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.
33episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Disclosure Day
1w ago00:38:27Tap to summarizeThis week on Forgotten Cinema: Now Showing, the Mikes discuss "Disclosure Day", the latest film from Steven Spielberg and one that leaves them with very different reactions.Butler really enjoys the film and finds himself appreciating it more the longer he sits with it. As someone with a long-standing interest in UFOs and the broader phenomenon, he admits some personal bias, but believes the movie succeeds because it remains focused on telling a compelling story first. The plot works, the mystery unfolds effectively, and several sequences rank among Spielberg's strongest in recent years. The ending in particular leaves a powerful impression and has Butler convinced the film will only improve on future rewatches.Field is less enthusiastic. While he acknowledges many of the film's strengths, he finds himself wanting something closer to a character-driven experience in the vein of "Contact". Both Mikes agree that Emily Blunt's Margaret may have been the more compelling choice for the film's central protagonist. Her character undergoes a clearer journey and receives meaningful answers to the questions driving her story. By comparison, Daniel often feels like a hero at the end of his arc, with mysteries about his past that are never resolved for either himself or the audience.Despite those criticisms, both Butler and Field agree that "Disclosure Day" contains some fantastic scenes, strong performances, and an ending that lingers long after the credits roll. Most importantly, both of them want to see it again, which may be the strongest endorsement of all.🔔 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 #DisclosureDay #StevenSpielberg #EmilyBlunt #UFOs #UAP #Aliens #Disclosure #Drama #SciFi #NewRelease #FilmDiscussion
Transcribe →Time Bandits
1w ago00:43:43Tap to summarizeThis week on Forgotten Cinema, the Mikes tackle "Time Bandits", Terry Gilliam's beloved fantasy adventure and one of the most celebrated cult films of the 1980s.Unfortunately, this is another Gilliam film that just doesn't quite connect with either of them.Both Butler and Field came into the movie wanting to like it. Butler is a big fan of "Brazil", and Field enjoys that film as well, but much like their experience with "12 Monkeys", they find themselves on the outside looking in when it comes to another highly regarded Gilliam classic.The Mikes discuss whether part of their disconnect comes from discovering the film nearly fifty years after its release. While both enjoy plenty of quirky, imaginative films from the era, they struggle with the episodic structure here. The various historical vignettes never quite come together into a satisfying whole, and the bandits themselves feel underdeveloped. Aside from Randall, the group often blends together into what feels like a single character, making it difficult to become invested in their journey.That is not to say the film is without merit. Some of the practical effects remain impressive, several jokes land well, and Gilliam's imagination is on full display throughout. Ultimately, though, Butler and Field find themselves wanting a stronger narrative thread to tie everything together.As self-described plot-focused viewers, the Mikes wonder if "Time Bandits" is simply one of those movies that speaks to a different audience. They respect its legacy and understand why it has endured, even if this particular adventure was not for them.What are they missing from Time Bandits that connect with you? 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 - Introduction3:09 - Film Facts13:36 - Film Discussion32:26 - Reviews36:34 - Who Would You Recommend This To?39:36 - Why Is This Forgotten?39:35 - Plugs#ForgottenCinema #TimeBandits #TerryGilliam #SciFi #Fantasy #SeanConnery #JohnCleese #MontyPython #80sFilm #80sMovie #Comedy #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms
Transcribe →The Vast of Night
2w ago00:42:07Tap to summarizeThis week on Forgotten Cinema, the Mikes tune into "The Vast of Night", the low-budget science fiction mystery that released on Amazon Prime during the pandemic.Both Butler and Field really enjoy the movie, especially its ambitious filmmaking and the performances from its two young leads. The film makes excellent use of long takes and creative camera work, creating a sense of momentum and atmosphere that far exceeds its modest budget. Both Mikes are surprised that the lead actors have not gone on to become bigger stars, given how much of the film's success rests on their shoulders.The discussion does reveal one notable disagreement. Butler is less enthusiastic about the film's highly stylized dialogue, finding it more suited to a stage play than a naturalistic film. Field, on the other hand, enjoys the rapid-fire writing and sees it as part of the movie's unique identity.The conversation also ventures into UFO and alien territory, as Butler compares the film's central mystery to real-world stories, theories, and folklore surrounding unexplained phenomena. The film's willingness to embrace mystery without overexplaining itself becomes one of its greatest strengths.With strong performances, inventive direction, and a fascinating central mystery, "The Vast of Night" proves that great science fiction does not require a massive budget, only great ideas and talented filmmakers. The Mikes are also excited to see what comes next from director Andrew Patterson, whose long-awaited follow-up project is finally on the horizon.What did you think of "The Vast of Night"? 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 - Introduction3:35 - Film Facts8:43 - Film Discussion28:53 - Reviews32:25 - Who Would You Recommend This To?36:41 - Why Is This Forgotten?39:35 - Plugs#ForgottenCinema #TheVastOfNight #VastOfNight #SciFi #Amazon #AmazonPrime #PrimeOriginal #Streaming #UFO #UAP #Aliens #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms
Transcribe →Tin Cup
3w ago00:47:11Tap to summarizeThis week on Forgotten Cinema, the Mikes hit the links with "Tin Cup", the sports comedy-drama starring Kevin Costner as the talented but self-destructive Roy McAvoy.What makes this episode interesting is that Butler isn't a golf fan at all, while Field is a huge fan of the sport. Despite coming at the film from very different perspectives, both Mikes really enjoy it. Costner's Roy is a charming screw up, a man whose ego is often matched only by his self-doubt. His reluctance to take his shot in life makes him a surprisingly relatable character, and Costner balances the comedy and drama of the role effortlessly.Field is also a big fan of how believable the golf feels throughout the film. Costner looks like a real golfer, plays like a real golfer, and helps sell the authenticity of the sport in a way many sports movies struggle to achieve.With memorable performances, strong chemistry, plenty of laughs, and a protagonist who is easy to root for despite his flaws, "Tin Cup" proves that you do not have to love golf to love a great golf movie.While the Mikes have a few small nitpicks, they agree that "Tin Cup" remains one of the most enjoyable sports films of the 1990s and a movie worth checking out whether you follow the sport or not.What is your favorite golf movie? 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 - Introduction5:16 - Film Facts14:57 - Film Discussion16:24 - Golf Lessons with Field18:43 - Back to Discussion35:05 - Reviews39:35 - Who Would You Recommend This To?42:15 - Why Is This Forgotten?45:08 - Plugs#ForgottenCinema #TinCup #KevinCostner #Golf #GolfMovie #SportsMovie #Comedy #Dramedy #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms
Transcribe →The Mandalorian & Grogu - Now Showing
4w ago00:38:27Tap to summarizeThis week on Forgotten Cinema: Now Showing, the Mikes head to a galaxy far, far away with "The Mandalorian and Grogu".Butler comes away enjoying the film more than Field, though both agree it suffers from a bloated runtime and repetitive structure. At nearly 30 to 40 minutes longer than it needs to be, the movie revisits certain emotional and action beats too often without evolving the central dynamic between Mando and Grogu.Butler also brings up a major plot point and action sequence that feels lifted almost directly from the first season of the "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" spinoff "Angel", which he couldn't ignore once noticed.Even with that, it's still a fun watch. Butler praises the action sequences and especially the IMAX presentation, with the film delivering strong visuals and impressive sound design throughout. Field also finds enjoyment in some of the action and even appreciates one of the film’s callbacks, despite normally disliking that kind of fan service.Ultimately, both Mikes wonder whether Mando and Grogu may now work better as characters appearing in smaller Indiana Jones-style adventures or as supporting players within larger stories, unless future films are willing to significantly evolve their relationship and formula.Visually impressive and often entertaining, "The Mandalorian and Grogu" continues the story fans love, even if the franchise may still be searching for its next direction.🔔 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 #StarWars #MandalorianAndGrogu #Mandalorian&Grogu #PedroPascal #SigourneyWeaver #DaveFiloni #JonFavreau #Grogu #Mando #Mandalorian #SciFi #NewRelease #FilmDiscussion
Transcribe →Chronicle
May 2700:44:08Tap to summarizeThis week on Forgotten Cinema, the Mikes fly to Seattle to revisit "Chronicle", the found footage superhero film that shows what happens when ordinary teenagers suddenly gain extraordinary power, but also isn't Spider-Man.Both Mike Butler and Mike Field still enjoy the film, with Field noting that it remains one of the very few found footage movies he genuinely likes. The concept, performances, and grounded approach to the rise of a super villain help the movie stand apart from most entries in both the found footage and superhero genres.That said, the rewatch does reveal some issues with the format itself. Butler especially takes issue with how the film randomly pulls footage from security cameras, military footage, and personal recordings without really explaining how all of it has been assembled into one coherent narrative. Unlike most found footage films, where the source and structure of the footage are clearly established, "Chronicle" plays much looser with the concept.The film’s short runtime is also a bit of a double edged sword. On one hand, the pacing is excellent and the movie never wastes time or drifts away from its core story. On the other hand, both Mikes feel an additional 20 to 30 minutes could have helped flesh out the characters of Matt and Steve, giving more emotional weight to the events that unfold.Even with those criticisms, "Chronicle" remains a compelling and creative take on the origin of a super villain, combining grounded character drama with powers that feel both exciting and dangerous and the Mikes lament the lack of a proper sequel.What is your favorite found footage film? 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 - Introduction2:28 - Film Facts8:59 - Film Discussion29:07 - Reviews37:21 - Who Would You Recommend This To?40:06 - Why Is This Forgotten?42:20 - Plugs#ForgottenCinema #Chronicle #MichaelBJordan #JoshTrank #SuperHero #SciFi #SuperHeroFilm #Action #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms
Transcribe →The Last Castle
May 2000:46:55Tap to summarizeThis week on Forgotten Cinema, the Mikes revisit "The Last Castle", the military prison drama starring Robert Redford and James Gandolfini.Both Mike Butler and Mike Field enjoy the film, with Redford especially standing out. His performance brings a sense of gravitas and quiet leadership that keeps the movie engaging even when the plot becomes familiar. Gandolfini also plays his role as Colonel Winter effectively, bringing intensity and arrogance to the character, though both the role and the story itself lean heavily into predictable “by the numbers” territory.What elevates the film beyond its formula are the performances from the supporting cast, including Clifton Collins Jr. and Mark Ruffalo, who help give the prison and its inmates a stronger sense of humanity and camaraderie.While "The Last Castle" may not reinvent the genre, it remains an enjoyable and well-acted drama that succeeds largely because of the strength of its cast and the presence of Redford at the center of it all.What is your favorite non-Sopranos James Gandolfini role? 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 - Introduction3:17 - Film Facts12:08 - Film Discussion35:50 - Reviews40:39 - Who Would You Recommend This To?44:03 - Why Is This Forgotten?45:26 - Plugs#ForgottenCinema #TheLastCastle #RobertRedford #JamesGandolfini #MarkRuffalo #CliftonCollinsJr #00sMovies #MilitaryFilm #Thriller #Action #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms
Transcribe →Rob Roy
May 1300:50:21Tap to summarizeThis week on Forgotten Cinema, the Mikes revisit "Rob Roy", the historical drama that delivers unforgettable performances, incredible dialogue, and one of the most celebrated sword fights ever put to film.Both Mike Butler and Mike Field think this movie is fantastic, with Field especially loving every minute of it. Butler had never actually seen the full film before, despite studying its famous fight choreography in college, making this viewing both a first-time watch and a long overdue revisit to a scene he already deeply appreciated.The Mikes praise the cast across the board, with the actors all operating at the top of their game. The film is packed with sharp, memorable dialogue and characters that feel larger than life without losing their humanity. The performances, cinematography, and grounded approach to violence give the story a weight that elevates it far beyond a standard historical epic.Powerful, quotable, and emotionally driven, "Rob Roy" stands as a gripping drama that deserves far more recognition today.What are your favorite cinema sword fights (lightsabers excluded)?🔔 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 - Introduction2:10 - Film Facts7:56 - Film Discussion36:11 - Reviews39:54 - Who Would You Recommend This To?44:09 - Why Is This Forgotten?48:47 - Plugs#ForgottenCinema #RobRoy #LiamNeeson #TimRoth #JohnHurt #BrianCox #90sMovies #Epic #Historical #Scottish #Swords #Action #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms
Transcribe →Dark City
May 600:50:24Tap to summarizeThis week on Forgotten Cinema, the Mikes step into the shadows with "Dark City", the stylish sci-fi noir that has grown into a cult favorite over the years.Both Mike Butler and Mike Field really like the film, especially its atmosphere, visual design, and ambitious mythology. The movie blends science fiction, noir, and philosophy into a unique world filled with mystery and unsettling imagery. The ideas surrounding memory, identity, and control still make the film fascinating to discuss decades later.That said, the film is not without its flaws. Some of the late-90s visual effects have aged noticeably, and while the mythology is compelling, certain aspects of it feel underexplained. The Mikes particularly discuss the balance between leaving mysteries open versus simply not giving enough information, especially when it comes to the origins and motivations of "The Strangers."The conversation also turns toward William Hurt’s detective character, with both wondering whether the film might have been even stronger had it centered more heavily on him as the main protagonist.Even with those criticisms, "Dark City" remains a visually striking and intellectually engaging sci-fi film that feels ripe for a sequel or series exploring its world and themes in greater depth.What are some of your theories about "Dark City"?🔔 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 Facts9:59 - Film Discussion31:48 - Reviews37:41 - Who Would You Recommend This To?42:16 - Why Is This Forgotten?47:13 - Plugs#ForgottenCinema #DarkCity #KieferSutherland #RufusSewell #JenniferConnelly #AlexProyas #90sMovies #SciFi #Gothic #Cyberpunk #Thriller #Mystery #Noir #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms
Transcribe →Dead Man Walking
Apr 2900:42:00Tap to summarizeThis week on Forgotten Cinema, the Mikes take on "Dead Man Walking", the powerful drama directed by Tim Robbins.Both Mike Butler and Mike Field really like this film, praising its thoughtful approach to the very difficult topic of the death penalty. Rather than forcing a clear stance, "Dead Man Walking" presents the death penalty in a balanced and human way, allowing the audience to wrestle with the moral questions alongside the characters.The film is elevated by strong direction, striking cinematography, and especially the performances from Susan Sarandon and Sean Penn. Both deliver deeply emotional and nuanced work that anchors the story and gives weight to every moment.With very little to criticize, "Dead Man Walking" stands as a compelling, well-crafted film that remains impactful and worth revisiting.🔔 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 - Introduction3:05 - Film Facts9:06 - Film Discussion30:17 - Reviews35:12 - Who Would You Recommend This To?38:34 - Why Is This Forgotten?40:27 - Plugs#ForgottenCinema #DeadManWalking #SeanPenn #TimRobbins #SusanSarandon #90sMovies #90sDrama #Drama #Oscars #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms
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