Film Reviews Episodes

Season 11 begins, and Bob and Brad have finally cracked the format they've been chasing for ten seasons. The plan: 10 canon-level films across the year, each one kicking off a three-movie mini-program built by chaining "Let's Make It a Double" picks. They use the premiere to establish the rules, knock back a Bardstown Distillery Reserve release that lands at a rare 45/50 from both hosts, and make the unanimous case that The Incredibles is the best superhero movie ever made — full stop, not just one of them. For longer episodes and special bonus content, consider joining our Patreon for as little as $3/mo! Film & Whiskey Instagram Film & Whiskey Facebook Film & Whiskey Twitter Email us! Join our Discord server! For more episodes and engaging content, visit Film & Whiskey's website at www.filmwhiskey.com.

Patrick H. Willems returns to defend Spielberg's 2021 West Side Story — sparking Bob's most deranged take to date, all about cinematographer Janusz Kamiński. Plus Penelope Riviera, a new blend featuring American Light Whiskey and a Rosé cask finish. For longer episodes and special bonus content, consider joining our Patreon for as little as $3/mo! Film & Whiskey Instagram Film & Whiskey Facebook Film & Whiskey Twitter Email us! Join our Discord server! For more episodes and engaging content, ...

Bob and Brad recap the 2026 Academy Awards, break down the biggest winners of the night, and debate the current state of the Oscars. Did One Battle After Another deserve its Best Picture win? Was Michael B. Jordan the right choice for Best Actor? And what does the future look like for the Academy Awards as audience interest continues to shift? After discussing the highlights from the ceremony—including Conan O’Brien’s hosting performance, surprise wins, and memorable speeches—the guys kick off ...

In the final regular episode of Season 10, Bob and Brad dive into one of the year’s most talked-about films: Sinners, directed by Ryan Coogler and starring Michael B. Jordan in a dual role. Set against the backdrop of the Jim Crow South, this genre-bending drama blends historical realism, blues music, and full-on vampire horror into one wild cinematic swing. And because no episode of Film & Whiskey is complete without a pour, the guys pair the film with Bardstown Bourbon Company Bottled-in-Bond...

Bob and Brad revisit the 1994 Best Picture winner Forrest Gump, directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Tom Hanks in one of the most iconic performances of the 20th century. Is this film a shallow nostalgia trip through America’s greatest hits? Or is it a deeply sincere meditation on love, regret, and what it means to live a good life? They pair it with Glenmorangie Nectar d’Or, a Sauternes-cask-finished Highland single malt that sparks one of their biggest scoring splits of the season. For ...

This week, Bob and Brad break from tradition to review one of the most talked-about films of the year: One Battle After Another, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson and starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The film is a dark political comedy about aging revolutionaries, fractured families, and the absurdity of modern American life. They pair the film with Green River Wheated Full Proof Bourbon, a bold $49.99 release that sparks plenty of debate of its own. Is PTA’s latest a masterpiece or a messy satire? ...

Grab your binoculars and a glass of bourbon as we delve into Alfred Hitchcock's suspense-filled classic, Rear Window. In this episode, we explore the intricacies of voyeurism and tension Hitchcock masterfully crafts, alongside a detailed tasting of Four Roses Yellow Label Bourbon. This blend of cinematic excellence and refined whiskey is perfect for a sophisticated film night. For longer episodes and special bonus content, consider joining our Patreon for as little as $3/mo! Film & Whiskey ⁠⁠⁠⁠...

Bob and Brad return to one of the most beloved films of all time: The Shawshank Redemption (1994). It's been years since their first take on the film in Season 1, and now they revisit Frank Darabont’s enduring tale of hope, justice, and friendship—with fresh eyes and more perspective. Then, they dust off a bottle of Chivas Regal 12 Years Old Blended Scotch, which neither host has tasted since the early days of the podcast. Has this blended scotch held up? Or has their palates evolved past this ...

Bob and Brad revisit 1961’s West Side Story as part of Film & Whiskey’s Season 10 rewind, joined by returning guest Patrick H. Willems. The trio dives deep into why the film remains one of the most cinematic musicals ever made, breaking down its bold visual language, Bernstein’s towering score, and the performances that still electrify more than 60 years later. Along the way, they pour Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban (now a 14-year, port-finished single malt), exploring how its rich, ruby-toned sweet...

This week, Bob and Brad head back to 1948 for John Huston’s The Treasure of the Sierra Madre, a sweaty, dusty, “dudes movie” masterpiece about greed, isolation, and what money does to a man’s soul. They dig into how the film’s early “luck vs. violence” setup becomes the engine for Dobbs’ slow moral collapse, why the movie is both deeply fun and deeply bleak, and how Huston’s wilderness setting functions like a pressure chamber that reveals character. On the whiskey side, they crack open a heavy...

Bob and Brad dive deep into the 1999's Fight Club, directed by David Fincher, and its accompanying whiskey, Four Roses Small Batch. They explore the film's themes of masculinity, consumerism, and the complexities of its characters, particularly Edward Norton and Brad Pitt. The conversation touches on the film's controversial reception, its twist ending, and the implications of its messages about violence and identity. Film & Whiskey ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠...

Brad and Bob are joined by guest Daniel Joyaux to revisit the romantic comedy 500 Days of Summer, exploring its themes of love, nostalgia, and millennial identity. The trio discuss the film's unique structure, character dynamics, and the impact of its soundtrack. The conversation also touches on recent Oscar news and the evolution of streaming, as well as the personal connections each host has to the film. Then, Brad and Bob review Pursuit United Triple Mash Rye, a barrel proof offering from t...

Bob and Brad are joined by guest David Thomas Tao to dive deep into Quentin Tarantino's iconic film Pulp Fiction and the whiskey Weller Antique. They discuss their first encounters with the film, and its cultural impact. Topics also cross into Tarantino's unique storytelling style including character dynamics, particularly focusing on Vincent and Jules, and the performances of John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson. Then, they revisit Weller Antique 107, an insanely popular and sought-after mid-sh...

Brad and Bob dive into "The Color of Money," a Martin Scorsese classic starring Tom Cruise and Paul Newman. This episode explores the film's dynamic themes of hustling and transformation, with a special focus on Cruise's early career choices and Newman's timeless charisma. Plus, a solo whiskey review of Bardstown Bourbon Company's Normandie Calvados Brandy Barrel Finish. Film & Whiskey ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠...

Bob and Brad dive into the iconic 1954 film On the Waterfront, starring Marlon Brando and directed by Elia Kazan. The hosts explore the film's themes of power, corruption, and social justice while analyzing standout performances from Brando, Karl Malden, and Rod Steiger. In the second half of the episode, the hosts review Gentleman Jack Tennessee Whiskey, delving into its smooth, double-mellowed flavor profile and discussing how it stacks up against Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Select and other ...

Bob and Brad return to one of cinema’s grandest portrayals of genius and jealousy with a revisit of the 1984 theatrical cut of Amadeus, winner of 8 Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Actor. From Tom Hulce’s electrifying portrayal of Mozart to F. Murray Abraham’s haunting, Oscar-winning turn as Salieri, the film’s mix of theatricality and psychological depth makes for one of the most fascinating character studies in film history. Then, the hosts sip and review Redbreast 12 Year Iris...

In 2002, Steven Spielberg and Leonardo DiCaprio teamed up for a cat-and-mouse drama with surprising emotional heft. In 2025, Bob and Brad unwrap a Hanksgiving gift of their own: a revisit of Catch Me If You Can paired with the classic blended Scotch, Johnnie Walker Black Label. (0:00) Intro (08:20) Brad Explains (13:15) Performances, Themes (30:28) Johnnie Walker Black Label review (39:55) Two Facts and a Falsehood and Final Analysis (1:08:19) Let's Make it a Double and Final Scores -- Bob an...

This week on the Film & Whiskey Podcast, Brad and Bob revisit one of Hollywood’s most beloved musicals: 1952’s Singin’ in the Rain. And they’re not splashing through the puddles alone: friend of the show and ReserveBar’s own Lee Diaz returns to bring his signature blend of charm, film knowledge, and whimsy. The trio dives deep into why Singin’ in the Rain remains a high-water mark for movie musicals: the dazzling choreography, Gene Kelly’s complicated brilliance, Debbie Reynolds’ breakout performance, and Jean Hagen’s scene-stealing comedic masterclass. From the satire of Old Hollywood to the behind-the-scenes stories that shaped the film, it’s a conversation as lively as a tap routine. On the whiskey side of things, the guys uncork Weller Special Reserve, a bottle with a big reputation and… let’s just say some complicated feelings. Is it a smooth classic or the Lena Lamont of the Weller lineup? You’ll have to listen. Plus: a spirited round of Two Facts and a Falsehood, a tho…

Bob and Brad revisit one of the most beloved animated films of all time, Disney’s The Lion King (1994). From its unforgettable soundtrack to Bob and Brad revisit one of the most beloved animated films of all time, Disney’s The Lion King (1994). From its unforgettable soundtrack to its Shakespearean themes, they explore why this movie remains a cultural juggernaut 30 years later. They discuss the film’s stunning animation, powerhouse voice cast (including James Earl Jones, Jeremy Irons, and Matt...

Bob and Brad delve into the film 'Cinderella Man,' exploring its themes of redemption, the debated artistry of Ron Howard, and the emotional weight of the performances. They discuss the film's portrayal of the Great Depression, the significance of music in setting the tone, and the impact of sports as a metaphor for life's struggles. Then, they sample Bulleit Rye, a lower-proof staple in liquor stores across America. At an affordable price point, is it worth picking up? (0:00) Intro (06:49) Br...

In this episode of Film & Whiskey, Bob and Brad dive into the dizzying world of Alfred Hitchcock's 1958 masterpiece, Vertigo. Join us as In this episode of Film & Whiskey, Bob and Brad dive into the dizzying world of Alfred Hitchcock's 1958 masterpiece, Vertigo. Join us as we explore the psychological depths of this classic suspense thriller, starring James Stewart and Kim Novak. From the iconic Bernard Herrmann score to the intricate cinematography, we break down what makes "Vertigo" a Hitchco...

Brad and Bob dive deep into the cultural phenomenon that is 1977's Star Wars, exploring its impact on cinema, character dynamics, and the direction of George Lucas. They also discuss the film's pacing, performances, and the influence of Akira Kurosawa. The conversation includes a whiskey review of Old Granddad and comparisons to Raiders of the Lost Ark, culminating in their final thoughts and ratings for both the film and the whiskey. (0:00) Intro (06:49) Brad Explains (11:43) Performances, The...

Bob and Brad revisit Sam Mendes’ American Beauty, a film once hailed as a masterpiece and now one of Hollywood’s most divisive Best Picture winners. With guest critic Noah Gittell, they unpack Kevin Spacey’s complicated legacy, late-’90s suburbia, and whether the movie’s satire still works in 2025. The pour: Crown Royal, a whiskey as polarizing as the film itself. (01:04) Brad’s Big News (and chaotic baby-dad energy) (07:11) Brad Explains – a one-minute recap of American Beauty (12:53) S...

In 1942, director Michael Curtiz and star Humphrey Bogart gave the world a love story that was never meant to be. In 2025, Bob and Brad return to one of the most beloved films in history — Casablanca — alongside film critic Vince Mancini (Uproxx, Substack, GQ). Their whiskey pairing is the enduring classic Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon: still smooth, still balanced, still great as time goes by. This episode continues Season 10’s Re-Review Series, where Bob and Brad revisit their earliest e...