Last Podcast On The Left: Side Stories: Movie Stories III
Release Date: May 7, 2025
Hosts: Henry Zabrowski, Jackie Zabrowski, Marcus Parks
Sponsor: Amica Insurance, Quint, Fast Growing Trees, IXL, BetterHelp, Mint Mobile, Raycon

Introduction to Alien Movies

In this episode of Side Stories: Movie Stories III, the hosts delve into the realm of alien-themed films, exploring their nuances, accuracy, and personal impacts. Henry Zabrowski opens the conversation by emphasizing the unique position alien movies hold within the sci-fi and horror genres.

Henry Zabrowski [01:05]:
"Welcome to side stories. Yes. My name is Henry Zabrowski. I'm sitting here with Edward Larson. And I'm also working on it."

Defining Alien Movies vs. Superhero Films

The discussion begins with clarifications on what constitutes an alien movie, distinctly separating it from superhero films. The hosts agree that superhero movies, often intertwined with comic book lore, do not fit into their alien-centric narrative for this episode.

Jackie Zabrowski [02:17]:
"I like my superhero movies, but I understand that they have no place in this conversation."

Exploring Notable Alien Films

The trio examines a variety of alien movies, assessing their authenticity and contribution to the genre. They range from classics like "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" to contemporary releases such as "No One Will Save You".

Henry Zabrowski [04:35]:
"I think it's good to talk about Alien movies because I think even amongst sci fi films within the sci fi genre, you would call the Alien film its own part of the genre."

Notable Quotes:

• Marcus Parks [04:37]:
  "Sometimes they lean into discovery."

• Jackie Zabrowski [05:03]:
  "Yeah, that one scared the out of me when I was a kid."

Accuracy and Representation in Alien Films

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around the accuracy of alien portrayals in films and how they reflect societal themes. "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" is lauded for its realistic approach to alien communication protocols, drawing from actual government research.

Henry Zabrowski [16:17]:
"The idea of using tones like when he does the whole like the talking to the aliens. Right. From a government concept of if we are approached by another species or something from outer space, how do we communicate?"

Jackie Zabrowski [15:24]:
"I still very much, obviously, I like E.T."

Impact of Alien Movies on Personal Lives

The hosts share personal anecdotes about how alien movies influenced their childhood and worldview. Jackie Zabrowski reminisces about watching horror movies with friends during challenging times, finding solace and connection through these films.

Jackie Zabrowski [69:51]:
"And so, like, two friends and we watched horror movies and we. And that's how, like, I related to society from, like, exactly 8 to, like 14."

Genre Evolution and Filmmaking Insights

Henry Zabrowski highlights the importance of understanding film genres for filmmakers, emphasizing that knowing genre conventions allows for creative manipulation and storytelling depth.

Henry Zabrowski [28:26]:
"It really requires, I think, unfortunately, the real education of a filmmaker is watching movies and identifying what are the telltale signs of very specific genres."

Critique of Modern Superhero Films

The hosts express strong opinions against the superhero genre, criticizing its dominance in the film industry and its impact on the quality and diversity of cinematic storytelling.

Henry Zabrowski [52:30]:
"The problem with the movies with. My main issue, truly, is just that. I'm not going to watch 10 movies. To watch one movie."

Jackie Zabrowski [52:31]:
"The problem with the movies with. My main issue, truly, is just that. I'm not going to watch 10 movies. To watch one movie."

Upcoming Interviews and Future Discussions

Looking ahead, the hosts announce an upcoming interview with Whitley Schreiber at Contact in the Desert, hinting at deeper insights into alien abduction narratives.

Jackie Zabrowski [39:13]:
"We're going to interview Whitley Schreiber at Contact in the Desert. Very excited."

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In wrapping up, the hosts reflect on the emotional and psychological impacts of alien movies, underscoring their significance beyond mere entertainment. They advocate for a deeper appreciation of genre films and their role in personal and societal contexts.

Henry Zabrowski [68:53]:
"What do the movies mean to you? I think that that's like what we sort of miss sometimes in the age of like."

Jackie Zabrowski [69:47]:
"A lot of people look at it as trash and all that stuff, but it's actually like, they teach you about society."

Highlighted Quotes with Timestamps

• Henry Zabrowski [04:35]:
  "I think even amongst sci fi films within the sci fi genre, you would call the Alien film its own part of the genre."

• Jackie Zabrowski [15:30]:
  "I think Close Encounters is like, if you're like Henry and you're a bigger fan of aliens in general, it's got the lore, all of it."

• Marcus Parks [20:21]:
  "It's a very good breakdown because it's true."

• Henry Zabrowski [28:26]:
  "It really requires... the real education of a filmmaker is watching movies and identifying what are the telltale signs of very specific genres."

• Jackie Zabrowski [29:32]:
  "You know, a lot of times they reflect society, which I think is really cool."

• Marcus Parks [52:38]:
  "Dumb God."

Closing Remarks

This episode of Side Stories: Movie Stories III offers a comprehensive exploration of alien movies, dissecting their genres, accuracy, and deeper societal implications. The hosts provide insightful critiques and personal reflections, making it a valuable listen for enthusiasts seeking to understand the multifaceted nature of alien-themed cinema.