartha Kitt and other moments that never made it to the screen.
I love this movie so this one was fun. And I felt like it really looks pretty seamless. I almost gave Amy blue hair.
Amy & Paul take on all comers for 2010’s Edgar Wright comic extravaganza Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World! They discuss Michael Cera’s unusual casting as a feckless player, learn about Scott’s original fate in the film’s first cut, and revisit the era of pop-culture hyperliteracy that birthed this story. Plus: comparing the film with Scott Pilgrim’s recent anime re-imagining.
Figuring these out was very fun. And they both really fell into place.
Amy & Paul take the stage for a closer look at concert movies! Inspired by the recent release of “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour” and the rerelease of Talking Heads’ “Stop Making Sense,” they dig into what separates a good concert film from a great one, survey the many ways musicians make their films feel like a true event, and learn about Flavor Flav’s Swift fandom. Plus: how David Byrne is like Oppenheimer.
The clothes in this movie make me so happy.
Paul & Amy play hooky for 1984’s John Hughes class-cutting caper Ferris Bueller’s Day Off! They discover the secret backstory behind Charlie Sheen’s memorable cameo, read some of their favorite Reddit fan theories, and express their disappointment that the real Matthew Broderick is nothing like Ferris. Plus: how the filmmakers pulled off that massive parade sequence.
Being able to incorporate pics onto the banners really was a perfect scenario.
Amy & Paul volunteer as tribute for 2012’s young adult dystopian saga The Hunger Games! They compare the young Jennifer Lawrence to her character Katniss, trace a theme of idealism vs cynicism through director Gary Ross’s filmography, and marvel at Peeta’s rock face. Plus: Should the main characters have been hungrier?
I had forgotten about this poster with the spray painted wall. This took a little to figure out but I really love the look of it.
Paul & Amy break all the rules of David Fincher’s 1999 cult sendup of masculinity Fight Club! They ask how seriously we’re meant to take the film’s grand pronouncements on consumerism and conformity, discover how badly Edward Norton hurt himself while beating himself up, and ask if this holds up as Fincher’s very best film. Plus: Which costume choice for Tyler Durden went too far for Fincher?
This was a fun straight forward one. I love when I can incorporate UNSPOOLED naturally into the poster.
Paul & Amy put their hats in the ring for 1999’s acidic high-school satire Election! They praise director Alexander Payne’s brilliant eye for humanist detail, discuss how Matthew Broderick channels his Ferris Bueller image to subversive ends, and posit that America has only become more like high school since the movie’s release. Plus: How Election almost derailed Reese Witherspoon’s career.
My plan was to use a photo of Brad and Janet in their underwear but I never found anything that worked. This was a great second option.
Paul & Amy time warp to 1975’s cult musical sensation The Rocky Horror Picture Show! They ask what makes a movie camp, discover the genius marketer who helped the film find its audience, and debate whether Rocky Horror is actually best appreciated in a rowdy theater. Plus: How Rocky is like a katamari.
https://www.earwolf.com/episode/the-rocky-horror-picture-show-2/
Made this one a bit more of a Where’s Waldo situation.
Amy & Paul make the hard sell for 2013’s manic Wall Street exposé The Wolf Of Wall Street! They learn how the film’s unusual funding gave director Martin Scorsese freedom to push the limits of this story, ask if this is Leonardo DiCaprio’s best performance, and try to nail down, once and for all, whether Scorsese approves of the actions he depicts. Plus: Did Leo base his performance on a meme?
I went with individual ones again mostly because it fit the space better (bigger hair options) and also it seemed fun to have these in contrast to Saw the week before.
Paul & Amy spritz on John Waters’ subversive 1988 comedy Hairspray! They learn how star ensemble player Divine was like Godzilla, compare the soundtrack to the 2007 Broadway production, and marvel at how this PG film snuck radical ideas about race, gender and body positivity into the mainstream. Plus: The curious legacy of Pia Zadora.
You would think finding an image of the two characters in the bathroom would be easy. It was not. So I went a very different way and I’m so glad I did.
Paul & Amy slice into 2004’s nasty low-budget horror Saw! They learn why Cary Elwes holds a grudge against the filmmakers, appreciate how much dread Leigh Whannell and James Wan were able to wring out of simple production design choices, and meditate on the term ‘torture porn’ and what audiences get out of films like these. Plus: Why was Danny Glover in a Pilates infomercial?
I knew nothing about this movie but I love the old illustrated posters and trying to mimic that style.
Paul & Amy reflect on Douglas Sirk’s piercing 1959 melodrama Imitation Of Life! They learn what made this epochal film a favorite of Steven Spielberg’s, discuss what Sirk has to say about race in America, and ask what this slyly satirical blockbuster has in common with Starship Troopers. Plus: The murder that nearly overshadowed the film’s release.
https://www.earwolf.com/episode/imitation-of-life/
Movie posters from the 80s are so iconic and then I get in there and start to look at it and I'm like “these are a compositional mess”. Anyhoo. It’s exactly as I remember.
Amy & Paul high-kick into John G. Avildsen’s 1984 martial-arts megahit The Karate Kid! They learn about the movie’s semi-autobiographical origins, discuss the post-Karate careers of stars Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita, and ask whether this is even better than Avildsen’s older, more acclaimed fight-centric film. Plus: is that supposed to be The Beach Boys?
Did a deep dive but love this base poster. I really just wanted to do a graphic that was only the car but this is a nice middle ground and a chance to change up the license plate.
Paul & Amy rev up for 1968’s sleek Steve McQueen thriller Bullitt! They break down the film’s all-timer car chase, learn how McQueen brought a counter-cultural energy to the cop archetype, and ask if any modern actor has McQueen’s energy. Plus: The real San Francisco officer that inspired Bullitt.
When this one popped up I had this idea cause I love the business card scene. It’s also fun to have something so simple and bright for a dark movie.
Paul & Amy dissect Mary Harron’s murderous corporate-world satire American Psycho! They learn how star Christian Bale almost lost the role to Leonardo DiCaprio, ask if all the events in the film are ‘really happening,’ and unpack American Psycho’s infamous reputation before it was even released. Plus: the not-so-secret inspiration for Patrick Bateman.
I was stumped at first but when I found out it was all the movies in the series I knew the Fallout poster was the perfect one to use. Then I got extra ambitious and replaced the Eiffel Tower with a rocket into space.
Amy & Paul accept a mission from Drew Taylor and Charles Hood (hosts of the Light The Fuse podcast) to rate each of the Mission: Impossible films, and decide whether any of them deserve to go to space! They’ll discuss the many eras of Ethan Hunt, how Brian De Palma set the template for what an auteur-driven franchise film could do, whether the latest entry nailed its climactic set piece, and Tom Cruise’s famous cake.
https://www.earwolf.com/episode/ranking-the-mission-impossible-films-with-light-the-fuse/
Sometimes I think I remember a poster until I look at it here closely and am shocked by how badly I misremember.
Amy & Paul overrule all objections to 2001’s law school comedy Legally Blonde! They compare the film to the recent ultra-femme smash hit Barbie, discuss how Reese Witherspoon discovered her star power, and wonder why the sequel fell so flat. Plus: some shocking facts about blondes.
I was happy to do this last minute addition. I am a big Pee Wee fan and adore this movie. I considered using the original poster and using faces but for the circumstances going more iconic felt right.
Amy & Paul remember the Alamo for 1985’s magnificently silly Paul Reubens showcase Pee-wee’s Big Adventure! They go deep on the conception and evolution of the Pee-wee Herman character, look back on the fallout from Reubens’ public scandals, and dig into Pee-wee’s self-conception as a loner and a rebel. Plus: How Reubens connected with a young Tim Burton and Danny Elfman.
https://www.earwolf.com/episode/pee-wees-big-adventure/
They can’t all be super fun and filled with mustaches.
Amy & Paul get suave for 2006’s Alfonso Cuarón dystopia Children Of Men! They praise the very human performances, learn whether ringing in the ears really means your ear cells are dying, and discuss why the film’s mind-melting long takes are more than just a flashy technique. Plus: Remember Clive Owen’s BMW ads?
This was a hard one to find a usable image for but when I did I figure it should still be fun.
Paul & Amy drill into Paul Thomas Anderson’s 2007 lonely capitalist epic There Will Be Blood! They learn the real origins of the ‘milkshake’ line, marvel at Jonny Greenwood’s alien score, and ask whether Daniel Day-Lewis’ colossal performance as Daniel Plainview unbalances the rest of the film. Plus: what’s DDL’s favorite reality TV show?
I always love when I can show someone walking out of an explosion.
Amy & Paul pursue the greater good and watch Edgar Wright’s 2007 cop action homage Hot Fuzz! They marvel at the stacked cast of British character actors, learn how Simon Pegg & Nick Frost became friends, and realize the film’s real hero is the editor. Plus: When the real cops have to catch a swan.
Here at Unspooled we are changing all cartoon red heads to blondes one film at a time.
Amy & Paul get animated and take a trip down to Toontown in 1988’s Who Framed Roger Rabbit! They’ll analyze how the toons represented the lower class, discuss how the portrayal of Jessica Rabbit helped Disney get out of a rut, and agree that having Roger Rabbit’s voice actor on set brought out the best in star Bob Hoskins. Plus: Bill Murray regrets missing the phone call that would’ve landed him the role of detective Eddie Valiant.
I noticed that in the original artwork the front of Indy's fedora and his nose don't line up and now I can never NOT see it. Regardless, I really like this episode's artwork.
Paul & Amy crack the whip on 1984’s Harrison Ford prequel adventure Indiana Jones and the Temple Of Doom! They take a close look at the film’s depiction of Indian culture, ask if Kate Capshaw’s Willie is a worthy companion for Indy, and try to figure out what was happening in Steven Spielberg and George Lucas’s lives that inspired such a dark story. Plus: What was the first PG-13 film?
https://www.earwolf.com/episode/indiana-jones-and-the-temple-of-doom-2/
I think this is the first “poster” with more than just Amy and Paul on it!
Is there a Star Trek movie worthy of boarding the Unspooled spaceship with the other all-time great films? Tawny Newsome & Paul F. Tompkins (Star Trek: Lower Decks, The Pod Directive) join Paul & Amy to answer that question, by taking a close look at 1996’s time-traveling adventure Star Trek: First Contact. They’ll also debate their favorite Trek casts, discuss the latest season of Picard, and explain why The Next Generation was a surprisingly horny show.
Luckily Amy didn’t mind being Disgust and Paul was ok with Anger. With a few little details it totally worked.
Amy & Paul modulate their emotions for Pixar’s 2015 mental adventure Inside Out! They appreciate a story that takes the inner world of a young girl seriously, analyze the short glimpses we get of adult brains, and ask whether all Pixar films have third act problems. Plus: the early drafts of the film, where Riley tried to buy a bag of potato chips.
Paul just fell into this one easily. I feel like this will be a fan favorite.
Paul & Amy wind their way through 1986’s Jim Henson dark puppet fantasy Labyrinth! They applaud the film’s surprisingly sophisticated coming of age story, realize that Jennifer Connelly’s Sarah was never actually a cool girl, and marvel that a movie this weird got made for a wide audience. Plus: The time the Labyrinth puppets met Princess Diana.
When I first started this one I couldn’t tell if it was awesome or a nightmare. But it worked itself out.
Amy & Paul go under the sea for 1989’s pivotal Disney musical The Little Mermaid! They learn about the queer influences behind the villainous Ursula, try to understand what’s really motivating Ariel, and ask if this still wows the way it did when it was first released. Plus: is Prince Eric…kinda dumb?
I really wanted to make Amy and Paul Oompa Loompas but couldn’t find anything that would work. This is a great second choice.
Amy & Paul make the world taste good with 1971’s sweet and sour Roald Dahl adaptation Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory! They learn why “Charlie” was removed from the film’s name, discover how Gene Wilder found his way into the character of Wonka, and ask whether children’s films today have the same element of real danger. Plus: How did the chocolate river room smell?
https://www.earwolf.com/episode/willy-wonka-the-chocolate-factory/
More subtle than Young Frankenstein but a Paul mustache is always fun.
Paul and Amy gas up 1974’s manic Mel Brooks Western parody Blazing Saddles! They learn about the history of farts onscreen, break down Richard Pryor’s influence on the charged perspective of this film, and ask why the wild meta ending swing works. Plus: How this movie almost got “Batgirled.”
I had no idea if this would work at all when I started but it turned out to be one of my favorites. And Amy being Frankenstein was her suggestion.
Paul & Amy put on the Ritz with 1974’s Mel Brooks monster movie parody Young Frankenstein! They ask what makes this the most beautiful of Brooks’ films, praise the colorful supporting cast from Marty Feldman to Teri Garr, and chart the increasingly frenzied performance of star Gene Wilder. Plus: That’s where “Walk This Way” came from?
I made tiny little fangs for Amy that may not show up on social but at least I know they are there.
Paul & Amy sink their teeth into 2014’s vampiric mockumentary What We Do In The Shadows! They learn why so many of the film’s creatures look like Lord Of The Rings characters, come around to Jemaine Clement’s acting style, and ask if this is still director Taika Waititi’s best film. Plus: The origins of that sandwich joke.
One of my favorite movies and I had a really fun time trying to figure this one out.
Paul & Amy chainsaw through 1987’s groovy slapstick horror masterpiece Evil Dead II! They ask if Bruce Campbell’s Ash is a “final girl,” learn why director Sam Raimi owes his career to Stephen King, and discuss why this film still feels anarchic and dangerous. Plus: The origin of the Wilhelm Scream.
As much as I would love to try to make a turtle Paul it was for the best to go with just a title graphic.
Amy and Paul sing the praises of Robert Rodriguez’s low-budget action breakthrough El Mariachi! They go to ten minute film school with Rodriguez, learn about the unexpected bidding war over the film, and ask why filmmakers from Texas are so good at working outside the Hollywood system. Plus: How many ingredients are needed for a proper breakfast taco?
One of the most straight forward graphics I’ve had in a while.
Paul and Amy get stuck in Martin McDonagh’s 2008 hitman parable In Bruges! They learn about McDonagh’s explosive ascent as a playwright, compare Bruges to other hitman films of the era, and discuss how the contrast between Colin Farrell’s offensive dialogue and redemptive arc messes with the audience’s sympathies. Plus: how do you master eyebrow acting?
This one kind of had to be individual graphics. So many face cuts.
Amy & Paul arm up for 2014’s revitalizing Keanu Reeves action film John Wick! They ask whether we’re supposed to care about Wick as a character, praise the careful world building of directors Chad Stahelski and David Leitch, and debate the best fight in the series. Plus: What would you do if someone killed your pet in front of you?
The name on the trunks was my catalyst for this one.
Amy & Paul go toe to toe with 2015’s hit pugilist lega-sequel Creed! They learn how Sylvester Stallone agreed to pass the torch of his most famous franchise to Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan, explore Jordan’s relationship with Tessa Thompson, and ask if Rocky’s final fate in the film was earned. Plus: Some Rocky-inspired thoughts on aging.
Always love a simple swap and something so bright.
Paul & Amy look back on their favorite films of 2022 and get ready for the Academy Awards this weekend! They’ll discuss each of the Best Picture nominees, share their thoughts on the year in blockbusters and streaming films, and ask the big question – are the movies back? Plus: A high stakes Oscar wager.
https://www.earwolf.com/episode/best-of-2022-oscars-preview/
It was tricky finding usable images for this one. But when in doubt a VHS mockup will always work.
Paul & Amy enjoy a Winky Dinky Dog and watch 1987’s audacious sketch satire Hollywood Shuffle! They explore the multifaceted career of star and director Robert Townsend, put the film in context of black cinema in the 80s, and ask why Townsend’s critiques of Hollywood are relevant 35 years later. Plus: Eddie Murphy’s surprising reaction to the film’s Eddie Murphy sketch.
After having done over 230 graphics for the pod this was the first time I wasn’t able to find a way to use both Paul and Amy for a graphic. There’s been plenty of type treatments with no image… but this was the first solo host graphic.
Paul & Amy slip a five dollar bill to 2012’s male stripper megahit Magic Mike! They discuss why Steven Soderbergh’s film is about money as much or more than sex, ask who the franchise’s hottest character is, and explore what makes Channing Tatum such a generational talent. Plus: plenty of love for the super-sized follow up, Magic Mike XXL.
A lot of the famous shots from this movie just wouldn’t work but I was happy to find this one.
Amy & Paul open up 2004’s decades-spanning romance The Notebook! They praise the effortless chemistry of Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams, learn how James Garner prepared (or didn’t prepare) for his role, and ask why we don’t see more pure romances like this. Plus: Did Gosling and McAdams really fall in love on set?
https://www.earwolf.com/episode/the-notebook/
This one was a combo of the original posters and is similar to the Blue Velvet graphic I did a few weeks back but it works.
Paul & Amy swerve into 2004’s Oscar-winning race-in-LA melodrama Crash! They take a close look at how the film’s attitudes on race and racism have aged, learn about the incident that happened to director Paul Haggis that inspired the film, and revisit the short-lived Crash TV series. Plus: Should Brokeback Mountain have won Best Picture instead?
