Podcast Summary: The Rewatchables – 'Marathon Man' With Bill Simmons and Chris Ryan

Episode Release Date: June 18, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of "The Rewatchables" from the Ringer Podcast Network, hosts Bill Simmons and Chris Ryan delve deep into the 1976 thriller "Marathon Man." Joined by guest Craig Horlbeck, the trio explores why this film remains a staple for movie enthusiasts who relish rewatching classics. The episode, part of New York City Month, dissects the film’s enduring appeal, iconic scenes, and unforgettable performances.

Discussing the Villains: Nazi Antagonists

A significant portion of the conversation centers around the portrayal of Nazis as villains, a theme that resonates powerfully in "Marathon Man." Both hosts agree that Nazis remain some of the most compelling villains in cinema.

Bill Simmons [02:57]: "But then you throw in Nazi war criminals walking through the jewelry district hoping nobody recognizes him, and I'm like, we've peaked."

They compare the film’s antagonist to those in other classics like "Inglourious Basterds", "Munich," and "Raiders of the Lost Ark," highlighting the unique intensity that Nazi characters bring to suspense thrillers.

Chris Ryan [04:00]: "I think Christian Zell, because of what he's got... the dental work thing is..."

Laurence Olivier’s Masterful Performance

The discussion delves deeper into Laurence Olivier’s portrayal of Dr. Christian Ziegler, praising his ability to embody pure evil with nuanced vulnerability. His performance in the torture scenes is lauded as one of the most terrifying and memorable in film history.

Bill Simmons [05:30]: "He balances it perfectly."

Chris Ryan [06:43]: "Every move he makes and everything he does takes on this huge amount of importance."

Dustin Hoffman’s Role and Acting Range

Dustin Hoffman’s portrayal of Babe Levy is another focal point. The hosts discuss his acting choices, emphasizing his strength in portraying nervous, cerebral characters. They debate whether Hoffman could have successfully taken on more action-oriented roles, concluding that his talents were best suited to psychologically complex parts.

Bill Simmons [17:44]: "I don't think he could have been Tony Montana... You don't see vulnerable evil villains that often."

Chris Ryan [15:03]: "Do you think some of his films... like, all the President's Men is like basically 50-50, him and Redford anyway."

Behind-the-Scenes Anecdotes and Screenplay Changes

The episode offers intriguing behind-the-scenes stories, particularly focusing on the dynamic between Hoffman and Olivier. They reference accounts from Robert Evans and the legendary struggles that shaped the film's production.

Bill Simmons [22:10]: "Olivier was nominated for best supporting actor. He did not win, but it's quite a category."

The discussion touches on how the screenplay was altered by Robert Towne, diverging from Goldman’s original vision, and how these changes impacted the film’s ending.

Bill Simmons [26:11]: "He changes the ending... I'm gonna go with Goldman, because he doesn't make shit up."

Iconic Scenes and Cinematic Techniques

Several key scenes in "Marathon Man" are dissected for their rewatchable qualities:

• Dental Torture Scene: Celebrated as one of the most horrifying moments in film.

  Bill Simmons [37:52]: "Him in the bathtub is about as good as it gets for a..."

• Car Chase and Diamond District Showdown: Analyzed for their suspense and execution using innovative techniques like steadicam.

  Bill Simmons [44:36]: "This was the first movie that came out that used it."

The hosts commend Conrad Hall’s cinematography, particularly the evocative shots of New York City and Paris that amplify the film's noir atmosphere.

Chris Ryan [53:47]: "Conrad's cooking... The camera shot of how he opens it was also impactful."

Character Development and Weak Points

Elsa, portrayed by Eva Marie Saint, is critiqued for her inconsistent characterization. The hosts discuss how her role deviates from the novel, leading to perceived weaknesses in her portrayal.

Bill Simmons [56:51]: "Butch's Girlfriend Award... it's the girlfriend."

Impact and Legacy

"Marathon Man" is contextualized within the broader framework of 1970s thrillers, reflecting societal anxieties post-Watergate and the Vietnam War. The film's ability to create a pervasive sense of paranoia and distrust is highlighted as a key factor in its lasting appeal.

Bill Simmons [30:07]: "It's coming out of Watergate, it's coming out of Vietnam... movies like this make you feel like you could be suddenly under threat."

They also touch on Roger Ebert’s mixed review, noting the film’s craftsmanship despite plot holes.

Bill Simmons [32:07]: "Ebert goes three stars. He said if holes and plots bother you, Marathon Man will be maddening... but it's well crafted."

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Wrapping up the episode, the hosts share their personal reactions to the film, reinforcing why "Marathon Man" remains a timeless thriller worth revisiting. They express excitement for future episodes and milestones, such as the upcoming 400th episode, while nostalgically reflecting on their New York City Month series.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Bill Simmons [02:57]: "Throw in Nazi war criminals walking through the jewelry district hoping nobody recognizes him, and I'm like, we've peaked."

• Chris Ryan [04:00]: "Christian Zell... the dental work thing is..."

• Bill Simmons [05:30]: "He balances it perfectly."

• Bill Simmons [37:52]: "Him in the bathtub is about as good as it gets for a..."

• Craig Horlbeck [69:05]: "I had a really hard time understanding what they were saying, so I had to turn them on."

Key Takeaways

1. Villain Portrayal: The film's use of Nazi antagonists is lauded for its effectiveness in creating a deeply unsettling foe.
2. Stellar Performances: Laurence Olivier and Dustin Hoffman deliver iconic performances that anchor the film’s suspense and drama.
3. Cinematic Innovation: Use of techniques like steadicam and Conrad Hall’s cinematography contribute to the film’s enduring visual appeal.
4. Behind-the-Scenes Dynamics: The interplay between actors and screenwriters, particularly regarding screenplay alterations, adds depth to the film's history.
5. Cultural Impact: "Marathon Man" encapsulates the era's anxieties, making it a quintessential 1970s thriller that continues to resonate with audiences today.

Overall, this episode of "The Rewatchables" offers a comprehensive and insightful analysis of "Marathon Man," highlighting why it remains a touchstone for thriller enthusiasts. Through detailed discussions, notable quotes, and personal reflections, Bill Simmons and Chris Ryan provide listeners with a nuanced appreciation of the film’s craftsmanship and lasting legacy.