Key Takeaways
- Disney reportedly rejected Steven Soderbergh's Star Wars film pitch for Ben Solo, citing the character's death.
- Taylor Sheridan is reportedly departing Paramount for an exclusive overall deal with Peacock Universal.
- The hosts drafted the best movies from 1989, reflecting on its significance for cinema.
- Hollywood experienced a notable shift in 1989, moving from mid-tier dramas to a franchise-driven model.
Deep Dive
- Steven Soderbergh and Adam Driver's pitch for a Star Wars film, reportedly titled 'The Hunt for Ben Solo,' was rejected by Disney leadership, including Bob Iger.
- A primary reason cited for the rejection was that Ben Solo's character was dead.
- The hosts lamented the absence of a Star Wars film in six years, contrasting it with the numerous Star Wars television shows released.
- One host noted a decline in engagement with the Star Wars universe, stopping active viewing of new content like 'Andor' due to the volume.
- Taylor Sheridan is reportedly leaving Paramount to sign an overall deal with Peacock Universal.
- This move follows his prolific work at Paramount, including upcoming projects, and discussions of his screenwriting quality.
- News also broke regarding Sheridan's potential 'Call of Duty' film with Pete Berg at Paramount.
- His departure is linked to the high production costs of his shows and his ownership of the Four Sixes ranch, alongside his steakhouse chain.
- 1989 is discussed as a pivotal year of significant change in the film industry, marking the rise of independent cinema.
- Steven Soderbergh's 'Sex, Lies, and Videotape' and mainstream success like 'When Harry Met Sally' exemplify this shift.
- Hollywood transitioned from producing mid-tier dramas and rom-coms to a franchise-driven model, as seen with 'Batman' and 'Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.'
- The 1989 Academy Awards were noted for 'Driving Miss Daisy' winning Best Picture over 'Do the Right Thing,' while Denzel Washington and Daniel Day-Lewis won acting awards.
- The hosts and guest began their 1989 movie draft across seven categories: drama, comedy, action, horror, thriller, Oscar nominee, sequel, and wildcard.
- Amanda Dobbins selected 'When Harry Met Sally' for the Blockbuster category, citing its influence on modern romantic comedies.
- Chris Ryan chose 'Do the Right Thing' for the Drama category, praising its profound cultural impact and inventive energy.
- Sean Fennessey selected 'Batman' (1989) for the Blockbuster category, sparking discussion on its impact and Tim Burton's direction.
- The draft included 'Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade' for the sequel category.
- Sean Fennessey picked 'Dead Poets Society,' highlighting strong performances from Ethan Hawke and Robert Sean Leonard.
- One host selected Steven Soderbergh's 'Sex, Lies, and Videotape,' noting its critical acclaim and role in launching Soderbergh's career.
- The film 'Heathers' was praised for its script, portrayal of teenage girls, and visual elements like color theory.
- The draft included 'Say Anything,' with discussion of its iconic boombox scene and John Cusack's performance.
- Chris Ryan selected 'Parenthood,' noting its blend of comedy and drama and praising performances by Steve Martin and a young Joaquin Phoenix.
- Oliver Stone's 'Born on the Fourth of July' was discussed as Stone's best film, featuring Tom Cruise in a pivotal role.
- 'National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation' was selected as a sequel, recognized for its enduring presence in home media.
- 'Back to the Future Part 2' was selected for the Blockbuster category, noted for its cultural impact, hoverboards, and sports almanac.
- The hosts picked 'The Fabulous Baker Boys,' starring Jeff and Beau Bridges, and Michelle Pfeiffer, praising Pfeiffer's standout performance.
- Chris Ryan selected 'Road House' for the action-horror-thriller category, leading to news about competing 'Road House' sequels from Amazon and the original screenwriter.
- 'The Little Mermaid' was discussed, with particular praise for the song 'Part of Your World' and its themes of aspiration.
- One host selected 'Major League,' praising its comedic elements and believable portrayal of professional baseball.
- Michael Moore's documentary 'Roger and Me' was chosen, highlighting its personal exploration of Ford Motor Company's downsizing.
- Notable undrafted films from 1989 included 'The Abyss,' 'Crimes and Misdemeanors,' 'Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure,' 'Mystery Train,' and 'Dead Calm.'
- The hosts also mentioned 'Glory,' noting a contemporary perspective that it may not have aged well due to its 'white gaze' perspective.