Review It Yourself

Conspiracies, cinema, and political paranoia collide in Oliver Stone’s controversial JFK epic.In this second part of our deep dive into Oliver Stone’s landmark political thriller JFK (1991) – Director’s Cut, hosts Sean and Sarah continue their conversation with returning guest Fraser McCallum. The discussion moves beyond the basics of the film and into the deeper cultural and cinematic impact of one of the most debated movies ever made.Fraser returns to the show to talk about a film he considers one of his favourite movies of all time, exploring why JFK continues to provoke debate decades after its release.Together, the panel examine how Stone’s film blends investigative drama, political commentary, and conspiracy thriller storytelling to recreate Jim Garrison’s controversial investigation into the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The conversation looks at how the film presents competing perspectives and contradictory narratives, reflecting the complexity surrounding the historical event itself.Part Two of the discussion expands into wider themes about political corruption on-screen, the evolution of Hollywood filmmaking, and the changing landscape of serious adult drama. The hosts and Fraser explore how films like JFK once occupied a major place in mainstream cinema and why similar ambitious political films are rarer today.The episode also explores how the film’s legacy extends beyond entertainment, shaping how audiences think about political conspiracies, historical truth, and the power of cinema to influence public debate.In this episode we discuss:Why JFK: Director’s Cut remains one of the most controversial political films ever madeOliver Stone’s filmmaking style and narrative structureKevin Costner’s portrayal of Jim Garrison and the film’s star-studded castThe influence of JFK on conspiracy culture and political storytellingHow the film blends fact, speculation and cinematic storytellingThe decline of large-scale political dramas in modern HollywoodWhy films like JFK still shape how audiences understand historyIf you’re fascinated by political thrillers, film history, or the enduring mystery surrounding the Kennedy assassination, this episode is an essential listen.About Our Guest – Fraser McCallumFraser McCallum is a returning guest on Review It Yourself, works for the Imperial War Museum and is the author of 'Cold War Britain: Fifty years in the Shadow of the Bomb'. His deep knowledge of the Kennedy assassination and the cultural impact of Oliver Stone’s film brings a unique perspective to this discussion.Instagram: fraser_mcca11umThreads: @fraser_mcca11umFind His Book at IWM Bookshop: https://shop.iwm.org.uk/products/cold-war-britain-fifty-years-in-the-shadow-of-the-bomb?_pos=2&_sid=4d048dfe1&_ss=rFollow & Contact Review It YourselfStay connected with Review It Yourself and join the conversation about films, TV and pop culture.Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter:https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky:https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads:https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email:reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comSupport the PodcastIf you enjoy Review It Yourself, here are a few ways you can help support the show:⭐ Subscribe on your favourite podcast platform⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help more listeners discover the show⭐ Share this episode with friends who love film discussions and deep dives⭐ Follow us on social media and join the conversationYour support helps the podcast keep producing thoughtful and entertaining film discussions.🎙️ Review It Yourself – Film Reviews Without the Faff.

A conspiracy, a courtroom, and one film that changed political cinema forever.What happens when one of the most controversial political films ever made is given the full Director’s Cut treatment? In this episode of Review It Yourself, Sean and Sarah are joined by returning guest Fraser McCallum to explore the sprawling, provocative and endlessly debated film JFK (1991) – Director’s Cut.Part One finds Fraser returning to the podcast to discuss what he considers one of his favourite films of all time, and the conversation quickly moves beyond a simple review. Together Sean, Sarah and Fraser l dive deep into the filmmaking craft, historical context and cultural impact of Oliver Stone’s controversial political epic.The discussion explores how the film blends historical fact, speculation and cinematic storytelling to present the investigation led by New Orleans District Attorney Jim Garrison into the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. While some critics argue the film plays fast and loose with history, Fraser argues its true power lies in its ability to spark curiosity, debate and deeper research.Along the way the team unpack the film’s extraordinary ensemble cast, the remarkable editing and sound design, and the narrative structure that turns the story into something between a detective mystery and a courtroom drama. The conversation also reflects on how the film influenced public discourse around government transparency and historical truth in the years after its release.Expect a lively conversation covering:Why JFK: Director’s Cut remains one of the most debated films in political cinemaKevin Costner’s performance as Jim Garrison and the film’s incredible castThe detective-story structure that evolves into a powerful courtroom climaxThe blurred lines between history, conspiracy and storytellingHow the film helped fuel renewed public interest in the Kennedy assassinationWhether artistic storytelling can still reveal deeper truths about historyWhether you love political thrillers, historical films or big cinematic swings, this episode explores why JFK remains a landmark film more than three decades later.About Our Guest – Fraser McCallumFraser McCallum is a returning guest on Review It Yourself, works for the Imperial War Museum and is the author of 'Cold War Britain: Fifty years in the Shadow of the Bomb'. His deep knowledge of the Kennedy assassination and the cultural impact of Oliver Stone’s film brings a unique perspective to this discussion.Instagram: fraser_mcca11umThreads: @fraser_mcca11umFind His Book at IWM Bookshop: https://shop.iwm.org.uk/products/cold-war-britain-fifty-years-in-the-shadow-of-the-bomb?_pos=2&_sid=4d048dfe1&_ss=rListen to More from Review It YourselfIf you enjoyed this episode, make sure you subscribe to Review It Yourself, the podcast where we dive deep into films, TV, books and pop culture — sometimes with guests, always with strong opinions.Follow the podcast here:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comSupport the PodcastIf you enjoy Review It Yourself, please consider supporting the show:Subscribe on your favourite podcast platformLeave a review on Apple Podcasts – it really helps new listeners discover the showShare the episode with friends who love film discussions and deep divesFollow us on social media and join the conversationYour support helps the podcast continue bringing thoughtful, entertaining and sometimes controversial discussions about the films and stories that shape culture.

Why Raiders of the Lost Ark Still Defines the Perfect Adventure MovieIn this episode of Review It Yourself, we dig into one of the most iconic adventure films ever made: Raiders of the Lost Ark. Joining the show is Ryan Walker, host of The Walk The Line Podcast, for a lively and often hilarious discussion about the film that launched the legendary archaeologist Indiana Jones into pop-culture history.Together we explore why this classic directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Harrison Ford continues to influence modern cinema decades after its release. From unforgettable set pieces and practical effects to the film’s pacing, villains, and iconic moments, this episode breaks down what makes Raiders such an enduring favourite.But it wouldn’t be Review It Yourself without a few disagreements. While many fans consider Raiders the pinnacle of the original Indiana Jones trilogy, the conversation dives into whether it truly stands above entries like Temple of Doom or The Last Crusade.Along the way, we also talk about nostalgia, blockbuster storytelling, and the changing nature of heroes in modern movies.Expect passionate opinions, film geek deep dives, and plenty of laughs as we revisit one of the greatest adventure films ever made.What We Discuss In This EpisodeWhy Raiders of the Lost Ark is considered a masterpiece of adventure filmmakingThe legacy of Indiana Jones and why the character still resonates todayMemorable scenes, villains, and practical effects that defined the filmHow blockbuster storytelling has evolved since the early 1980sWhether the original Indiana Jones trilogy still holds up todayWhy practical effects often feel more impactful than modern CGIGuest: Ryan Walker – Walk The Line PodcastThis episode features Ryan Walker, host of the Walk The Line Podcast, where he explores stories, culture, and engaging conversations with a unique perspective.Follow and listen to Ryan here:Podcast: The Walk The Line PodcastSearch The Walk The Line Podcast on your favourite podcast platform.About Review It YourselfReview It Yourself is the podcast where we break down films, TV, and pop culture with honest opinions, humour, and a fresh perspective. If you enjoy deep dives into classic movies, debates about beloved franchises, and thoughtful discussion about storytelling, this is the show for you.Follow Review It YourselfStay connected and join the conversation:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021📧 Email the show: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comSupport the PodcastIf you enjoy Review It Yourself, here are a few ways you can help support the show:Follow or subscribe on your favourite podcast platformLeave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyShare the episode with a friend who loves moviesEngage on social media and join the discussionYour support helps more people discover the podcast and keeps the conversations going.🎧 Listen now and decide for yourself: Is Raiders of the Lost Ark truly the greatest Indiana Jones adventure, or does another film in the series deserve the crown?

Ventriloquism, noir shadows, and murder mystery collide spectacularly.In this episode of Review It Yourself – film reviews without the faff, we step into the strange, stylish world of The Dummy Detective, a bold independent film blending classic film noir with the art of ventriloquism.Joining us are:Jonathan Geffner – Writer, producer and star, plays Detective Van Trillo, and his wooden-partner Suede.Ed Altman – Portraying enigmatic radio presenter Elliot BlackDeb Twiss – Bringing Femme Fatale Chloe Lake to lifeThis is a deep-dive conversation into independent filmmaking, character psychology, creative persistence, and the fine line between illusion and reality.Inside The Dummy Detective (2025)The Dummy Detective is no ordinary murder mystery. Fusing noir atmosphere with ventriloquism, the film introduces audiences to the unforgettable Van Trillo and Suede characters — creations that Jonathan Geffner developed decades ago before finally bringing them to the screen.Jonathan discusses:The 30-year journey of developing the charactersWriting and producing an independent featureThe challenges of self-financing and independent promotionBalancing humour and darkness in a noir-inspired storyEd Altman shares the unique acting challenge of portraying a ventriloquist entangled in a murder mystery — exploring themes of loneliness, dual identity, and perception.Deb Twiss reflects on playing a modern femme fatale, the strength of the script, and how layered writing allowed her to fully inhabit Chloe Lake.Together, we explore:The collaborative atmosphere on setShooting on a tight scheduleBlending classic noir influences with contemporary indie filmmakingAudience reactions and the film’s receptionWhy ambiguity is central to the story’s powerIf you’re searching for discussions on independent film, noir cinema, ventriloquism in film, murder mystery movies, indie filmmaking challenges, or actor interviews, this episode delivers.Where to WatchThe Dummy Detective (2025) is available on major streaming platforms including Amazon Prime and Tubi.Support independent cinema and experience this unique noir experiment for yourself.Connect with the GuestsJonathan GeffnerWriter, Producer & Actor – Detective Van TrilloFollow his work and updates related to The Dummy Detective via official film channels and streaming platforms.Ed AltmanActor – Elliot BlackFor professional updates and appearances, search Ed Altman via official film listings and casting platforms.Deb TwissActress – Chloe LakeFor career updates, film appearances and future projects, follow Deb Twiss through official industry listings and social media.Follow & Contact Review It YourselfWe’re a proudly independent podcast spotlighting film and television — from blockbusters to hidden indie gems.📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021🐦 X / Twitter:https://twitter.com/YourselfReview🦋 BlueSky:https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.social🧵 Threads:https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021📧 Email:reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comHave a film to recommend? Want to appear on the show? Get in touch.Support the PodcastIf you enjoy in-depth film discussions and independent creator interviews:Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listenLeave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts (huge for rankings)Share this episode on social mediaRecommend Review It Yourself to fellow film loversYour support helps independent podcasts thrive.If you love noir, character-driven mysteries, and candid conversations about the realities of indie filmmaking, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.Press play, explore the mystery, and as always… Review It Yourself.

What happens when space exploration meets human emotion? Discover the Deep Impact effect.Deep Impact Review — A Thoughtful Dive into Humanity and the Cosmos:In this episode of Review It Yourself, we unpack the 1998 sci-fi drama Deep Impact, exploring how this disaster movie combines thrilling spectacle with emotional storytelling. More than just comets and chaos, Deep Impact asks profound questions about leadership, sacrifice, and the meaning of survival.Listeners will gain exclusive insights into what makes Deep Impact stand out from other end-of-the-world films — from its grounded realism to its compassionate portrayal of humanity under pressure. Whether you’re a film buff, a sci-fi fan, or love character-driven stories, this one’s for you.Key TakeawaysHow Deep Impact redefined the 90s disaster movie genreThe emotional core and moral dilemmas faced by its charactersBehind-the-scenes details that add depth to the film’s impactWhy its ending still resonates decades laterGuest DetailsJust the classic combo of Sean and Sarah.Follow & Contact Review It YourselfStay connected with Review It Yourself for more intelligent reviews, interviews, and deep dives into books and films:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comFor guest enquiries, collaborations, or listener feedback, email directly — the show welcomes thoughtful discussion and future topic suggestions.Why You Should ListenThis isn’t just another movie review — it’s a smart, heartfelt exploration of how cinema mirrors our fears, hopes, and humanity. Tune in and rediscover why Deep Impact remains one of the most underrated sci-fi dramas of its time.

Inside the mind of a Nazi—and the psychiatrist who studied him.In this powerful episode of Review It Yourself, Sean sits down with acclaimed author and journalist Jack El-Hai to discuss his gripping and deeply researched book, The Nazi and the Psychiatrist.This is not just another Second World War/World War II book review. It’s a psychological investigation into evil, power, ego, and moral reckoning at the aftermath of history’s darkest chapter.A Psychological Duel at NurembergIn The Nazi and the Psychiatrist, Jack El-Hai explores the extraordinary relationship between Hermann Goering, the highest-ranking Nazi captured alive, and Douglas M. Kelley, the U.S. Army psychiatrist tasked with evaluating him during the Nuremberg Trials.During our conversation, we unpack:How Kelley psychologically assessed leading Nazi defendantsWhy Goering fascinated and manipulated those around himThe concept of the “banality of evil” in practiceThe absence of a single psychiatric diagnosis to explain atrocityThe moral and professional toll the Nuremberg experience took on KelleyWhy these questions still resonate todayJack reveals how Kelley’s pioneering psychological work challenged simplistic narratives about madness and evil — and how America struggled to process the uncomfortable conclusions.Why The Nazi and the Psychiatrist Matters NowWith the upcoming 2025 film Nuremberg renewing interest in this story, El-Hai’s book has never been more relevant.In a world still grappling with extremism, ideology, and the psychology of power, this episode asks:Are monsters born—or made?Can ordinary individuals commit extraordinary evil?What responsibility does psychology bear in interpreting history?About Our Guest: Jack El-HaiJack El-Hai is an award-winning author and journalist specialising in narrative non-fiction, medical history, crime, and ethics.📘 Featured BookThe Nazi and the Psychiatrist: Hermann Goering, Dr. Douglas M. Kelley, and a Fatal Meeting of MindsOriginally published in 2013, the book examines the psychological chess match between Goering and Kelley — and its tragic aftermath.🔎 Learn More & Connect🌐 Website: https://www.jackelhai.com🐦 Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/jackelhaiJack also discusses his ongoing commitment to telling stories rooted in justice, ethics, and the darker corners of history.If you’re interested in World War II history, the Nuremberg Trials, forensic psychology, or the moral complexity of historical biography, this book is essential reading.Why You Should Listen to This EpisodeThis episode of Review It Yourself delivers:A thoughtful, in-depth author interviewInsight into the psychology of Nazi leadershipHistorical analysis grounded in primary researchA discussion on how history is interpreted — and misinterpretedReflection on how the past informs our presentPerfect for listeners interested in:World War II historyHolocaust studiesNuremberg TrialsPsychology and ethicsHistorical biographiesFollow, Contact & Support Review It YourselfIf you value independent, honest book and film reviews without corporate spin:🎙️ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and all major platforms⭐ Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts — it helps more than you know📧 Email the show: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.com📲 Follow Review It Yourself on your favourite social media platformFind us here: Instagram: reviewityourselfpodcast2021Twitter/X: @YourselfReviewThreads: reviewityourselfpodcast2021BlueSky: @reviewityourself.bsky.social‬Support the PodcastReview It Yourself is proudly independent.You can support the show by:🔁 Sharing this episode with fellow film, history and psychology enthusiasts📝 Leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyYour support keeps independent podcasting alive.Listen now to this compelling discussion with Jack El-Hai — and decide for yourself what The Nazi and the Psychiatrist reveals about evil, responsibility, and the human condition.

Violence escalates, loyalties fracture, justice turns brutally personal.In Part Two of their deep dive into The Untouchables, Sean and co-host Sarah break down the explosive second half of Brian De Palma’s Prohibition-era crime classic. If Part One explored myth-making and morality, this episode tackles consequence, sacrifice, and the film’s unforgettable climax.From the emotional weight of Sean Connery’s Oscar-winning performance to the operatic violence that defines De Palma’s directing style, we analyse how the story of Eliot Ness versus Al Capone reaches its dramatic peak.We explore the tension between justice and revenge, the cost of incorruptibility, and whether the film earns its legendary status among gangster cinema greats.Starring Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, and Robert De Niro, this 1987 crime epic blends Hollywood spectacle with historical myth.But does the courtroom finale deliver? Does the violence feel operatic or excessive? And does The Untouchables still hold up for modern audiences?In this episode, we discuss:The emotional impact of Malone’s arcThe morality of Ness’s final choicesThe famous Union Station sequence and De Palma’s visual storytellingThe balance between historical fact and cinematic legendWhether The Untouchables deserves its classic statusIf you’re searching for:The Untouchables 1987 reviewThe Untouchables podcast discussionBrian De Palma film analysisSean Connery Oscar performance breakdownGangster movie deep dive podcast…this episode delivers sharp film criticism, humour, debate, and honest takes.Sarah returns as co-host for this two-part breakdown. (No external projects to plug this week—just pure film conversation and classic cinema appreciation.)Why Listen?Whether you’re a long-time fan of The Untouchables or revisiting it decades later, this episode will make you rethink its themes, performances, and cultural legacy. Expect passionate disagreement, strong opinions, and thoughtful analysis of one of the most iconic crime films of the 1980s.If you enjoy deep-dive movie reviews, classic film discussion, and spirited debate — this is the podcast for you.Please Note: There are direct quotes used in this review, which include the use of contextual slurs/stereotypes. These are used purely as quotes from the film and to aid discussion, as the film's dialogue reflects the bigoted, harsh atmosphere of 1930's Prohibition-Era Chicago. There is no intention to cause offence or distress.Follow & Contact Review It YourselfStay connected and join the conversation:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comWe love hearing your thoughts, episode suggestions, and hot takes.Support the PodcastIf you enjoy Review It Yourself and want to help us grow:Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite platformLeave a 5-star rating and written review on Apple Podcasts (this massively boosts discoverability)Share this episode on social mediaRecommend the podcast to fellow film fansYour support helps the show reach new listeners and continue producing in-depth film reviews every week.Listen now and decide for yourself: is this crime epic truly untouchable?

Corruption, crime, and Connery—diving deep into De Palma’s classic.In this episode of Review It Yourself, we break down the first half of The Untouchables—the iconic Prohibition-era crime thriller directed by Brian De Palma. Joined by co-host Sarah, we explore the film’s powerful opening act, its larger-than-life characters, and why this stylish gangster epic still commands attention nearly four decades later.From the tense cat-and-mouse battle between federal agent Eliot Ness and Chicago crime boss Al Capone, to the unforgettable performances by Kevin Costner, Sean Connery, and Robert De Niro, we unpack what makes this film such a standout in the gangster genre. Is it the script? The score? The mythologising of law enforcement? Or Connery’s scene-stealing gravitas?Expect thoughtful film analysis, sharp opinions, historical context around Prohibition-era Chicago, and a discussion about how Hollywood reshapes real-life events into cinematic legend. Whether you’re a long-time fan of classic crime dramas or discovering this film for the first time, this episode offers insight, debate, and plenty of appreciation for one of the 1980s’ most celebrated gangster movies.We discuss:The film’s themes of justice, morality, and myth-makingThe dynamic between Ness and MaloneDe Palma’s directorial style and use of tensionPerformances that elevate the materialHow The Untouchables compares to other mob classicsIf you love deep-dive movie reviews, classic cinema breakdowns, and honest film discussion, this episode is for you.Please Note: There are direct quotes used in this review, which include the use of contextual slurs/stereotypes. These are used purely as quotes from the film and to aid discussion, as the film's dialogue reflects the bigoted, harsh atmosphere of 1930's Prohibition-Era Chicago. There is no intention to cause offence or distress.Follow & Contact Review It Yourself:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviewityourselfpodcast2021X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/YourselfReviewBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/reviewityourself.bsky.socialThreads: https://www.threads.net/@reviewityourselfpodcast2021Email: reviewityourselfpodcast@gmail.comSupport the Podcast:If you enjoy Review It Yourself, please:Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast platformLeave a 5-star rating and written review on Apple Podcasts to help boost visibilityShare this episode with fellow film fansFollow us on social media for updates and future episodesYour support helps the podcast grow, reach new listeners, and continue producing in-depth film reviews.Part Two of our The Untouchables discussion available now—where we continue analysing the film’s most iconic sequences and its lasting legacy in crime cinema.Listen now and decide for yourself… is The Untouchables truly untouchable?