Kicking the Seathttps://kickseat.com/Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:12:22 +0000en-USSite-Server v@build.version@ (http://www.squarespace.com)Go beyond the movies with reviews, interviews, and live critics roundtables you won't find anywhere else--from the last guy anyone asks!yesCopyright © 2010-2015 Ian Simmons. All rights reserved.movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureThe infrequent audio companion to Kicking the Seat (www.kickseat.com)!A Movie Podcast from the Last Guy Anyone AsksIan Simmonskickseat@gmail.comIan SimmonsEp1215: List For Life: Everything Fun You Could Possible Do in Aledo, Illinois - Director and Cast InterviewFri, 20 Mar 2026 15:26:32 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1215-list-for-life-everything-fun-you-could-possible-do-in-aledo-illinois-director-and-cast-interview5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:69bd63d663ae2152d7026fbcIan recently spoke with the director and stars of one of 2026's best films, the indie dramedy, Everything Fun You Could Possibly Do in Aledo, Illinois!

The movie centers on Gabby and Brenda (Sara Sevigny and Jennifer Estlin), two former high school besties who are brought back together during the titular town's annual rhubarb festival. Over one tumultuous week, they reopen decades-old wounds and seek reconciliation while completing the offbeat Bucket List created by their younger, idealistic selves!

In this spoiler-free conversation, Ian talks with Sevigny, Estlin, and director Bethany Berg about bonding with the real-life residents of Aledo, building characters that feel like people you might actually meet and adore, and why Berg chose this light, life-affirming story to be her feature film debut! They also discuss working with Country singer/2026 Grand Ole Opry inductee/Aledo native Suzy Bogguss, who narrates the film!

Everything Fun You Could Possibly Do in Aledo, Illinois is now available for rent/purchase on Amazon Prime.

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]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesIan recently spoke with the director and stars of one of 2026's best films, the indie dramedy, Everything Fun You Could Possibly Do in Aledo, Illinois!The movie centers on Gabby and Brenda (Sara Sevigny and Jennifer Estlin), two former high school besties who are brought back together during the titular town's annual rhubarb festival. Over one tumultuous week, they reopen decades-old wounds and seek reconciliation while completing the offbeat Bucket List created by their younger, idealistic selves!In this spoiler-free conversation, Ian talks with Sevigny, Estlin, and director Bethany Berg about bonding with the real-life residents of Aledo, building characters that feel like people you might actually meet and adore, and why Berg chose this light, life-affirming story to be her feature film debut! They also discuss working with Country singer/2026 Grand Ole Opry inductee/Aledo native Suzy Bogguss, who narrates the film!Everything Fun You Could Possibly Do in Aledo, Illinois is now available for rent/purchase on Amazon Prime.Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Everything Fun You Could Possibly Do in Aledo, Illinois trailer!Rent or Buy Everything Fun You Could Possibly Do in Aledo, Illinois on Amazon Prime!And plan your trip to this year's Rhubarb Festival in Aledo, Illinois! Yes! It's a real thing!Ian SimmonsIan recently spoke with the director and stars of one of 2026's best films, the indie dramedy, Everything Fun You Could Possibly Do in Aledo, Illinois!The movie centers on Gabby and Brenda (Sara Sevigny and Jennifer Estlin), two former high school besties who are brought back together during the titular town's annual rhubarb festival. Over one tumultuous week, they reopen decades-old wounds and seek reconciliation while completing the offbeat Bucket List created by their younger, idealistic selves!In this spoiler-free conversation, Ian talks with Sevigny, Estlin, and director Bethany Berg about bonding with the real-life residents of Aledo, building characters that feel like people you might actually meet and adore, and why Berg chose this light, life-affirming story to be her feature film debut! They also discuss working with Country singer/2026 Grand Ole Opry inductee/Aledo native Suzy Bogguss, who narrates the film!Everything Fun You Could Possibly Do in Aledo, Illinois is now available for rent/purchase on Amazon Prime.Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Everything Fun You Could Possibly Do in Aledo, Illinois trailer!Rent or Buy Everything Fun You Could Possibly Do in Aledo, Illinois on Amazon Prime!And plan your trip to this year's Rhubarb Festival in Aledo, Illinois! Yes! It's a real thing!movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1214: Kicking the Seat's Top 10 Films of 2025 - LIVE Roundtable DiscussionWed, 18 Mar 2026 03:30:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1214-kicking-the-seats-top-10-films-of-2025-live-roundtable-discussion5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:69bd5553208eac2455c777e6The Oscars may be over, but the 2025 film discussion isn't finished until Kicking the Seat has a say!

This is Ian's first "Best of" list since before the pandemic, and the first time he's discussed his picks publicly with Earth's Mightiest Critics! In this opinion-packed episode, our robust roundtable will talk about Kicking the Seat's official Top 10--as well as some of the other critics' choices that don't appear on the list!

Join us for an award-worthy last look at a year bursting with memorable cinema! We also talk a little bit of Oscars and take your questions, comments, and SuperChats!

Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:

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]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesThe Oscars may be over, but the 2025 film discussion isn't finished until Kicking the Seat has a say!This is Ian's first "Best of" list since before the pandemic, and the first time he's discussed his picks publicly with Earth's Mightiest Critics! In this opinion-packed episode, our robust roundtable will talk about Kicking the Seat's official Top 10--as well as some of the other critics' choices that don't appear on the list!Join us for an award-worthy last look at a year bursting with memorable cinema! We also talk a little bit of Oscars and take your questions, comments, and SuperChats!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow Links:As mentioned in the show, Ian recently interviewed Oliver Laxe, the director of one his favorite 2025 films, Sirat. Check it out!For a sneak peak at how (or if) the panelists line up with Ian's picks, check out Earth's Mightiest Critics' individual "Best of 2025" lists!Jeff YorkDavid FowlieMike CrowleyDon ShanahanCati GlidewellSupport all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".Ian SimmonsThe Oscars may be over, but the 2025 film discussion isn't finished until Kicking the Seat has a say!This is Ian's first "Best of" list since before the pandemic, and the first time he's discussed his picks publicly with Earth's Mightiest Critics! In this opinion-packed episode, our robust roundtable will talk about Kicking the Seat's official Top 10--as well as some of the other critics' choices that don't appear on the list!Join us for an award-worthy last look at a year bursting with memorable cinema! We also talk a little bit of Oscars and take your questions, comments, and SuperChats!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow Links:As mentioned in the show, Ian recently interviewed Oliver Laxe, the director of one his favorite 2025 films, Sirat. Check it out!For a sneak peak at how (or if) the panelists line up with Ian's picks, check out Earth's Mightiest Critics' individual "Best of 2025" lists!Jeff YorkDavid FowlieMike CrowleyDon ShanahanCati GlidewellSupport all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1213: The Bride! (2026) - Live Roundtable ReviewWed, 11 Mar 2026 02:30:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1213-the-bride-2026-live-roundtable-review5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:69b1ddb0c18ab949b5e82e28Maggie Gyllenhaal's The Bride! is one of the worst-reviewed, most financially disastrous films of the year.

But is "Bonnie and Clyde Meets The Bride of Frankenstein" really that bad? Or, like the Monster in Mary Shelley's classic horror novel--has the hated beast simply been misunderstood?

This week, Earth's Mightiest Critics take a long, spoilerific walk down the aisle to see if there is cause for celebration...or annulment! Join us as we renew our vows to confront escapism--even at its ugliest!

Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:

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]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesMaggie Gyllenhaal's The Bride! is one of the worst-reviewed, most financially disastrous films of the year. But is "Bonnie and Clyde Meets The Bride of Frankenstein" really that bad? Or, like the Monster in Mary Shelley's classic horror novel--has the hated beast simply been misunderstood?This week, Earth's Mightiest Critics take a long, spoilerific walk down the aisle to see if there is cause for celebration...or annulment! Join us as we renew our vows to confront escapism--even at its ugliest!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow Links:Watch the The Bride! (2026) trailer.Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".Ian SimmonsMaggie Gyllenhaal's The Bride! is one of the worst-reviewed, most financially disastrous films of the year. But is "Bonnie and Clyde Meets The Bride of Frankenstein" really that bad? Or, like the Monster in Mary Shelley's classic horror novel--has the hated beast simply been misunderstood?This week, Earth's Mightiest Critics take a long, spoilerific walk down the aisle to see if there is cause for celebration...or annulment! Join us as we renew our vows to confront escapism--even at its ugliest!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow Links:Watch the The Bride! (2026) trailer.Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1212: IndieSeen: His Monster (2025) - Movie ReviewFri, 06 Mar 2026 16:45:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1212-indieseen-his-monster-2025-movie-review5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:69b1dde73606f35fd1274a2bIan and Sujewa engage in a monstrous battle over the new indie film, His Monster!

An Oregonian alcoholic named James (Gabriel Casdorph) struggles to overcome the dissolution of his marriage following a tragedy. Complicating matters is the sudden appearance of an ancient evil monster who begins attacking people in James' orbit.

This contentious, spoilerific deep dive is a prime example of how two people can take away two very different experiences of the same film.

Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:

Show Links

  • Watch the His Monster (2025) trailer.

  • Follow Compassionate Disaster Films for info on all upcoming His Monster festival screenings:

  • Watch Sujewa's recent interview with His Monster writer/director Erich Cannon.

  • Support Sujewa's new film project, 53 Spaceships, the latest adventure of Cosmic Disco Detective Rene!

  • Watch Sujewa's latest film, Cosmic Disco Detective Rene for free on YouTube!

  • Rent The Secret Society for Slow Romance (the predecessor to Cosmic Disco Detective Rene).

  • Follow Sujewa on X.

  • Check out all the episodes in our “IndieSeen” Playlist!

]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesIan and Sujewa engage in a monstrous battle over the new indie film, His Monster!An Oregonian alcoholic named James (Gabriel Casdorph) struggles to overcome the dissolution of his marriage following a tragedy. Complicating matters is the sudden appearance of an ancient evil monster who begins attacking people in James' orbit.This contentious, spoilerific deep dive is a prime example of how two people can take away two very different experiences of the same film.Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the His Monster (2025) trailer.Follow Compassionate Disaster Films for info on all upcoming His Monster festival screenings: Watch Sujewa's recent interview with His Monster writer/director Erich Cannon.Support Sujewa's new film project, 53 Spaceships, the latest adventure of Cosmic Disco Detective Rene!Watch Sujewa's latest film, Cosmic Disco Detective Rene for free on YouTube! Rent The Secret Society for Slow Romance (the predecessor to Cosmic Disco Detective Rene).Follow Sujewa on X.Check out all the episodes in our “IndieSeen” Playlist!Ian SimmonsIan and Sujewa engage in a monstrous battle over the new indie film, His Monster!An Oregonian alcoholic named James (Gabriel Casdorph) struggles to overcome the dissolution of his marriage following a tragedy. Complicating matters is the sudden appearance of an ancient evil monster who begins attacking people in James' orbit.This contentious, spoilerific deep dive is a prime example of how two people can take away two very different experiences of the same film.Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the His Monster (2025) trailer.Follow Compassionate Disaster Films for info on all upcoming His Monster festival screenings: Watch Sujewa's recent interview with His Monster writer/director Erich Cannon.Support Sujewa's new film project, 53 Spaceships, the latest adventure of Cosmic Disco Detective Rene!Watch Sujewa's latest film, Cosmic Disco Detective Rene for free on YouTube! Rent The Secret Society for Slow Romance (the predecessor to Cosmic Disco Detective Rene).Follow Sujewa on X.Check out all the episodes in our “IndieSeen” Playlist!movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1211: Through the Tunnel of Shadows: An Interview with Sirat Director Oliver LaxeFri, 06 Mar 2026 03:00:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1211-through-the-tunnel-of-shadows-an-interview-with-sirat-director-oliver-laxe5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:69ab5b06e71c9d712f3de7c7Ian sits down with director Oliver Laxe, whose 2025 film Sirat will compete for Best International Feature at next weekend's Academy Awards!

In this harrowing story of grief, desperation, and alternative cultures, a father (Sergi López) attends a rave in the Moroccan desert to find his missing daughter. He has his young son (Bruno Núñez Arjona) in tow, and the pair wind up following a caravan of partiers deeper into the wilderness. There, they encounter tragedies beyond imagination, and face an existential crisis set to a cruel techno beat.

In this brief interview, Ian and Oliver talk about the co-writer/director's unconventional approach to screenwriting; shooting dangerous and complicated scenes in the desert; and how movies kill their audiences and bring them back from the dead!

Sirat opens in Chicago at the Music Box Theatre on Friday, March 6 (featuring a Q&A with Oliver and co-writer Santiago Fillol!). More info below.

Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:

Show Links

  • Watch the Sirat (2025) trailer.

  • Chicagoans! Sirat director Oliver Laxe and co-writer Santiago Fillol will be at the Music Box Theatre on Friday night! Catch the 7:15pm screening, and then stick around for a Q&A! Tickets and more information here.

]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesIan sits down with director Oliver Laxe, whose 2025 film Sirat will compete for Best International Feature at next weekend's Academy Awards!In this harrowing story of grief, desperation, and alternative cultures, a father (Sergi López) attends a rave in the Moroccan desert to find his missing daughter. He has his young son (Bruno Núñez Arjona) in tow, and the pair wind up following a caravan of partiers deeper into the wilderness. There, they encounter tragedies beyond imagination, and face an existential crisis set to a cruel techno beat.In this brief interview, Ian and Oliver talk about the co-writer/director's unconventional approach to screenwriting; shooting dangerous and complicated scenes in the desert; and how movies kill their audiences and bring them back from the dead!Sirat opens in Chicago at the Music Box Theatre on Friday, March 6 (featuring a Q&A with Oliver and co-writer Santiago Fillol!). More info below.Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Sirat (2025) trailer.Chicagoans! Sirat director Oliver Laxe and co-writer Santiago Fillol will be at the Music Box Theatre on Friday night! Catch the 7:15pm screening, and then stick around for a Q&A! Tickets and more information here.Ian SimmonsIan sits down with director Oliver Laxe, whose 2025 film Sirat will compete for Best International Feature at next weekend's Academy Awards!In this harrowing story of grief, desperation, and alternative cultures, a father (Sergi López) attends a rave in the Moroccan desert to find his missing daughter. He has his young son (Bruno Núñez Arjona) in tow, and the pair wind up following a caravan of partiers deeper into the wilderness. There, they encounter tragedies beyond imagination, and face an existential crisis set to a cruel techno beat.In this brief interview, Ian and Oliver talk about the co-writer/director's unconventional approach to screenwriting; shooting dangerous and complicated scenes in the desert; and how movies kill their audiences and bring them back from the dead!Sirat opens in Chicago at the Music Box Theatre on Friday, March 6 (featuring a Q&A with Oliver and co-writer Santiago Fillol!). More info below.Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Sirat (2025) trailer.Chicagoans! Sirat director Oliver Laxe and co-writer Santiago Fillol will be at the Music Box Theatre on Friday night! Catch the 7:15pm screening, and then stick around for a Q&A! Tickets and more information here.movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1210: Scream 7 (2026) - Live Roundtable ReviewWed, 04 Mar 2026 04:00:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1210-scream-7-2026-live-roundtable-review5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:69ab61c1f725584c7c14378bScream 7 dominated its opening weekend's box office, despite an overwhelmingly negative reception from critics and a tepid audience response.

Has Ghostface finally become a horror movie cliche--that of the exhausted (and exhausting) killer who doesn't know he's dead? Or is there actually something more to returning screenwriter-turned-director Kevin Williamson's film than people realize?

This week, Earth's Mightiest Critics look at the return of Sydney Prescott (Neve Campbell) and the rest of the surviving Scream crew who, after 30 years, are still milking meta-horror for all it's worth.

Join us for a sensational, spoilerific slash through the sixth Scream sequel! We also take your questions, comments, and SuperChats!

Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:

Show Links:

]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesScream 7 dominated its opening weekend's box office, despite an overwhelmingly negative reception from critics and a tepid audience response.Has Ghostface finally become a horror movie cliche--that of the exhausted (and exhausting) killer who doesn't know he's dead? Or is there actually something more to returning screenwriter-turned-director Kevin Williamson's film than people realize?This week, Earth's Mightiest Critics look at the return of Sydney Prescott (Neve Campbell) and the rest of the surviving Scream crew who, after 30 years, are still milking meta-horror for all it's worth.Join us for a sensational, spoilerific slash through the sixth Scream sequel! We also take your questions, comments, and SuperChats!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow Links:Watch the Scream 7 (2026) trailer.Watch Ian's reaction to last year's Scream 7 trailer.Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".Ian SimmonsScream 7 dominated its opening weekend's box office, despite an overwhelmingly negative reception from critics and a tepid audience response.Has Ghostface finally become a horror movie cliche--that of the exhausted (and exhausting) killer who doesn't know he's dead? Or is there actually something more to returning screenwriter-turned-director Kevin Williamson's film than people realize?This week, Earth's Mightiest Critics look at the return of Sydney Prescott (Neve Campbell) and the rest of the surviving Scream crew who, after 30 years, are still milking meta-horror for all it's worth.Join us for a sensational, spoilerific slash through the sixth Scream sequel! We also take your questions, comments, and SuperChats!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow Links:Watch the Scream 7 (2026) trailer.Watch Ian's reaction to last year's Scream 7 trailer.Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1209: Castle Freaks: House on Haunted Hill (1959) - Movie ReviewSat, 28 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1209-castle-freaks-house-on-haunted-hill-1959-movie-review5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:69b1ea0c43911569e7a71544As one journey ends, another begins! Join Ian and AC as they continue their tour through the winding hills of classic horror in Kicking the Seat's latest series, "Castle Freaks"!

This year, the guys will look at the spine-tingling works of director William Castle, whose wild career intersected with the likes of Cary Grant, Orson Welles, Joan Crawford, Alfred Hitchcock, and Roman Polanski! Castle was known as a "gimmick director", who dreamt up fantastical, in-theatre scare stunts to accompany his most famous movies. But as we hope to show, his filmography is so much more than headline-grabbing tricks!

We're kicking things off with 1959's House on Haunted Hill, in which Vincent Price plays an unhappily married millionaire who invites five strangers to spend the night in a haunted house. Those who survive through the next morning will pocket $10,000 each. But are there really spooks in the walls, or just illusions meant to mask something much more sinister?

In this wide-ranging first episode, Ian and AC give an overview of William Castle's career and do a spoilerific deep dive into both the '59 House on Haunted Hill and the 1999 remake starring Geoffrey Rush!

We hope you join us throughout the year for more thrills, chills, and electrifying surprises!

Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:

Show Links:

]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesAs one journey ends, another begins! Join Ian and AC as they continue their tour through the winding hills of classic horror in Kicking the Seat's latest series, "Castle Freaks"!This year, the guys will look at the spine-tingling works of director William Castle, whose wild career intersected with the likes of Cary Grant, Orson Welles, Joan Crawford, Alfred Hitchcock, and Roman Polanski! Castle was known as a "gimmick director", who dreamt up fantastical, in-theatre scare stunts to accompany his most famous movies. But as we hope to show, his filmography is so much more than headline-grabbing tricks!We're kicking things off with 1959's House on Haunted Hill, in which Vincent Price plays an unhappily married millionaire who invites five strangers to spend the night in a haunted house. Those who survive through the next morning will pocket $10,000 each. But are there really spooks in the walls, or just illusions meant to mask something much more sinister?In this wide-ranging first episode, Ian and AC give an overview of William Castle's career and do a spoilerific deep dive into both the '59 House on Haunted Hill and the 1999 remake starring Geoffrey Rush!We hope you join us throughout the year for more thrills, chills, and electrifying surprises!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow Links:Watch the House on Haunted Hill (1959) trailer.As mentioned in the show, AC reviewed the Film Masters Blu-ray of House on Haunted Hill (1959) at Horror 101 w/ Dr. AC.He also covered House on Haunted Hill and The Tingler on the Horror 101 YouTube channel. "Castle Freaks" is the next leg in our classic horror journey. If you're new to the channel, catch up with our 5-year "Hammerland" series, which wrapped up last year!Ian SimmonsAs one journey ends, another begins! Join Ian and AC as they continue their tour through the winding hills of classic horror in Kicking the Seat's latest series, "Castle Freaks"!This year, the guys will look at the spine-tingling works of director William Castle, whose wild career intersected with the likes of Cary Grant, Orson Welles, Joan Crawford, Alfred Hitchcock, and Roman Polanski! Castle was known as a "gimmick director", who dreamt up fantastical, in-theatre scare stunts to accompany his most famous movies. But as we hope to show, his filmography is so much more than headline-grabbing tricks!We're kicking things off with 1959's House on Haunted Hill, in which Vincent Price plays an unhappily married millionaire who invites five strangers to spend the night in a haunted house. Those who survive through the next morning will pocket $10,000 each. But are there really spooks in the walls, or just illusions meant to mask something much more sinister?In this wide-ranging first episode, Ian and AC give an overview of William Castle's career and do a spoilerific deep dive into both the '59 House on Haunted Hill and the 1999 remake starring Geoffrey Rush!We hope you join us throughout the year for more thrills, chills, and electrifying surprises!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow Links:Watch the House on Haunted Hill (1959) trailer.As mentioned in the show, AC reviewed the Film Masters Blu-ray of House on Haunted Hill (1959) at Horror 101 w/ Dr. AC.He also covered House on Haunted Hill and The Tingler on the Horror 101 YouTube channel. "Castle Freaks" is the next leg in our classic horror journey. If you're new to the channel, catch up with our 5-year "Hammerland" series, which wrapped up last year!movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1208: Oscar-Nominated Animated Shorts (2026) - Movie ReviewWed, 25 Feb 2026 23:45:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1208-oscar-nominated-animated-shorts-2026-movie-review5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:69b1e99c4d068b3bea8d5e33Ian and Jeff recently caught up with the five Oscar nominees Best Animated Short Film, which they were fortunate enough to enjoy on the big screen.

In today's short(ish) review, the guys look at the unusually strong crop of 2026 contenders and pick their favorites! Jeff also offers a brief overview of the Live-action Shorts, and talks about why he doesn't think they measure up to their cartoon counterparts!

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]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesIan and Jeff recently caught up with the five Oscar nominees Best Animated Short Film, which they were fortunate enough to enjoy on the big screen.In today's short(ish) review, the guys look at the unusually strong crop of 2026 contenders and pick their favorites! Jeff also offers a brief overview of the Live-action Shorts, and talks about why he doesn't think they measure up to their cartoon counterparts!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow Links:Watch the trailer for the 2026 Oscar-Nominated Short Films (and scroll down the page to see which theatres near you are showing these on the big screen!).Read Jeff's reviews of the Animated and Live-Action Oscar-nominated Shorts:Animated ShortsLive-Action ShortsRead David Fowlie's reviews of the Animated, Live-Action, AND Documentary Oscar-nominated Shorts (mentioned in the show):Animated ShortsLive-Action ShortsDocumentary ShortsIan SimmonsIan and Jeff recently caught up with the five Oscar nominees Best Animated Short Film, which they were fortunate enough to enjoy on the big screen.In today's short(ish) review, the guys look at the unusually strong crop of 2026 contenders and pick their favorites! Jeff also offers a brief overview of the Live-action Shorts, and talks about why he doesn't think they measure up to their cartoon counterparts!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow Links:Watch the trailer for the 2026 Oscar-Nominated Short Films (and scroll down the page to see which theatres near you are showing these on the big screen!).Read Jeff's reviews of the Animated and Live-Action Oscar-nominated Shorts:Animated ShortsLive-Action ShortsRead David Fowlie's reviews of the Animated, Live-Action, AND Documentary Oscar-nominated Shorts (mentioned in the show):Animated ShortsLive-Action ShortsDocumentary Shortsmovies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1206: Ben-Hur (1959) - Live Roundtable ReviewWed, 25 Feb 2026 04:00:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1206-ben-hur-1959-live-roundtable-review5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:699ee5dea76ad7044e0c4ffdWilliam Wyler's sweeping historical epic Ben-Hur is one of the OG blockbusters. It took home Best Picture for the 1959 Academy Awards, along with 12 other statues--making it one of the most awarded and beloved dramas of all time.

This week, Earth's Mightiest Critics look at the story of Judah Ben-Hur (Charlton Heston), a Jewish prince who is betrayed and forced into slavery. His winding journey of vengeance and redemption lands him front and center with the most significant event in human history.

Join us for a spoilerific look at Charlton, chariots, and the changing nature of blockbusters. We also make a case for this being a perfect film, and take your questions, comments, and SuperChats!

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]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesWilliam Wyler's sweeping historical epic Ben-Hur is one of the OG blockbusters. It took home Best Picture for the 1959 Academy Awards, along with 12 other statues--making it one of the most awarded and beloved dramas of all time.This week, Earth's Mightiest Critics look at the story of Judah Ben-Hur (Charlton Heston), a Jewish prince who is betrayed and forced into slavery. His winding journey of vengeance and redemption lands him front and center with the most significant event in human history.Join us for a spoilerific look at Charlton, chariots, and the changing nature of blockbusters. We also make a case for this being a perfect film, and take your questions, comments, and SuperChats!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Ben-Hur (1959) trailer.Pick up the new Ben-Hur 4K UHD from Warner Bros.As mentioned in the show, Warner Bros also released a new 4K of All the President’s Men! Check the disc out here.And listen to Ian and Don Shanahan's "Reelpolitik" review of the film from few years ago.Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".Ian SimmonsWilliam Wyler's sweeping historical epic Ben-Hur is one of the OG blockbusters. It took home Best Picture for the 1959 Academy Awards, along with 12 other statues--making it one of the most awarded and beloved dramas of all time.This week, Earth's Mightiest Critics look at the story of Judah Ben-Hur (Charlton Heston), a Jewish prince who is betrayed and forced into slavery. His winding journey of vengeance and redemption lands him front and center with the most significant event in human history.Join us for a spoilerific look at Charlton, chariots, and the changing nature of blockbusters. We also make a case for this being a perfect film, and take your questions, comments, and SuperChats!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Ben-Hur (1959) trailer.Pick up the new Ben-Hur 4K UHD from Warner Bros.As mentioned in the show, Warner Bros also released a new 4K of All the President’s Men! Check the disc out here.And listen to Ian and Don Shanahan's "Reelpolitik" review of the film from few years ago.Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1207: Down on the Farce: An Interview with the Filmmakers and Star of BLOOD BARNFri, 20 Feb 2026 15:00:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1207-down-on-the-farce-an-interview-with-the-filmmakers-and-star-of-blood-barn5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:69b1e462d274d57ff85db0c7In the 1980s horror/comedy homage Blood Barn, a group of camp counselors celebrate the end of summer with a trip to Josie's (Lena Redford) deep woods family home. There, they relax and party in a massive, bizarrely furnished barn and unwittingly awaken demonic forces.

Today, Ian talks with Blood Barn director/co-writer Gabriel Bernini, co-writer Alexandra Jade, and star Lena Redford (granddaughter of Robert Redford, who passed away last year). From drawing on classic horror movies; to being the one of the few "straight" actors in a team of improv performers; and making the jump from short films to feature debut, this conversation looks at the grit and giggles of starting out in the movies.

Blood Barn is now streaming on Screambox.

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  • Watch the Blood Barn (2026) trailer.

]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesIn the 1980s horror/comedy homage Blood Barn, a group of camp counselors celebrate the end of summer with a trip to Josie's (Lena Redford) deep woods family home. There, they relax and party in a massive, bizarrely furnished barn and unwittingly awaken demonic forces.Today, Ian talks with Blood Barn director/co-writer Gabriel Bernini, co-writer Alexandra Jade, and star Lena Redford (granddaughter of Robert Redford, who passed away last year). From drawing on classic horror movies; to being the one of the few "straight" actors in a team of improv performers; and making the jump from short films to feature debut, this conversation looks at the grit and giggles of starting out in the movies.Blood Barn is now streaming on Screambox.Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow Links:Watch the Blood Barn (2026) trailer.Ian SimmonsIn the 1980s horror/comedy homage Blood Barn, a group of camp counselors celebrate the end of summer with a trip to Josie's (Lena Redford) deep woods family home. There, they relax and party in a massive, bizarrely furnished barn and unwittingly awaken demonic forces.Today, Ian talks with Blood Barn director/co-writer Gabriel Bernini, co-writer Alexandra Jade, and star Lena Redford (granddaughter of Robert Redford, who passed away last year). From drawing on classic horror movies; to being the one of the few "straight" actors in a team of improv performers; and making the jump from short films to feature debut, this conversation looks at the grit and giggles of starting out in the movies.Blood Barn is now streaming on Screambox.Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow Links:Watch the Blood Barn (2026) trailer.movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1205: Wuthering Heights (2026) - Live Roundtable ReviewWed, 18 Feb 2026 04:00:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1205-wuthering-heights-2026-live-roundtable-review5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:6996279ca7e3b828dabf6850This week, Earth's Mightiest critics bust out the fainting couches for a robust, rivalrous review of Emerald Fennell's Wuthering Heights!

Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie star in the latest big-screen interpretation of Emily Brontë's 1847 novel, which unleashed relentless humiliation, misery, and revenge upon the literary world. Or, as the film's marketing calls it, "The Greatest Love Story of All Time"!

The film topped its opening weekend's box office, despite mixed critics' reviews and scathing commentary by fans of the novel. But are audiences really past the point of caring if movies are faithful to their source material? And is this a more troubling sign of a lack of media literacy--and actual literacy?

Both sides square off in a dynamic duel of defenders and detractors!

Join us for a hot and bothered (mostly bothered) look at the latest IP smash-and-grab masquerading as an adaptation! We'll also take your questions, comments, and SuperChats!

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]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesThis week, Earth's Mightiest critics bust out the fainting couches for a robust, rivalrous review of Emerald Fennell's Wuthering Heights!Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie star in the latest big-screen interpretation of Emily Brontë's 1847 novel, which unleashed relentless humiliation, misery, and revenge upon the literary world. Or, as the film's marketing calls it, "The Greatest Love Story of All Time"!The film topped its opening weekend's box office, despite mixed critics' reviews and scathing commentary by fans of the novel. But are audiences really past the point of caring if movies are faithful to their source material? And is this a more troubling sign of a lack of media literacy--and actual literacy?Both sides square off in a dynamic duel of defenders and detractors!Join us for a hot and bothered (mostly bothered) look at the latest IP smash-and-grab masquerading as an adaptation! We'll also take your questions, comments, and SuperChats! Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Wuthering Heights (2026) trailer.Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".Ian SimmonsThis week, Earth's Mightiest critics bust out the fainting couches for a robust, rivalrous review of Emerald Fennell's Wuthering Heights!Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie star in the latest big-screen interpretation of Emily Brontë's 1847 novel, which unleashed relentless humiliation, misery, and revenge upon the literary world. Or, as the film's marketing calls it, "The Greatest Love Story of All Time"!The film topped its opening weekend's box office, despite mixed critics' reviews and scathing commentary by fans of the novel. But are audiences really past the point of caring if movies are faithful to their source material? And is this a more troubling sign of a lack of media literacy--and actual literacy?Both sides square off in a dynamic duel of defenders and detractors!Join us for a hot and bothered (mostly bothered) look at the latest IP smash-and-grab masquerading as an adaptation! We'll also take your questions, comments, and SuperChats! Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Wuthering Heights (2026) trailer.Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1204: His Girl Friday (1939) - Movie ReviewSat, 14 Feb 2026 16:00:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1204-his-girl-friday-1939-movie-review5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:699627ecc913db013dee8120This Valentine's Day, Ian and Jeff explore the darker side of a comedy classic, His Girl Friday!

Howard Hawks' uproarious and influential rom-com centers on Hildy Johnson (Rosalind Russell), a former newspaper reporter who clashes with her ex-publisher/ex-husband, Walter Burns (Cary Grant) over a breaking story. She's supposed to marry an insurance salesman (Ralph Bellamy), but gets tempted into covering a political conflict involving the pending execution of a cop killer (John Qualen).

His Girl Friday takes place over a rapid-talking, action-packed 12 hours, during which Hildy and Walter re-evaluate their rocky relationship. The question is: should they be together?

In this unusual look at a beloved, iconic film, the guys dig beneath the laughs to get at the heart of two characters who may not have one--caught in a business and a system too corrupt for anyone's good.

They also compare His Girl Friday to Lewis Milestone's The Front Page, which came out in 1931 and was the inspiration for Hawks' gender-swapped comedy!

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]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesThis Valentine's Day, Ian and Jeff explore the darker side of a comedy classic, His Girl Friday!Howard Hawks' uproarious and influential rom-com centers on Hildy Johnson (Rosalind Russell), a former newspaper reporter who clashes with her ex-publisher/ex-husband, Walter Burns (Cary Grant) over a breaking story. She's supposed to marry an insurance salesman (Ralph Bellamy), but gets tempted into covering a political conflict involving the pending execution of a cop killer (John Qualen).His Girl Friday takes place over a rapid-talking, action-packed 12 hours, during which Hildy and Walter re-evaluate their rocky relationship. The question is: should they be together?In this unusual look at a beloved, iconic film, the guys dig beneath the laughs to get at the heart of two characters who may not have one--caught in a business and a system too corrupt for anyone's good.They also compare His Girl Friday to Lewis Milestone's The Front Page, which came out in 1931 and was the inspiration for Hawks' gender-swapped comedy!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the His Girl Friday (1940) trailer.Pick up Criterion's recent 4K release of His Girl Friday (which includes a newly restored version of 1931's The Front Page!).Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".Ian SimmonsThis Valentine's Day, Ian and Jeff explore the darker side of a comedy classic, His Girl Friday!Howard Hawks' uproarious and influential rom-com centers on Hildy Johnson (Rosalind Russell), a former newspaper reporter who clashes with her ex-publisher/ex-husband, Walter Burns (Cary Grant) over a breaking story. She's supposed to marry an insurance salesman (Ralph Bellamy), but gets tempted into covering a political conflict involving the pending execution of a cop killer (John Qualen).His Girl Friday takes place over a rapid-talking, action-packed 12 hours, during which Hildy and Walter re-evaluate their rocky relationship. The question is: should they be together?In this unusual look at a beloved, iconic film, the guys dig beneath the laughs to get at the heart of two characters who may not have one--caught in a business and a system too corrupt for anyone's good.They also compare His Girl Friday to Lewis Milestone's The Front Page, which came out in 1931 and was the inspiration for Hawks' gender-swapped comedy!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the His Girl Friday (1940) trailer.Pick up Criterion's recent 4K release of His Girl Friday (which includes a newly restored version of 1931's The Front Page!).Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1203: Love, Hope & Chair-ity An Interview with BY DESIGN Writer/Director Amanda KramerFri, 13 Feb 2026 20:30:15 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1203-love-hope-amp-chair-ity-an-interview-with-by-design-writerdirector-amanda-kramer5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:698f86cb7a44d90e80d82aa3Amanda Kramer's By Design is far more than "the movie where Juliette Lewis turns into a chair".

It's a surreal slice of cultural critique that looks at frivolous spending, shallow friendships, and the dark side of female friendships. In this brief interview, Ian talks with Kramer about casting 90s rebel icons as people their characters would have despised; finding a new angle on "wish" movies; and working with the great Udo Kier in one of his final roles!

By Design opens in theaters this Friday, courtesy of Music Box Films.

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]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesAmanda Kramer's By Design is far more than "the movie where Juliette Lewis turns into a chair".It's a surreal slice of cultural critique that looks at frivolous spending, shallow friendships, and the dark side of female friendships. In this brief interview, Ian talks with Kramer about casting 90s rebel icons as people their characters would have despised; finding a new angle on "wish" movies; and working with the great Udo Kier in one of his final roles!By Design opens in theaters this Friday, courtesy of Music Box Films.Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the By Design (2026) trailer.Read Ian's By Design review at Kicking the Seat!In Chicago? Catch By Design at the historic Music Box Theatre, starting this weekend!Ian SimmonsAmanda Kramer's By Design is far more than "the movie where Juliette Lewis turns into a chair".It's a surreal slice of cultural critique that looks at frivolous spending, shallow friendships, and the dark side of female friendships. In this brief interview, Ian talks with Kramer about casting 90s rebel icons as people their characters would have despised; finding a new angle on "wish" movies; and working with the great Udo Kier in one of his final roles!By Design opens in theaters this Friday, courtesy of Music Box Films.Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the By Design (2026) trailer.Read Ian's By Design review at Kicking the Seat!In Chicago? Catch By Design at the historic Music Box Theatre, starting this weekend!movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1202: Dracula (2026) - Live Roundtable ReviewThu, 12 Feb 2026 04:02:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1202-dracula-2026-live-roundtable-review5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:699616bffa9a004c20bf1457Count Dracula has survived such formidable filmmaking foes as Francis Ford Coppola, Dario Argento, and David Eggers. But will he shrink in fear at the might of...Luc Besson?

Jacob Landry-Jones is the latest to don the cape and fangs in this umpteenth retelling of the debonair undead Drac. Could this be the definitive version--or a slightly different rehash with goofier looking makeup effects?

Join us as we hang garlic and debate whether or not it's time to stake all future adaptations of Bram Stoker's classic novel!

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]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesCount Dracula has survived such formidable filmmaking foes as Francis Ford Coppola, Dario Argento, and David Eggers. But will he shrink in fear at the might of...Luc Besson?Jacob Landry-Jones is the latest to don the cape and fangs in this umpteenth retelling of the debonair undead Drac. Could this be the definitive version--or a slightly different rehash with goofier looking makeup effects?Join us as we hang garlic and debate whether or not it's time to stake all future adaptations of Bram Stoker's classic novel!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Dracula (2026) trailer.As mentioned in the show, you can enjoy a half-decade of Hammer Films discussions, starting with our "Hammerland" Playlist.Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".Ian SimmonsCount Dracula has survived such formidable filmmaking foes as Francis Ford Coppola, Dario Argento, and David Eggers. But will he shrink in fear at the might of...Luc Besson?Jacob Landry-Jones is the latest to don the cape and fangs in this umpteenth retelling of the debonair undead Drac. Could this be the definitive version--or a slightly different rehash with goofier looking makeup effects?Join us as we hang garlic and debate whether or not it's time to stake all future adaptations of Bram Stoker's classic novel!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Dracula (2026) trailer.As mentioned in the show, you can enjoy a half-decade of Hammer Films discussions, starting with our "Hammerland" Playlist.Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1201: Send Help (2026) - Live Roundtable ReviewWed, 04 Feb 2026 04:00:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1201-send-help-2026-live-roundtable-review5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:698721a6f7ed0326a62d82a9Earth's Mightiest Critics are sending up smoke signals for Sam Raimi's latest horror/comedy, Send Help!

Rachel McAdams stars as Linda, a corporate executive-in-waiting who finds herself trapped on a desert island with a wounded Brad (Dylan O'Brien), who was recently appointed to the position she'd been promised. During the next several weeks, the duo alternates between teaming up and terrorizing each other, as diminishing hopes for escape reduce them to a savage, primal state.

Is this the second coming of Misery, or just gore-coated misandry?

Join us as we look at the good, the bad, and the truly ugly from the director of The Evil Dead and Drag Me to Hell!

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]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesEarth's Mightiest Critics are sending up smoke signals for Sam Raimi's latest horror/comedy, Send Help! Rachel McAdams stars as Linda, a corporate executive-in-waiting who finds herself trapped on a desert island with a wounded Brad (Dylan O'Brien), who was recently appointed to the position she'd been promised. During the next several weeks, the duo alternates between teaming up and terrorizing each other, as diminishing hopes for escape reduce them to a savage, primal state.Is this the second coming of Misery, or just gore-coated misandry?Join us as we look at the good, the bad, and the truly ugly from the director of The Evil Dead and Drag Me to Hell!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Send Help (2026) trailer.Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".Ian SimmonsEarth's Mightiest Critics are sending up smoke signals for Sam Raimi's latest horror/comedy, Send Help! Rachel McAdams stars as Linda, a corporate executive-in-waiting who finds herself trapped on a desert island with a wounded Brad (Dylan O'Brien), who was recently appointed to the position she'd been promised. During the next several weeks, the duo alternates between teaming up and terrorizing each other, as diminishing hopes for escape reduce them to a savage, primal state.Is this the second coming of Misery, or just gore-coated misandry?Join us as we look at the good, the bad, and the truly ugly from the director of The Evil Dead and Drag Me to Hell!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Send Help (2026) trailer.Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1200: Mercy (2026) - Live Roundtable ReviewWed, 28 Jan 2026 04:00:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1200-mercy-2026-live-roundtable-review5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:697bb8ef111a6060d7f2fd4cEarth's Mightiest Critics use their natural intelligence to review a movie about artificial intelligence--which is lacking in basic intelligence!

In Mercy, Chris Pratt stars as Chris Raven (not making that up), a detective accused of killing his wife. He is put on trial by an AI judge (Rebecca Ferguson), and has 90 minutes to clear his name.

Join us as we draft a minority report and prepare to prosecute this bizarre cinematic thought-crime!

Also, Ian addresses an issue with the comments section.

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]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesEarth's Mightiest Critics use their natural intelligence to review a movie about artificial intelligence--which is lacking in basic intelligence!In Mercy, Chris Pratt stars as Chris Raven (not making that up), a detective accused of killing his wife. He is put on trial by an AI judge (Rebecca Ferguson), and has 90 minutes to clear his name.Join us as we draft a minority report and prepare to prosecute this bizarre cinematic thought-crime!Also, Ian addresses an issue with the comments section.Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Mercy (2026) trailer.Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".Ian SimmonsEarth's Mightiest Critics use their natural intelligence to review a movie about artificial intelligence--which is lacking in basic intelligence!In Mercy, Chris Pratt stars as Chris Raven (not making that up), a detective accused of killing his wife. He is put on trial by an AI judge (Rebecca Ferguson), and has 90 minutes to clear his name.Join us as we draft a minority report and prepare to prosecute this bizarre cinematic thought-crime!Also, Ian addresses an issue with the comments section.Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Mercy (2026) trailer.Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1199: Accademia Giallo: A Hyena in the Safe (1968) - Live Roundtabe ReviewSun, 25 Jan 2026 22:00:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1199-accademia-giallo-a-hyena-in-the-safe-1968-live-roundtable-review5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:697bb8664d8ea94c8de4c4c2Accademia Giallo rings in the New Year with diamonds in their eyes and murder on their minds!

This month's lesson centers on Cesare Canevari's 1968 black-hearted crime thriller, A Hyena in the Safe!

When six thieves meet to divvy up their cut of a heist after months in hiding, they find themselves getting picked off one by one by a mysterious assailant!

Join us for a look at this eccentric entry into the giallo pantheon (or IS it?)! We'll also take your questions, comments, and SuperChats!

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]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesAccademia Giallo rings in the New Year with diamonds in their eyes and murder on their minds!This month's lesson centers on Cesare Canevari's 1968 black-hearted crime thriller, A Hyena in the Safe!When six thieves meet to divvy up their cut of a heist after months in hiding, they find themselves getting picked off one by one by a mysterious assailant!Join us for a look at this eccentric entry into the giallo pantheon (or IS it?)! We'll also take your questions, comments, and SuperChats!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the A Hyena in the Safe (1968) trailer. Pick up Celluloid Dreams' recently released Hyena in the Safe Blu-ray!To learn more about the amazing work of Celluloid Dreams, check out Ian's 2025 interview with Guido and Lucas Henkel!As mentioned in the show, Ian recently began freelancing as a "Movies & TV" writer for CBR.com. Check out his article on Paramount+'s not-very-good Starfleet Academy series! Also, Ian recently appeared on the Spoiler Room, talking about 1981's Clash of the Titans!Support all of our terrifying teachers' axe-tracurricular activities!Stay studious with Aaron Christensen at Horror101 with Dr. AC!And subscribe to his YouTube channel!If you dare, venture down into Kitley's Krypt with Jon Kitley! And listen to Jon's scary-good podcast, Discover the Horror!Stalk Bryan Martinez in The Giallo Room!Buy J. Blake Fichera's "Scored to Death" Volume I and II on Amazon (mentioned in the show).Catch up with classic episodes of his Saturday Night Movie Sleepovers podcast!Continue your education with our "Accademia Giallo" Playlist!Ian SimmonsAccademia Giallo rings in the New Year with diamonds in their eyes and murder on their minds!This month's lesson centers on Cesare Canevari's 1968 black-hearted crime thriller, A Hyena in the Safe!When six thieves meet to divvy up their cut of a heist after months in hiding, they find themselves getting picked off one by one by a mysterious assailant!Join us for a look at this eccentric entry into the giallo pantheon (or IS it?)! We'll also take your questions, comments, and SuperChats!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the A Hyena in the Safe (1968) trailer. Pick up Celluloid Dreams' recently released Hyena in the Safe Blu-ray!To learn more about the amazing work of Celluloid Dreams, check out Ian's 2025 interview with Guido and Lucas Henkel!As mentioned in the show, Ian recently began freelancing as a "Movies & TV" writer for CBR.com. Check out his article on Paramount+'s not-very-good Starfleet Academy series! Also, Ian recently appeared on the Spoiler Room, talking about 1981's Clash of the Titans!Support all of our terrifying teachers' axe-tracurricular activities!Stay studious with Aaron Christensen at Horror101 with Dr. AC!And subscribe to his YouTube channel!If you dare, venture down into Kitley's Krypt with Jon Kitley! And listen to Jon's scary-good podcast, Discover the Horror!Stalk Bryan Martinez in The Giallo Room!Buy J. Blake Fichera's "Scored to Death" Volume I and II on Amazon (mentioned in the show).Catch up with classic episodes of his Saturday Night Movie Sleepovers podcast!Continue your education with our "Accademia Giallo" Playlist!movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1198: 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple (2026) - Live Roundtable ReviewWed, 21 Jan 2026 04:00:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1198-28-years-later-the-bone-temple-2026-live-roundtable-review5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:697a10d653442a6e20200d27Believe it or not, Earth's Mightiest Critics aren’t ready to rage at 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple!

In contrast to Danny Boyle's 28 Years Later (which came out a mere six months ago) series newcomer Nia DaCosta provides the world's-end mania and weirdness promised by the previous film's trailer! It's hard to believe both movies were written by the same person (Alex Garland).

We won't give anything away, story-wise, ahead of the roundtable--except to say that the track suit-wearing "Jimmy" gang is nowhere near as lame as they appeared to be at the end of the last film.

Also, Ralph Fiennes deserves an Oscar nomination.

Join us for a positively infectious look at one of 2026's best films so far (no joke). We'll also take your questions, comments, and SuperChats!

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]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesBelieve it or not, Earth's Mightiest Critics aren’t ready to rage at 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple!In contrast to Danny Boyle's 28 Years Later (which came out a mere six months ago) series newcomer Nia DaCosta provides the world's-end mania and weirdness promised by the previous film's trailer! It's hard to believe both movies were written by the same person (Alex Garland).We won't give anything away, story-wise, ahead of the roundtable--except to say that the track suit-wearing "Jimmy" gang is nowhere near as lame as they appeared to be at the end of the last film.Also, Ralph Fiennes deserves an Oscar nomination.Join us for a positively infectious look at one of 2026's best films so far (no joke). We'll also take your questions, comments, and SuperChats!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple (2026) trailer.Catch up with our 28 Years Later roundtable from last June.Read David's review of The Bone Temple at Keeping it Reel.Check out Keeping It Reel's "Top Ten Films of 2025" list.And read Ian's debut as a Movies & TV freelance writer for CBR (talking about a possible path for Tales from the Crypt to return to TV)!Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".Ian SimmonsBelieve it or not, Earth's Mightiest Critics aren’t ready to rage at 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple!In contrast to Danny Boyle's 28 Years Later (which came out a mere six months ago) series newcomer Nia DaCosta provides the world's-end mania and weirdness promised by the previous film's trailer! It's hard to believe both movies were written by the same person (Alex Garland).We won't give anything away, story-wise, ahead of the roundtable--except to say that the track suit-wearing "Jimmy" gang is nowhere near as lame as they appeared to be at the end of the last film.Also, Ralph Fiennes deserves an Oscar nomination.Join us for a positively infectious look at one of 2026's best films so far (no joke). We'll also take your questions, comments, and SuperChats!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple (2026) trailer.Catch up with our 28 Years Later roundtable from last June.Read David's review of The Bone Temple at Keeping it Reel.Check out Keeping It Reel's "Top Ten Films of 2025" list.And read Ian's debut as a Movies & TV freelance writer for CBR (talking about a possible path for Tales from the Crypt to return to TV)!Support all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1197: Is This Thing On? (2025) - Live Roundtable ReviewWed, 14 Jan 2026 04:00:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1197-is-this-thing-on-2025-live-roundtable-review5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:6966360d796a821a384f8759Earth's Mightiest Critics walk into a bar...and raise it!

This week we look at Bradley Cooper's latest dramedy, Is This Thing On?, in which a New Yorker named Alex (Will Arnette) stumbles into a new stand-up comedy career while navigating a complicated divorce.

In addition to reviewing this critically acclaimed new film from Cooper (who's proving just as capable a writer/director as an actor), we'll also talk about some of our favorite stand-up comics and the serious effects their jokes had on our lives.

Join us as we laugh 'til we cry and perfect our crowd work with your questions, comments, and SuperChats!

Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:

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]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesEarth's Mightiest Critics walk into a bar...and raise it!This week we look at Bradley Cooper's latest dramedy, Is This Thing On?, in which a New Yorker named Alex (Will Arnette) stumbles into a new stand-up comedy career while navigating a complicated divorce.In addition to reviewing this critically acclaimed new film from Cooper (who's proving just as capable a writer/director as an actor), we'll also talk about some of our favorite stand-up comics and the serious effects their jokes had on our lives.Join us as we laugh 'til we cry and perfect our crowd work with your questions, comments, and SuperChats!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Is This Thing On? (2025) trailer.As mentioned in the show, one of the panel's favorite modern standup comics is Jim Gaffigan. Here are a couple of flashbacks to Ian's interviews with the masterful observational comic:Being Frank InterviewAmerican DreamerSupport all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".Ian SimmonsEarth's Mightiest Critics walk into a bar...and raise it!This week we look at Bradley Cooper's latest dramedy, Is This Thing On?, in which a New Yorker named Alex (Will Arnette) stumbles into a new stand-up comedy career while navigating a complicated divorce.In addition to reviewing this critically acclaimed new film from Cooper (who's proving just as capable a writer/director as an actor), we'll also talk about some of our favorite stand-up comics and the serious effects their jokes had on our lives.Join us as we laugh 'til we cry and perfect our crowd work with your questions, comments, and SuperChats!Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Is This Thing On? (2025) trailer.As mentioned in the show, one of the panel's favorite modern standup comics is Jim Gaffigan. Here are a couple of flashbacks to Ian's interviews with the masterful observational comic:Being Frank InterviewAmerican DreamerSupport all of Earth's Mightiest Critics at their various outlets:Keep up with Jeff York's criticism and caricatures at The Establishing Shot and Pipeline Artists.Check out Mark "The Movie Man" Krawczyk's The Spoiler Room Podcast.Get seated with The Blonde in Front!Follow David Fowlie's film criticism at Keeping It Reel.Get educated with Don Shanahan at Every Movie Has a Lesson…...And Film Obsessive...and the Cinephile Hissy Fit Podcast.Keep up with Annie Banks at The Mary Sue....and We Got This Covered.Make Nice with Mike Crowley of You'll Probably Agree.And save your celluloid soul with Dave Canfield’s Substack, "Creature Feature Preacher".movies,film,interviews,pop,cultureEp1196: IndieSeen: IndieSeen: The Forgotten Occupation w/ Alain MartinFri, 09 Jan 2026 21:00:00 +0000https://kickseat.com/podcast/ep1196-indieseen-indieseen-the-forgotten-occupation-w-alain-martin5e338092dfdfe875b2e21666:5ef15132850daa2e7f9e216d:6962ff84d8a0484addb75767IndieSeen kicks off 2026 on a high note with special guest Alain Martin, the first-time feature director of The Forgotten Occupation: Jim Crow Goes to Haiti!

This engrossing and thought-provoking documentary looks at the patterns of civil and colonial strife that have rocked the country since its inception. Framed as a letter to Martin's deceased grandfather, who held America in an esteem that directly countered that of his grandson, the film explores the complicated social movements, occupational resistance, corporate takeovers, and cultural strife that form the dueling identities at the heart of Haitian-American culture.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Ian and Sujewa dig into Martin's decade-plus struggle to make, refine, and release the film; the editorial choices that invite audiences to dig deeper into modern day issues afflicting the nation; and his hopes for turning his beloved homeland around.

The Forgotten Occupation will debut on various VOD platforms beginning in February, and kicks off a handful of limited runs in select cities, beginning with the L.A. premiere this weekend (more information below).

Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:

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  • Watch the Forgotten Occupation (2026) trailer.

  • In L.A.? Catch The Forgotten Occupation at the Lumiere Theatre during its exclusive one-week engagement (including the 1/10 premiere with Alain and special guests in attendance)!

  • Learn more about The Forgotten Occupation, including when/where you can see it!

  • Support Sujewa's new film project, 53 Spaceships, the latest adventure of Cosmic Disco Detective Rene!

  • Watch Sujewa's latest film, Cosmic Disco Detective Rene for free on YouTube!

  • Rent The Secret Society for Slow Romance (the predecessor to Cosmic Disco Detective Rene).

  • Follow Sujewa on X.

  • Check out all the episodes in our “IndieSeen” Playlist!

]]>kickseat@gmail.com (Ian Simmons)yesIndieSeen kicks off 2026 on a high note with special guest Alain Martin, the first-time feature director of The Forgotten Occupation: Jim Crow Goes to Haiti!This engrossing and thought-provoking documentary looks at the patterns of civil and colonial strife that have rocked the country since its inception. Framed as a letter to Martin's deceased grandfather, who held America in an esteem that directly countered that of his grandson, the film explores the complicated social movements, occupational resistance, corporate takeovers, and cultural strife that form the dueling identities at the heart of Haitian-American culture.In this wide-ranging conversation, Ian and Sujewa dig into Martin's decade-plus struggle to make, refine, and release the film; the editorial choices that invite audiences to dig deeper into modern day issues afflicting the nation; and his hopes for turning his beloved homeland around.The Forgotten Occupation will debut on various VOD platforms beginning in February, and kicks off a handful of limited runs in select cities, beginning with the L.A. premiere this weekend (more information below).Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Forgotten Occupation (2026) trailer.In L.A.? Catch The Forgotten Occupation at the Lumiere Theatre during its exclusive one-week engagement (including the 1/10 premiere with Alain and special guests in attendance)! Learn more about The Forgotten Occupation, including when/where you can see it!Support Sujewa's new film project, 53 Spaceships, the latest adventure of Cosmic Disco Detective Rene!Watch Sujewa's latest film, Cosmic Disco Detective Rene for free on YouTube! Rent The Secret Society for Slow Romance (the predecessor to Cosmic Disco Detective Rene).Follow Sujewa on X.Check out all the episodes in our “IndieSeen” Playlist!Ian SimmonsIndieSeen kicks off 2026 on a high note with special guest Alain Martin, the first-time feature director of The Forgotten Occupation: Jim Crow Goes to Haiti!This engrossing and thought-provoking documentary looks at the patterns of civil and colonial strife that have rocked the country since its inception. Framed as a letter to Martin's deceased grandfather, who held America in an esteem that directly countered that of his grandson, the film explores the complicated social movements, occupational resistance, corporate takeovers, and cultural strife that form the dueling identities at the heart of Haitian-American culture.In this wide-ranging conversation, Ian and Sujewa dig into Martin's decade-plus struggle to make, refine, and release the film; the editorial choices that invite audiences to dig deeper into modern day issues afflicting the nation; and his hopes for turning his beloved homeland around.The Forgotten Occupation will debut on various VOD platforms beginning in February, and kicks off a handful of limited runs in select cities, beginning with the L.A. premiere this weekend (more information below).Support Kicking the Seat on Patreon, subscribe to us on YouTube, and follow us at:XLetterboxdInstagramFacebookShow LinksWatch the Forgotten Occupation (2026) trailer.In L.A.? Catch The Forgotten Occupation at the Lumiere Theatre during its exclusive one-week engagement (including the 1/10 premiere with Alain and special guests in attendance)! Learn more about The Forgotten Occupation, including when/where you can see it!Support Sujewa's new film project, 53 Spaceships, the latest adventure of Cosmic Disco Detective Rene!Watch Sujewa's latest film, Cosmic Disco Detective Rene for free on YouTube! Rent The Secret Society for Slow Romance (the predecessor to Cosmic Disco Detective Rene).Follow Sujewa on X.Check out all the episodes in our “IndieSeen” Playlist!movies,film,interviews,pop,culture