Philosophy In Film

Episode 105 - Back to the Future Great Scott! This week on Philosophy in Film, the gang travels back in time to 1985 with Robert Zemeckis' beloved sci-fi adventure classic, Back to the Future. When Marty McFly is accidentally sent back to 1955 in a time machine built by the eccentric Doc Brown, he quickly discovers that history is far easier to disrupt than repair. Craig kicks things off, generating 1.21 gigawatts of Producer's Notes (5:21), while Alain fires up the DeLorean for the Beauclair Synopsis (19:28). In Philosopher's Corner (37:42), Chris engages the flux capacitor to navigate the film's famously tangled family tree. The gang then convenes at the Round Table (51:05), where timelines intersect, paradoxes emerge, and nobody can quite agree on the rules. Reviews (1:26:33) and Mailbag (1:37:34) bring us safely back to the present, wrapping up the episode before the timeline can drift any further. As always, we explore the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the film, because where we're going, we don't need…roads. Come visit us at https://philosophyinfilm.ca/! 🍻 Featured Beer 🍻 - "Why Don't You Make Like A Tree And Get Outta Here" NZ Cascade Pale Ale⁠ by Backcountry Brewing (Squamish, BC)

The battle for Middle-earth rages on as Philosophy in Film journeys into The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. This episode delves into the shifting alliances, moral dilemmas, and heroic struggles that define the second chapter of Peter Jackson's legendary trilogy. Craig sounds the Horn of Helm's Deep with Producer's Notes (9:02), while Alain embarks on a perilous march through Synopsis Pass (19:35), charting the intertwined fates of Frodo, Aragorn, and the fractured Fellowship. Chris then lights the way in Philosopher's Corner (42:38), exploring Sam's rally of resilience, perseverance, and the fight for a better world. The Round Table (50:34) charges headfirst into the film's depiction of war, corruption, and perseverance, before Reviews (1:48:24) and #Mailbag (1:58:28) bring messages from the realm of listeners. As always, we discuss the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie—because when all hope seems lost, sometimes the smallest light can guide the way. TWO Featured Beers by Born Brewing Co. (Calgary, Alberta) 1 - Early Dawn Earl Grey Pale Ale 2 - Chasing Daylight Black IPA Sponsor this episode: Magic Mind - www.magicmind.com/pif20 Use CODE: PIF20 at checkout to receive 20% off any 1-time purchase, or 48% off your first subscription!

Embark on an epic journey with the gang as we delve into Peter Jackson's cinematic masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. With the fate of Middle-earth resting on a perilous quest, the crew unites to explore the deep lore, unforgettable characters, and weighty themes that set this legendary saga in motion. Taking his farthest step outside the Shire, Craig sets us on the path with Producer's Notes (7:16), Alain braves the mines of the Beauclair Synopsis (23:26), and Chris embarks on a quest to unravel the secrets in the Philosopher's Corner (57:36). The council gathers for the Round Table (1:06:13), as the gang breaks down the film's enduring magic while evading the dark powers that seek them. We take up arms to answer the call of Reviews (1:45:52), before delving too deep and greedily to open up the #Mailbag (1:54:36). Together, we embark on an adventure filled with friendship, courage, and the timeless fight against the forces of darkness. As always, we cast our gaze into the fires of Mount Doom, uncovering the philosophical and non-philosophical treasures forged within. Featured Beer: Weiss Lightnin' by Bent Stick Brewing Co. (Edmonton, Alberta) Sponsor this episode: Magic Mind - www.magicmind.com/pif20 Use CODE: PIF20 at checkout to receive 20% off any 1-time purchase, or 48% off your first subscription!

Episode 88: Alien: Romulus Shaking up the release schedule with Episode 88 of Philosophy in Film, the gang boards the hauntingly dark Alien: Romulus, the latest installment in the storied sci-fi horror franchise. Returning to the series' roots, this new chapter explores themes of survival, creation, and the horrifying unknown. Craig starts the countdown with Producer's Notes (6:54), setting the stage for Alain's Beauclair Synopsis (17:12), which pieces together the film's gripping narrative. Chris navigates the depths of terror and existential inquiry in Philosopher's Corner (43:35), while the Round Table Discussion (53:29) tackles the movie's tension, terror, and timeless reflections on humanity's fragility in the face of cosmic horror. The ship's log concludes with Reviews (1:37:01), breaking down the film's impact, and Mailbag (1:54:56), featuring your transmissions from deep space. As always, we delve into the philosophical and non-philosophical elements that made Alien: Romulus a spine-chilling voyage into the unknown. Featured Beer: Twenty Pounder Double IPA by Driftwood Brewery (Victoria, BC)

Episode 87: The Cabin in the Woods In Episode 87, the Philosophy in Film Podcast descends into the horror-comedy labyrinth of The Cabin in the Woods (2012), where slasher tropes and cosmic horror are delightfully turned inside out. Craig breaks out his sales tactics in Producer's Notes (8:34), setting the stage for Alain to deliver a chilling Beauclair Synopsis (21:08), diving into the intricate setup of five unsuspecting friends venturing into a remote cabin, only to discover they're players in a far darker game. Chris unpacks the metaphysical questions lurking beneath in Philosopher's Corner (42:58), dissecting themes of free will, ritual, and our culture's fascination with horror. The Round Table (50:47) sees the gang debate everything from the film's genre-blending to its critique of audience complicity, while the Reviews (1:23:41) segment uncovers their personal horror thresholds, wrapping up with #Mailbag (1:33:51). Join us as we open the basement door and explore all the philosophical and non-philosophical layers that The Cabin in the Woods brings to the horror genre. Featured Beer: Interlude Berliner Weisse by Cabin Brewing Company (Calgary, Alberta)

For the 85th episode of the Philosophy in Film Podcast, the gang ventures deep into the sands of Arrakis with Denis Villeneuve's highly anticipated "Dune: Part 2." This sci-fi epic continues the journey of Paul Atreides as he unites with Chani and the Fremen to fight against the oppressive forces threatening their world. As the spice must flow, so must our philosophical musings! Craig navigates through Producer's Notes (7:46), while Alain offers his detailed Beauclair Synopsis (13:19). Chris delves into the depths of philosophical inquiry in Philosopher's Corner (30:05), exploring themes of destiny, power, and ecological stewardship. Our Round Table Discussion (43:22) ignites heated debates and diverse perspectives, while Reviews (1:11:55) reveal the gang's personal verdicts on this cinematic sandstorm. Finally, we delve into the #Mailbag (1:21:40), addressing listener questions and comments that add extra spice to the conversation. As always, we engage in a discussion of all the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie that captured our imaginations and stirred our thoughts. Featured Beer: Django Spiced White Beer by Ale Architect (Edmonton, Alberta)

Episode 83: Fight Club This week on Philosophy in Film, the gang grapples with the anarchic world of David Fincher's Fight Club. Starring Edward Norton, Brad Pitt, and Helena Bonham Carter, this cult classic delves into themes of consumerism, identity, and rebellion as it follows an insomniac office worker and a devil-may-care soap maker as they form an underground fight club that evolves into something much more. The chaos begins with Producer's Notes (6:22), where Craig sets the stage for an evening of mayhem. Alain then unpacks the narrative in the Beauclair Synopsis (18:27), laying the foundation for Chris to explore the film's deeper meanings in Philosopher's Corner (37:56). The Round Table (55:26) sees the gang in a heated debate over the film's interpretations, followed by a revealing session of Reviews (1:34:14), and ending with a bang as the gang blows open the Mailbag (1:40:04). As always, we discuss the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie, challenging you to rethink what you know about Fight Club (without breaking the first two rules). Featured Beer: Profit Märzen by Evil Corporation Brewing (Calgary, Alberta)

For this week's episode, the gang marvels at the magnificence of The Grand Budapest Hotel. With an all-star cast of both fresh and familiar faces, this charming Wes Anderson film stars Ralph Fiennes as the concierge of a first-class resort hotel in the 1930s. The story unfolds after the mysterious death of one of the patrons and M. Gustave (Fiennes) finds himself as the primary suspect in this splendid escapade. Once in the lobby, take a right and down the hall to find Craig waiting with Producer's Notes (8:31). Alain then shows us to the Beauclair Synopsis (17:19), with Chris preparing his finest course of memory and nostalgia in Philosopher's Corner (28:16). Round Table (38:34) brings with it all the amenities, with Reviews (1:17:14) and Mailbag (1:26:45) capping off the celebration. As always, we discuss the philosophical and non-philosophical aspects of the movie, and demonstrate to you why we think this is Wes Anderson's Grand BudaBEST movie! (thank you calebms7 for the pun) Featured Cocktail: Strathcona Shaft Martini (Edmonton, Alberta) 1oz Experimental Espresso Vodka 1oz Velvet Cream Splash of cold brew espresso Shaken with ice and strained into a martini glass From Strathcona Spirits: Over ice, add 1 oz of Experimental Espresso Vodka, Cold Brew, and stir. For added effect, slowly pour Velvet Cream over top, give a light swirl and enjoy!