176 – The Holiday

Just in time for the holidays, we are doing The Holiday. Nancy Meyers followed-up her smash hit Something’s Gotta Give with this story of two women (played by Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet) who swap houses over the Christmas week in order to get away from their romantic disasters. Naturally, new love finds a way and in the form of Jude Law and Jack Black. Any initial Oscar hopes for the film were set by Meyers’ last film returning Diane Keaton to the Oscar fold for her fourth decade in a row, but the film was considered a financial disappointment and received a critical drubbing thanks to its silly premise and oddly paired costars.

This episode, we talk about the career of Nancy Meyers and what makes this film such a delight despite its many frustrations. Jude Law also joins our Six Timers Club, but we’ve also got another game around 2006 Christmas cinema. We also discuss Eli Wallach’s charming supporting turn, Kate Winslet’s enthusiasm when she wins something, and the 2006 Best Actress race that saw Helen Mirren steamroll despite a stellar lineup.

Topics also include Danny DeVito drunk on The View, upper butt cinema, and Diva Muffin Zappa.

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013 – It’s Complicated

Close your eyes. Picture the movie about kitchens you’ve always wanted. Now open them. Is Alec Baldwin blowing pot smoke into your face? That’s kind of what it’s like to experience the 2009 romantic comedy It’s Complicated, from celebrated (and beleaguered) director Nancy Meyers.

Since Oscar buzz follows Meryl Streep around like a heartsick ex-husband wherever she goes, this was a no-brainer of a selection for This Had Oscar Buzz. Join us for discussion of Steve Martin’s banjo commitments, the utility of Mary Kay Place as a gal pal, and whether John Krasinski was at one point a gay assistant.

Join Chris, Joe, and two very flirty Jack Ryans for our episode on It’s Complicated.

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Joe: @joereid
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