Podcast
Forgotten Cinema
Hosted by Michael Butler & Michael Field · EN
Welcome to Forgotten Cinema! Each episode, Mike Field and Mike Butler highlight a film that for a variety of reasons was forgotten by audiences. Whether it be because a more popular movie was released at the same time or the movie simply didn’t catch on with an audience in the its initial run. We’ll discuss what we love about the movie or perhaps don’t love about it and decide whether the movie is worth a revisit.
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Episodes
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Payback
5d ago00:42:33Tap to summarizeSeason 26 begins on Forgotten Cinema as the Mikes take a look at "Payback", the 1999 crime thriller starring Mel Gibson.The plan was to watch "Payback: Straight Up," director Brian Helgeland’s restored cut of the film. Instead, both Mike Butler and Mike Field ended up watching the Director’s Cut and the theatrical version. Field accidentally started with the theatrical cut, while Butler found the alternate version so dramatically different that discussing one without seeing the other would have been nearly impossible.For perhaps the first time the Mikes can remember, both cuts have genuine merit. The theatrical version suffers from an aggressive blue tint and heavy desaturation that appear intended to evoke a gritty 1970s crime film, but instead leave much of the movie looking flat and artificial. The Director’s Cut, however, captures that throwback atmosphere far more effectively.The differences extend well beyond the visuals. Entire scenes, characters, and story elements are altered, while the ending is changed so completely that the two versions almost feel like separate films. Butler prefers the more elaborate theatrical finale, while Field finds it somewhat tacked on, even though he enjoys several moments within it.The Mikes also discuss Gibson’s Porter, an unapologetically selfish and irredeemable criminal who never needs to reveal a secret heart of gold. That commitment to making the protagonist a genuinely bad person is rare, and it gives both versions of the film a distinctive personality.Even rarer is the final recommendation. Should you watch the Director’s Cut and enjoy it, Butler and Field believe the theatrical version is also worth seeking out. Neither cut completely replaces the other, making "Payback" a fascinating example of how editing, tone, and a radically different ending can transform the same production into two worthwhile movies.Are there any other adaptation of the Porter series that we don't know about? Let us know in the comments below!🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Forgotten Cinema content!🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts.✨ Support us on Patreon for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/forgottencinema🛍️ Grab some Forgotten Cinema merch: www.etsy.com/shop/ForgottenCinemaShopCheck out our website: https://www.forgottencinemapodcast.com0:00 - Introduction3:45 - Film Facts16:00 - Film Discussion27:28 - Reviews33:44 - Who Would You Recommend This To?38:18 - Why Is This Forgotten?40:56 - Plugs#ForgottenCinema #Payback #MelGibson #BrianHelgeland #BasedOnABook #DirectorsCut #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms #Crime #Thriller #90sMovies
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White Water Summer
2w ago00:44:01Tap to summarizeThis week on Forgotten Cinema, Forgotten Summer comes to an end with "White Water Summer", the 1987 wilderness adventure starring Kevin Bacon and Sean Astin.Unfortunately, neither Mike Butler nor Mike Field is particularly impressed. The film has the ingredients for an engaging survival story, but its characters repeatedly make frustrating decisions and the movie never fully develops its most interesting ideas.One of the biggest problems is Sean Astin’s narration, which was added two years after principal photography. Rather than adding clarity or emotional depth, these bookends make his character even less likable.Kevin Bacon’s camp leader could have been the film’s most compelling character. His demanding methods, unclear motivations, and increasingly dangerous behavior suggest a much more complicated person beneath the surface. Unfortunately, the movie does very little with him until its final ten or fifteen minutes, leaving most of that potential unexplored.Filled with questionable choices, underdeveloped characters, and an unnecessary narration that actively works against the film, "White Water Summer" brings Forgotten Summer to a disappointing, though certainly memorable, conclusion.What are some other forgotten outdoor teenage comedy/survival movies that we didn't mention this episode? Let us know in the comments!🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Forgotten Cinema content!🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts.✨ Support us on Patreon for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/forgottencinema🛍️ Grab some Forgotten Cinema merch: www.etsy.com/shop/ForgottenCinemaShopCheck out our website: https://www.forgottencinemapodcast.com0:00 - Introduction3:41 - Film Facts8:14 - Film Discussion27:42 - Reviews31:58 - Who Would You Recommend This To?37:34 - Why Is This Forgotten?41:24 - Plugs#ForgottenCinema #WhiteWaterSummer #SeanAstin #KevinBacon #Drama #Outdoors #TeenComedy #TeenMovies #80sMovies #ForgottenSummer #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms
Transcribe →Autonomous | Now Showing
2w ago00:13:32Tap to summarizeThis week on Forgotten Cinema: Now Showing, the Mikes take a look at "Autonomous", a new vertical horror short from the creators of "ZombieCON Vol. 1", now streaming on Screamify.In this bonus episode, Mike Butler and Mike Field discuss how "Autonomous" uses the growing presence of self-driving cars, and the anxieties surrounding them, as the foundation for a compact monster story. They break down the film’s plot, characters, visual style, and how effectively it builds tension within such a short runtime.The Mikes also explore the vertical format itself and whether it works as a legitimate storytelling device rather than simply a way to watch content on a phone. For both of them, Screamify and the recent wave of vertical dramas feel surprisingly familiar, recalling the creative energy and experimentation of the web series scene from the late 2000s and early 2010s.Be sure to check out "Autonomous" on Screamify, as well as our interview with director Kyle Valle and Erin Áine, where we discuss the making of the short, the challenges of vertical filmmaking, and the opportunities this emerging format may offer independent creators.You can also head to Screamify.com to check out the short and everything Screamify has to offer. And don't forget to follow the creators @bigsquidfilms and of course @screamifyapp on the socials!🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Forgotten Cinema content!🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts.✨ Support us on Patreon for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/forgottencinema🛍️ Grab some Forgotten Cinema merch: www.etsy.com/shop/ForgottenCinemaShopCheck out our website: https://www.forgottencinemapodcast.com#ForgottenCinema #Autonomous #ErinÁine #ErinAine #KyleValle #Screamify #Interview #Horror #VerticalDrama #ShortFilm #AI #ZombieCon #Thriller #IndependentFilm #IndieFilm #Filmmaking #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion
Transcribe →Autonomous | Interview with Kyle Valle and Erin Áine
2w ago00:50:34Tap to summarizeIn this bonus episode, the Mikes interview director Kyle Valle and star Erin Áine of the vertical horror short "Autonomous"; now showing on the new streaming service "Screamify". Mike Field and Mike Butler ask Valle and Áine what drew them to the script, how they joined up with Screamify, the differences and challenges of filming a vertical story and of course, they check in on "ZombieCON Vol.2".Check out this episode, see what the Mikes thought of "Autonomous" in a special Now Showing episode, or head to Screamify.com to check out the short and everything Screamify has to offer. And don't forget to follow the creators @bigsquidfilms and of course @screamifyapp on the socials!🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Forgotten Cinema content!🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts.✨ Support us on Patreon for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/forgottencinema🛍️ Grab some Forgotten Cinema merch: www.etsy.com/shop/ForgottenCinemaShopCheck out our website: https://www.forgottencinemapodcast.com#ForgottenCinema #Autonomous #ErinÁine #ErinAine #KyleValle #Screamify #Interview #Horror #VerticalDrama #ShortFilm #AI #ZombieCon #Thriller #IndependentFilm #IndieFilm #Filmmaking #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion
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Kingdom of Heaven - Director's Cut
3w ago00:51:00Tap to summarizeThis week on Forgotten Cinema, the Mikes head to the penultimate episode of both Forgotten Summer and Season 25 with Ridley Scott’s "Kingdom of Heaven", specifically the Director’s Cut that both Mike Butler and Mike Field agree is far superior to the theatrical release.The Mikes discuss how the restored version gives the story, characters, and themes the room they need to breathe, transforming the film into a richer and more complete historical epic. There is a lot being explored here, from faith and leadership, to war, tolerance, and the responsibility that comes with power.That said, the film is still somewhat held back by its central hero. Balian can feel like a fairly generic protagonist compared to the more complex characters surrounding him, though Orlando Bloom does a very good job with the material and brings a quiet strength to the role.The conversation also expands into what truly makes a film an “epic,” what separates a historical epic from a standard period drama, and why movies of this scale have become so difficult to produce in the modern studio system.With stunning filmmaking, ambitious ideas, and a story greatly improved by its restored footage, "Kingdom of Heaven" is an easy recommendation from both Mikes. Just make sure you watch Ridley Scott’s Director’s Cut, because once you have seen it, there is little reason to return to the theatrical version.What are some other more modern "historical epics" that we didn't mention this episode? Let us know in the comments!🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Forgotten Cinema content!🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts.✨ Support us on Patreon for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/forgottencinema🛍️ Grab some Forgotten Cinema merch: www.etsy.com/shop/ForgottenCinemaShopCheck out our website: https://www.forgottencinemapodcast.com0:00 - Introduction4:03 - Film Facts12:37 - Film Discussion34:10 - Reviews37:31 - Who Would You Recommend This To?42:00 - Why Is This Forgotten?48:18 - Plugs#ForgottenCinema #KingdomOfHeaven #DirectorsCut #RidleyScott #OrlandoBloom #EvaGreen #LiamNeeson #JeremyIrons #Epic #HistoricalDrama #HistoricalEpic #ActionMovie #Drama #History #Crusades #00sMovies #ForgottenSummer #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms
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Blown Away
4w ago00:45:21Tap to summarizeThis week on Forgotten Cinema, Forgotten Summer continues with "Blown Away", the 1994 action thriller starring Jeff Bridges and Tommy Lee Jones.Both Mike Butler and Mike Field find pieces of the film to enjoy. The practical explosions deliver, the final confrontation between Bridges and Jones has plenty of energy, and there is the foundation of a tense revenge thriller buried somewhere beneath all the chaos.Unfortunately, "Blown Away" is also a complete mess. The timeline is never properly established, the shared history between its hero and villain desperately needed a clear flashback, and several characters make choices that are difficult to understand. The questionable Irish and Boston accents do not help, nor does a badly miscast Forest Whitaker in a role that never makes much sense to begin with.Tommy Lee Jones certainly commits to the madness, and Jeff Bridges does what he can to hold everything together, but the film never develops its characters or central conflict enough to make the spectacle truly matter.Released in the same summer as "Speed" and shortly before "True Lies", this uneven action thriller was always going to struggle to stand out. With better competition, sharper writing, and more memorable action surrounding it, "Blown Away" was ultimately destined to be...forgotten.What's another forgotten 90's Action Blockbuster? Let us know in the comments below!🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Forgotten Cinema content!🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts.✨ Support us on Patreon for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/forgottencinema🛍️ Grab some Forgotten Cinema merch: www.etsy.com/shop/ForgottenCinemaShopCheck out our website: https://www.forgottencinemapodcast.com0:00 - Introduction3:18 - Film Facts08:13 - Film Discussion35:08 - Reviews38:24 - Who Would You Recommend This To?41:11 - Why Is This Forgotten?43:00 - Plugs#ForgottenCinema #BlownAway #JeffBridges #TommyLeeJones #90sMovies #ActionMovie #Speed #TrueLies #ForgottenSummer #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms
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War of the Worlds
Jul 800:43:38Tap to summarizeThis week on Forgotten Cinema, Forgotten Summer continues with "War of the Worlds", Steven Spielberg's intense adaptation of the H.G. Wells classic.After covering "Flight of the Navigator", discussing "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" in their Lead Up series, releasing a Patreon-exclusive episode on "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial", and reviewing "Disclosure Day", it only felt right for the Mikes to tackle another one of Spielberg's unforgettable alien films.Both Mike Butler and Mike Field love "War of the Worlds". From Spielberg's masterful direction to the relentless pacing and unforgettable set pieces, the film remains just as gripping today as it was upon release. Even after multiple viewings, Butler finds himself on the edge of his seat throughout much of the movie.Of course, the Mikes still have a few nitpicks. Cruise's portrayal of Ray as an almost unbelievably irresponsible father feels exaggerated during the first half of the film, though both agree it ultimately pays off as his character grows over the course of the story. Butler also revisits one of the classic criticisms of the story itself: how could an incredibly advanced alien civilization spend (at least!) centuries preparing to invade Earth without accounting for the planet's microscopic dangers?One of the film's highlights for both Mikes is Tim Robbins' unforgettable performance, which leads to one of the movie's most tense and memorable sequences. They also discuss the controversial ending that has divided audiences for years. While both are ultimately satisfied with it, Butler understands why some viewers struggle with the family's reunion. However, the Mikes point out that both the ending and the aliens' ultimate fate come directly from H.G. Wells' original novel.Thrilling, suspenseful, and packed with unforgettable moments, "War of the Worlds" remains one of Spielberg's finest modern blockbusters and a standout entry in the alien invasion genre.What do you think of "War of the Worlds"? Let us know in the comments below!🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Forgotten Cinema content!🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts.✨ Support us on Patreon for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/forgottencinema🛍️ Grab some Forgotten Cinema merch: www.etsy.com/shop/ForgottenCinemaShopCheck out our website: https://www.forgottencinemapodcast.com0:00 - Introduction2:44 - Film Facts11:26 - Film Discussion35:43 - Who Would You Recommend This To?39:28 - Why Is This Forgotten?42:21 - Plugs#ForgottenCinema #WarOfTheWorlds #StevenSpielberg #TomCruise #DakotaFanning #TimRobbins #ForgottenSummer #SciFi #00sMovies #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms
Transcribe →Abductee - Now Showing
Jul 300:22:58Tap to summarizeJoin Mike Field and Mike Butler for a special Now Showing episode as they discuss the new independent sci-fi/drama/thriller "Abductee"; written and directed by William Hopp and starring Dusty Sorg and Virginia Newcomb. The film follows Drew as he deals with constant sleep paralysis that he believes might actually be alien abductions and enlists the help of his reluctant sister to help him figure out just what is going on.The Mikes will break down what they appreciate from this indie film that separates it from the rest of the pack as well as their reactions to the film's story.And don't forget to check out Forgotten Cinema's interview with William Hopp. Out now!Check out the trailer and see all the theatrical screenings for "Abductee" at the film's website: https://www.abducteemovie.com/Find all social media info at https://linktr.ee/abducteemovie🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Forgotten Cinema content!🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts.✨ Support us on Patreon for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/forgottencinema🛍️ Grab some Forgotten Cinema merch: www.etsy.com/shop/ForgottenCinemaShopCheck out our website: https://www.forgottencinemapodcast.com#ForgottenCinema #Abductee #WilliamHopp #DustySorg #VirginiaNewcomb #SciFi #Thriller #IndependentFilm #IndieFilm #Filmmaking #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion
Transcribe →Abductee - Interview with Writer/Director William Hopp
Jul 200:50:45Tap to summarizeIn this special bonus episode of Forgotten Cinema, the Mikes are sitting down with Writer/Director William Hopp to discuss his new film "Abductee" which as of this episode release is on a roadshow across independent cinemas across the US. Mike Butler and Mike Field will discuss with William the genesis for the film, what went into making this independent production, the trials and tribulations that came about after production wrapped, inspirations, and more!And check out our Now Showing episode for "Abductee" coming out the day after this interview releases for the Mikes' thoughts on the film!Check out the trailer and see all the theatrical screenings for "Abductee" at the film's website: https://www.abducteemovie.com/Find all social media info at https://linktr.ee/abducteemovie🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Forgotten Cinema content!🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts.✨ Support us on Patreon for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/forgottencinema🛍️ Grab some Forgotten Cinema merch: www.etsy.com/shop/ForgottenCinemaShopCheck out our website: https://www.forgottencinemapodcast.com#ForgottenCinema #Abductee #WilliamHopp #Interview #SciFi #Thriller #IndependentFilm #IndieFilm #Filmmaking #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion
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Flight of the Navigator
Jul 100:48:12Tap to summarizeThis week on Forgotten Cinema, Forgotten Summer begins with "Flight of the Navigator", Disney's beloved family sci-fi adventure that has earned a nostalgic following over the years.Neither Mike Butler nor Mike Field remembered much about the film beyond its iconic alien spaceship, making this revisit almost like watching it for the first time. Butler still finds plenty to enjoy, appreciating the movie's sense of adventure and imagination, while Field is a bit less enthusiastic.One surprise for both Mikes is just how long it takes before the famous ship actually enters the story. Instead, the film spends much of its runtime exploring David's mysterious disappearance, his return years later without having aged, and the strange circumstances surrounding his experience.The discussion quickly turns to what could have been. Both Butler and Field agree that "Flight of the Navigator" is a perfect candidate for a modern remake. The film introduces fascinating ideas that never reach their full potential, from the emotional impact of David's time jump and his parents' reaction to getting their son back, to the connection between David and the ship itself. There is an even richer science fiction story waiting to be told.While it may not fully capitalize on its incredible premise, "Flight of the Navigator" remains a charming family adventure whose imagination continues to inspire nearly forty years later.What did you think of "Flight of the Navigator"? Let us know in the comments below!🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Forgotten Cinema content!🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts.✨ Support us on Patreon for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/forgottencinema🛍️ Grab some Forgotten Cinema merch: www.etsy.com/shop/ForgottenCinemaShopCheck out our website: https://www.forgottencinemapodcast.com0:00 - Introduction3:38 - Film Facts9:47 - Film Discussion31:40 - Reviews37:12 - Who Would You Recommend This To?41:32 - Why Is This Forgotten?46:09 - Plugs#ForgottenCinema #FlightoftheNavigator #PaulReubens #SarahJessicaParker #ForgottenSummer #SciFi #80sMovies #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms
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