Ben Shapiro Will Be Watching THESE 3 Movies in 2025

Summary

The Ben Shapiro Show

Episode: Ben Shapiro Will Be Watching THESE 3 Movies in 2025
Date: October 11, 2025
Host: Ben Shapiro (The Daily Wire)

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Episode Overview

In this episode, Ben Shapiro dives into his most anticipated movies slated for release in 2025. Known for his rapid-fire cultural commentary, Ben reviews trailers and discusses why these films—The Smashing Machine, Anemone, and Project Hail Mary—have caught his attention. He offers his distinctive takes on casting, storytelling, studio trends, and his skepticism about certain directors’ approaches, especially when it comes to blending inspiration with darker themes.

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Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. The Smashing Machine

[01:14 - 06:13]

• Ben introduces The Smashing Machine as a Safdie Brothers film, dramatizing the life of a legendary original UFC fighter, portrayed by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.
• He notes widespread praise for Johnson’s performance, with Oscar buzz already circulating.
• Emily Blunt is also singled out for consistent excellence in her roles.
• The movie draws comparisons to films like The Fighter and Mark Wahlberg’s work, with an emphasis on gritty, inspirational sports stories.

Notable Quotes:

• “[The Rock] looks really good in that. I mean, even in the preview, that does not look like kind of normal. The Rock, like, actual subtlety. Emily Blunt is truly one of the most talented people working.” (Ben, 04:24)
• “I don’t trust the Safdie brothers that they’re not going to make me miserable at the end of their films because that’s kind of what they’re famous for doing… So, I’m into it. I’ll watch it.” (Ben, 05:39)

Key Insights:

• Ben is drawn to the mix of ambition and emotional struggle in sports dramas, though he expects the Safdie Brothers’ signature bleak approach.
• There’s a trend in 2025 of sports-based A24 films, with this and another about ping-pong sharing oddly similar tones and styles.
• Despite anticipating a possibly unhappy ending, he’s engaged by star performances and the quality of filmmaking.

2. Anemone

[06:13 - 09:56]

• This pick is highlighted for its cast and creative team: Written and directed by Daniel Day-Lewis’ son, starring Daniel Day-Lewis himself alongside Sean Bean.
• Ben praises both actors, expressing excitement for their onscreen dynamic as brothers.
• The trailer hints at an intense, interpersonal drama about estranged siblings, war trauma, and family reconciliation.

Notable Quotes:

• “Two of my favorite actors. Again, this is my kind of film, honestly... Daniel Day Lewis is nothing less than spectacularly watchable in literally everything.” (Ben, 09:22 and 09:40)
• “...could it end up like The Lighthouse, which everyone else seemed to like a lot more than I? It definitely could... Two very good actors just kind of yelling at each other, but I don’t think that’s the direction this is going to go.” (Ben, 09:39)

Key Insights:

• Ben’s anticipation is rooted in the actors’ reputations and his personal preference for character-driven, gritty dramas.
• He’s aware of the risk of the film devolving into over-the-top dramatic grandstanding (a la The Lighthouse), but trusts the creative team’s restraint.

3. Project Hail Mary

[09:56 - 14:49]

• Based on Andy Weir’s novel (the same author as The Martian), this film stars Ryan Gosling as an unlikely science teacher thrust into a universe-saving mission.
• Ben admits a lukewarm reaction to the book compared to The Martian but sees cinematic potential and expects Gosling to shine in the lead.
• He notes the storyline’s familiar flavor: “smart alecky main character” facing “insurmountable scientific challenge,” but anticipates wide appeal and strong entertainment value.
• He addresses concerns about excessive CGI in modern films, noting that Project Hail Mary relies more on practical effects and realistic visuals than typical sci-fi blockbusters.

Notable Quotes:

• “It’ll be very, very watchable in the same way The Martian is watchable... I will say that the end of the book kind of left me a little cold. So I assume that the movie will match up with the book and we’ll see how people react.” (Ben, 13:29)
• “I like Ryan Gosling, generally. I don’t think Ryan Gosling is one of our top seven working actors.” (Ben, 13:45)

Key Insights:

• Ben’s skepticism centers on narrative payoff rather than the experience of the film itself; he values entertainment and performance over blockbuster spectacle.
• He approves of the movie’s approach to special effects, preferring realism over cartoonish CGI.

4. General Reflections and Movie Trends

[13:45 - 14:49]

• Inspired by feedback from Phil (likely a producer or team member), Ben discusses CGI overuse in the industry.
• He praises Project Hail Mary for its real-world effects and Anemone for presumably minimal CGI.
• Mocks the idea of fantasy-like, over-CGI’d movies using Harold and the Purple Crayon as a throwaway example.

Notable Quotes:

• “Aircraft carriers are, I assume, not CGI'd... it's a lot more real life effects in that than like Avatar’s just blanket CGI.” (Ben, 14:23)
• “I think [Anemone]... you’re gonna just see, like, a giant fish and a couple of visions. I don’t think it’s gonna be like he’s walking around in the world of Harold and the Purple Crayon or something.” (Ben, 14:40)

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Most Memorable Moments & Quotes with Timestamps

• On Dwayne Johnson’s surprising performance:
  • “The Rock looks really good in that... actual subtlety.” (Ben, 04:24)
• On expectations from the Safdie Brothers:
  • “I don’t trust the Safdie brothers that they’re not going to make me miserable at the end of their films because that’s kind of what they’re famous for doing.” (Ben, 05:30)
• On Daniel Day-Lewis and Sean Bean's casting:
  • “Two of my favorite actors. Again, this is my kind of film, honestly.” (Ben, 09:22)
• On the drawback of the book Project Hail Mary:
  • “I will say that the end of the book kind of left me a little cold.” (Ben, 13:29)
• On CGI in film:
  • “Aircraft carriers are, I assume, not CGI'd... a lot more real life effects than like Avatar’s just blanket cgi.” (Ben, 14:23)

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• [01:14] — Begins movie rundown with The Smashing Machine
• [04:24] — Thoughts on Emily Blunt and The Rock’s performances
• [05:30] — Trust issues with Safdie Brothers’ narrative style
• [06:13] — Introduction and initial impressions of Anemone
• [09:22] — Enthusiasm for Day-Lewis and Sean Bean in Anemone
• [09:56] — Overview of Project Hail Mary
• [13:29] — Concerns about book adaptation and narrative resolution
• [14:23] — Assessment of CGI versus real effects in 2025 films

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Takeaways

• Shapiro’s movie anticipation centers on strong performances, character dramas, and a growing fatigue with CGI-heavy blockbusters.
• He embraces heavier, even bleak storytelling if it comes from talented filmmakers and actors but likes his inspirational stories with some hope.
• Notably, he remains wary of narrative letdowns from certain directors and book adaptations, reserving full judgment until he’s seen the films.

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For Listeners Who Missed the Episode:

This breakdown captures Ben Shapiro’s razor-sharp, often sardonic insights into the cinematic year ahead. If you’re searching for sophisticated sports biopics, intense family drama with top-tier actors, or a smart, accessible space adventure, Ben’s evaluation of The Smashing Machine, Anemone, and Project Hail Mary will help you plan your 2025 movie nights.

Transcript

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[Movie Reviewer]

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[Mark Carney]

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[Movie Reviewer]

Alrighty, folks, we've got a lot of movies that are coming out the end of this year. Some look interesting, some not as much. And so today I want to go through three movies I'm kind of looking forward to. Let's take a look. The first one is the Smashing Machine. This is a Safdie brother film. So. Got it. So they're dividing and they're conquering. It's based on a documentary about one of the original UFC fighters and sort of his trials and travails. It became sort of a legendary documentary in the space and now it's been dramatized and the Rock plays the main role. The Rock has been widely praised. Dwayne Johnson for his performance. So this is his shot at an Oscar, according to many. So let's take a look.

[Interviewer]

Please give a round of applause for Mark Carney.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

Hello.

[Mark Carney]

And thank you to everyone for allowing me to be here today.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

How can I just let you walk away?

[Mark Carney]

You have been extremely understanding to me dealing with my personal struggles.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

The graviton.

[Movie Reviewer]

Let's do it.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

He's the best.

[Mark Carney]

There's no way I can't find that.

[Movie Reviewer]

Why?

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

Why?

[Mark Carney]

Because my tummy. You know what that would do to my tummy? I would get sick everywhere.

[Interviewer]

No, it's about perspective, okay?

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

Just let you leave without a trace on the inside.

[Interviewer]

You don't feel it. You're, like, pinned against the wall when.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

I stand here taking every breath with you.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

Oh, my goodness.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

Kurt is out.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

This is truly sh.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

That's just an empty space.

[Interviewer]

When he's distant, it's hard.

[Mark Carney]

I'm sacrificing everything. What do you have for me that's strong?

[Mark Carney Supporter]

Adivia.

[Mark Carney]

A day without pain is like a day without sunshine.

[Interviewer]

The skin bad. The skin's insane.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

You know what? I'm doing all right?

[Movie Reviewer]

This is it. That's it.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

You're the only one who really knew me at all.

[Mark Carney]

What happened?

[Movie Reviewer]

I'm so sorry.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

It's me.

[Mark Carney's Brother]

You don't have to apologize.

[Movie Reviewer]

Okay.

[Mark Carney]

I know that you've been questioning whether I am the fighter that you thought that I was. And one of my biggest regrets in life is the answer to that question. I wasn't. I promise that I'm gonna make this up to you.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

To see Mark back out there is truly remarkable.

[Interviewer]

I just need you to me.

[Movie Reviewer]

With.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

Everything he's been through.

[Mark Carney]

The biggest night of my life.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

Does he still have it in him?

[Jack Daniels Announcer]

What happens next?

[Mark Carney]

It's simple.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

Get up, Mark. Get up.

[Mark Carney]

Am I going to hurt him? Go before he hurts me.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

Get up, Mark. Come on. Ready?

[Mark Carney]

I think so. You think so?

[Mark Carney's Brother]

Come on, Mark. Yes or no answer.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

Come on.

[Mark Carney]

Are you ready?

[Mark Carney Supporter]

Yes.

[Interviewer]

How's that feel?

[Mark Carney]

Feels great.

[Interviewer]

Do you want some more?

[Mark Carney]

Yes. You can stretch me more. Yes.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

Too much?

[Mark Carney]

Never.

[Movie Reviewer]

Okay, so. Looks like the fighter. Remember the Christian Bale movie the fighter? Mark Wahlberg. So it feels like that a lot, actually. I mean, I will say the rock looks really good in that. I mean, even in the preview, that does not look like kind of normal. The rock, like, actual subtlety. Emily Blunt is truly one of the most talented people working. She's terrific in everything. All right. I've never seen her in anything where I was like, wow, she's less than stellar. So that could be really good now, you know, I'm kind of aware of the storyline, so I don't think it's gonna be completely feel good. And it feels very much as though they're two separate safdie brother movies that are coming out. Correct. And they both are about sports, inspirational stories. One is ping pong, and one is wrestling. Yes. And they seem to have the same trailer. I almost beat for beat the same trailer, so. And I don't trust the safdie brothers that they're not going to make me miserable at the end of their films because that's kind of what they're famous for doing. And they're both a 24. So basically they're like, hey, would you like a story about wrestling? Hey, would you also like a story about ping pong? And they're the same story, but about two separate sports. So I'm, you know, I'm into it. I'll watch it. I am looking forward to the inspirational but also depressing story of somebody who was once a great curling champion at the Olympics. We'll get some more on this in a moment. First, you know that creepy feeling you get sometimes, like you're being watched? Well, here's the thing. You actually are being watched when you go on the Internet. Every time you go on the Internet, your service provider can see literally everything you do. And get this, in the US they can legally sell your entire browsing history. Yeah, even that incognito browsing. It's not so private after all. Who would have thunk? That's why I started using ExpressVPN. It's a brilliant app that encrypts everything I do online and routes it through secure servers. Since I started using it, my Internet provider can't see any of my browsing history. And that means they've got nothing to sell because they don't have anything on me. I use ExpressVPN all the time. Like right now, I'm away from home means I'm using public WI fi, and that means that I need my ExpressVPN. Here's what I really love about ExpressVPN. It hides my IP address so those annoying data brokers can't build a profile about me to sell to the advertisers. And it's really, really user friendly. I'm not a tech wizard. You don't have to be. You tap one button and now you are protected. They've got apps, all your devices. It's rated number one by cnet, the Verge, and other major tech reviewers. Find out how you can get four months free by scanning the QR code on screen, clicking that link in the description box below, or by heading on over to expressvpn.com Ben YT that's expressvpn.com BenYT okay, the next one is anemone. Now this is being. This is written and directed by Daniel Day Lewis. Son anything with Daniel Day Lewis I'll watch. Not only does this have Daniel Day Lewis, it also has one of my favorite character actors, Sean Bean. Phil has always been given short shrift. I love Sean Bean in everything. He's tremendous. And so the two stars of this film, who are brothers Are Daniel Day Lewis and Sean Bean. I'm all in. I'm here for it. Let's see what we got.

[Mark Carney's Brother]

All these years, the isolation. This is it. This is my life. I've seen my share of lost souls grow. I'm beyond your reach, J.

[Movie Reviewer]

No.

[Mark Carney's Brother]

The Invisible Man. Ray Stalker. How long was it, bro, when you went limping off into the woods?

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

What?

[Mark Carney's Brother]

20 year? Why did he leave us? The army teaches you to grin and bear it. The war with grime. And we were the phantom soldiers.

[Interviewer]

Ray never spoke to me about what happened over there.

[Mark Carney's Brother]

I can't help you till he's telling me what happened. Sad question. What do you want from me, brother? What do you want? You're going to hell, brother. Family reunion.

[Movie Reviewer]

Okay, so, yeah, into it. I mean, interpersonal drama. Two of my favorite actors. Again, this is my kind of film. Honestly now, could it end up like the Lighthouse, which everyone else seemed to like a lot more than I? It definitely could, Hulk.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

Hulk.

[Movie Reviewer]

It couldn't end up with, like, two very good actors just kind of yelling at each other, but I don't think that's the direction this is going to go. And again, Daniel Day Lewis is nothing less than spectacularly watchable in literally everything.

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[Movie Reviewer]

And as I've said, I'm a Sean Bean fanboy. I really like Sean Bean. So I'm in on this. This I will watch for the crowd. Project Hail Mary, starring Ryan Gosling.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

Deep breath.

[Movie Reviewer]

So this is based a book by the same author who wrote the Martian? The Martian is a very good movie with Matt Damon. Matt Damon and Project Hail Mary. I've read the book of that as well. I don't like the book of Project Hail Mary nearly as much as the book of the Martian, but it is clever, and I think that Ryan Gosling will be very good in it. So let's take a look.

[Interviewer]

Please state your name.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

Ryan Lynn. Grace. I spoke up from a coma.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

I'm several light years from my apartment. And I'm not an astronaut. I'm not an astronaut. I'm not an astronaut.

[Interviewer]

If you don't go, you die. We're the rest of us. The sun is dying. You are the only scientist who might know what to say.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

I'm just a teacher at Grover Cleveland Middle.

[Interviewer]

You have a doctorate in molecular biology. I need you to come with us. This is Project Hail Mary. The sun is not the only star dying. Every star was infected by its neighbor except one.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

Why?

[Movie Reviewer]

We don't know.

[Interviewer]

Which is why we built a ship to go There and find out it's.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

11.9 light years away. The astronauts die in space.

[Interviewer]

That's what you Americans would call a long shot.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

Hail Mary. I get it. Who on earth is gonna sign up for this?

[Interviewer]

If we do nothing, everything on this planet will go extinct.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

You'll find a solution.

[Interviewer]

You are my solution.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

I put the knot in astronaut. I've never done anything. I've never done a space. I can't even moonwalk.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

Just stop. You CR the sign of the times. We got to get away from me. Stop me crying, baby. It'll be all right.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

I understand the stakes. I do. My place is in the classroom.

[Interviewer]

The world is counting on you.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

This might be very hard for you to understand, but some people are not good at things. You know who you are. You're gonna do great. I can't code zero T in five hours.

[Interviewer]

Object approaching.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

Oh, my God.

[Mark Carney Supporter]

So I met an alien. He's kind of growing on me. At least he's not growing in me, you know, which was a concern for a little while. I'm Grace. I'm gonna call you Rocky. Thumbs up. No, that's thumbs down. We do the thumbs up. It's close enough.

[Movie Reviewer]

So this will be very watchable. It'll be very, very watchable in the same way the Martian is watchable. And it's the same kind of character, right? You kind of got a smart alecky main character and he's taking on some insurmountable scientific challenge. I will say that the end of the book kind of left me a little cold. So I assume that the movie will match up with the book and we'll see how people react to the very, very end of the book. But, you know, I'm looking forward to it and I think Ryan Gosling is good casting here. I like Ryan Gosling. Generally. I don't think Ryan Gosling is one of our. Is one of our top seven working actors. So those are three movie picks in the somewhat near future. So Phil is pointing out to me that I said in the movies that I was not into that there was too much cgi. So Project Hail Mary. There is going to be some cgi, although it's space based CGI and it looks like, you know, it looks like a lot of real effects actually. You know, aircraft carriers are, I assume, not CGI'd or if they are then using stock footage or something, it's a lot more real life effects in that than like avatars just blanket cgi. And as far as an enemy, I don't think there's a lot of CGI there at all. I think he's gonna just see, like, a giant fish and a couple of visions. I don't think it's gonna be like he's walking around in the world of Harold and the Purple Brand or something.

[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

Just stop you crying. In society the times. We gotta get away from here.

[Movie Reviewer]

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[Mark Carney's Inner Voice]

Save yourself money today. Increase your we customize and save. We say that may have been too much feeling.

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