Podcast Summary: The Big Picture – "Best Picture Power Rankings and the Winners and Losers of Movies in 2024. Plus: ‘Superman’ Is Here"

Release Date: December 20, 2024
Host: Sean Fennessey
Featuring: Joanna Robinson and Romel Ross

Introduction

In this episode of The Big Picture, hosted by Sean Fennessey of The Ringer, Sean and co-host Joanna Robinson delve into the Best Picture Power Rankings for 2024, analyze the year's winners and losers in the movie industry, and discuss the highly anticipated new 'Superman' film. The episode also features an insightful conversation with filmmaker Romel Ross about his acclaimed film, Nickel Boys.

Best Picture Power Rankings

Sean Fennessey kicks off the episode by introducing the topic of the Best Picture power rankings alongside Joanna Robinson. They discuss how 2024 has been a mixed bag for cinema enthusiasts, balancing between franchise successes and unique, standalone films.

Joanna Robinson emphasizes the importance of focusing on quality over quantity, stating, “Every year has good films. This hasn't been my favorite year, but there's been some special work.” (01:33)

Sean Fennessey counters by highlighting the resilience of the movie industry post-strikes, noting a moderate dip in box office revenue but recognizing standout films that kept audiences engaged: “Movies are back. Well, maybe they're not back. Or they are. I'm not sure.” (04:30)

Winners and Losers of 2024

The conversation transitions into an analysis of the winners and losers of the year. Sean and Joanna scrutinize the dominance of sequels and franchise films, pointing out that only three of the top 20 highest-grossing US movies were non-sequels or prequels: It Ends With Us, The Wild Robot, and A Complete Unknown.

Sean Fennessey remarks on the state of original filmmaking: “Movie franchises seem to be tanking on TV, but they're hanging in there at the movies at the expense of other kinds of movies.” (05:50)

Conversely, Joanna notes the success of films like Dune Part Two and Deadpool and Wolverine, acknowledging Ryan Reynolds' significant impact: “Ryan Reynolds... starred in, produced, a billion-dollar movie.” (14:04)

'Superman' Movie Discussion

A major highlight of the episode is the discussion about the new 'Superman' film directed by James Gunn. Sean expresses his excitement and appreciation for the trailer's visual aesthetics and casting choices.

Sean Fennessey shares his enthusiasm: “I am a James Gunn fan... Rachel Brosnahan looks like a perfect Lois Lane.” (08:30)

However, Joanna Robinson remains cautiously optimistic, pondering the tonal fit of Gunn's visceral style with the iconic superhero: “I have some questions, comments, and concerns about James Gunn as the right match for Superman, tonally.” (07:37)

They discuss the balance Gunn is striving for between classic Superman elements and his signature dynamic, action-oriented filmmaking, ultimately deciding to remain hopeful: “I'm sure you're proven wrong in 2025. I'm off and wrong. So we shall see.” (10:56)

Conversation with Romel Ross – Nickel Boys

The latter part of the episode features an in-depth interview with Romel Ross, co-writer and director of Nickel Boys. The discussion covers his transition from documentary photography to scripted filmmaking, the creative process behind Nickel Boys, and the film’s reception.

Romel Ross shares his journey: “I looked into myself and my relationship to it, I start to develop ideas that are a little bit more on the periphery of what's mainstream.” (85:37)

Sean delves into the unique storytelling techniques Ross employs, such as "observational logic" and "synthesized perspective", which aim to align the audience's perception closely with the characters' experiences: “SZhen says, 'Synthesized perspective is using the camera as an organ.'” (107:17)

Romel Ross explains the philosophical underpinnings: “We’re using the camera as a way to align the audience's perceptual encounter with the film world with the characters...” (115:20)

Sean and Joanna commend Ross for pushing cinematic boundaries, noting how Nickel Boys challenges traditional narrative structures and enhances emotional engagement: “This was my favorite director interview of the year. Romel is easygoing and funny, but tremendously insightful and sincere.” (04:23)

Notable Quotes

• Joanna Robinson: “Every year has good films. This hasn't been my favorite year, but there's been some special work.” (01:33)

• Sean Fennessey: “Movies are back. Well, maybe they're not back. Or they are. I'm not sure.” (04:30)

• Joanna Robinson: “Ryan Reynolds... starred in, produced, a billion-dollar movie.” (14:04)

• Romel Ross: “Synthesized perspective is using the camera as an organ.” (107:17)

• Sean Fennessey: “This was my favorite director interview of the year. Romel is easygoing and funny, but tremendously insightful and sincere.” (04:23)

Conclusion

As the episode wraps up, Sean and Joanna finalize their Best Picture Power Rankings, placing Nickel Boys and Conclave at the top of their lists while acknowledging the strengths and shortcomings of various films released in 2024. They also give a nod to the evolving landscape of the film industry and express excitement for upcoming releases in 2025.

Sean Fennessey closes with enthusiasm for future episodes: “Next week, it is time for Bob Dylan. It's time for Timothee Chalamet. It's time for a complete unknown. Is it time for a meltdown from yours truly? Tune in and find out. We'll see you then.” (83:25)

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Big Picture offers a comprehensive look at the cinematic landscape of 2024, blending critical analysis with personal insights. Whether you're a movie buff or a casual fan, Sean and Joanna provide thoughtful perspectives that highlight both the triumphs and challenges within the industry, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving world of film.