All Of It: A Christmas Day Movie Preview – Detailed Summary

Episode Title: A Christmas Day Movie Preview
Host: Alison Stewart
Guest: Alison Wilmore, Film Critic for New York Magazine and Vulture
Release Date: December 24, 2024

Introduction

In the festive episode of All Of It, hosted by Alison Stewart, listeners are treated to an insightful preview of the myriad of films releasing on Christmas Day. Alison welcomes film critic Alison Wilmore to navigate through the diverse array of movies slated for the holiday season, offering expert opinions and highlighting standout performances.

Holiday Movie Landscape

Alison Stewart sets the stage by acknowledging the variety of holiday traditions and the surge of movie releases on December 25th. From traditional blockbusters to unique independent films, this year’s lineup promises something for every moviegoer. Stewart mentions discussions from the previous week about films like Baby Girl and A Complete Unknown, and teases upcoming conversations on biopics, animated features, and streaming releases.

Featured Films Discussed

1. The Fire Inside

Overview:
The Fire Inside centers on Clarissa T. Rex Shields, portrayed by Ryan Destiny, a 17-year-old boxer who becomes the first American woman to win a gold medal in Olympic boxing.

Key Points:

• Performance Highlights:

  • Ryan Destiny delivers a compelling performance, showcasing the physical and emotional transformation required to embody a professional boxer.
  • Brian Tyree Henry shines as Jason Crutchfield, Clarissa's dedicated trainer, earning praise as a potential contender for Best Supporting Actor.

• Direction and Writing:

  • Directed by Rachel Morrison in her directorial debut, known for her work as a cinematographer.
  • Written by Barry Jenkins, marking his second collaborative effort following the Lion King sequel, Mufasa.

• Themes:

  • Explores the harsh realities faced by female athletes post-Olympics, particularly in sports that lack sustained media attention and sponsorship.

Notable Quote:
Alison Wilmore highlights the film’s depth, stating, “It’s really about wrestling with the realities of being a woman in sports...you have to keep fighting in another way. That can be really disheartening” ([02:19]).

2. Better Man

Overview:
A Robbie Williams Biopic takes an unconventional approach by portraying Robbie Williams as a chimpanzee, blending human drama with surreal humor.

Key Points:

• Creative Choices:

  • Robbie Williams is uniquely depicted by a chimpanzee, a bold stylistic decision that distinguishes the film from traditional biopics.

• Performance and Direction:

  • Michael Gracie, director of The Greatest Showman, brings energy to the musical numbers, which are praised for advancing the narrative despite the unconventional portrayal.

Notable Quote:
Wilmore comments on the film’s musical aspects, saying, “...the music numbers are really energetic and they actually kind of move the story forward” ([06:33]).

3. Baby Girl

Overview:
Baby Girl stars Nicole Kidman as Paris Dickinson, a high-powered CEO grappling with her hidden desire for BDSM dynamics in her personal life.

Key Points:

• Nicole Kidman’s Performance:

  • Depicts a multi-faceted character dealing with internalized shame and the struggle to reconcile her public image with her private fantasies.

• Director’s Insight:

  • Helena Raine explains, “Everything is about what is real and what is not real...she completely forgets to think about, what do I want” ([12:48]).

• Themes:

  • Addresses the complexities of power dynamics, personal fulfillment, and the societal expectations placed on women in leadership roles.

Notable Quote:
Wilmore praises Kidman’s ability to embody the character’s struggle, stating, “...it has a lot going on. It is a complicated movie. And I think that Kidman's performance is really what holds it together” ([13:41]).

4. The Brutalist

Overview:
An ambitious film made on a modest budget, The Brutalist has captivated audiences with its sweeping narrative and Adrien Brody’s standout performance.

Key Points:

• Production:

  • Produced with a budget of approximately $10 million, showcasing impressive scale and ambition.

• Adrien Brody’s Role:

  • Delivers one of the best performances of the year, with critics like Wilmore expecting significant award season attention.

• Audience Reception:

  • Praised for its engaging narrative and Brody’s dedication to the character, leaving a lasting impression on movie enthusiasts.

Notable Quote:
Wilmore lauds Brody’s performance, noting, “I think he’s phenomenal. And I expect he’s going to get a lot of attention as the kind of award season rolls on” ([15:02]).

5. Hundreds of Beavers

Overview:
A campy, black-and-white film that harkens back to art house cinema, Hundreds of Beavers offers a lo-fi aesthetic and entertaining narrative.

Key Points:

• Style and Execution:

  • Embraces a retro feel reminiscent of midnight screenings, appealing to audiences seeking something different.

• Budget and Success:

  • Created on an estimated budget of $150,000, the film has garnered a loyal following through film festivals and strategic streaming releases.

• Accessibility:

  • Available for free streaming on Tubi TV, making it easily accessible to a broad audience.

Notable Quote:
Wilmore encourages exploration of the film without spoilers, saying, “I think that style is part of the joy” ([18:11]).

6. Nesferatu

Overview:
A remake of the classic 1922 silent vampire film, Nesferatu brings modern interpretations to a timeless horror narrative.

Key Points:

• Performance Highlights:

  • Nicholas Hoult delivers a terrifying portrayal of Thomas Hutter, conveying genuine fear and helplessness.

  • Bill Skarsgård as Count Orlok offers a sinister presence, maintaining the eerie atmosphere integral to the story.

• Reception:

  • While Wilmore appreciates Hoult’s performance, she expresses mixed feelings about the film’s overall execution, despite strong acting.

Notable Quote:
Wilmore reflects on Hoult’s ability to convey terror, stating, “Nicholas Hoult… gives the best terrified face” ([19:08]).

7. A Complete Unknown

Overview:
Starring Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan, A Complete Unknown delves into the enigmatic life of the legendary musician.

Key Points:

• Performance:

  • Chalamet is praised for his portrayal of Dylan, capturing the musician’s complexity and influence within the folk scene.

• Supporting Cast:

  • Features strong performances from Elle Fanning, Edward Norton (as Pete Seeger), and Monica Barbaro, enhancing the film’s depth.

• Themes:

  • Explores the mixed emotions surrounding Dylan’s impact on the music industry and personal relationships within his sphere.

Notable Quote:
Wilmore acknowledges Chalamet’s skill, stating, “Timothée is able to play Bob Dylan as this really enigmatic but incredibly talented figure” ([20:33]).

8. The Six Triple Eight

Overview:
A World War II drama by Tyler Perry, The Six Triple Eight focuses on an all-black female battalion in the Women's Army Corps tasked with delivering mail in Europe.

Key Points:

• Production Quality:

  • Noted for being glossier than Perry’s typical offerings, though some scenes may still reflect lower production values.

• Performance:

  • Kerry Washington leads as Major Charity Addams, embodying strength and resilience amidst adversity and racial prejudices.

• Historical Significance:

  • Highlights the often-overlooked contributions of black women in military history, emphasizing their critical role in maintaining soldier morale through mail delivery.

Notable Quote:
Wilmore appreciates the portrayal of the battalion’s efforts, saying, “...there is value to what it's highlighting, which is... an all-black, all-female battalion” ([22:19]).

9. Red One

Overview:
An action-packed Christmas film featuring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Chris Evans, Red One revolves around the high-stakes kidnapping of Santa Claus.

Key Points:

• Production Scale:

  • With a staggering budget of $250 million, the film boasts high production values and a star-studded cast including J.K. Simmons.

• Premise and Execution:

  • Combines traditional buddy-cop elements with holiday magic, creating a novel yet somewhat frivolous narrative.

• Reception:

  • While not universally acclaimed, the film is recognized for its novelty and the charisma of its leading actors, making it a go-to for fans of action-comedy hybrids.

Notable Quote:
Wilmore remarks on the film’s unique position, stating, “I would not say it's a good movie, but I have talked to some people who've enjoyed it” ([24:00]).

Listener Interactions

Throughout the episode, Alison Stewart engages with listeners who share their experiences and recommendations:

• Laurie’s Feedback on The Brutalist ([14:37]):
  Praises Adrien Brody’s dedication to his character and highly recommends the film for its ambitious storytelling.

• Alexander’s Thoughts on Hundreds of Beavers ([17:30]):
  Enjoys the film’s campy, art house vibe and encourages others to seek it out on Tubi TV.

Conclusion

Alison Stewart and Alison Wilmore wrap up the episode by encouraging listeners to explore the diverse holiday film offerings, whether opting for cinematic releases or streaming options. The episode serves as a comprehensive guide for movie enthusiasts seeking to make informed choices during the festive season.

Notable Final Quote:
Wilmore extends festive wishes, saying, “Happy holidays” ([25:32]).

For more insights and in-depth cultural discussions, tune in to future episodes of All Of It on WNYC, hosted by Alison Stewart.