Podcast Summary: The Big Picture – "Top Five World War II Movies, and ‘Blitz’"

Release Date: December 3, 2024

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Big Picture, hosted by Sean Fennessy and featuring insightful contributions from Todd McShay and Chris Ryan, the team dives deep into the realm of World War II cinema. The episode focuses primarily on their top five WWII movie picks and offers a critical analysis of the newly released film "Blitz" by acclaimed director Steve McQueen.

1. Spotlight on "Blitz"

Sean Fennessy opens the discussion by introducing "Blitz", describing it as a World War II feature told through the eyes of a young boy in 1940s London ([02:32]). The film, available for streaming on Apple TV Plus, has sparked varied reactions among the hosts.

• Initial Impressions:

  • Chris Ryan expresses skepticism, stating, "I found it kind of bland and technically impressive at points, but bland ultimately" ([14:31]).
  • Sean Fennessy shares a personal disconnect, noting, "I just found myself constantly wanting to go back to Saoirse or... I wanted to be in the world of adults" ([15:15]).
  • Todd McShay appreciates certain artistic choices but feels the film doesn't fully realize its potential, mentioning, "there is a gravitas and an artistry that McQueen retains" ([16:11]).

• Critical Analysis:

  • The trio critiques the film's narrative structure and use of CGI, with Chris Ryan highlighting, "Blitz has a really hard time delivering the sort of emotional heft to be the movie it wants to be" ([19:48]).
  • Sean Fennessy delves into the film's attempt to intertwine multiple storylines, saying, "I almost felt like that filmmaker was like, I can't let it go... it's so complicated" ([19:23]).

2. Evolution and Diversity of WWII Cinema

The conversation shifts to the variety within WWII films, exploring how the genre spans multiple sub-genres and storytelling styles.

• Genres Explored:

  • Chris Ryan marvels at the genre's breadth, noting, "I'm kind of stunned at the variety" ([28:04]).
  • Sean Fennessy discusses how WWII serves as a foundational pillar for various film genres, from romance to action and propaganda ([29:01]).

• Modern Influences:

  • The hosts analyze Disney's streaming strategies, particularly how "Moana 2" impacts movie marketing. Sean Fennessy remarks, "Disney is basically like the world's greatest billboard" ([08:12]).
  • Todd McShay points out the shift in streaming service approaches, stating, "Movies are going to get fucked up if they're, like, we're awarding half of a story that isn't a fan fiction of classical Hollywood" ([74:44]).

3. Personal Top Five WWII Movie Picks

Each host presents their curated list of top five WWII films, offering personal insights and justifications for their selections.

• Sean Fennessy's Top Five:

  1. "Paisan" (Roberto Rossellini, 1946) – Celebrated for its neorealist approach and epic storytelling ([51:15]).
  2. "The Dirty Dozen" – Praised for its ensemble cast and action-packed missions ([61:15]).
  3. "The Great Escape" – Iconic for its romanticized depiction of POWs and star power ([75:23]).
  4. "The Thin Red Line" – Noted for its philosophical depth and decentralized narrative ([66:01]).
  5. "Bridge on the River Kwai" – Lauded as a masterpiece exploring duty and honor ([70:03]).

• Chris Ryan's Highlights:

  • Emphasizes character-driven stories like "Saving Private Ryan" and "Inglourious Basterds", focusing on their emotional impact and unforgettable performances ([54:02], [72:02]).

• Todd McShay's Selections:

  • Includes a mix of classic and modern films such as "The Train" (John Frankenheimer), "A Matter of Life and Death" (1946), and "Cabaret" (Bob Fosse), showcasing the genre's versatility ([53:11], [70:03]).

4. Oscar Potential and Industry Trends

The discussion transitions to the Oscars, analyzing the chances of certain films gaining recognition and the impact of streaming services on award nominations.

• Film Contenders:

  • Todd McShay expresses uncertainty about "Blitz" gaining Oscar traction, comparing it to more traditionally acclaimed films like "Saving Private Ryan" ([94:52]).
  • Sean Fennessy and Chris Ryan debate the positioning of streaming service films versus theatrical releases in award circuits ([94:54], [95:37]).

• Streaming Influence:

  • The hosts reflect on how streaming platforms like Disney alter traditional marketing and distribution models, potentially affecting a film's award prospects ([08:12], [74:44]).

5. Concluding Insights

Wrapping up, the hosts acknowledge the enduring fascination with WWII in cinema, noting its role as a fertile ground for diverse storytelling. They emphasize the genre's ability to adapt and resonate with contemporary audiences through various narrative lenses.

• Future Perspectives:
  • Sean Fennessy suggests a potential revisit of "Blitz" in the future, indicating an openness to changing perceptions over time ([86:15], [88:00]).
  • Todd McShay hints at upcoming discussions on the top five favorite movies of the year, promising continued exploration of cinematic trends ([106:01]).

Notable Quotes:

• "Disney is basically like the world's greatest billboard." — Sean Fennessy ([08:12])
• "I found it kind of bland and technically impressive at points, but bland ultimately." — Chris Ryan ([14:31])
• "Blitz has a really hard time delivering the sort of emotional heft to be the movie it wants to be." — Chris Ryan ([19:48])
• "It's the most romantic version of this kind of story I think you can have." — Sean Fennessy discussing "The Great Escape" ([75:23])
• "Movies are going to get fucked up if they're, like, we're awarding half of a story that isn't a fan fiction of classical Hollywood." — Todd McShay ([74:44])

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Big Picture offers a nuanced exploration of World War II films, blending personal anecdotes, critical analysis, and industry insights. The hosts provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of both classic and contemporary WWII cinema, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the genre's complexity and enduring relevance.