Podcast Summary: Office Ladies – Movie Breakdown: The Edge, Pt 1

Release Date: February 12, 2025

Introduction

In the latest episode of Office Ladies, hosts Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey, beloved co-stars from The Office, delve into an in-depth breakdown of the thriller film The Edge. This episode, titled "Movie Breakdown: The Edge, Pt 1," offers fans an extensive exploration of the movie's production, plot intricacies, character dynamics, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. Skipping over commercial interruptions, Jenna and Angela provide a rich and engaging analysis suitable for both die-hard fans and newcomers alike.

Choosing the Movie: The Edge

The episode kicks off with Jenna and Angela discussing how the decision to analyze The Edge was influenced by numerous listener suggestions. Angela humorously mentions, "[00:12] Jenna Fischer: Please." leading into the appreciation for listener Emma Grace from Texas, who recommended the film. They express mutual admiration for the movie’s inspirational qualities, stating, "[02:23] Angela Kinsey: Emma Grace from Texas, will you please add the Edge to your movie list to break down on the podcast? I watched it because of Jenna. It's one of my all time favorites."

Fast Facts and Movie Overview

Jenna introduces the segment with a deep dive into the movie's foundational details:

• Runtime & Release: The Edge runs for 1 hour and 57 minutes and was released on September 26, 1997.
• Budget & Box Office: Produced with a $30 million budget, it grossed approximately $43.3 million worldwide.
• Key Cast:
  • Anthony Hopkins as billionaire Charles Morse.
  • Alec Baldwin as photographer Bob Green.
  • Harold Perrineau as Bob's photography assistant, Steven.
  • Elle Macpherson as Mickey Morse, Charles’s supermodel wife.

Jenna elaborates on Lee Tamahori’s directorial prowess, noting his successful works like Once Were Warriors and Mulholland Falls. They highlight notable casting choices, such as Alec Baldwin originally offered the role of Bob Green to Harrison Ford and Dustin Hoffman, to which Angela exclaims, "[05:22] Angela Kinsey: No. Dustin Hoffman as Bob."

Critical Reception

The hosts examine contemporary reviews from the movie's release year:

1. James Berardinelli (RealViews):

   • Rating: 2 out of 4 stars.
   • Summary: Berardinelli acknowledges the film's engaging elements like breathtaking cinematography and Jerry Goldsmith's majestic score but criticizes it as an overall "bad movie." He praises Anthony Hopkins and Alec Baldwin's performances: "[08:22] Angela Kinsey: But just like creamy icing can't save a half baked cake, these positive elements can't hide the fact that the Edge is a bad movie."

2. Roger Ebert:

   • Rating: 3 out of 4 stars.
   • Summary: Ebert appreciates the subtleties in the film's humor and its respectful handling of genre clichés. He commends the dialogue and the climactic non-violent resolution: "[10:04] Angela Kinsey: Roger wrote a very long review... It is typical of Mamet that he could devise his plot in such a way that the climactic payoff would not be bloodshed, but the simple exchange of a wristwatch."

The episode also references the movie's Rotten Tomatoes scores—62% on the Tomatometer and 70% on the popcorn meter, indicating polarized audience reactions.

Analyzing the Movie Trailer

Jenna and Angela enjoy dissecting the original trailer, particularly its classic 90s voiceover style. They highlight memorable lines and the blend of suspense with character introductions: "[12:10] Angela Kinsey: To a good companion, a good friend."

Behind the Scenes: Filming Locations and Production

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the movie's filming locations. Shot in Alberta, Canada, between August and November 1996, the production utilized scenic spots like Banff National Park and Fortress Mountain Resort. Angela shares insights from a director’s audio clip, emphasizing the authentic ruggedness required for the wilderness setting: "[06:01] C: We really needed to take this film somewhere that people haven't really been before."

They also explore practical aspects of shooting in harsh climates, such as dealing with freezing temperatures and natural water bodies without artificial heating, which added to the film's authenticity.

Special Effects and Stunt Work

Jenna and Angela delve into the intricate special effects used for the plane crash scene. Before the prevalence of CGI, the production team employed a giant zip line mechanism to simulate the plane plummeting into the lake. Jenna explains, "[42:06] Jenna Fischer: They basically built a giant zip line from the top of the mountain over the lake down to the other side of the shore."

A behind-the-scenes snippet reveals the meticulous safety procedures and multiple takes required to achieve the desired dramatic effect without compromising safety: "[43:33] D: Once it's secured to the rig, the crew clears the area in preparation for the big moment."

Plot and Character Breakdown

The hosts provide a detailed walkthrough of the movie’s plot, highlighting key moments and character interactions:

1. Character Dynamics:

   • Bob Green (Alec Baldwin): Portrayed as a shiny yet inconsiderate character whose actions often hinder survival efforts. Angela quips, "[25:01] Jenna Fischer: Yeah. Bob's a douchebag."
   • Charles Morse (Anthony Hopkins): Seen as thoughtful and resourceful, embodying wisdom that reflects personal growth and resilience. Jenna shares her personal connection: "[61:05] Jenna Fischer: ...I thought, I'm going to walk out of here. I am walking out of here."

2. Key Scenes:

   • Birthday Surprise: Bob's poorly executed surprise birthday prank on Charles, involving a fake bear attack, sets a dark and tense tone.
   • Survival Challenges: The trio faces life-threatening situations, including a bear attack, symbolizing the struggle between man and nature.

3. Wisdom Moments:

   • First Wisdom Moment ([49:11] C: I once read an interesting book. It said that most people lost in the wilds, they die of shame...): Emphasizes overcoming self-pity and taking proactive steps to survive.
   • Second Wisdom Moment ([61:16] C: See this? Gonna make a spear.): Highlights resourcefulness and practical survival skills.

4. Bear Attack Sequence:

   • The portrayal of the bear, played by the renowned Bart the Bear, adds intense realism. Angela notes, "[55:08] All right. The bear in the movie was played by the very famous Bart the Bear...".

Personal Stories and Emotional Impact

Jenna shares a heartfelt personal story about how The Edge provided her strength during her battle with breast cancer. She recounts a pivotal moment in the film where Charles assures survival, which mirrored her own resolve: "[61:05] Jenna Fischer: ...I thought, I'm going to walk out of here. I am walking out of here."

Angela reflects on their shared experiences and the emotional resonance of the film, strengthening their bond and enhancing the episode's depth.

Behind the Scenes: Bart the Bear

A dedicated segment discusses Bart the Bear's role, detailing his training and contributions to the film's authenticity. They highlight Bart's impressive size and trained demeanor, ensuring safety during intense scenes: "[55:08] Jenna Fischer: All right. The bear in the movie was played by the very famous Bart the Bear."

Angela shares touching anecdotes about Bart's collaboration with Anthony Hopkins, emphasizing mutual respect and professionalism: "[56:05] C: ...he was treated with great love and affection and respect."

Conclusion and Teasers for Part 2

As the episode winds down, Jenna and Angela recap the key points discussed and tease the continuation of their breakdown in Part 2. They express anticipation for further plot developments and survival strategies depicted in the movie: "[71:17] Angela Kinsey: I got a hint for you. It's not gonna go great."

Notable Quotes:

• Angela Kinsey ([05:22]): "Dustin Hoffman as Bob."
• James Berardinelli ([08:22]): "...handy anti lawyer line of the year... just like creamy icing can't save a half baked cake..."
• Roger Ebert ([10:04]): "...the Edge is subtly funny in the way it toys with the cliches of the genre..."
• Angela Kinsey ([49:44]): "Wisdom moment. Don't be a victim. Be active. Be a doer."
• Jenna Fischer ([61:16]): "I am walking out of here."

Final Thoughts

Office Ladies delivers a comprehensive and engaging breakdown of The Edge, blending movie analysis with personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes insights. Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey adeptly balance factual information with heartfelt storytelling, making this episode a must-listen for fans seeking a deeper understanding of the film and the hosts' perspectives. As they prepare to continue their analysis in the next episode, listeners are left eager for more revelations and discussions on survival, resilience, and the intricate dynamics between characters.