1,002 episodes

Movies, more movies and then maybe other stuff. Reviews and ratings. If you love movies you’ll love Movies First with well-known and respected reviewer Alex First. Answering the big question...should I see this movie?

Movies First Movies First Supporter

    • TV & Film
    • 4.4 • 5 Ratings

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Movies, more movies and then maybe other stuff. Reviews and ratings. If you love movies you’ll love Movies First with well-known and respected reviewer Alex First. Answering the big question...should I see this movie?

Listen on Apple Podcasts
Requires subscription and macOS 11.4 or higher

    S02E01: The Battle Within: Dissecting Alex Garland's 'Civil War'

    S02E01: The Battle Within: Dissecting Alex Garland's 'Civil War'

    Civil War (Sci-Fi, Thriller) - Director Alex Garland
    Step into the trenches of a dystopian America with "Movies First" as our host, Alex First, dissects the harrowing narrative of "Civil War," directed by the visionary Alex Garland. In this episode, we embark on a cinematic odyssey through a fractured nation, a reflection of our own societal divides, where the stars and stripes hang heavy with the weight of internal conflict.
    **Episode Summary:**
    Join us as we navigate the war-torn landscapes of Texas and California, where two formidable states challenge the very fabric of unity. With President Nick Offerman's bold claims of victory clashing with the grim reality on the ground, we're thrust into a world where ideals and survival collide in a relentless battle.
    **Key Points:**
    - **A Nation Divided:** Explore a United States fragmented by civil war, where the fight extends beyond territories to a clash of core values.
    - **The Pursuit of Truth:** Follow the perilous journey of war photographer Lee (Kirsten Dunst) and journalist Joel (Wagner Moura), as they risk everything to capture the essence of a country at war with itself.
    - **The Human Cost:** Delve into the emotional and moral complexities faced by our protagonists and the people they encounter, whose lives are irrevocably altered by the chaos of war.
    **Performances and Craftsmanship:**
    - **Kirsten Dunst & Wagner Moura:** Discover the depth of their characters as they portray the seasoned war photographer and the eager journalist, each performance a testament to the actors' profound abilities.
    - **Alex Garland's Direction:** Experience Garland's skill in weaving human emotions with gripping narratives, creating a cinematic experience that transcends mere storytelling.
    - **Cinematography & Sound:** Learn about the intimate camerawork and immersive audio design that contribute to the film's visceral impact.
    **Conclusion:**
    "Civil War" emerges not just as a film but as a profound exploration of humanity amidst societal breakdown. With an enthusiastic 9 out of 10 rating from Alex, this is a film that demands to be seen and will linger in your thoughts long after the credits roll.
    **Listen and Subscribe:**
    For more insightful movie discussions and reviews, subscribe to "Movies First" on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or your favorite podcast player. Stream on demand at bitesz.com for more quality podcast productions.
    **Connect with Us:**
    Join the "Movies First" community for a deeper dive into cinema. Visit bitesz.com and follow the "Movies First" page for more of Alex First's reviews and episodes.
    **Final Thoughts:**
    As the echoes of "Civil War" reverberate, we're reminded of the power of film to challenge, to reveal, and to unite. Until next time, keep your eyes on the screen and your heart open to the stories that shape our world.
    www.bitesz.com/show/movies-first

    • 14 min
    A Haunting in Venice: Branagh's Eerie Christie Adaptation (review) | 1028

    A Haunting in Venice: Branagh's Eerie Christie Adaptation (review) | 1028

    Movies First with Alex First
    Episode 1028
    Answering the big question...should I see this movie?
    A Haunting in Venice: Branagh's Eerie Christie Adaptation (review) (Crime, Drama, Horror)
    Director
    Kenneth Branagh
    Writers
    Michael Green / Agatha Christie
    Stars
    Kenneth Branagh / Michelle Yeoh / Jamie Dornan
    Welcome to another insightful episode of Movies First with your esteemed host, Alex First. In this episode, we delve into the mysterious and supernatural realms of Agatha Christie's "A Haunting in Venice." Directed and starring Kenneth Branagh, alongside the talented Michelle Yeoh and Jamie Dornan, this film marks the third Christie adaptation by Branagh following the successes of "Murder on the Orient Express" and "Death on the Nile."

    Set against the haunting backdrop of post-war Venice in 1947, Branagh reprises his role as the legendary detective Hercule Poirot. Now retired and seeking solace from his storied past, Poirot is drawn back into the world of mystery by an old friend, the number one mystery writer Ariadne Oliver, portrayed by Tina Fey. A séance at a decaying palazzo turns sinister when a murder echoes the mysterious past of the opera singer owner, Rowena Drake, played by Kelly Reilly.

    Alex First gives us his take on the film's atmospheric setting, the complexity of its characters, and the intricate plot that challenges the audience to unravel the mystery. While the pacing may not appeal to all, the film's auditory and visual elements, along with strong performances, particularly from the young Leopold Ferrier, provide a compelling reason to watch.

    **Rating:** 6/10

    Listen to Alex's full review on Movies First, available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or your favorite podcast player. You can also stream on demand at bitesz.com for this and other quality podcast productions.

    Remember to tune into Movies First with Alex First for sharp, concise movie reviews that answer the big question: Should you see this movie?

    To listen on your favourite app, your one click universal listen link: https://link.chtbl.com/moviesfirst
    Stream podcast episodes on demand from https://www.bitesz.com/show/movies-first (mobile friendly).
    For more from Alex visit our new website: https://moviesfirstpodcast.com
    Subscribe, rate and review Movies First at all good podcast apps, including Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Stitcher, Pocket Casts, CastBox.FM, Podbean, Spreaker, etc.

    For more, follow Movies First on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube :
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    #movies #cinema #entertainment #podcast #reviews #moviesfirst

    Exploring AI in Action: 'The Creator' Movie Review | #1027

    Exploring AI in Action: 'The Creator' Movie Review | #1027

    The Creator (Action, Adventure, Drama)
    Director
    Gareth Edwards
    Writers
    Gareth Edwards / Chris Weitz
    Stars
    John David Washington / Madeleine Yuna Voyles / Gemma Chan
    In this episode of Movies First, hosted by Alex First, we dive into the review of "The Creator," a science fiction action adventure directed by Gareth Edwards. Starring John David Washington, Madeleine Yuna Voyles, and Gemma Chan, the film explores the question of whether artificial intelligence is the ultimate enemy or not. Joshua, an American Special Forces soldier, finds himself torn between love and duty when his wife Maya, a key member of the AI resistance, is killed in an attack. Years later, Joshua is approached by the military to stop the AI mastermind, the Creator, from deploying a devastating weapon. Intriguingly, he learns that Maya may still be alive. As Joshua investigates, he forms a bond with a young girl named Alfie, who holds the key to the weapon's power. While "The Creator" boasts stunning visuals, captivating cinematography by Greg Fraser, and a score by Hans Zimmer, it falls short in delivering unexpected twists and emotional depth. Join us as we discuss the film's strengths, weaknesses, and our overall rating of six and a half out of ten.
    ---

    To listen on your favourite app, your one click universal listen link: https://link.chtbl.com/moviesfirst
    For more from Alex visit our new website: https://moviesfirstpodcast.com or
    www.bitesz.com

    Saw X Review: Unraveling Jigsaw's Latest Twisted Game | #1026

    Saw X Review: Unraveling Jigsaw's Latest Twisted Game | #1026

    Saw X (Horror, Mystery, Thriller) Director Kevin Greutert Writers Pete Goldfinger / Josh Stolberg Stars Tobin Bell / Shawnee Smith / Synnøve Macody Lund Welcome to another thrilling episode of Movies First with your host, Alex First. In today's episode, we slice into the heart of the horror genre with a review of the latest installment in the infamous Saw series, "Saw X". **About "Saw X"** - **Release Context**: Set between the original "Saw" and "Saw II", "Saw X" revives the chilling atmosphere that has captivated a dedicated fanbase since 2004. - **Starring**: The film features Tobin Bell reprising his iconic role as John Kramer, Shawnee Smith as his apprentice, and Synnøve Macody Lund as the enigmatic Cecilia. - **Director**: Under the direction of Kevin Greutert, "Saw X" promises to deliver the intricate and gory traps the series is known for, alongside a story that explores the depths of human desperation and the dark side of medical miracles. **Plot Highlights** - **John Kramer's Plight**: Tobin Bell's character, facing a terminal illness, seeks a radical treatment from Dr. Finn Pedicin's daughter, Cecilia, portrayed by Synnøve Macody Lund. - **The Scam**: The promise of a cure turns into a nightmare as Kramer realizes he's been swindled, setting the stage for his twisted form of justice. - **The Torture Devices**: True to the Saw legacy, "Saw X" showcases complex torture apparatuses designed by Kramer for those complicit in the scam. **Performances** - **Tobin Bell**: Brings a menacing conviction to John Kramer, a man on the brink of death and betrayal. - **Shawnee Smith**: As Amanda Young, she embodies the conflict of reverence and self-doubt in the face of gruesome tasks. - **Synnøve Macody Lund**: Delivers a performance filled with confidence and duplicity as Cecilia. **Critical Review** - **Narrative Twists**: The film is praised for its unexpected turns and sustained tension, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. - **Moral Play**: The writers, Josh Stolberg and Pete Goldfinger, are commended for a well-crafted script that navigates the moral quandaries central to the Saw narrative. **Alex First's Verdict** - **Rating**: "Saw X" earns a solid 7 out of 10 for its engaging plot and adherence to the Saw formula that fans adore. **Listen and Subscribe** - Don't miss out on the full breakdown of "Saw X" and more movie reviews by Alex First. Subscribe to Movies First on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or your favorite podcast player. Stream on demand at bytesz.com. **Connect with Us** - Join the Movies First community and dive deeper into the world of cinema. Find us on bytesz.com for more quality podcast productions. **Final Thoughts** - Whether you're a long-time fan of the Saw series or a newcomer intrigued by the genre, "Saw X" is a testament to the enduring appeal of the franchise's dark exploration of human nature and survival. Remember to tune in to Movies First with Alex First for insightful movie reviews and discussions. Until next time, keep your wits sharp and your nerves steelier.
    www.bitesz.com/show/movies-first

    • 4 min
    Love and Ambition Collide: A 'Fair Play' Review | #1025

    Love and Ambition Collide: A 'Fair Play' Review | #1025

    Fair Play (Drama, Mystery, Thriller) In this episode of "Movies First," host Alex First dives into the intense world of high-stakes trading with a review of the romantic psychological drama "Fair Play." The film, starring Phoebe Dynevor, Alden Ehrenreich, and Eddie Marsan, and directed by Chloe Domont, explores the complexities of love and ambition within the ruthless environment of stock market trading. **Episode Summary:** Join Alex First for an in-depth discussion about "Fair Play," a film that navigates the turbulent waters of a relationship strained by career pressures and workplace politics. Set against the backdrop of a competitive hedge fund, the story revolves around Luke (Alden Ehrenreich) and Emily (Phoebe Dynevor), two analysts whose secret romance becomes jeopardized by their professional lives. **Key Points:** - **A Secret Romance:** Discover how Luke and Emily's engagement, a joyous milestone, becomes tainted by the harsh realities of their careers, highlighting the film's central theme of personal versus professional life. - **Rising Tensions:** As Emily's career skyrockets and Luke's stagnates, witness their relationship spiral from passionate to tense, reflecting the cutthroat nature of their industry. - **Powerful Performances:** Hear about the compelling chemistry between Ehrenreich and Dynevor, whose characters' journey from supportive partners to resentful adversaries captivates the audience. - **Masculinity and Power:** Learn about the film's portrayal of aggression and toxic masculinity, particularly through Eddie Marsan's character, Campbell, whose ruthless leadership style exemplifies the hedge fund's merciless atmosphere. - **Cinematic Elements:** From the authentic depiction of the characters' daily routines to the impactful cinematography, find out how these elements contribute to the movie's immersive quality. **Critical Insights:** Alex shares his critiques, praising the film's exploration of gender dynamics and ambition but noting the less convincing aspects, such as certain secondary performances and an ending that feels somewhat overextended. **Conclusion:** Despite some flaws, "Fair Play" impresses as a gripping tale of love, ambition, and betrayal, earning a solid seven out of ten from our host. It's a cinematic journey that movie enthusiasts and critics alike should not miss. Trailer: https://www.imdb.com/video/vi1976944409/?playlistId=tt16304446&ref_=tt_pr_ov_vi **Listen to More:** For more insightful reviews, subscribe to "Movies First" on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or your favorite podcast platform. Stream on demand at bitesz.com for more quality podcast productions. Don't miss an episode of "Movies First" with Alex First, where you get the first take on the latest movies hitting the big screen. To listen on your favourite app, your one click universal listen link: https://link.chtbl.com/moviesfirst Movies First RSS : https://www.spreaker.com/show/2648009/episodes/feed Stream podcast episodes on demand from https://www.bitesz.com/show/movies-first-reviews/ (mobile friendly). For more from Alex visit our new website: https://moviesfirstpodcast.com or www.bitesz.com Subscribe, rate and review Movies First at all good podcast apps, including Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Stitcher, Pocket Casts, CastBox.FM, Podbean, Spreaker, etc....

    • 3 min
    1024: Retribution (review)

    1024: Retribution (review)

    Movies First with Alex First Episode 1024 Answering the big question...should I see this movie? Retribution (Action, Crime, Drama) A bank executive receives a bomb threat while driving his children to school that his car will explode if they stop and get out. Director Nimród Antal Writers Alberto Marini - Christopher Salmanpour Stars Liam Neeson - Noma Dumezweni - Lilly Aspell - IMDb Trailer: https://www.imdb.com/video/vi564184857/?playlistId=tt6906292&ref_=tt_ov_vi To listen on your favourite app, your one click universal listen link: https://link.chtbl.com/moviesfirst Movies First RSS : https://www.spreaker.com/show/2648009/episodes/feed Stream podcast episodes on demand from https://www.bitesz.com/show/movies-first-reviews/ (mobile friendly). Subscribe, rate and review Movies First at all good podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, iHeartRadio, Pocket Casts, CastBox.FM, Podbean, Spreaker, etc.
    #moviereview #retribution #movies #podcast #liamneeson

    • 3 min

Customer Reviews

4.4 out of 5
5 Ratings

5 Ratings

Bovine 67 ,

Insightful and Informative

Always insightful and informative. Wouldn't go to the movies without checking Alex and Chris' views first.

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Juliancruiser

Great to listen to, these guys are entertaining and they know their stuff.

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Great reviews

Great reviews and full of information.Fantastic podcast

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