Podcast Summary: The Big Picture – ‘Ballerina,’ ‘Bring Her Back,’ and ‘Dogma Reborn’ with Kevin Smith
Release Date: June 10, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of The Big Picture, hosts Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins delve into their reviews of three films: Ballerina, Bring Her Back, and the highly anticipated Dogma Reborn. The episode features a special guest appearance by renowned filmmaker Kevin Smith, who shares his insights and experiences related to the classic film Dogma and its potential sequel.
1. Ballerina – A Mixed Bag in the John Wick Universe
Sean Fennessey opens the discussion with Ballerina, the fifth installment in the John Wick franchise, directed by Len Wiseman. The movie stars Ana de Armas, Gabriel Byrne, and Norman Reedus, and is set during the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum. Sean provides a synopsis:
“[Sean Fennessey, 06:56] Ballerina follows Eve McCaro as she trains in the assassin traditions of the Ruska Roma. Her journey leads her to uncover the hidden world of the Continental and a secret cult responsible for her family’s tragedy, prompting a globe-trotting killing spree.”
Amanda Dobbins expresses her disappointment with the film:
“[04:08] Amanda Dobbins: I was a little underwhelmed by the action. It lacked the wit and flair I associate with the franchise, and Ana de Armas didn't showcase her full potential.”
Kevin Smith offers a nuanced take:
“[05:24] Kevin Smith: The first hour felt like a traditional vengeance story, but the latter part, set in an Alps village teeming with assassins, was inventive and charming. However, the transition felt disjointed.”
Discussion Highlights:
- Reshoots and Script Issues: Sean mentions that Ballerina underwent significant reshoots by Chad Stahelski to salvage the film, highlighting a fragmented script that failed to maintain the distinctive tone of the John Wick series.
“[07:06] Sean Fennessey: The script was mediocre, and the tone didn’t fit the established universe. It felt like a standard revenge movie rather than a self-aware action spectacle.”
- Character Integration: The forced inclusion of Keanu Reeves’ John Wick character was criticized for feeling tacked on and unnecessary.
“[16:14] Sean Fennessey: John Wick's presence felt obligatory, undermining the story's integrity. It’s disheartening to see Keanu merely existing as a cameo rather than a pivotal character.”
2. Bring Her Back – A Harrowing Horror Experience
Transitioning to Bring Her Back, the host trio discusses the latest horror film by the Filippo Brothers, a follow-up to their 2023 success Talk to Me.
Sean Fennessey summarizes the film’s bleak narrative:
“[27:30] Sean Fennessey: Bring Her Back revolves around Sally Hawkins’ character, who harbors supernatural ambitions to resurrect her drowned daughter. The film delves into dark themes of loss, grief, and the horrors of resurrection, accompanied by intense and graphic violence.”
Kevin Smith and Amanda Dobbins share their distaste for the movie’s extreme content, particularly its depiction of violence against children and graphic horror elements.
“[33:28] Kevin Smith: The scene with Oliver sawing his teeth off was beyond disturbing. It’s one of the most egregious moments of dental violence I’ve ever seen.”
Amanda Dobbins adds:
“[34:02] Amanda Dobbins: The portrayal of Oliver’s transformation into a demonic vessel was both disturbing and effective, but it overshadowed any redeeming aspects of the narrative.”
Discussion Highlights:
- Graphic Content: The film’s relentless and graphic portrayal of violence was a point of contention, leaving the hosts feeling deeply unsettled.
“[35:29] Sean Fennessey: The movie culminates in a sequence of trauma and gore that leaves the audience traumatized rather than satisfied.”
- Performance and Direction: Despite the unsettling content, the performances by the child actors, Billy Barrett and Sor Wong, were praised for their emotional depth.
“[29:40] Sean Fennessey: The child performances added a layer of authenticity and emotional weight to the otherwise bleak narrative.”
3. Dogma Reborn with Kevin Smith – Revisiting a Classic
The highlight of the episode is an in-depth conversation with Kevin Smith, who reflects on the legacy of his 1999 film Dogma and the prospects of a sequel.
Sean Fennessey introduces Kevin Smith’s segment:
“[01:55] Sean Fennessey: Kevin Smith, the writer-director of Clerks, Chasing Amy, and Dogma, joins us to discuss his journey and the potential sequel to Dogma.”
Kevin Smith shares personal anecdotes and challenges faced in reclaiming the rights to Dogma:
“[37:04] Kevin Smith: I reached out multiple times to buy back Dogma, but Harvey Weinstein’s firm held out for an exorbitant price. Eventually, Alessandra Williams from a hedge fund intervened, presenting an opportunity to screen Dogma once more.”
Key Points from the Conversation:
- Passion for the Original: Kevin emphasizes his deep connection to Dogma, rooted in his childhood faith and personal experiences, which fueled the original film’s creation.
“[38:15] Sean Fennessey: Dogma stands as a time capsule reflecting complex themes of faith and personal identity, resonating strongly with those raised in the Catholic faith.”
- Challenges with Rights and Sequel Development: The struggle to regain rights amidst Weinstein’s controversies highlights the industry's complexities and personal setbacks.
“[65:52] Chris Ryan: After numerous attempts and setbacks, including Harvey Weinstein’s refusal to sell, it seemed unlikely to see a sequel.”
- Renewed Hope and Future Plans: With Alessandra Williams’ support, there is renewed optimism about bringing Dogma back to the forefront and possibly developing a sequel.
“[94:44] Kevin Smith: Bringing Dogma back to Cannes and engaging with new audiences reinvigorates my passion for the film. The potential sequel is still on the table, fueled by personal and artistic motivations.”
Notable Quotes:
- Amanda Dobbins on Ballerina:
“[04:08] Amanda Dobbins: Ballerina feels like it’s stretching the John Wick universe without adding meaningful depth, leaving me somewhat bored.”
- Kevin Smith on Storytelling and Sequel:
“[99:08] Kevin Smith: Revisiting Dogma is not just about making a sequel; it’s about exploring how my journey has evolved and how the film can be reimagined with newfound perspectives.”
Conclusion
This episode of The Big Picture offers a critical yet comprehensive examination of Ballerina and Bring Her Back, while delivering an engaging and heartfelt conversation with Kevin Smith about Dogma and its enduring legacy. The hosts provide candid insights, supported by notable quotes, making the discussion both informative and relatable for listeners familiar and unfamiliar with the films.
Upcoming Events
- Live Screening Announcement: The hosts announce an upcoming live screening of number 14 on their 25 for 25 list at the Music Box Theater in Chicago on July 21st, with tickets going on sale starting June 13th.
Stay tuned for more in-depth reviews, top 5 lists, movie drafts, Oscars analysis, and engaging conversations with Ringer colleagues in future episodes.