Film Reviews Episodes

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...

In 1963, director John Sturges and a star-studded cast gave the world one of the all-time great escape films, The Great Escape. In 2025, Bob and Brad revisit it for Season 10 of the Film & Whisky Podcast. Alongside the film, they continue their march through Glenmorangie’s core lineup with a pour of the Lasanta, a 12-year-old Highland single malt finished in sherry casks. This episode is part of the Season 1 Re-Review series, where Bob and Brad return to the films and whiskies that kicked off t...

Bob and Brad revisit The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, one of Brad's most reviled movies, alongside guest Zach Johnston of Blackwood Distilling. The conversation delves into the film's unconventional structure, the mythologizing of Jesse James and the American mythos, as well as the historical context of the film's characters. Then, Bob and Brad taste Old Overholt 4-Year Rye, a budget pour that punches above its 86-proof stature. (0:00) Intro (08:07) Brad Explains, P...

Bob and Brad revisit 1962’s To Kill a Mockingbird—praising Gregory Peck’s iconic Atticus and that powerhouse courtroom sequence while debating the film’s uneven structure and polarizing finale. In the glass: Tullamore D.E.W., a classic Irish blend that drinks soft and appley but finishes ashy. Plus: Two Facts & a Falsehood (Brad stumps Bob) and double-feature picks from 12 Angry Men to My Dog Skip. Film & Whiskey ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠...

Bob and Brad revisit Green Book six-plus years after its Best Picture win, minus the awards-season noise. They dig into Mahershala Ali’s soulful turn, Viggo Mortensen’s big-swing character work, Peter Farrelly’s unexpectedly sharp craft, and why this crowd-pleaser took so much flak. Pour in hand: the dearly departed Heaven Hill Green Label (6-year), one of the all-time budget bourbon legends. (0:00) Intro (04:25) Brad Explains, Performances, Themes (26:11) Benchmark bourbon review (38:00) Two F...

Bob and Brad dive into the cultural impact of the 2008 film Iron Man and its accompanying whiskey, Ancient Age 10 Star. They discuss personal updates, the evolution of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and the significance of Iron Man in the superhero genre. The conversation touches on character development, cultural context, and the film's visual effects. (0:00) Intro (11:54) Brad Explains (15:37) Performances, Themes (36:20) Benchmark bourbon review (48:24) Two Facts and a Falsehood (56:12) Fina...

Bob and Brad, along with guest Bilge Ebiri, delve into Terrence Malick's masterpiece, The Tree of Life. They explore the film's themes of grace and law, the cosmic and domestic narratives, and the emotional resonance of childhood memories. The conversation touches on the artistic experience of watching the film, the impact of memory, and the search for meaning and God. The hosts reflect on their personal journeys with the film, its significance in film criticism, and the complexities of parental...

Get ready for a hilarious blast from the past as Bob and Brad take a trip down memory lane and revisit a movie (and whiskey) they haven't experienced since season 1. In this episode, they dive into the timeless comedic masterpiece Some Like It Hot, directed by the legendary Billy Wilder. Alongside this classic film, they pair it up with the oak-stave-finished Maker's Mark 46 bourbon, creating the perfect combination of laughter and flavor. Timestamps: 0:00: Introduction 09:00: Brad Explains ...

In this episode of Film & Whiskey, Bob and Brad take a trip down memory lane as they revisit Clint Eastwood's 2004 Best Picture winner, "Million Dollar Baby." Having previously reviewed the film in Season 1, Bob shares his initial lukewarm response, giving it a modest 7/10 rating. Now, the question arises: Will his opinion change upon rewatching this emotional and impactful boxing drama? While exploring the themes and direction of "Million Dollar Baby," Bob and Brad also indulge in a sip of Mon...

Bob and Brad revisit one of their most divisive pairings from Film & Whiskey Season 1: Quentin Tarantino’s Inglourious Basterds (2009) and Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon. In true Tarantino fashion, the conversation gets fiery, layered, and packed with film nerdery, and when it comes time to re-taste Basil Hayden, the hosts bring all the heat. Timestamps (0:00) Intro (05:33) Brad Explains (10:55) Performances, Writing, Direction (23:46) Basil Hayden Review (35:33) Two Facts and a Falseho...

Bob and Brad return to a golden age classic: An American in Paris (1951), directed by Vincente Minnelli and starring Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron. With its lush Technicolor visuals, elaborate ballet finale, and iconic George Gershwin score, this MGM musical remains a milestone in film history, but how does it hold up on rewatch? To pair with this classic, Bob and Brad pour a bottle of Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon (White Label), a budget-friendly Kentucky straight bourbon that punches we...

Bob and Brad tackle a timeless classic as part of Season 10, the duo continues their exploration of iconic films and under-the-radar bourbons with a tasting of Very Old Barton 80 proof. 12 Angry Men sets the stage for a conversation about persuasion, justice, and how much power one voice can hold. As always, the whiskey pairing brings its own character to the table, with Bob and Brad offering tasting notes, value assessments, and their signature segment: Two Facts and a Falsehood.

Bob and Brad step into a glass case of emotion for this week's review of Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy, the 2004 absurdist comedy that made Will Ferrell a household name. Does it hold up 20 years later? Then, the guys shift gears from Baxter and jazz flute to the whiskey of the week: Benchmark Old No. 8, a bottom-shelf bourbon that surprises in more ways than one. Can a budget bottle deliver real flavor, or is it destined for mixing duty only? It’s a week full of polyester suits, ego-f...

In this high-octane season finale, Bob and Brad return to 2014’s John Wick , a film that redefined modern action movies and catapulted Keanu Reeves back into superstardom. They break down Chad Stahelski's slick, violent, and surprisingly economical revenge thriller and ask the question: does John Wick deserve to be considered a modern classic, or is it all style and no substance? Alongside the mayhem, Bob and Brad sip on Heaven's Door Revival Tennessee bourbon , an expression from Bob Dylan's...

Bob and Brad dive into one of the most acclaimed international releases of 2023: Godzilla Minus One . They’re joined by special guest Michael Kelingus, Brad’s longtime friend and a lover of Japanese cinema, especially kaiju films. Together, they break down how Godzilla Minus One reimagines the iconic monster, explore its emotional core, and debate whether it sets a new high bar for the franchise. In the second half, Bob and Brad crack open a bottle of Hardin's Creek Jacob's Well bourbon ,...

Bob and Brad dive into DreamWorks’ animated masterpiece How to Train Your Dragon , a film that has captured audiences young and old since its release in 2010. They explore why this coming-of-age tale of Hiccup and his dragon Toothless continues to resonate emotionally and visually. Alongside their film discussion, Bob and Brad pour a dram of Glengoyne 15 Year Single Malt Scotch , a beautifully crafted Highland whisky known for its unpeated, sherry-cask richness. Will this pairing of dragon ...

Bob and Brad head to the front lines of World War I cinema as they dissect 1917 (2019), Sam Mendes’ immersive and technically daring war film. With its faux one-take presentation and gripping narrative, 1917 has become a modern benchmark for war storytelling. The guys examine whether it’s all style or if the film has the emotional weight to match. Then, they taste and review Hirsch The Departure Single Malt Whiskey, a bold release from a legendary whiskey name that’s setting out in a new directi...

Bob and Brad dive into the brooding, morally complex thriller Prisoners (2013), directed by Denis Villeneuve. With towering performances from Hugh Jackman and Jake Gyllenhaal, the film explores justice, vengeance, and the disturbing gray areas in between. Then, they uncork a bottle of Almost Old Bones Bourbon, a high-proof expression with deep flavor and plenty of mystery—just like the film. Does this small-batch whiskey hold its own on the Film & Whiskey flavor scale? (0:00) Intro (4:59) Bra...