Mayhem - Face/Off (1997)

Mayhem - Face/Off (1997)

From Death Don't Do Fiction by The AIPT Movies podcast

May 25, 2026 · 1h 22m · Episode 125

About this episode

The episode discusses the action-drama classic Face/Off, exploring its themes, memorable moments, and cinematic techniques.

Welcome to another episode of Death Don’t Do Fiction, the AIPT Movies podcast! The podcast about the enduring legacy of our favorite movies! It’s May, which means it’s time for the AIPT Movies podcast’s “Mayhem” series! Where we cover movies that kick ass in the literal sense! In this week’s episode, Alex, Tim, and guest Tony Sedani discuss John Woo’s 1997 maximalist action-drama classic, Face/Off! Healing lasers! A face floating in medical grade goo! An evil-looking mustache! Troubling goth makeup! Danny Masterson getting beat up for being a creep! A heart attack-inducing evil stare! Chekhov's butterfly knife! Snazzy suits and golden guns! Reused props from the 1993 Super Mario Bros. movie! Castor Troy's box of fun! Child endangerment! Awkward use of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow!" Efficient establishment of a bitter rivalry! Lengthy explanations of illogical pseudo science! Copious melodrama! Possibly the least subtle use of mirrors you’ve ever seen! Random sci-fi elements! Highly quotable lines! Bold parenting strategies! Hand waterfalls! Multiple amazing action set-pieces including an opening sequence that lesser movies would save for the finale! Environmental destruction…

People in this episode

Hosts: Alex, Tim

Guest: Tony Sedani

Topics covered

  • action movies
  • film reviews
  • cinematic techniques
  • 1990s cinema
  • John Woo
  • Face/Off analysis

Keywords

  • Face/Off
  • John Woo
  • Nicolas Cage
  • action movies
  • 1997 film
  • film analysis
  • cinematic techniques
  • melodrama
  • action set-pieces

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: AIPT Movies, John Woo

Books & works: Face/Off, Super Mario Bros.

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