The Searchers

Shogun's Shadow (1989) - Episode 121 w/ John Grace

Sat, 09 May 2026 15:39:37 -0400

Ben is once again joined by John Grace from the Midnight Movie Cowboys to review Shogun's Shadow (1989), starring Ken Ogata and Sonny Chiba. The Searchers love to dig into foreign cinema, especially Japan's, so it was a no brainer. So what started as a listener request turned into another collab on obscure (ish) cinema, which is what we do here as you already know. We touch upon the film's 2022 Blu-ray release thanks to Shout Factory (now on GRUV), who were generous enough to post a free copy on their YouTube page: Here, for which we are most grateful. In addition, we discuss Toei's reputation for selling rights to films in the west, Sonny Chiba's career, Hong Kong action films, Corey Yuen, Hideo Gosha, Bruce Lee, and a whole lot more tangential topics. Does this Sonny Chiba film hold up? Did a horse explode during the production of this movie? Will Ben's mic ever truly work properly? Well.. Listen and find out!

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MMC's website

John's Letterboxd

Anemone (2025) - Ep 120

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 19:36:04 -0400

We’ve covered our fair share of recent releases over the past few years, but 2025 has been selective—only Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning and John Candy: I Like Me have made the cut so far. So today, we return to another standout from last year. Starring Daniel Day-Lewis in his long-awaited return after seven years away from the screen, and directed by his son Ronan Day-Lewis in his debut, Anemone is a meditative exploration of prayer, pain, silence, and reconciliation. At its core, the film traces a fractured father-son relationship shaped by internal suffering, yet still reaching—however distantly—toward hope.

Joined by returning guest Tyler, we dive deep into the film’s layered influences and ideas: echoes of The Searchers, threads of Greek and Egyptian tragedy, shades of Andrei Tarkovsky, and the meta-text of a real-life father-son duo bringing this story to life. We also explore themes of paternal and fraternal order, the weight of legacy, and the quiet epiphany of fading archetypes. And yes… we ask the important question: does he drink our milkshake (again)?

Around the World in 80 Days (2004) - Ep 119

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 03:45:00 -0400

The Searchers are again joined by Mr. Nick Langdon to discuss a Around the World in 80 Days starring Jackie Chan. This entry in the ‘Misunderstood’ mini-arc was of course chosen by Mr. Kevin Chan.

In this Searchers episode, the group revisits this 2004 globe-trotting adventure to unpack its blend of steampunk (CGI) spectacle, Chan's Western style slapstick comedy, and Steve Cooganisms, and it is no surprise also martial arts flair. Is this loose adaptation of the classic story unfairly dismissed, or does it struggle to find its identity amid tonal chaos and star-powered cameos? Along the way, we dig into Chan’s Hollywood era, the film’s ambitious production, and whether its playful energy outweighs its narrative detours. Join us as we race against the clock, circle the world (literally with our 3 spread-out time zones), and decide if this often-overlooked blockbuster deserves a second look.

Please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. We luv yew baybee, as Jackie would say.

Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Driven (2001) - Episode 118

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 07:24:30 -0400

Alrighty, loyal listeners! After the high-seas chaos of Cabin Boy, we’re trading waves for wheels and hitting the scorching asphalt. This week, Ben, Chris, and Kevin dive into a high-octane F1 racing drama starring Sylvester Stallone as part of our new “Misunderstood” film series.

Directed by Renny Harlin and co-written by Stallone himself, this episode shifts into gear with conversations about race car culture, Stallone’s career highs and lows, and the cloud of negativity that’s followed this film since its release. But is that criticism justified—or has this movie been unfairly left in the dust? Is it a misfire, or an underrated gem worth revisiting? Buckle up and tune in to find out!

Next up is a similar type of film starring a pod favorite, and it's with a guest from down undahh!

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Cabin Boy (1994) - Episode 117

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 20:39:18 -0400

Not every movie is a masterpiece, and not every comedy plays by the rules—but can a film be gleefully stupid and strangely brilliant at the same time? Join the gang as we dive into the wild fantasy comedy Cabin Boy (1994), the polarizing oddball from Disney’s now-defunct Touchstone Pictures banner (with a little Tim Burton magic in the producer’s chair). Chris mistook it as conventional when picking this review—prepare for groans, laughs, debates, and plenty of gabbing about this bizarre misadventure. Arrogance gets a reality check, a pampered “fancy lad” gets humbled the hard way, and perhaps we all hopped aboard the wrong ship (stagecoach?) This may be a bumpy ride, so don't get seasick! Oh fancy boy, indeed…

Next up is a similar type of film starring Sly. Stay tuned.

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Fe-Biao-ary Part II: The Return of Billy Biao Biao! The Iceman Cometh (1989) and A Kid from Tibet (1991) - Episode 116

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 19:35:31 -0500

Kevin, Ben, and Chris return to the fun topic of Billy Biao Biao to discuss 1989's The Iceman Cometh and 1991's A Kid from Tibet. These are two vastly different films compared to most of Yuen Biao's filmography, figuratively and actually a departure from the Three Dragons' bread and butter. The Iceman Cometh is a pseudo-Highlander action film with time traveling warriors, and A Kid from Tibet is Yuen Biao's only directorial effort. Does Yuen Biao measure up to his brothers: international phenom Jackie Chan and Hong Kong legend Sammo Hung? Listen and find out!

Chanuary walked so Fe-Biao-ary could run. And don’t worry, when autumn hits, Hungtober awaits.

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"Fe-Biao-ary" Part I: Rosa (1986) and On the Run (1988) - Episode 115

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 19:50:32 -0500

This is it... the moment some of you Hong Kong cinema fans have all been manifesting. Welcome to "Fe-Biao-ary," now officially locked into your cinematic calendars. This episode is a double bill — or as we like to joke, a “Biao Biao” (we had to brush up on our Cantonese for that heavy hitting joke).

In episode 115, The Searchers are pairing Rosa with On the Run, two tonally opposite films united by one constant: Yuen Biao and his effortlessly compelling chemistry with his leading ladies. Rosa leans into lighter, more relaxed comedy territory with Biao's co-lead singer songwriter and actor Lowell Lo. On the Run swerves sharply into brooding, arthouse intensity — the 1988 cult classic from Alfred Cheung that absolutely refuses to pull its punches. Check both out on home video at 88films.

Chanuary walked so FeBiaoary could run. And don’t worry, when autumn hits Hungtober awaits.

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Note: Biao is pronounced "bew"

The Searchers' Top 50 Westerns - Episode 114 w/ Mitch Capps

Sat, 31 Jan 2026 21:54:06 -0500

Folks, we've returned to the great genre that inspired the show. Mitch Capps joins the three cinema cowboys on the trail in their journey to find the best films past and present. Enjoy as we wax poetic on all our favorite westerns.

Next month is "Fe-Biao-ary." Join us during our discussions of Little Brother Yuen Biao and why he's the most overlooked of the Three Dragons. We're covering four of his films in two back to back episodes. The first episode will cover Rosa and On The Run, both available on home video from 88films.

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Iskalawag: Ang Batas Ay Batas - Episode 113 w/ Odie Arbuckle

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 21:18:57 -0500

We are back with another entry in The Searchers catalog. Get ready for an episode that isn’t only oh so brand new, but covers a film that’s oh so rare! (It is literally our most obscure review ever.) One of our frequent guests, Odie Arbuckle, joins us again with quite the pick — a Filipino action film from 1997. Full of melodrama as is usual for Filipino cinema and action that breathes the essence of Hong Kong nitrocellulose. Hear us gab a lil’ about this film, a lil’ about Filipino cinema in general, and a lil’ about other films as we continue broadening our horizons! Join us! We don’t want to leave you alone as we bask in the sands of this new frontier!

Youtube link to the movie, HERE.

Remember to send us your mailbags at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com! Hope y’all enjoy this episode!

Next episode is back to our bread and butter--full western mode. We are excited for this one so stay tuned.

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Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Stranger Things: Series Finale - Episode 112

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 22:04:34 -0500

The Searchers cover the series finale of Strangers Things, discuss general thoughts on the entire season, and touch upon the entire series as a whole. Chris and Ben both were watching the show with their wives, so they said what the heck. Here's something we wouldn't typically do. Enjoy!

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Tokyo Sonata (2008) - Ep 111

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 19:59:53 -0500

For the first episode of 2026, Ben and Chris cover Kiyoshi Kurosawa's Tokyo Sonata.

A Christmas Carol (1984) - Episode 110

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 21:44:02 -0500

A very Merry Christmas to you all! We’ve reached the big day before the new year, and what better choice of a film to cover than Clive Donner’s A Christmas Carol from 1984? For this one, Kevin’s bringing on an old friend of his, Alan, to join us for the show. Through such subtlety in performance, cinematography, and the natural cadence of the screen translation of Charles Dickens’ beloved novella, we take you through the delivery of this single iteration out of a very many and tell you why it truly might be the cream of the crop. A miser’s journey to resurgence and renewal that’s only so fitting for the reason for the season.

So without further ado, join us, everyone, for a joyous occasion. Don’t you dare say, “Bah! Humbug!” Or else from under your feet, we’re pulling the rug!

Remember to send us your mailbags at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all!

Eastern Condors (1987) - ep 109

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 19:44:57 -0500

This week, Eastern Condors takes us back into familiar territory with an artist we never tire of revisiting: Sammo Hung. After covering Mr. Nice Guy and Encounters of the Spooky Kind earlier in 2025, we arrive at our fourth Sammo film on the show—but this time the laughs are traded for gunfire, jungle sweat, and brutal combat. A stark departure from kung fu comedy and supernatural hijinks, Eastern Condors finds the magnetic Hong Kong giant tackling a grim war-action epic, showcasing yet another facet of his remarkable versatility as both performer and filmmaker. Dirty, dangerous, and unrelentingly physical, this is Sammo operating in full men-on-a-mission mode. Joining us for the discussion is again Nick Langdon, helping us break down the film’s intensity, themes, and place within Sammo’s ever-expanding legacy. Is this the last time Sammo Hung marches onto the show? Not a chance. And stick around—next episode, we’re ringing in the season with A Christmas Carol starring George C Scott. Thanks, as always, for listening—and locking in.

John Candy: I Like Me (2025) - Episode 108

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 08:21:47 -0500

Alrighty, folks! Following our first John Candy feature, Only the Lonely — which we covered back in 2024 — The Searchers set off on a journey across the North American plains (well, Toronto) and into the warm, lasting memories of the beloved comedian and actor. This time, we’re diving into a heartfelt documentary about the cherished Canadian, directed by Colin Hanks.

From fan-favorite roles like Del Griffith to the iconic Uncle Buck, Candy is explored through a more intimate, reflective lens in this new film. What exactly made the John Candy an actor and comedian of such a distinct caliber? How did he manage to connect with us so deeply, even from the other side of a screen? And what does it mean to revisit the work of a performer from a bygone era? Tune in to find out!

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Trading Post V: Heroics in the Summer Heat - Episode 107

Sun, 23 Nov 2025 20:27:08 -0500

The Searchers' Trading Post is back! This edition is a whole lotta 80s since we gave each other Streets of Fire (1984) and The Legend of Billie Jean (1985). The Searchers explore each film’s rebellious spirit, its place in 80s pop culture, the amazing soundtracks, and the unforgettable characters that turned these summer movies into cult legends. Whether you’ve seen them a dozen times or need a reason to finally watch, this conversation delivers. Fair is fair!

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R-Point (2004) - Episode 106

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 22:11:44 -0500

Folks… did you think spooky season was over? It ain’t truly finished yet! Reaching into November now, the autumnal season has brought us to a little mash-up of Horror Adjacent™️ and Veterans Day graces. We’re covering our second South Korean film of the show. In the jungles of Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War, a Korean squad, led by Lieutenant Choi, heads into the mist and fog of a mysterious island to rescue a missing platoon. Will they get out alive? Somehow connecting the horror genre with the horrors of war itself, director Kong Su-chang brings us an interesting combination of artful and subtle scares with the injured psyches of soldiers aching to return home. Join Chris and Kevin as they delve into the mysterious jungles of warfare, silhouettes, and ghosts. Hear us out as we make our point for R-point!

Encounter of a Spooky Kind (1980) - Episode 105

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 03:00:00 -0400

The Searchers finish out October with Sammo Hung's inventive genre piece Encounter of a Spooky Kind. Nick Langdon joins the gang and helps discuss the ins and outs of this fantastic Horror Adjacent™ piece. Of course there are tangents into Hong Kong cinema, Jackie Chan, Michael Mann, and other random topics; however, we focus mainly on Sammo Hung yet again in NOT our last Sammo movie of 2025. Happy Spooky season to all the listeners! Cheers, mates.

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Thirst (2009) - Episode 104

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 07:44:11 -0400

Following Chris’s pick starring gentle giant Dolph Lundgren, we follow up with Kevin’s pick — a South Korean dark comedy and erotic horror film with Song Kang-ho as a priest who makes a radical decision out of selflessness. With plunges into Catholic humility and lustful sins, it’s a haphazard and treacherous road to find redemption, and really you’d think those concepts would float our boats, wouldn’t it? But as with the ways of the world, it’s not that simple. Join the three of us gabbing about this year’s second Horror Adjacent™️episode on the grand ol’ stagecoach, as its travails bring us over some challenging roads and into a holy man’s transformation into a vampire. A man of love for moral purity has become a vampire’s lust for blood. Be sure your soul hasn’t been corrupted, friends. We won’t be responsible!

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Dark Angel [AKA: I Come in Peace] (1990)- Episode 103

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 07:26:19 -0400

Is it Halloween, or is it Christmas? Maybe some it's both! Join Kevin and Chris discussing the show's first Dolph Lundgren film. Does he match the undeniable power of Arnie? Are his one-liner's just as good? Tune in and find out on The Searchers' first Horror Adjacent™ episode of 2025... thanks for listening!

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Kull the Conqueror (1997) - Episode 102

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 08:12:23 -0400

Apologies for the delay, it's been a hectic month.

Here is a recording from a couple months ago... Chris and Ben review 1997's Kull the Conqueror starring Kevin Sorbo. We'll be back with some Searcher's Horror-Adjacent™ content very soon. Thanks for listening.

Thanks to Nostalgic Covers for letting us use this kickass cover of the Joel Goldsmith score. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcmsil7uvk8

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Day of the Fight (2023) - Episode 101

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 15:01:52 -0400

Alright, everyone! Chris and Kevin are back, this time driving The Searchers' stagecoach from wondrous sepia tones and into the graces of beautiful black and white. A sweet film from 2023, bearing a subdued essence and yet proving itself to be such a permeating spear that’ll strike the hearts of those who see and hear. Veteran and iconic director John Huston’s very own grandson, Jack, has taken the reins behind the camera to present his directorial debut, Day of the Fight. Reminiscent of cinematic sports fare such as Stallone’s Rocky and Marty’s Raging Bull, this boxing drama expresses a unique insight into love, faith, romance, and redemption. Trust us… this isn’t the same ol’ thing all over again. So please join us and tune in for this absolutely special film that needs more recognition and more admiration! The underdog fighter vs. the heavy burden that is life. Pick yourselves back up and move forward with us, folks! Whatever you’re going through, never give up. We are rooting for you!

Lonely Heart [さびしんぼう, Sabishinbou] (aka Miss Lonely) (1985) - EPISODE 100!

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 20:23:43 -0400

The Searchers celebrate their centennial episode with honorary fourth Searcher Nick Langdon. The movie focuses on Hiroki, a young man plagued by loneliness and unrequited love. When a strange girl appears out of nowhere, he is torn between believing she’s real or a creation of his own psyche. Miss Lonely is one of Chris' favorite movies from director Nobuhiko Obayashi; however, to keep with tradition and the pod's mission, we picked this film since Kevin and Nick had both not seen it.

In addition to a review of the film, we look back on other various episodes and give shout out to some past guests. If you have been with us since the beginning, you are a real one. And to all of those who have found us in the interim, thanks for joining... What took you so long? From all of us at The Searchers, sincerely thank you! Here's to another hundred.

Coming up: we have two more September releases before we get to October!

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Chizuko's Younger Sister [ふたり, Futari] (1991) - Ep 99

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 11:37:02 -0400

In this episode, Ben and Chris dive deep into Nobuhiko Obayashi’s poignant 1991 drama Chizuko’s Younger Sister — a lesser-known gem that blends grief, coming-of-age, and the supernatural with the director’s signature dreamlike touch. We explore how the film captures the emotional aftermath of loss through the eyes of high schooler Mika, visited by the ghost of her older sister Chizuko. How does Obayashi navigate memory and identity? What sets this apart from other Japanese dramas of the era? And why does this film still resonate over three decades later? Join The Searchers as they unpack the film’s themes, its haunting visuals, and its place in Obayashi’s unique filmography.

For episode 100, we will be covering another Obayashi film with a returning guest. Who and what could they be?! Stay tuned for its release in mid September. As always, thanks for listening!

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Le Marginal [The Outsider] (1983) - Ep 98

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 23:29:00 -0400

The Searchers close out this arc on Jean-Paul Belmondo actioners with The Outsider from 1983, not to be confused with the Francis Ford Coppola film. Is this the famous Frenchman's Dirty Harry clone? Was he too old to do all his own stunts? Come listen to the latest episode and find out!

On the next episode, Chris and Ben cover another film from the great Obayashi.

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Ghost Rider 2 (2011) - Episode 97 w/ Joe Wilson

Sun, 03 Aug 2025 20:11:25 -0400

Folks, Chris and Kevin are once more at it again. The stagecoach on this wild cinematic trail takes listeners on a third detour back onto the “Non-Algorithmic Superhero Film” route, and this time it’s rather red like the last one, but a bit more fiery. The Searchers review Neveldine and Taylor’s Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance from 2011, with the one and only Nic Cage, sporting the leather jacket and riding a flaming motorcycle once again. Not only that, but we’ve got a returning guest, Joe Wilson, joining us! So folks, for one last (for now!) endeavor to introduce to you non-algorithmic comic book films, please watch your step and board the trusty stagecoach! Ride with us into sheer pandemonium and some gothic Catholicism. Heavenly glory awaits those who reject evil’s wiles! Find Joe on Letterboxd, HERE. Please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Animal (1977) - Episode 96

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 10:53:11 -0400

Hey all, we're back! All three Searchers return to Jean-Paul Belmondo action films this time reviewing Claude Zidi's Animal from 1977. JPB stars alongside American superstar Raquel Welch hence the American release title, "Stuntwoman." We discuss the film, more about Jean-Paul Belmondo's career, and many tangents on random things like Peter O'Toole's Oscar nominations.

Check Animal (1977) out on Tubi, HERE!

Up next, Kevin and Chris cover Ghost Rider 2 with a special guest.

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Daredevil (2003) Director's Cut - Episode 95

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 10:30:00 -0400

Chris and Kevin take a look at Daredevil (2003), specifically the Director’s Cut, directed by Mark Steven Johnson and starring Ben Affleck as the blind vigilante from Hell’s Kitchen. This episode explores a film often dismissed, but one that reveals more on a closer look — a story about pain, guilt, and perseverance. So hop on the Searcher's stage — we’re digging into the forgotten corner of early 2000s superhero cinema.

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Beijing Watermelon (1989) [北京的西瓜, Pekin no Suika] - Episode 94

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 01:02:00 -0400

Ben and Chris come back around to Japanese cinema with a review of Nobuhiko Obayashi's 1989 film, Beijing Watermelon. While made considering Japan's and China's complicated history and produced coincidentally with the events of Tiananmen Square in 1989, Obayashi bends the rules of cinema once again to make a beautiful and non-political film about community, personal responsibility, and balance. With apparent influence from the likes of both Capra and Ozu, The Searchers discuss the vital nature of the in-between moments and the meaning of "home," a word that may describe Obayashi's oeuvre to a T.

Vinegar Syndrome's partner label Kani released Beijing Watermelon in 2024, and it can be found on Blu-ray HERE.

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning (2025) - Episode 93 w/ Tyler

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Kevin and Ben are joined by Letterboxd reviewer extraordinaire and friend of the pod Tyler to discuss the new Tom Cruise movie in an effort to save cinema once again. In addition to reviewing MI 8: The Final Reckoning, we discuss the Mission Impossible series as a whole, storytelling with mythology, artificial intelligence as of 2025, the future of cinema, and more. Your mission, should you choose to accept, is to sit back, mow the grass, commute to your workplace, or whatever it is that you do when you listen to a new edition of The Searchers Film Podcast. Thanks for listening, as always.

Find Tyler on LB, HERE.

Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Hulk (2003) - Episode 92

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 20:18:08 -0400

In this episode, Chris and Kevin review Ang Lee’s Hulk, a bold and visually experimental take on the superhero genre. They explore the film’s unique split-screen techniques and its psychological focus on Bruce Banner’s inner conflict. Was this ambitious, art-house approach a stroke of genius, or did it miss the mark with comic book fans? Tune in as we unpack the film’s legacy, its flaws, and the moments of brilliance that continue to spark debate among comic book fans.

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That Man From Rio (1964) - Episode 91

Wed, 21 May 2025 04:58:00 -0400

In this episode, The Searchers dive into the 1964 French classic That Man from Rio, a film that blends action, comedy, and romance in the most improbable ways. Join us as we unpack Jean-Paul Belmondo’s irresistible charm as he embarks on a wild adventure through the streets of Rio de Janeiro. From stolen artifacts to high-flying stunts, this film has it all—and then some! But does its quirky blend of slapstick and suspense still hold up today? Tune in for a review that’s as fast-paced as Belmondo’s character himself, filled with surprises, laughs, and a little bit of nostalgia for the golden age of French action cinema.

This is the 1st of three episodes we'll be releasing focused on Jean-Paul Belmondo action films. If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Buffalo '66 (1998) - Ep 90

Thu, 15 May 2025 13:04:17 -0400

Chris and Kevin take a detour this week into the icy grip of a Buffalo winter with Buffalo '66. Written, directed by, and starring Vincent Gallo, the film also features standout performances from Christina Ricci, Anjelica Huston, and Ben Gazzara. Gallo’s background as a painter, musician, and songwriter lends the film a unique, outsider sensibility—raw, personal, and unmistakably his. We’ll be back soon with a new episode. Thanks for listening.

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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The American Friend (1977) - Ep 89

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 16:18:49 -0400

Kevin, Chris, and Ben finish off the "philosophical hitman" series with Wim Wenders' The American Friend (1977).

The Searchers will return to you next time with an episode on a Vincent Gallo film before diving into their next 3 episode arc. Thanks for listening, and we'll catch you in May!

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Crying Freeman (1995) - Ep 88

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 19:48:35 -0400

The Searchers discuss the 2nd film in their philosophical hitman series, Crying Freeman starring Mark Dacascos. We discuss our thoughts on the film, the origins of the source material, and a few tangents are made. We'll be back soon with the 3rd and final entry, The American Friend. Enjoy!

Cinema Crusades III: Val Kilmer, Richard Norton, and more - Ep 87

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 16:45:19 -0400

For the first "Cinema Crusades" episode in two years, Chris and Ben discuss the recent deaths of Val Kilmer and Richard Norton. Of course, more movies are discussed as the pair pick apart their recent watches. As promised, Crying Freeman will be discussed on episode 88. Thanks for listening.

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Looper (2012) - Ep 86

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 18:21:40 -0400

The Searchers are back with another episode, this one starting off the next arc: "the philosophical hitman." Chris picked Looper starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Bruce Willis, directed by the now-infamous Rian Johnson. Does this movie hold up, or not? Listen and find out!

Next up will be a new Cinema Crusade episode followed by a review on Crying Freeman.

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple.

Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air. Follow us on Letterboxd.com if you'd like to see what we've recently watched and/or reviewed. Ben, Chris, & Kevin Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Shanghai Noon (2000) and Shanghai Knights (2003) - Ep 85

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 20:34:58 -0400

Okay, gang. Last episode on Jackie for a while! We discuss his two "Shanghai" films with costar Owen Wilson.

Next time we are back with an episode on a film from 2012 with Bruce Willis... wink wink.

First Strike (1996) and Mr. Nice Guy (1997) - Ep 84 w/ Nick Langdon

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 00:30:00 -0500

Two Jackie films made in Australia must be discussed with the Searchers' resident Aussie, so of course that means it's another episode with Nick Langdon. The discussion focuses on the subject films and their different cuts, Sammo's vs. Jackie's direction, why New Line Cinema is never to be trusted, and much more. This may be our longest episode in over two years; so get your favorite snacks, possibly an adult beverage, and join us for more Jackie Chan.

The road to episode 100 continues! Thank you for your continued support.

Find Nick on Letterboxd, HERE.

Crime Story (1993) - Ep 83

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 03:05:00 -0500

The Searchers are back with our second Jackie Chan movie in a row... this time it's Crime Story from 1993 where we see our star try something new with a more serious role and very serious film. Listen to us discuss it along some other films in Chan's repertoire. Next episode will cover two 1990s Jackie Chan films to round out this mini series on Jackie. See you next time!

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Police Story (1985) - Ep 82

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 17:10:23 -0500

We are starting something new for 2025 where we cover a group of movies revolving around one topic: an actor, a director, theme, a genre, or whatever else. Coincidentally, we picked Jackie Chan as our first topic which brings us back to one of the reasons Kevin and Ben started this thing in 2022: being big fans of JC. Chris "picked" this one since we've been giving him a hard time about it for over a year, and it just so happens that Kevin gifted him the Criterion Blu-ray set in December. Listen as we discuss the film, its ins and outs, modern action films, Jackie's (1980s) authenticity as a movie star, and a slew of other points. We'll be back soon with our second Chan installment of 2025. Enjoy!

Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Bronco Billy (1980) - Ep 81

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 20:36:17 -0500

The Searchers are all back to cover Clint Eastwood's 1980 film, Bronco Billy. Don't miss this one, folks!

Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Only the Lonely (1991) - Ep 80

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 08:44:48 -0500

Kevin and Chris cover Chris Columbus' 1991 film Only the Lonely starring John Candy, Maureen O'hara, Ally Sheedy, and Anthony Quinn.

Next episode will focus on Clint Eastwood, for the wondering listener(s)!

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Impossible Object (1973) [aka Story of a Love Story] - Ep 79

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 10:06:26 -0500

Chris is joined by Nick Langdon and Max (mushiminion) to discuss John Frankenheimer and his 1973 film Impossible Object. Don't miss this detailed deep dive into Frankenheimer... enjoy!

Follow Nick and Max on Letterboxd, HERE and HERE respectively.

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Let Him Rest in Piece (1985) [Tomo yo shizukani nemure, 友よ、静かに瞑れ] - Ep 78 w/ Odie Arbuckle

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 12:58:48 -0500

Ben is joined by frequent guest Odie Arbuckle to discuss Let Him Rest In Peace from director Yôichi Sai. Odie graciously spent hours reading the book the film is based off of in Japanese to help provide context to this episode. The discussion focuses on the similarities between Japanese and Westerns filmmaking, Okinawa, Japanese regional filmmaking, and the universal themes of the film. For the episode, Odie watched many films from the late Yôichi Sai—let him rest in peace!

Happy New Year to Odie in Japan, even though this is posting on New Year's Eve in America. Time zone shenanigans are fun. Cheers everyone! Here's to a blessed 2025 filled with more movie watching and all the other good things to come.

Follow Odie on LB, HERE.

Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Trading Places (1983) - Ep 77

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 14:27:08 -0500

Merry Christmas (and eventually Happy New Year's) from The Searchers. The three of us cover Trading Places starring Dan Aykroyd and Eddie Murphy from 1983, directed by the now less-than-favored John Landis. Because of the hectic time of year and recent personal developments, please forgive the "rougher" cut that must be released, otherwise we'd have missed the release before Christmas Day. We can't have that for all the loyal listeners. Enjoy!

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Joyeux Noël (2005) - Ep 76

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 12:34:53 -0500

To begin the Christmas season on The Searchers podcast, Kevin and Chris review the French film "Merry Christmas" aka Joyeux Noël from 2005 starring Diane Kruger, Guillaume Canet, and Daniel Brühl. We'll catch you for one more Christmas episode in 2024, and possibly a bonus episode--we'll see! Merry Christmas!

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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The Conversation (1974) - Ep 75

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 08:25:35 -0500

This week Kevin and Chris cover movie-directin', wine-makin' Francis Ford Coppola's The Conversation starring Gene Hackman. Happy Thanksgiving to our listeners and stay safe on the big travel days! Enjoy and we'll see you in December.

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Excalibur (1981) - Ep 74 w/ Bryant Tyler

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 00:01:00 -0500

Happy almost-Thanksgiving to all you lovely listeners out there. This week The Searchers cover John Boorman's Excalibur with guest and friend o' the pod Bryant Tyler. This film features the well-known Arthurian legend with a whole lot of meaningful symbology, which we'll get into and explain on the episode. It's a fun one, and thanks to Bryant for joining the gang to discuss another classic movie that audiences need to rediscover. We'll see you in December, y'all!

Bryant can be found on Letterboxd, HERE.

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Dark City (1998) - Ep 73

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 18:05:45 -0500

Searchers hosts Ben and Chris are again joined by regular Aussie guest Nick Langdon to discuss one of his favorite movies Dark City from director Alex Proyas. Several tangents about 90s neo-noir cinema, comic book films, and Australian filmmaking (and more) ensue, but it's a fun informative ride nonetheless. Thanks for joining us again, Nick!

Video discussed during show: Similarities between The Matrix and Dark City

***Check out Kevin Chan's video essay on Top Gun 2, HERE. ***

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Trading Post IV: Halloween 2024 - Ep 72

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 21:50:05 -0400

The Searchers' 2024 Halloween episode is here. Enjoy! (Timestamps included on your platform of choice)

Six movies covered: Theatre of Blood (1973), House of Wax (1953), The Frighteners (1996), The Friends of Eddie Coyle (1973), Abbot and Costello's Who Done It? (1942), Hannah and Her Sisters (1986)

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Night Cries (2015) - Ep 71 w/ director Andrew Cymek

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 21:18:10 -0400

Back with another one! The boys welcome Canadian and Indie filmmaker Andrew Cymek onto the show to discuss film making, his story, a large discussion on his passion project Night Cries (2015), behind the scenes stories with big names, and Batman in media. Join us on this one to hear from someone who's been working in the industry for decades. Thanks for joining us, Andrew!

Find Andrew on Instagram, HERE. Night Cries is on Tubi as of the posting of this episode, HERE.

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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My Neighbors the Yamadas (1999) - Ep 70

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 06:05:20 -0400

The Searchers cover My Neighbors the Yamadas from Studio Ghibli director Isao Takahata. The discussion delves into Japanese culture, Takahata's films, animation styles, Joe Hisaishi & Ghibli music, and more. Please enjoy this fun episode.

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Kelly's Heroes (1970) - Ep 69

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 05:06:00 -0400

What's up, babe? How you doin'? We're back with some extremely positive waves with this one. Our first Clint Eastwood movie; it's about damn time! Is Kelly's Heroes an all timer war picture or is it hippy revisionism? Listen and find out, only on The Searchers!

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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LeGrand (2024) - Ep 68 w/ guest Mitch Capps

Sat, 21 Sep 2024 12:50:09 -0400

Quick draw turnaround for this one, y'all! Ben is joined by friend of the pod Mitch Capps to discuss a brand new western as of yesterday: LeGrand. Hopefully the goal of being the first podcast to discuss and review the film was achieved. Plenty of western talk to go around, don't be a pecker-head and miss this one!

Watch LeGrand free on Youtube, HERE.

Find out more about Ben Christensen and his company Living Your Own Western, HERE.

Find Mitch on LB, HERE.

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Trading Post III: Michael Mann, Jackie Chan, Whiskey and Wine (and more...) - Ep 67

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 19:28:10 -0400

The Searchers are back with another Trading Post episode in which we cover 6 movies in under 2 and a half hours! FORT APACHE, FIREWORKS, THE CABLE GUY, COP LAND, GORGEOUS and THE LAST OF THE MOHICANS.

There's liquor, wine and beer around the campfire this time, so prepare yourself for a wild ride. Timestamps for each film provided for Apple and Podbean users.

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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DragonHeart (1996) - Ep 66

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 14:00:00 -0400

All three of us are back to review DragonHeart starring Dennis Quaid, David Thewlis, Pete Postlethwaite, Dina Meyer, Julie Christie, and Sean Connery as the voice of Draco. Chris picked this for his appreciation of Pete Postlethwaite so there's heavy discussion around his career. Also there is a shout out to a gracious listener from Letterboxd--thanks again and enjoy!

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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After Hours (1985) - Ep 65

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 16:13:44 -0400

The Searchers review Martin Scorsese's After Hours from 1985. Including the review, we ramble on about Marty and other topics like movie runtime (who could have brought this up?), Frankenheimer, and DeNiro.

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Magnum, P.I. Pilot, "Don't Eat the Snow in Hawaii" (1980) - Ep 64 w/ Brendan from Magnum10k

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 04:01:00 -0400

Put on your Hawaiian shirt and Tigers cap for this week's episode as Chris and Ben are joined by Brendan at Magnum10k to review the two-part pilot episode of Magnum, P.I., "Don't Eat the Snow in Hawaii." We also discuss the series in depth, Tom Selleck's memoir published in 2024, and Brendan's Instagram page dedicated to all things Magnum.

Check out Brendan's Magnum Instagram page, HERE, for more content related to the show. He also has plenty of cool merch for sale!

If you like what you heard, please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Walter Hill's Hard Times [aka 'The Streetfighter'] (1975) - Ep 63

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 04:04:00 -0400

Ben and Chris review Walter Hill's directorial debut from 1975, Hard Times, starring Charles Bronson, James Coburn, Jill Ireland, and Strother Martin. Hill's style, Bronson's performance, moral codes, and stoic masculinity are big topics of discussion.

Please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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The Castle (1997) - Ep 62

Sat, 20 Jul 2024 12:40:49 -0400

What up, mate? Ben and Chris are joined by regular guest host Nick Langdon to discuss the beloved Australian classic The Castle. The film didn't make waves in 1999 when it was released in the US, so that's why we must introduce this gem to our listeners. Over time it's become popular in its depiction of a typical Aussie Battler and still has cultural staying power down undahh. As always, Nick offers a wealth of knowledge regarding Australian cinema and culture. We also talk about Russell Crowe's early career, how Australian films differ from Hollywood's, and how important it is to be a strong parent. It's a vibe.

Check out this podcast episode, HERE, that features director Rob Sitch discussing the film and fatherhood.

Find Nick on LB, HERE.

Please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

A No-Hit No-Run Summer (2008) - Ep 61 w/ Odie Arbuckle

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 16:03:13 -0400

The Searchers are joined again by Odie Arbuckle to discuss a very obscure movie. This time, and kind of (by accident) in honor of Canada Day, it's a 2008 baseball movie from Quebec titled A No-Hit No-Run Summer. It's a sports heavy episode towards the end of the review, and some highlights are: The Montreal Expos, sports video games, and a guest appearance from Chris' daughter. Thanks to Odie for choosing our first sports movie and exposing us to something new. Enjoy.

Check out Odie Arbuckle on Letterboxd, HERE.

Please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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The Delta Force (1986) - Ep 60

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 12:17:53 -0400

Kevin and Ben review The Delta Force starring Chuck Norris and Lee Marvin. We finally read some 5 star reviews, just a few, as promised. Thank you for listening and taking the time to give us some lerv on Apple podcasts! Hope you enjoy the episode, and we'll see you next time with a guest!

You can find The Delta Force on Tubi and Amazon Prime, as of June 2024.

Please rate us a 5/5 on Apple, Spotify, or Podbean, and review us on Apple. Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We'll read both on air.

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Super Fuzz (1980) - Ep 59 w/ John Grace from the MMC

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 19:42:17 -0400

Happy Summer, y'all. Ben is again joined by guest John Grace from the Midnight Movie Cowboys (MMC) Podcast for a follow-up to episode 46. This time the focus is on the skinnier of the two in the Spencer and Hill duo; so listen for an in-depth review of Super Fuzz (aka Super Snooper) from 1980, which was a big hit on HBO in the early 80s. Other topics include Terence Hill's career, Sergio Corbucci's movies, Godzilla, and more. Somehow the pod favorite Jackie Chan also comes up. Heat up some beans, kick back, and enjoy!

Find the book We Call Him Terence Hill HERE.

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Millennium Actress (2001) - Ep 58

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 12:13:24 -0400

This time on The Searchers, Chris, Ben, and Kevin review 2001's Millennium Actress directed and written by Satoshi Kon. Chris joins late because being a father of a newborn baby is more important, Kevin says one of his comments three times for effect, and Ben brings up complaints (surprise!) about current pop culture. Another fun entry in the pod! Enjoy, fam.

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City Hunter (2024) - Ep 57

Fri, 31 May 2024 09:51:38 -0400

The Searchers review the recent City Hunter film released on Netflix. Of course, Jackie Chan and Wong Jing's 1993 movie featuring the same character comes up. So, you're welcome for basically two Jackie Chan episodes in a row. Enjoy.

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Wheels On Meals (1984) - Ep 56

Wed, 15 May 2024 05:46:28 -0400

Ben and Kevin are back with another episode of The Searchers podcast, and they're returning to the Jackie Chan well and finally covering a Jackie Chan movie. If you've been following the pod, you know these two love Jackie and his movies, especially the ones from the 80s. Wheels on Meals (1984) happens to be one of their favorites, so prepare yourself for a kick-ass episode on everything Jackie, Sammo Hung, and Yuen Biao. The Searchers settle which dub of the movie you should be watching first with a detailed look at the music tracks on each version. Kevin spills the beans with a first-time-told story about how he saw Sammo in real life. Also, two big announcements up front. Hope you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed making it.

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White Tie and Tails (1946) - Ep 55

Wed, 08 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Chris, Kevin, and Ben review White Tie and Tails (1946), a sleeper from Golden Age Hollywood starring Dan Duryea, Ella Raines, and William Bendix. Politely make like high society and enjoy those finer things in life... suit up and get back to listening to The Searchers!

Find a copy on YouTube, HERE.

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3000 Miles to Graceland (2001) - Ep 54

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 16:22:36 -0400

The Searchers review the 2001 action-comedy 3000 Miles to Graceland, starring Kurt Russell, Kevin Costner and Courtney Cox, which has been greatly maligned over the years. We're here to give it a second chance! Or are we? Listen and find out on episode 54!

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Elvis (1979) - Ep 53

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 19:43:50 -0400

The Searchers are back with another episode and this week it's Kevin's pick so he chose John Carpenter's Elvis (1979), which happens to be the pod's second trip into the director's more obscure works. Tune in as we discuss The King, John Carpenter, Kurt Russell's career, and more. Thank ya, thank ya very much.

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Jet Pilot (1957) - Ep 52

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 20:16:13 -0400

Chris and Ben are back with a review of Howard Hughes' Jet Pilot from 1957 starring John Wayne and Janet Leigh. Chris came close to watching this with a group he's part of on Letterboxd called The Collab during their selection of infamously bad productions, which included Arruza (1972), Lowlands (1954), Why is Yellow the Middle of the Rainbow? (1994). The Searchers talk about (briefly) early Cold War movies, Howard Hughes and his relationship with cinema, and how Jet Pilot is an extremely sensual film for 1949 and 1957. If you like bizarre classic cinema or learning about weird productions, tune in to this ep of The Searchers for a good time! Also, if you like John Wayne it's kind of a must.

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Late Spring (1949) - Ep 51 w/ guest Daniel Kieckhefer

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 12:31:18 -0400

Even though it's early spring time, The Searchers are watching and reviewing Late Spring (1949) this week, from iconic Japanese director Yosujiro Ozu. Friend and analytical-film mentor to Chris, Daniel Kieckhefer joins the podcast on Episode 51 to discuss Ozu's meditative and subtle nature and why he may or may not appeal to people who watch his films. Comparisons to other Japanese cinema, Alfred Hitchcock, and earlier Ozu works are abound.

Check out Daniel's own website The Cinematograph where you can find more of his writings on film, HERE.

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The Tall T (1957) - Ep 50

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 05:02:00 -0400

For their 50th episode The Searchers return to the genre that inspired the podcast's title and connected the three of them in the first place, The Western, with a review of the The Tall T (1957). Topics discussed during the review include The Ranown Cycle, Randolph Scott's career in the 1950s, A vs B westerns, Anthony Mann/James Stewart collaborations, and more. Cheers to another 50 episodes. Thanks for listening!

As of March 2024, find The Tall T on Tubi for free!

Tune into the next episode for a review of a Yasujiro Ozu film with another guest!

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The Terrorist (1995) [Teleoliseuteu, 테러리스트] - Ep 49 w/ guest Odie Arbuckle

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 12:01:00 -0500

This week The Searchers are back covering a classic Korean film. No, not from that Hollywood-glamorized (and overrated) director, Bong Joon-ho! Nothing from directors Park Chan-wook nor Na Hong-jin. Chris, Ben, and Kevin are joined by guest and mailbag-frequenter Odie Arbuckle to explore the dare-we-say classic Korean action film The Terrorist from 1995. Why does no one talk about 1990s Korean cinema? Listen and find out!

Watch the film, HERE, on YouTube (1080p), if you'd like to be in the know.

Check out Odie Arbuckle on Letterboxd, HERE.

Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. Thank you.

Please rate us a 5/5, and review us on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to us.

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Prince of the City (1981) - Ep 48 w/ Nick Langdon

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 13:00:08 -0500

Chris and Ben are joined by regular guest Nick Langdon to discuss Sidney Lumet's PRINCE OF THE CITY from 1981. Not our first Lumet outing, and not our first time talking Treat Williams. This episode was a long time coming, and we're happy to have Nick back as always.

PRINCE OF THE CITY TRAILER

Stay tuned for the next episode, which will feature a special guest whose never been on the show but whose name has been mentioned before!

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Love Massacre (1981) - Ep 47

Sun, 28 Jan 2024 13:14:41 -0500

Two Hong Kong films in a row (kind of)! Hey, y'all, The Searchers Podcast is back with another one... This week we review Patrick Tam's LOVE MASSACRE (1981). In addition to reviewing the film, the three of us discuss Tam in terms of his mentorship of Wong Kar-wai, Hong Kong and other "New Wave" film movements, colors in film, and more. Tune in!

To follow along, find the film on YouTube, HERE, as it's most likely the only cut available for audiences as of 2024. Thank you very much to the uploader "renkls" from LB for the upload. Find out more about it, HERE.

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Flatfoot in Hong Kong (1975) - Ep 46 w/ John Grace of the Midnight Movie Cowboys

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 00:02:00 -0500

This week's episode is continuing down the tracks on the Hong Kong cinema train, in a roundabout sort of way. Ben is joined by guest John Grace from the Midnight Movie Cowboys Podcast, who graciously provides his knowledge of Bud Spencer and Hong Kong Cinema for the Italian crime-action-comedy movie, Flatfoot in Hong Kong (aka Flatfoot Goes East) from 1975 that was largely set in Asia.

This film is the second in a series of movies Bud Spencer made in the 1970s based around Police Officer Rizzo. You can find it on YouTube, HERE.

Find John Grace on Letterboxd, HERE. And the Midnight Movie Cowboys, HERE.

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The Trailer Park Boys Christmas Special (2004) - Ep 45

Sat, 06 Jan 2024 13:52:34 -0500

Attention everyone, this is your Trailer Park supervisor speaking. Julian's Christmas contest scheme is no more! You will all have to give all your presents back to me so I can turn them into the authorities. If not, Barb has informed me that I won't be able to get drunk on Christmas Day. And there's no way that's going to happen!

Trading Post II: Christmas Edition - Ep 44

Sun, 24 Dec 2023 16:14:09 -0500

Merry Christmas from the Searchers! This week, we return to the trading post format and trade 3 Christmas films. Below are the films and the timestamps in case anyone wants to avoid spoilers.

Chris reviews Christmas in Connecticut (1945) - 00:00:00

Ben reviews Something from Tiffany's (2022) - 00:21:00

Kevin reviews White Christmas (1954) - 00:39:08

See you next year! (Hint: there may be a special episode before New Years for some greasy listeners!)

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How Do You Live? (2023) AKA The Boy and the Heron [Kimitachi wa Dō Ikiru ka, 君たちはどう生きるか] - Ep 43

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 15:38:20 -0500

This week on The Searchers, Kevin, Ben and Chris discuss the latest film from legendary director Hayao Miyazaki, How Do You Live? Unfortunately it was re-titled by GKids to "The Boy and the Heron," which the three of us agree was a dumb move by the distributor. We meditate over why Miyazaki chose this as his potential last film, and why it was something that pulled him from retirement. Historical trends, modern Japanese culture, personal reflection, the gorgeous animation, and the comparison to other animated works are thoughtfully discussed. Were we over-hyped? Or is this the best Studio Ghibli film of all time? Listen and find out.

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Double Impact (1991) - Ep 42

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 15:43:36 -0500

It's time to feel the impact with this review of Jean-Claude Van Damme's Double Impact. Ben introduces both Kevin and Chris to one of his favorite JCVD films from his 80s and 90s stardom. We get into the nitty gritty on the production, select scenes from the movie, the music, and everything Hong Kong. Enjoy the Muscles from Brussels? Well then this one is dedicated to you. How could two Van Dammes be wrong?

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John Frankenheimer: A Retrospective - Ep 41 w/ guests Nick Langdon and Max (MushiMinion)

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 11:22:08 -0500

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!!! We all have many things to be thankful for, but for today's episode The Searchers are extra thankful for director John Frankenheimer... well, because he lets us rant about movies for 90 minutes. Listen to guests Nick Langdon and Max join Chris in explaining to Ben their recent project in which they delved into the filmography of the prolific director. Movies discussed include: Grand Prix, Ronin, Black Sunday, The Train, The Challenge, The Gypsy Moths, The Horsemen, The Iceman Cometh, Seven Days in May, and more! All aboard the Thankenheimer train!

You can find Nick and Max both on Letterboxd, HERE and HERE.

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Mister Roberts (1955) - Ep 40

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 17:34:03 -0500

NOW HEAR THIS, NOW HEAR THIS… spooky season is now over… we’ve now sailed off in our rusty bucket in search of a new destination on which to drop anchor. This time (EPISODE 40!) returning to a breezy and sweet picture by the great John Ford, aka 1955's Mister Roberts starring Hank Fonda. Ford wasn't the only director due to production problems; however, he ended up crafting his Pacific-set perfection with Donovan's Reef a few years later, which we covered long ago on episode 14. Hold fast... and hear about the production problems and other interesting facts about the stage-play adaption, Chris' negativity, Kevin's "lowest" John Ford rating, and how Ensign is the best name you've ever heard, and more... only on this episode of The Searchers. Bottoms up, mate!

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Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Dead Heat (1988) - Ep 39

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 13:24:04 -0400

Happy Halloween week, y'all! To culminate our first Horror-Adjacent October, Ben, Chris & Kevin review Dead Heat (1988) starring Treat Williams and Joe Piscopo. The movie follows Roger Mortis, a police detective who is paired up with a new partner named Doug Bigelow. The two end up investigating a series of strange murders committed by criminals who seem to come back from the dead. As they dig deeper into the mystery, they learn of an evil scientist named Arthur P. Loudermilk (Vincent Price) who has discovered a secret to bringing the dead back to life and is creating an army of undead criminals. Is this an overrated cult film or a bona fide classic? Listen and find out! Knowmsayin?

We spend the last twenty minutes or so discussing other seasonal movies we've seen or plan to close out October with, including mentions of John Wayne, Bella Lugosi, Evil Dead 2, more Vincent Price, and The Exorcist III, among others. Don't miss out on the greasy Trailer Park Boys easter eggs either.

Until next time, when we cover Mister Roberts directed by one of the pod's fave directors, John Ford.

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Please rate us a 5/5, and review us on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to us. Reviews really do help!

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Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Wolf Guy (1975) - Ep 38

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 17:50:07 -0400

Our second episode for 2023 Halloween covers Sonny Chiba in Wolf Guy (1975), and it's Kevin's first Sonny Chiba movie!! Woah! We read two mailbags at the beginning of the episode which gets us into some western TV talk. Afterwards we get to the meat of the discussion with our thoughts on the Toei cult classic, a description given to Wolf Guy by Arrow Video. Topic timestamps for those who use Podbean are available. Thanks for listening.

Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. Thank you, Mitch and Odie!!

Please rate us a 5/5, and review us on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to us. Reviews really do help!

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Vampires (1998) - Ep 37

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 08:39:26 -0400

The gang is all back to talk about our first "horror adjacent" film of the 2023 Halloween season. This week it's John Carpenter's Vampires.

Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. Thank you!!

Please rate us a 5/5, and review us on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to us. Reviews really do help!

Follow us on Letterboxd.com if you'd like to see what we've recently watched and to read our individual movie reviews! Ben, Chris, & Kevin

Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Sherlock Hound (1984-1985) [Meitantei Hōmuzu, 名探偵ホームズ] - Ep 36

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 16:20:01 -0400

Ben and Chris talk about two episodes they watched from Sherlock Hound, an anime from the 1984-1985 season inspired by the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle character. The two episodes are "Little Martha's Big Mystery!?" (小さなマーサの大事件！？) and "The Air Battle Over Dover!" (ドーバー海峡の大空中戦！), both directed by none other than Hayao Miyazaki. Yes, we've touched on him before in a Cinema Crusades episode, but now Miya-san is the center of our attention. We kept this one short, you're welcome!

In October, we are covering Horror-adjacent films! The first will be John Carpenter's Vampires (1998). (Just no slashers, demonic possession, or body horror shit; we don't do those - Kevin and Ben)

Stay tuned for later in the year or early 2024 for our review of The Boy and the Heron, aka "How Do You Live?" (君たちはどう生きるか ).

Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. Thank you!!

Please rate us a 5/5, and review us on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to us. Reviews really do help!

Follow us on Letterboxd.com if you'd like to see what we've recently watched and to read our individual movie reviews! Ben, Chris, & Kevin

Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Rawhide (1951) - Ep 35

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 09:42:15 -0400

Christopher and Benjamin return to the well of westerns with their review of Rawhide directed by Henry Hathaway, who most fans of the genre will know as the director of True Grit (1969) among other notable collaborations with John Wayne. Hathaway also dabbled in film noir in the 1940s, so it's no surprise this B&W western was influenced by that directorial style. Rawhide includes maybe the best role of regular western heavy Jack Elam, and a stunning performance from tough and beautiful gal Susan Hayward... Tune in to hear about this lesser known classic western!

You can find Rawhide on YouTube, for free, HERE.

Furthermore, happy birthday to Chris!

If you like westerns, check out our past review of The Big Country (1958), HERE.

Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. We got a mailbag on this episode from LB friend Odie. Thank you!!

Please rate us a 5/5, and review us on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to us. Reviews really do help!

Follow us on Letterboxd.com if you'd like to see what we've recently watched and to read our individual movie reviews! Ben, Chris, & Kevin

Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Painted Faces (1988) - Ep 34

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 15:33:05 -0400

Summer break is over, and kids are going back to school. On this week's episode of The Searchers, we review Painted Faces which is about children going to a very different and difficult school in Hong Kong during the 1960s to train for Peking Opera. Those children included Jackie Chan, Sammo Hung, and Yuen Biao. After covering Jackie Chan on episode 2 of the podcast, we're excited to finally be making our way back to Hong Kong cinema with this one.

The first couple minutes is an interview clip of Sammo Hung talking about how he ended up at a Peking Opera school.

Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. Please rate us a 5/5, and review us on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to us. Thank you! If you did in the past month, we'll address on the next episode...

Follow us on Letterboxd.com if you'd like to see what we've recently watched and to read our individual movie reviews! Ben, Chris, & Kevin

Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One (2023) - Ep 33

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 18:01:00 -0400

It's already that time again.. another The Searchers episode out now! This time, Kevin and Ben discuss how Tom Cruise is trying to carry action cinema, heck, cinema in general, on his back alone in his Mission: Impossible series. Did Cruise & team succeed this time around with its 7th installment? Listen and find out.

There will be a couple weeks until the next episode is released, so enjoy this and the recently released Roadgames (1981) review with guest Nick Langdon. Be seein' you sometime in August.

Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. Please rate us a 5/5, and review us on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to us. Thank you!

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Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Intro Song from Lonely Islands on YT

Roadgames (1981) - Ep 32 w/ guest Nick Langdon

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 21:18:30 -0400

Let's get down to bizzo, shall we? This week The Searchers are joined by friend of the pod and fellow movie reviewer Nick Langdon to review the Australian film Roadgames from 1981. It stars Stacy Keach and Jamie-Lee Curtis and is directed by Richard Franklin. Tune in to be filled in to loads of information about Australian cinema since Mr. Langdon comes from down unda, mate. We had a great time discussing not only the film but Hitchcock references, Not Quite Hollywood: The Wild, Untold Story of Ozploitation!, Mad Max, and many more Aussie things. Don't worry, this one is sweet as.

Find Nick's LB profile HERE and his substack HERE.

Find WTM HERE, Eric's LB profile HERE, and Brett's LB profile HERE.

Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. Please rate us a 5/5, and review us on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to us. Thank you!

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Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Lillies of the Field (1963) - Ep 31 w/ guest Joe Wilson

Sun, 09 Jul 2023 15:56:06 -0400

We're back with another episode of The Searchers, and do we have a special ep for all you faithful listeners! Join us as we discuss the long forgotten, Academy-Award-winning (when that meant something) drama film from 1963 Lilies of the Field starring Sidney Poitier. This episode is even more special because we have friend o' the pod Joe Wilson guest spotting with Ben and Kevin. Joe is one of the writers who heads up 100 Movies Every Catholic Should See which is relevant to the film due to its religious themes, and because Joe picked it for us to watch of course. Listen to Joe, Kevin, and Ben discuss the film, other religious movies, Mel Gibson, The Oscars, and a lot more... right here on The Searchers.

Find Joe's website HERE. Follow Joe on Letterboxd HERE. Watch Lilies of the Field on Amazon Prime HERE.

Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. Please rate us a 5/5, and review us on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to us. Thank you!

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Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Certified Copy (2010) - Ep 30

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 14:54:33 -0400

The Searchers Podcast turns 30 (episodes total, that is) this week with our review of Certified Copy (2010). Certified Copy (Copie conforme) is a film written and directed by Abbas Kiarostami, and it is now available on Tubi, HERE. This film is our way of keeping the Italy topic going for one more episode! Set in Tuscany, the film focuses on a British writer (William Shimell) and a French antiques dealer (Juliette Binoche), whose relationship undergoes an odd transformation over the course of a day. We start off the episode with a short discussion about Chris' recent hobby, disc golf. There's also some discussion on the original Star Trek films, other recently seen films, Zoolander, and (of course) Trailer Park Boys. The review starts at the 13-min mark. Enjoy, everyone!

Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. Please rate us a 5/5, and review us on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to us. Thank you!

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Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Broken Lullaby (1932) - Ep 29

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 02:30:00 -0400

All three of The Searchers reunite after quite some time to cover Kevin's pick: Broken Lullaby (1932) directed by Ernst Lubitsch. This pre-Code drama stars Lionel Barrymore, Nancy Carroll, and Phillips Holmes. We talk about the "Lubitsch Touch" among other things, such as Chris listening to silent films with Phil Collins as his own personal film soundtrack... Can someone mailbag in and inform Ben and Kevin why Chris is the way he is?! Enjoy, everyone!

We'll cover that Abbas Kiarostami film next time, gang!

Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. Please rate us a 5/5, and review us on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen to us. Thank you!

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Medieval Brugh Down! - Ep 28

Wed, 31 May 2023 00:05:00 -0400

Hey gang, it's Hump Day again! This week we're going old school back to Medieval Times and the Golden Age of Hollywood with our review(s). We're covering three movies on this episode of the Searchers. Ivanhoe (1952), Knights of the Round Table (1953), and The Adventures of Quentin Durward (1955) make up the unofficial trilogy by director Richard Thorpe and actor Robert Taylor. Listen to Chris and Ben discuss these three movies, South Park jokes, other Arthurian inspired movies, and more on Medieval Brugh Down! See ya in June!

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Our episode catalogue: https://searchersfilmpodcast.podbean.com/

Execution Squad (1972) - Ep 27

Wed, 17 May 2023 01:05:00 -0400

This week on The Searchers, Chris and Ben delve into the Eurocrime genre, aka Poliziotteschi, and review Execution Squad (La polizia ringrazia). Please enjoy, everyone.

ANNOUNCEMENT: Next time we are covering three movies directed by Richard Thorpe and starring Robert Taylor! Go find 'em!

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Trading Post I - Ep 26

Wed, 03 May 2023 02:01:00 -0400

Greetings, all... it is hump day yet again. Today, you've arrived and reached The Searchers' Trading Post, where we offer you goods at a bargain price: 6 movie reviews in 70 minutes. The three of us have traded amongst ourselves to give some popular films and hot commodities a very brief moment in the sun, if you will. This series of episodes we will do every so often to give ourselves a bit more leeway with our review picks and provide you listeners with a lot of content (in brevity). The basic idea is to give each respective host a movie to watch and review in about 10 minutes.

The movies in this edition of Trading Post are as follows (with timestamps):

00:00:30 - Breaking Away (1979), directed by Peter Yates and starring Dennis Christopher, Dennis Quaid, Daniel Stern & Jackie Earle Haley

00:14:45 -Tampopo (1985), directed by Juzo Itami and starring Tsutomu Yamazaki, Nobuko Miyamoto, Kōji Yakusho, & Ken Watanabe

00:24:01 - Grand Prix (1966), directed by John Frankenheimer and starring James Garner, Eva Marie Saint, Yves Montand, Toshiro Mifune, & Antonio Sabàto

00:35:36 - Still Walking (2008), directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda and starring Hiroshi Abe, Yui Natsukawa, You, Shohei Tanaka, Kirin Kiki & Yoshio Harada

00:46:31 - Love Affair (1939), directed by Leo McCarey and starring Irene Dunne & Charles Boyer

00:59:24 - Broadcast News (1987), directed by James L. Brooks and starring William Hurt, Albert Brooks & Holly Hunter

01:11:31 Ratings

We hope you enjoy!

----more----

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The Lover (1992) - Ep 25

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 01:00:00 -0400

Remember, everyone: our release schedule is every two weeks now. On this one, Ben and Chris review The Lover from 1992, which was fairly controversial for the time. Now, probably not so much. Chris asks Ben about sexual content depicted in movies, and it gets... "heated." Even though the film is an erotic romance/drama set in the Far East, somehow we still end up discussing a bit of the new John Wick and Chris' coworker eating Kangaroo. C'est la Vie!

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Henenlotter Hijinks: Three in One & A Searcher goes to Strand Theater - Ep 24

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 18:32:00 -0400

Chris and Ben review Basketcase (1982) and Brain Damage (1988) from director Frank Henenlotter because Chris went to Strand Theater in Seymour, CT to see Frankenhooker (1990).

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Scorpio (1973) - Ep 23

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 18:32:00 -0400

Chris and Ben review Scorpio from 1973 starring Burt Lancaster, Alain Delon, and Paul Scofield.

Submit your mailbags to us at thesearcherspodcast@gmail.com. Please rate us a 5/5, and review us on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen to us. Thank you!

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Steve McQueen Me, Baby - Le Mans! - Ep 22

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 17:23:23 -0400

For the first time in 2023, The Searchers are releasing on a Friday. "Why?" you may ask. Well, today is Steve McQueen's 93rd birthday. If you like speed, jazz, auteur talk, racing, or having a good time, then this episode's for you. Listen to Chris and Ben review and discuss McQueen's racing magnum opus: Le Mans (1971); we also review the 2015 documentary about the birthday boy: Steve McQueen: The Man and Le Mans. And stick around til the end to listen to Ben's dad talk about his little stint as a race car driver. Buckle up and prepare to be Steve McQueen'd!

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