Post "MAILBAG 2024 - Ask Us Anything!" by "blankcheck" from patreon

Alison B.

For the mailbag… Griffin are you a Mnemonist? Do you have an Eidetic memory? How do you remember everything especially when playing the box office game? Oh and I agree we need a PTA miniseries and please bring back Sean Fennesy for Boogie Nights because that is my DREAM PODCAST for the 3 of you to discuss Boogie Nights for the love of G-d please 🙏🏼 oh and how about a Penny Marshall miniseries 💁🏻‍♀️

Tyler Duggan

You forgot Anderson Cooper, who has narrate a couple CNN documentaries, at least.

Pete

Dogma still bangs

Pete

I think those are some wonderful movies. The first in particular.

Chris Radicone

How far away are we from getting a Paul Thomas Anderson miniseries? Or an Anderson triple play of Paul Thomas, Wes and Brad Anderson!? Love the pod, thank you!

Ashwin Arvind

For what it’s worth the EP credit could just be because it’s produced by the Safdie’s company so Josh will get an auto credit even if he did nothing.

Kevin Fulcher

The credit card thing was the main impetus for the screenwriter to set the film there. I know the Biden thing is meaningless. But there was a missed opportunity for jokes (and comedy points) to be had on the fight club episode regardless.

Collin B.

Awesome! Thanks for the update.

Frederique

I just want to say thank you, all of you at Blank Check! I love listening to the podcast and can’t wait to talk about it with my friends and with my fiancé who has no clue what I’m talking about, but is always patient enough to listen to my anecdotes from the podcast ;). Thank you and congrats on another amazing year of Blank Check podcast and this community! 💜

Gunnar

I dig this. Kojima making Death Stranding was a huge video game BC

Gunnar

Is Jacques Tati Buster Keaton’s truest successor? This can be in terms of form, persona, or thematic interests.

Gunnar

What are y’all’s thoughts on the Rock’s recent announcement about a career shift toward more serious work? What do you hope to see in a Rock-Safdie collaboration?

Lauren Swintek

What are some books the BC team read this year? Favorites? DNFs?

Hogan

What is the most “St. Vincent” Esque movie you watched recently?

Daniel Hedger

They could always cheat like they did with Spielberg for some of them (Hitchcock in the 50s, Soderbergh's 90s etc).

Daniel Hedger

If they do, they should do a miniseries! It would be great to get a mid-century series going.

Daniel Hedger

Yeah, I think there would be quite a lot from the Golden Age/earlier eras of Hollywood. But I also think they're at a point in the show where that doesn't necessarily matter anymore, especially if you want to do filmmakers from the 40s-70s.

Andrew Stein-Zeller

Best print I ever saw was Gummo at Metrograph, maybe 5 years ago? Wonder if Ben got a chance to see that…you guys are truly the best 💞💞💞

pacoismynickname

Josh is an EP on The Curse. They’re working together on it.

Andrew Stein-Zeller

A lot of NYC rep screenings are 35mm and often times I wish they opted for DCP because the prints/sound are bad. Seeing Barry Lyndon and Amadeus on 35mm are two recent experiences that left me kinda cranky. Thoughts? Anything we checkmates can do to gently rise up and diplomatically ask our beloved rep theaters to better vet the prints? (I did see a print of Hulk at Metrograph recently that was so gorgeous I cried, ditto Popeye at Moving Image, but these prints were from noted archives!)

pacoismynickname

Howard Hawks. Succeeded in practically every genre but what’s his great passion project?

Michael Kolodziej

Friends - I'm worried about you. Are you mentally and emotionally okay after watching the Love Guru? My eyes, ears, and, nose started bleeding once they started singing 9 to 5, so about 5 minutes into the movie.

pacoismynickname

Her agent has to be working on voiding that deal. What a waste of her time/capital that would be.

Kyle McClellan

Ben- you mentioned on an episode once wanting a car with a drill on the front of it. Have you heard about the giant tunnel boring drills (aka “moles”) that were used to create the 2nd Ave subway line, and how they were left sitting underground to be used again when the Q is extended up to 125th st? Just curious about your general thoughts on that and the suggestion of an “underground drill movie screening.”

Brett I

Over the holiday break I finally watched some classic films like Rear Window and The Birds with my parents (really enhanced an already fun viewing experience to get their perspective). Do y’all have any special affinity for or fond memory of any movies of that era (Hitchcock or other)?

pacoismynickname

Maybe five years ago I posted in the sub about Domino and David commented “We gotta do Tony Scott.” No indications since. At this point Tony Scott would have to win MM, which seems unlikely considering they’re looking for wild new formats every year. Ridley is in the Scorsese/Soderbergh/Hitchcock/etc. crew of uncoverably prolific directors.

Tom

What’s the most elaborate food you’ve ever snuck into a theater? What’s the best food to sneak into a theater? (I’m partial to an Ollie from Court St Grocers.)

pacoismynickname

Streisand is next.

Taylor Weir

2023 was a big year for female filmmakers- what were some of your favorites? And can we expect any female directors on the main feed in 2024?

John Conover

Tony Scott Mini Series vs Ridley Scott Mini Series; which one would be more interesting/ fun to discuss? Personally would kill for a Tony Scott series!

Dan Riley

The “How to Train Your Dragon” Trilogy… under, properly, or overly rated? I’ll take my question off the air.

Matt Skoufalos

Ah that's it -- Wikipedia says Asimov helped translate it to English https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gandahar_(film)

Jackson Kelly

I miss David’s tweets. Will he be joining Threads or a similar app at any point?

Matt Skoufalos

Forgive me if it wasn't asimov related, but that was my original recollection. It was originally called gandahar: https://youtu.be/x4k6wYrizgg?feature=shared

Blake Anderson

What were your favorite I think you should leave moments from the new season?

Kellen Hastings

SLOW HORSES!!

Lastchants

David I was so excited that you got to do an essay for the Oldboy 4K! If griffin could pick any movie to write an essay on for a 4K release what would it be?

Teddy K

Do the Coen Brothers have a blank check filmography?

Garod Wayman

Can David teach Ben how to make some Letterboxd lists? I want some top 25 porch classics, etc

filmaroni

Any films you’ve revisited recently that did or did not hold up? Always curious how rewatches affect one’s initial thoughts. Thanks for all the laughs and insight, you guys are such a bright spot in my days!

jjdotbiz

I'm taking the initiative to just respond to this one myself: yes! I've made this and we're just in the process of figuring out where to post it :)

Kellen Hastings

As someone who recently got back into swimming I'm curious what David's swim routine is, do you just swim for a set amount of time continuously? Do you have a work out plan?? Are you part of a masters swim program??? Love you guys, blank it/thank it!

ders

@david. DOCTOR WHO IS BACK. DOCTOR WHO THOUGHTS??? Favourite doctor? Thoughts on Ncuti? Disney Who? Give us the goods

Philip Ehlke

I was simultaneously baffled and thrilled by the way a recent viewing of Spawn provided an unexpected Rosetta Stone into the parsing of The Boy and the Heron. What are some undervalued movies—akin to, say, “porch classics”—that regularly inform how you think and talk about film.

Jordan Drake

Griffin has mentioned Dogma and American Beauty as movies he thought were profound when he was young, and his opinion has shifted. Does David have any movies he thought were masterpieces in his teens that he's since realized were not... really good?

D. King

All: What was your most surprising movie news and/or box-office performance of 2023? The lack of an Elemental (2023) "Air Ball" tie-in video game floored me 💨🏀. That movie-sport had Star Wars Episode I: Racer potential 😉

Keepo

Do you believe in the concept of a "golden age" of cinema, and if so, when do you think it was?

Isaac B

Ben Question: Without going into any specifics you don't want to, any good graffiti stories?

Foster Cozart

Questions for David What are your top 5 episodes of ER and who is your favorite character and why?

Sean Lawrence

So I teach history but I'm bad at it. My university has a course titled "Hollywood and History." What movies would you show students for this class? I.e., what are the ultimate movies that either say something about the time they were made or are the mic-drop statement about some event. Thank you guys for doing my job for me!

ExciteMike64

Editing questions for Ben What the most difficult episode editing-wise you've worked on and why? How many times do you go back and re-check you've successfully removed something sensitive? e.g. next BC filmography What's was your most rewarding BC moment of 2023? What's the most unappreciated edit you've ever done for Blank Check? Whats your dream benducer expense that the rest of BC would never agree to and why should they fund it?

Gabriel Gauvin

Can Griffin confirm his involvement in Cars 4, and that it will make cars 1 look like cars 3 makes cars 2 look

Joe Skonce

Universal gives you a call and invites you to create an Oppenheimer attraction, what kind of ride do you build?

Louis Bronson

Really want to know how Ben feels about shorts - like short pants. Below the knee? Above the knee? Pockets? Materials? Do they instantly turn you into a Dickensian Era schoolboy? Will I ever be happy again? Also do you think Michael Mann should make another movie or is Ferrari a perfect send-off for him?

Jessica Bridge

If Forky was ever to do a “Ben’s Choice”, what would she pick? (Not request to have Forky on pod. Forky already suffers enough because of pod)

Eggnog The Space Cadet

What are your favorite “Making of” documentaries? Favorite special features in general

Ravinder Bath

This is for all three of you: If you could go to any Movie Premiere in history, what would you see? You would magically be seeing it for the first time as well

Andrew J. Eisenman

Action Figure Question for griffin: How do you feel about the rising cost of the $20 category of 6” figure, particularly from Hasbro? At least with them the sculpts are improving, but with a McFarlane you can’t even articulate the ankles properly.

Cody F. Schmidt

Would you rather Saltburn someone or Gone Girl someone?

Joe

In the past couple years I’ve taken up porch movies (projector as opposed to TV/VCR) with a passion. I want to add to the aesthetic experience as much as possible, so I’m curious what Ben would suggest for full sensory accompaniment (e.g., lighting, sounds, smells?). Next year I also plan to go all in on sound and get friends together for playing musical accompaniment (esp w/silent films) and I’m curious what scores from mainly older movies you guys like.

simon d higgins

What is your favorite Steelbook you own? Is there a steelbook you missed out on that you want?

Brian Lorenzo

1. Outside of Satoshi Kon, are there any other animation focused directors you’d be interested in doing? 2. The Knicks Raptors trade. Thoughts? Should the NY be holding onto Dubious Handles?

Jason Baragary

What’s your favorite “blender” in a movie? Or is it the blender from Enemy of the State?

Jason Baragary

Will there be a point in the 5-10 years that the MCU does a hard reset? Or would it even be worth their time to even consider that?

Chase Beauclair

Are there any directors that you would really like to cover whose filmographies are simply too long for the format? I remember early career and late career Altman being bandied about as a way to cover an extensive career, but would love to hear if anyone else also comes to mind.

Kristen Jones

If you could have one more film from any of the deceased Blank Check directors, who would be the director and what would you want the movie to be about?

Jonathan Hillman

Reboot BC style: What’s another franchise/trilogy you could do ala The Phantom Menace franchise and what would the thesis question be? (I know you would never do this, don’t be mad at me for the question david)

Jessica Orange

As a music lover, I’d also love to know what your most listened to movie soundtracks are? How about scores?

Andy Germuga

What is your pitch for the next chapter of the Sony Spider-Man Adjacent Cinematic Universe?

Jackson Kelly

Greta Gerwig has been hired by Netflix to make two Narnia films. There are seven books. Three have already been adapted to feature films. Which two should she take on? Which two will she take on?

Jessica Orange

Top 5 period piece movies please from all 3 of you :)

Liz

Did Ben ever buy that chair plaque in Bryant Park (as mentioned in one of the Twilight commentaries)?

Hogan

On the Incredible Hulk pod, griffin called The Amazing Spider Man 2 the worst superhero movie ever. Do you still think that? What’s everyone’s least favourite, now that it seems to be crashing into oblivion like some stupid climax of a marvel movie.

Henchmen Studios

How do y'all feel about the state of movies coming out of 2023? Are we headed into a new era and if so what kinds of movies do you think will thrive? Is Ben cooking up anything for 2024?

Declan Greenwald

Baseball's hall of fame is in Cooperstown and the NBA has Springfield, but my question to Ben is: what city is home to the Hall of Chain?

Tyler Parker

Secondary question: thoughts on the Safdies “breaking up”? Is this real news? Idk, whatever keeps Benny on this trajectory, I guess I’m for it?

Bmk

David, If you could pick any movie to have it be the boss baby’s first theater experience, what would it be? Griffin, what was your fav movie going experience with your nephews?

TurnMotionSmoothingOffOnYourTVPlease

What if instead it was the chain-mail bag and you guys jousted for a big bag of money

Dan Dineen

In the Gone Girl episode, you mentioned that Jon Hamm was up for Affleck’s role. While I imagine he would have been great, I can’t buy Hamm as a gamer. I can think of lots of actors who are older than Hamm that I wouldn’t buy as gamers, but none that are younger than Hamm. Who is the youngest actor that you just couldn’t buy losing an entire weekend to Banjo-Kazooie?

TurnMotionSmoothingOffOnYourTVPlease

Is Ben a big Saw guy? I feel like it's got a bunch of stuff he loves. Gears, levers, pulleys, acid, suction, holes, chains, screws, puppet guys, tiny tricycles etc. Ben is well known for his love of simple machines and no series has ever featured simple machines so heavily.

Frickward Testicles

Not only was 2023 a great year for movies, it was also a great year for video games. Did any of you play any new games this year, and if so, what were your favorites?

Tyler Parker

David, can we get more D’Onofrio and Christopher Nolan impressions on the mic?

JS

Griffin's story of asking his 1st grade teacher "Do I make you horny?" prompts me to ask if you had a particular joke or catch phrase as a kid that made you laugh or your family member laugh as a good memory?

Benji Black

Instead of Jimmy Kimmel, Griffin is the host of this coming Oscars. What angles does he come at for crafting jokes about the year in cinema for the opening monologue?

Jake Yosafat

Is there one director you’ve covered on the podcast to-date whose movies you feel like you have a fundamentally different relationship now than when you covered them? Many have gone on to produce new films and we’ve all gotten 5-10 years further on in life. I’d imagine that’s changed some feelings and perspectives.

Taylor Owens

I would like to add context to the ongoing aluminum vs. aluminium debate. The man who discovered the element, Humphrey Davy, initially named it to aluminium. But then he changed the name to aluminum four years later. No one knows why. Americans adopted the new term, while British scientists preferred the original because it matched with sodium, calcium, and other ium elements. Who is right? I’ll leave that for you to decide.

Daniel Knag

Would a movie that successfully executes a variable frame rate be enough to “talk a walk”? *it wasnt mentioned in the pitch episode so i wonder if it was overlooked. **by *it i mean avatar 2. ***the way of water

Patrick Clawson

For being such fans of Alita: Battle Angel, have you seen the 90's OVA anime, or even better, read the manga everything was based on? Follow up, if you haven't already read it, would you be receptive to being sent a copy of the first volume of the manga?

Nick Gerber

Thoughts on Letterboxd and the star rating scale?

Derek Oster

I’m looking to bulk my physical media collection. Best recommendations to buy movies and what’s so cool about steelbooks?

Sree

What was the most ill-advised thing each of you did because of a movie, either copying something that you thought was cool or being inspired more generally? For example, in middle school, I publicly sang to tell a girl I liked her. Sadly I was not as charming, talented or unfazed by the judgement of my peers as Heath Ledger in 10 Things I Hate About You

Marshall Tolley

David (et al), I'm really want to know if you have even seen 1995's Rob Roy and if you haven't, I strongly urge you to check it out and maybe give it some commentary on a future episode. I know there is no way in Hell you guys will ever do a Michael Caton-Jones miniseries (I think I remember a passing comment on the title when you guys once breezed through the Neeson--or Eric Roth--filmography and I don't think it appears on your 1995 LB list), but it rules! I originally saw it in the theaters (initially disappointed when Die Hard with a Vengeance was sold out but was pleasantly surprised by it and it's become one of my favorite--underrated--Re-Watchables). It has an excellent Carter Burwell score, incredible performances by Eric Roth, Jessica Lange and others (the former of which was Academy-recognized and the latter was criminally not), and a great historically-set plot (which my college professor commented positively on two years later--he liked the small talk re: the court of Queen Anne referenced by--the great--John Hurt, with the Duke of Argyle)...also just to get Griffin invested there is a "blink-and-you-miss-it" schlong-teasing shot of Liam Neeson getting out of his lake bath. Been a huge fan of the show since 2017 and I appreciate you considering my comment for the mailbag.

Daniel Hedger

I would love the new releases from their previously covered directors to be covered later down the track. The 'new release' episodes can't benefit from context and are often just first thoughts (by necessity).

Roshan Joshua

Thoughts and feelings about Andor and Ahsoka?

Roshan Joshua

Best memories of recording ad reads?

Sigurður Hreinsson

Have you ever ended up regreting doing a series in the process of doing it.

Roshan Joshua

How much of a priority is it for you folks to record miniseries episodes in order?

Troy Moran

Is there a certain episode that you look back on and think that that was when Blank Check became what it is today / "leveled up"?

Jonathan Coulter

I love Star Wars Rebels. A lot of people think it represents the best storytelling and character arcs in the franchise. Curious if the gang has anything to say about it.

Roshan Joshua

What 2023 music did everyone enjoy?

egg

best simpsons episode?

Eliza Potter

What do you guys think of Nick Cave?

Daniel Hedger

What are some examples of auteur or classic filmmakers that DON’T fit a Blank Check narrative? (And would that necessarily, this far into the show’s tenure, disqualify them from being covered?)

Adam Murray

What’re the odds of a Blank Check LA show in 2024? Unrelated: Thank you Marie for correcting Griffin about Philadelphia teams on the Maestro episode. Love the show. Go Birds.

Mac Pohanka

Longtime NYC boys What are you favorite shuttered restaurants, bars and movie theaters? Brooklyn Star, Burnside, Sunshine

Simon Crowe

Oh, second question: any chance of a James Gray series? 😆

Sami Pöyry

My 2- and 5-year-old daughters demand to hear Griffin's Mank theme song every night before going to bed. Now they want to know what is a mank. I cannot be bothered to watch that movie so please, in a manner that can be understood by 2-year-olds, explain.

Jack Loar

Have any of your Blankies picks changed since those episodes aired?

Jonah Puskar

Is there a director you guys would really like to cover, but maybe haven’t because theyve not gotten what feels like a real “blank check” yet? (For example, I’d love a Kelly Reichardt miniseries, but she really hasn’t gotten a check to clear or bounce yet, baby)

Simon Crowe

The new doc on LeCarre seems to have flown under the radar, but would an Errol Morris series ever be considered?

Caleab Wyant

I’ve heard David refer to Phantom of the Paradise several times. If you don’t end up doing a De Palma series, would you please at least cover this movie?

Andy

Is the Mindhunter bonus as dead as the Netflix series?

Aaron Crabtree

What are your favorite recent 4K discs?

Collin Carlson

Given dimension altering powers, into what film or franchise would you want to add the recently departed Tom Wilkinson?

Mac Pohanka

Karagara is pretty amazing. The only way I was able to find a lot of Takashi Mike movies. Happiness of the Katakuris anyone?

Jason Baxter

Will there be a Furiosa episode?

George Dunne

True. I feel like Becker is different type of bad movie guy but, at the end of the day, he's really not.

Liam Haber

What reality shows do you think each of the core four would do best on? I can imagine Marie crushing at Amazing Race and Ben Hosley becoming the people’s champion on Project Runway

Michael C

I need help. I got into an argument with my boyfriend about Saltburn. He liked it and I didn’t. Now he plays that “Murder on the Dancefloor” song everyday (the song from the final scene) and I feel like it’s to spite me. Are there any songs from better 2023 movies I can play as revenge tracks? Did May/December have any bangers I might be forgetting? Thanks fellas!

Adam H

What are your guys' favorite movie posters? Do you have any hanging in your homes?

David Figueiredo

Who are your guys?

Joel Taylor

As Ben's deciple's, What would both say was the most outrageous lesson he has taught you so far?

Emma

Aside from the ones previously ruled out on mic, are there any directors that you would love to do a miniseries on but it’s absolutely impossible (and why)?

Chris

Finally, my time has come.. and I have no idea what to ask. Are there any celebrities/filmmakers ya'll have met that you have a burning question for, but missed/blew your opportunity?

VCRCasey

Has Griffin played Lego Fortnite ?

Edwin (edoco18)

Do you think the Borderlands movie is real? And if it is will it be released in August, as planned?

Tony Rittenhouse

We all know they should never make a 4th Austin Powers movie. But if they HAD to, do you guys have a good pitch? Any actresses you would want to see paired with Myers? What spy trends could be parodied? Any new races/ethnicities that Myers should do delicate portrayals of that he hasn't yet?

Sarah Denyse

Why do you think studios seem so afraid to reveal movies are musicals lately? The marketing for Mean Girls has been absolutely baffling to me.

Samuel Ramos

Also, do Jan de Bont! Speed 2 was based on a dream he had!

Samuel Ramos

Would you guys ever do Rian Johnson? He got a pretty big blank check from Netflix for the Knives Out sequels.

Alex

Describe your perfect oscar ceremony

Pierce L.

What have been your favorite comics over the last few years?

Blake Anderson

⁃ what is your favorite portrayal of zombies in media/which one are you most and least likely to survive? ⁃ Did you obsessively talk about zombie apocalypse survival as a kid/teenager? And if so, what was your plan? ⁃ Do you think we’ll ever see zombies and what’s the closest portrayal in media that you think we’ve seen so far to what will happen?

Blake Anderson

What’s the best sex scene in any movie and why is it macgruber?

Zak Marrinan

I'm at a crossroads in my career. Do I continue my path in the film and TV industry where I've had some (small) success with one of my short films but I have no finances to back up any future projects and I've turned 30 this last year year. Should I step back and just enjoy watching movies instead of trying to make my own?

Blake Anderson

What’s the best version of a scumbag protagonist? Despite massive shortcomings and huge flaws, you still want to root for them.

Blake Anderson

How would you react to being bumped by the cia?(inspired by confessions of a dangerous mind)

Blake Anderson

Great year for fun transition shots in da moviesh. What’s your favorite transition shot in a movie?

Fred

If you were going to make a cookbook based on the work of a director you have covered, which director would you choose and what sort of dishes would it include? Good example would be Miyazaki, He has several unofficial cookbooks based on his work. #spoonnation

Blake Anderson

Who is the most 70s looking actor?

Claire Griffin

Would you rather be a pirate, samurai, or cowboy?

Zak Marrinan

Short films? Do you f*** with them?

Chris Hay

Theatre seems like something David in particular really appreciates — are there any films you’d love to see in a stage version?

Ivan Carmona-Alvarez

If you could watch any movie in the Las Vegas dome, what would it be?

Shane Warbrooke

What's the worst movie and snack pairing in your opinion (ie Salo and chocolate ice cream)

Matthew Spencer

Could you speak for a moment about your feelings on the continuing death of physical media?

James Cain

Have either of you seen All of us Strangers yet? What do you think Andrew Scott's chances for an Oscar nom are and, if unlikely, which historical figure should he play to secure one?

Sam Levison

david, you’re quite the prolific letterboxd reviewer. what is the best letterboxd review you’ve ever read and why?

Leroy Beckett

Need David on the OG-Quickely Trade please

Del Mastrobattisto

Hey boys, if you were to cover Mike Flanagan’s filmography how would you factor in the Netflix shows? The films are all great and worth covering but the shows are arguably the blank check-iest part of his career.

Quinn

Epstein?

Christopher Teuma

You've given us an excellent room mic episode, a split stereo episode - what are the chances of hearing an episode in High Res audio? (personal note: the Somebody's Watching Me 3D episode works great as Quad surround)

Rory Martin

Does bustin’ make YOU feel good?

Spencer perry

Griffin, I return to once again ask the Certified Toy Boy of Blank Check about your favorite action figures of the year

Rob

Do you have many live events planned for 2024? I'm thinking about a visit to New York and I'd love to know when I might have a good chance to catch the pod.

Kendall Ray

How are you doing today?

Justin Matchick

What are your opinions on (or history with) torrenting movies? With movies getting removed from streaming services and it getting harder to rent/buy certain titles (i.e. Oldboy last summer), do you think there is still an ethical issue with people using torrenting sites? Should people support sites like Karagarga for finding obscure movies or rare cuts of films (ex. I'll Do Anything or Swing Shift)

ExciteMike64

I'd love to hear from JJ Bersch! Overall, whats your research strategy when approaching a filmography? Are the dossiers written sequentially or simultaneously? What's the most obscure reference material you've drawn from? How do you deal with language barriers and cultural differences when approaching a foreign film? How often do you directly reach out to people for information? Do you ever work with institutions like a film museum or archive? Any other memorable moments you'd like to share? Thanks!!

Zach

For everyone: what is a film you regard highly from a filmmaker whose work you don't connect with otherwise?

Wesley Houston

Horror franchise on Patreon please?

Doug Foley

What re your thoughts on Godzilla minus one and it’s Oscar chances?

Omeed

Ok I need to play this game

Omeed

If you were to give honorary Oscars to anyone alive, who would you pick? Pick three (or however many you want)

Blankytranky

totally. I guess I wanna hear them talk about how they see their role in the film-culture-space change as the DGAF goes away

Andrew Rogers

What are the minimum requirements for an adequate movie theater? What makes your favorite theater your favorite?

Robson Trudgill

Would love to hear your ranking of NYC independent cinemas (Film Forum, Metrograph, Nitehawk, BAM, Angelika, FilmLinc, etc)

ExciteMike64

Please update us on the fire hazard plastic toaster oven

ExciteMike64

Did anyone ever take Ben up on a discount watch deal?

Cameron Reeves

What’s one movie you would want a muppet remake of?

T.J.

Which movie covered by Blank Check would improve the most by adding Jelly?

Jasmine Zweifler

Which film this year deserved a more extensive theatrical run? Or one at all?

ExciteMike64

Can you reveal any plans for new podcast merch in 2024? Thanks!

Hendoh Bendoh

Which one of you would be the best at running a zoo?

pacoismynickname

That's been happening for a while. Listen to the DGAF tone of early episodes.

pacoismynickname

Wilmington is stealthily one of the financial capitals of the country. Look at the return address on any credit card offer you get in the mail. The Biden thing is a meaningless coincidence.

Ian Fastert

What is Griffin’s favorite movie tie-in videogame?

ExciteMike64

Does Griffin plan on ever talking about Robocop: Rogue City? Doesn't have to be on Blank Check. I want to hear his thoughts on Weller's return to the role, as well as ricocheting bullets off walls to shoot bad guys in the dick

Francis Cooke

What movie or movies surprised you the most this year, in terms of going into the theatre with no (or negative) expectations, and being blown away by the film?

Jack Poma

If you guys could release any movie with a criterion restoration, box, the works, what movie would it be?

Seán Lynch

David! What's your favourite London tube station?

Arthur Hannah IV

If Marvel had to do a DC and start from scratch who would direct the Iron Man reboot and who would play Tony Stark.

Chris Madonna

2023 IMO was full of incredible movie endings, specifically Past Lives!! , Killers of a Flower Moon, and Oppenheimer. What are some of Blank Check’s favorite final scenes?

Kevin Fulcher

Did you know that Fight Club takes place in Wilmington, DE? Home of our current president. It’s directly stated in the screenplay, but the geographic references were mostly cut out of the final film. I feel like an opportunity for discussion was lost here

Harry Kolmer

What famed cancelled at the last minute films would each of you most like to see? I.E. Justice League Mortal, Paradise Lost, Blomkamp's Halo movie, etc

Erin Oh

I've caught the physical media disease! Thanks! Any tips on good resources for blu-ray sales and/or reviews so I can avoid low quality transfers as I build up a library of my faves?

Manuel

How bout them Knicks?

Blankytranky

Do you guys have trouble doing neutral commentary as more FRIENDS OF THE SHOW do higher-profile movies? I know griffin has dealt more with this since he’s an actor— but Do you think the tone of BLANK CHECK will change as the gang becomes more enmeshed with industry players?

Antonio Melgar

David, you mentioned on an earlier patreon watching more Broadway shows this year. Us theatre nerd Blankies gotta know which ones you digged.

Jordan

Are we ever gonna get the first half of spielberg’s filmography covered on the pod? Or a Scorsese deep dive perhaps?

pacoismynickname

He (or Ehrlich) might have, on twitter, at the time.

Sean Elliott

What would y'all think of doing some of the 'blank check' directors whose arcs dont fit the main feed on patreon? For instance, Wes Anderson, Coen Bros, etc. Cuz baby, I need some more commentaries

Sean Elliott

would you ever force the doughboys to frame a fake episode of Blank Check like y'all did for Gorko's Clergmas?

Sean Elliott

Can we get a bonus episode breakdown of canceled Star Wars projects?

julia

David, any fun moments from the NYCCC awards this year that you’d be willing to share?

Deren Ney

Have you ever thought of doing the films of Richard Linklater by doing a couple a year for a decade?

Brian

I would love to hear your thoughts on what makes someone a Blank Check director, as opposed to those who aren't - what makes a director an auteur, as opposed to just having a particular style or sensibility? Are there directors who are on the bubble - have some elements of the BC criteria for being an auteur, but not all? A few names come to mind - John Hughes, John Milius, Joe Dante - where do they fall on the Blank Check Director Spectrum?

Brandon Earl Mitchell

Of all of the directors that you have covered, which one do you wish put out more movies since covering them?

Elizabeth Edwards

While Griffin and David disagree about a given movie’s quality semi-regularly, it seems like they generally feel a similar affection for any given director’s filmography (at least for the ones they’ve covered). Are there any directors whose filmographies Griffin loves but David hates, or vice versa?

Collin B.

Would you consider posting a bibliography from JJ after each miniseries concludes? It'd be great to get links to books/articles for those interested in getting more context about a director you've covered.

Matt Skuta

If you could swap the directors of any two films, which two films would you pick? (e.g. have Brent Ratner direct Hannibal and Ridley Scott direct Red Dragon)

Jake

A variation on a typical "dream writer/director pairing question, but can you name a movie that had an awesome script, but didn't match the directorial style, and who would you swap in? and vice versa with a director outperforming a poor script?

Christopher Roundhill

Why hasn't Marvel hit the turbo nuke button and just introduced the X-Men already?

Sam Post

Does David (or Griffin) have an all time favorite movies list? I know David has ranked lists for each year, but wondered if he has something like a personal top 100? Or would that be impossible?

Zachary Hamilton

While prepping for an episode what was the strangest/most interesting rabbit hole you found yourself going down?

bbkj

any chance of yall doing Fritz Lang ?

Velocityprime1

Dear the Two Friends and Producer Ben. In 2019 Jordan Peele, Ari Aster, and Robert Eggers all put out movies, and because of that I always hope that those directors put out new films in a singular calendar year. Are their any directors that you like to see release new project in the same year?

Alexander Schweitzer

Im a professor of architecture and truly have always enjoyed David’s random opinions on the subject…. What are some of your favorite buildings you have visited (doesn’t have to be just NYC)?

Sam Iwai

Hello fennel! Lately I've been struggling to engage with new media. This includes TV shows and movies. I find that between the time commitment and the overwhelming amount of content available it has become more of a hassle to sit down and watch some movies. Have either of you ever experienced this, and what did you do to break free? Thanks, and love the show!

Colby Day

If you were given a Blank Check to produce the Oscars who would you ask to host and what if any changes to the production would you make?

Eric Mahler

What video games have you been playing?

Camden Brazile

Question for David: What’s up, playa?

Michel Lichand Mendonça

Having recently visited the Walt Disney Family Museum, I feel like there's a lot of chance to discuss both animation and Hollywood history thru the lens of Walt Disney's work - but since he's not a director and I doubt you guys will ever do a David Hand miniseries (he was Snow White's supervising director!), have you ever considered doing a miniseries focusing on a producer or any other crew member apart from the director?

Samus but a girl

If you choose to cover a director whose Blank Check status is inseparable from a tv series that is their most popular work (I.e. David Lynch, Hideaki Anno) how would it be covered on the podcast?

Sonny Riverside

Do you think there should be reform in the Adapted Screenplay category?

Mike MacNeil

Merch Corner (sorry David): Given how psychotically toy-focused Ike Perlmutter was, why didn’t the MCU ever have a more cohesive ongoing action figure line, a la Kenner’s Star Wars Power Of The Force series?

Toastman Jack

Is Hackers the best NYC movie and has Ben ever seen it?

Kevin Salat

Question to Ben and you guys as podcasters: has doing this as a living / listening back at your episodes ever made you feel weird about the unedited awkwardness of conversations in real life? Are you more aware now of when people use crutch words/phrases? And what's your least favorite crutch word/phrase that Griffin + David use?

Wes Alvis

What categories would you add to the Oscar’s?

Matt

You're right, my bad. Or maybe I wanted to include Scottish! The other two I thought of were from the Crown, John Lithgow and Gillian Anderson (but she was raised in London).

Rowan Strang

Who’s seen Andor yet?

David Parkinson

What did David think of the recent Doctor Who Christmas special? I saw he logged it on Letterboxd

Jeffrey Malone

Gong Show Patreon Watchalong?

Nick Strauss

What is the single worst theater experience you’ve ever had? It could be audience members, the theater itself, projection, etc.

Scott Dobbin

What is one of your Desert Island Discs (one of 8 movies you can bring with you to a deserted island in addition to a SteelBook of the Bible and a Criterion 4K of the Complete Works of Shakespeare)?

Sam Gold

My wife used to work for the VFX company that did Maestro and can confirm that they were at the same screening at the Angelika!

Evan Lewis

You hinted at this a little with Prince on a March Madness discussion, but how would you try to incorporate some non-film and TV entries? Are there are any favorites that would make you more open to those types of entries- the Boyle Matrix play, etc?

Film Is Pain

Are there any filmmakers you love or have a high hit rate for you but who’s work wouldn’t really fit well with the pod? Two of my favorite directors are Michael Haneke and Tsai Ming Liang both of which would be tough pitches lol.

Lizzy Tiritilli

What movies do you want to give some love to this year but won’t be in the Blankies episode.

Kevin Rowley

Would you ever consider a non-director or sometimes director for a miniseries? For example, Aaron Sorkin. I know in his specific case you’ve already covered one of the films he’s written, but there are obviously other candidates. And you did, of course, cover When Harry Met Sally on the Nora Ephron series, so I guess I’m asking about filmmakers for whom directing is more the exception than the rule.

Éire Ian Gallagher

Physical media question here! We all know of your collecting habits lol. What I'm curious about is if each of you have your own set of criteria when you buy? For example do you try to look for the movie in 4k, would you buy a bluray if you can't find a 4k, do you buy it on DVD if it has the better special features, etc? (If selected my name is pronounced air-uh like a historical era)

Thomas Dempsey

Asking as a new 4k tv owner: how are your movie viewing spaces set up? Any advice for someone getting serious about a home theater?

Charles Salem

This is kind of a “phenomenological” question but…when you all watch movies for the first time, and you start to watch the movie, do they(the movies) start out (to put it in crude letterbox terms) with zero stars, five stars, three stars, or no stars (expectations) at all? Does a movie have to *start* working for you early on, or do you tend to start liking movies, and then they lose you if they make bad choices/etc?(or does it all depend on the movie) ps: I know you all love movies and want them to be good, but was just wondering about the process that goes in your head as your watching a movie, and when you start to like or dislike movies as you are watching them? (For me, it’s definitely the case that I am on board with most movies right away, and then over time my opinion comes back to earth, ie they lose stars more often than not, but I suspect everyone is different with this kind of thing)

Lizzy Tiritilli

What would your gang theme be if you were in The Warriors? You can answer individually or as a group.

Bon Champion

What are your star rating philosophies? What constitutes a 5 star movie for you?

Evan M K Brown

Best movies in the "live action cartoon" genre ??

Michael P

What was the most egregious example of a movie tie-in/promotional product from 2023? Do those even exist anymore?

William Evans

I have the nerdiest question here. On the Spreadmaster’s Delight episode, you mention your 1974 nominees. One of which is Sissy Spacek for Badlands which released in 1973 as dated on IMDb. The other nominees - Burstyn and Rowlands - were from films released in 1974, also dated on IMDb. Why this discrepancy?

Matt Fish

ANDOR.... ...What are your thoughts?

Maggie Brandes

What do you think of “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World” as a blank check movie?

Peter

Ben, what is your take on the garment and email variants of chainmail? Have you considered making a chainmail bag?

Pete Thomas

Last year's unofficial theme was personal favorites you've been waiting years to get to. Is there a theme for 2024?

Isaac Maddock James

Which other Blank Check mini seires directors would you like to see (or have seen for the one's no longer with us) do a Fablemans style self biopic?

Reuben

What would be a good adult audience franchise to make today?

Marianne

Have Griffin and David ever had saucy dreams about each other?

Brandon Skidmore

Who is a director that has made some good movies but you wouldn’t consider a “Blank Check” director that falls under your rubric for the show? And which ones are your favorites who you would have liked to have gotten a blank check?

Peter Angelinas

If you could pick one ip from any industry to make into a movie, what would it be?

David Sky

Do you have a dream guest or friend you have been trying to get on the show but haven’t been able to make it happen?

Tom Lowery

The IMDB “Parents’ Guide” seems to be a rather untapped trivia resource. What do you think?

José Luis Enríquez Chiñas

Griffin, when a character you’re playing wears a necktie or a bow tie, do they tie it up for you or do you have to tie the knot yourself?

Kevin

If you could retire a "bit" that the patreon and reddit blankies do, annoyingly, what would it be?

Jeff Burnett

David, what was it like being a basketball fan living in the UK? It doesn’t *seem* like a sport that would have a big presence there? Were you even able to watch NBA games on TV?

Nicholas G Lombard

Hello! I am going to be in New York City for the week of my fortieth birthday (Jan 31). What are some cool NYC theater performances happening this month that you might recommend?

PDXDirtbag

What movies do you really love that you think are under appreciated by the general public / film critics / cinephiles?

J Em

Is there an episode or mini you wish you could redo? (also, Marie's choice when?)

Josh Lempert

You’re having a dinner party and can invite 3 guests. One actor/actress, one director, and one writer. Can be living or dead. Who are you picking and why? And yes, I want Ben’s answers too! For a bonus, what are you serving and what post dinner board game are you playing?

Drew Martin

You've been sent Monte Cristo-style to the Isle d'If to spend 6 years in solitary confinement, but allowed one director's filmography, one composer's discography, and one screenwriter's oeuvre to keep you company. What are your choices? Also, how excited are you to get revenge with Luis Guzman's help once freed?

Jeff Burnett

Griffin, what is your proudest acting moment? Across any art medium, from any point in your life. Even if it was in a school play or an acting class. (That’s where my moment was for sure.)

PDXDirtbag

What are movies you love the most that you think are very under appreciated by film critics/cinephiles/general public?

Joseph Leeper

How much money would it take to stop Grif from saying “Little Stinker” ever again?

Alexander Bourchier

Hi guys, thanks for keeping me sane in 2023. Always look forward to episodes dropping. When will you come out and do a live episode in Australia? Thanks for all the laughs, you all make farm work a bit more interesting. Cheers

Jeff Burnett

For Ben – We all know you think Christmas songs are too fast and need to be slowed down, and your efforts to correct this, but is there any genre of music you think is to slow and needs to be sped up?

Jeff Burnett

What’s the process of the miniseries album art? Do you guys request which character you’ll be photoshopped onto? Does Pat Reynolds have you send him a selfie of your face at a certain angle, so he can match you up to a character more easily, or does he work with whatever photos are out there of you? And how does he even go about doing the art for the animation directors?!

Christian Ford

What is your favorite single season (or series for you Brits) of television?

Joseph Leeper

If Oppenheimer nails the predicted Oscar sweep, or at least a majority of the main categories do you think it would restore the investment the viewing public once had in film as an institution and by extension The Academy as the arbiter of taste? Follow up, if Oppenheimer wins best picture I’d really enjoy a part two episode from Blank Check, maybe just on Patreon. I think it would be interesting to revisit the film if it does wind up winning.

Brandon Griffin

What are Ben’s thoughts on Danzig?

Kyle Lark

If David was The Taskmaster and Little Griffin Newman was his assistant, what would their dream lineup of contestants be?

Tariq

David, what’s your favourite cinema in London?

Nick Garklavs

Any thoughts on Val Lewton?

Kevin Grow

What are your 2024 hopes for the show?

Joseph Leeper

Alex

Michael

Question for the gang what is the worst theater experience you have ever had ?

Craig Shaner

I’m curious for everybody, what would you be your equivalent of a “Ben’s Choice” movie? Something that is unlikely to be covered on the main or patreon feeds, but you’d love to spend an episode discussing anyway.

Krista

What‘s a modern movie you wish got the video game tie-in treatment?

Nate Goodman

Where do you see movie theaters and the theater going experience headed? Is “movie theaters are dying” discourse overblown? What things should theaters be offering that they are not currently that would improve the experience?

Sean Flannelly

Ben question: what would you be watching without blank check?

Andrew Recktenwald

Besides Michael Bay and Tim Burton, what has been the most contentious pick for who to cover on the show?

Ben Bailey

Less of a question, more of a comment: Thank you for bringing to my attention the accidentally humorous film title "Come Play". Now those two words are linked in my psyche and regularly pop into my mind, making me chuckle at the most inconvenient times. I am sure the association is deep enough to stick with me for decades, past the onset of dementia, to the point when I'm a drooling old man muttering "come play" and giggling to myself in the corner of the nursing home rec room.

jjdotbiz

Todd Haynes?

David

What are your favorite books about film? I read Camera Man and Opposable Thumbs last year and now I’m looking for more.

Sean Flannelly

Right now, how long do you see yourselves actually continuing with the show? Do you feel like you’ve gotten into a comfy routine that you’ll continue as your regular job for a long time? Or are we coming up on end times?

Ryan fremming

In "Aladdin," the Genie specifically says there are 3 wishes he can't grant. 1. You can't make someone fall in love with you; which is proven later in the movie when Jafar wants Jasmine to fall in love with him which doesn't happen. 2. Can't kill anyone, seems fine...it is a Disney movie after all. 3. He can't bring people back from the dead...but then he says "I don't like doing it, it's not a pretty picture." So this implies he has done this before, which makes no sense if he says it's one of the things he can't do. So do you guys think he can do it and just doesn't want to, or he really can't do it anymore? I need your guy's expert thoughts on this because everyone else I've brought this up to thinks I'm crazy.

Jacksonnn

Hi guys! I love when Griffin and David go on tangents about their nerdier sensibilities. In that regard, I’d be curious to know some of your X-men thoughts. Do you have a favorite era? Have you been reading the Krakoa stuff? Is there a favorite casting choice you have from the Fox movies? Are there any team members Ben NEEDS to know about? Thanks so much!

Morgan

I’m flying internationally on Delta next week. What would you recommend I watch on the plane? And is it just me or do y’all get more emotional watching movies in the air?

Kevin Love Hewitt

From your pov, what would be the pros and cons of having a video option for your audio recordings? I assume a pro would be charging $10 a month or something while $5 a month stays the way it is (audio only)

blake hunter

what’s everyone’s favorite non chain theater in ny?

Sam

Best Stardew Valley marriage candidate?

Harris Mayersohn

What’s everyone’s favorite IMDb trivia fact?

sp

After Killers of the Flower Moon, where do you put Leo in your pantheon of all time actors? (Don’t have to rank, but do you guys consider him top-tier?)

pacoismynickname

No press tour interviews, for one thing.

Erin

Ben how is your earring doing? What are you rocking these days, a pirate hoop?

The Dane

Seeing Godzilla Minus One has me wondering: what is you guy's history with the Godzilla movies? And if you ever did the series, what do you think you cover? Or do you do it all in eras like the Bonds?

Marina Herrera-Heintz

Would you consider George Clooney as having a blank check? He hasn't really had great directing success but keeps churning things out every few years so I'm curious if either of you have any thoughts on his directing career overall?

Lionel Olivares

Has David revisited Toy Story 2 yet and changed his opinion on "When She Loved Me" since his daughter is getting closer to Emily's age in the film when she first gets Jesse? It makes me bawl every timebecause I fear my daughter will eventually toss me aside too... sorry for the darkness. HAPPY NEW YEAR!! LOL

pacoismynickname

IMDb is now useless: unverified, unmoderated, overstuffed with worthless info. ("These two actors [in a cast of dozens] previously appeared in so & so," times 150.) Wikipedia has some oversight, at least.

Dan Roman

Love this idea, but tragically I'm 31 and therefore decidedly not of that age. Love the craigslist story though, perhaps part of this process is being brave enough to put myself out there the way you were. Really appreciate your response btw

iamaparade

POPPADOMS OR BREAD

pacoismynickname

As David would say, you mean English accent. James Marsters (Spike on Buffy) used to be a frequent answer. Renee Zellweger and Gwyneth Paltrow 20+ years ago. It doesn't seem to happen much anymore. These days you have Americans doing vaaaaguely English, non-specific accents that can't be nitpicked: e.g. Peter Dinklage in Game of Thrones, the cast of Poor Things.

Joseph

Did David watch the early 90's kid sports movies while in the UK and did they lead to any sort of UK equivalent? Is there a story about a youth football player who slips, breaks his leg and then gains super leg strength to lead Chelsea to FA Cup glory?

Nick

I just watched Sorcerer for the first time and it was sweat inducing. What movie do you think is the most tense?

Nick

What movie scene has made you laugh the hardest?

Leelee G

For Griffin: what is the best run of Sandler movies aside of the Billy Madison to Big Daddy streak?

pw3365

[sicko guy] YES HAHAHA YES

Arnie Niekamp

I want to see the Blank Check offices. Any chance of video content giving us a guided tour? I’ll also happily settle for an audio tour.

Sylvester Snow

If each of you were to create a personal coat of arms, what would you pick?

pw3365

What are the chances of an Andrew Davis miniseries? I find his career going from a guerilla-style movie about the Chicago music scene to a bunch of Chicago action schlock that attracts a few big name actors and bunch of character actors, to The Fugitive, to several more movies with absurdly stacked casts (including Holes) to be fascinating.

pacoismynickname

College film club, if you're of that age. One time I boldly went on craigslist and organized a group of randoms for a Kill Bill outing. It went perfectly fine, a pretty girl even showed up on her own, but follow-up was never a skill of mine.

Chris Tompkins

Richard Donner?

Parker Mann

I would love to hear the two friends opinions on Joseph Kosinski. I’m a big fan of his movies and his style. I re-watch Tron Legacy and Oblivion often and I loved Maverick.

Jeffrey Malone

Where's the beef?!

Ian Davis

Hello. Are there any actors currently working who you can foresee having excellent careers as directors?

Joseph Hamilton

Hello Blank Check crew! Keeping up with the show has encouraged me to go to the movies more and see more rep screenings especially when movies you have covered are back on the big screen (examples: Oldboy, Stop Making Sense, The Abyss). What's a movie you have covered that you would love to see back in theaters and that I shouldn't miss if it comes back around? Thanks for helping to reignite my love of cinema!

pacoismynickname

They often joke-tease a Walt Becker series.

pacoismynickname

I can't imagine they will. That was a strictly summer-2022 phenomenon, limited mostly to Twitter.

Manny

If you guys all see a movie together, who sits next to who?

Michael Stephenson

Fast food menu item of the year?

pacoismynickname

Soderbergh, Scorsese, Ridley Scott, Eastwood, Altman, to name just a few. This comes up before every MM.

Matthew miller

For next OSCARS ep. Could you say the winner directly after the nominee. Instead of the usual way. My bad ADHD brain here forgets what everyone's nominees were by the second round.

pacoismynickname

I can answer that for you: yes. They're both tinkerers, esp. David. Not to mention several directors have released films after being covered.

Ben Larson

When is the next porch cinema episode? Just listened to the Joe Dirt ep

Cethan Leahy

For David, did you watch the darts this year?

Justin

A pitch: a hotline a la burger reports but for below the line crew and high numbered call sheet cast or background stories. Imagine the goss!

Steve Price

For David: a new Star Trek movie gets announced. Who do you want to direct it?

Zach Terrell

Have any filmography rankings changed significantly since their miniseries?

Marie Bardi

sir that is not a question

Beardmask

What director would you want stuck on a desert island with you? Maybe you chose them because you think you'd get along well or maybe because there are no witnesses and you can finally settle a score with them.

Bradley Glaser

Who is each of your (hopefully Ben & Marie included) favorite directors that you feel the format of the show will never allow you to cover?

Marti Louviere

Why didn't y'all like Saltburn? It wasn't movie of the year but very curious what was the hate over?

Tristan Burrell

Question for Ben: How do you record your commentaries? i.e. How are you able to record yourselves but not the audio from the film?

Hogan

David…what’s your A&W order?

Hogan

Do you have any books that you wish were made into movies and you can’t figure out why they haven’t?

Kozibear

Do you have any strong memories/opinions of any of the animated Pokemon movies?

Jack R

what is Asimov’s Light Years? sounds interesting

Jack R

Curious his thoughts on Chicago’s El system too

Jack R

would love to hear about the process of recording voiceover acting compared to podcasting

inkdrasil

For "Subway" Sims: where would you rank Toronto's TTC system in terms of the world's best/worst subways?

Jack R

hear hear

Colin

Griffin often uses the term "the guy" when describing an actor who the industry is trying to put forth as the generation's next big movie star. It usually comes up when discussing Edward Norton as an example of someone who was anointed as his generations De Niro and then didn't quite have the career he was being primed for. My question is - is there an actor from the last 20 years who you think has successfully reached "the guy" status and then lived up to that initial promise? ie, a box office draw, critically respected, works consistently.

Stephen McFarlane

Hope Griffin was able to catch up on some shows and films during Edinburgh Festivals. Enjoyed 'The Baron & The Junkdealer', and George Lucas Talk Show (despite Wattos absence.) How about a one off on very British phenomena - Alan Partridge : Alpha Papa. (Whole Partridge Universe to explore). Or 'Guest House Paradiso' (Open the whole Rik & Ade slapstick box.) Do they meet with American tastes? Anyway keep talking and entertaining. Many thanks, and wishing all the best to you and yours.

Adam Jacobs

Ben: dry movie theater experience. I'm dying to know.

Ryan Morse

What books and comics are y’all reading?

Ion87

How happy are you to have washed your hands of the DCEU/Marvel nonsense

Elizabeth Levin

I’m watching The Monarch of the Glen as my nighttime sleepytime comfort show. David, please tell us your favorite forgotten/underwatched British dramaties from the 90s/early 2000s

Martin Schneider

I'd love to hear more detail about the origins of the podcast. So UCB gives you some leash to work with and make 10 episodes. Why was Ben the producer? Did you have a preexisting relationship or was it almost random? Was he a big Griff fan before or did you guys win him over during the course of recording the early episodes?

Ryan Thompson

My (soon to be ex) mother-in-law once said of the Hana highway in Hawaii "once you've seen one wet tree, you've seen them all". I wonder what the Benducer thinks about this sentiment, if he has ever travelled the Hana highway, and what his fondest memories are about wet trees there or anywhere else. Also, would appreciate any advice you have when it comes to moisturizing.

Toño Bretón

Can Ben please share: whats a great movie to watch on mushrooms and whats a great movie to watch on acid?

Theo Gibb

You mentioned on The Killer that Griffin had an idea to "fix marvel" - if you suddenly had Kevin Feiges spot, and carte blanche to do whatever you wanted, how would you tackle that? And bonus if you wanted to do Kathleen Kennedy and Star Wars as well.

Toño Bretón

Where do you think 4DX technology will be in 10 years?

Keith Palacios

Why do you use Wikipedia for info about movies, instead of IMDB?

Samuel Jackson

David, thoughts on the OG trade for the Knicks?

Scotty White

What is with your hate for the Steve Miller Band Classic 'The Joker' or what you guys kept calling in the 'Space Cowboy' in The Love Guru episode. I mean there was some real venom in those voices over the mention of that song. Like Supervillian style gruges. Is Steve Miller the Joker to your Batman? I mean it can' be that bad Homer Simpson sang it in his car.

Tyler Duggan

I was wondering the same thing!!

Sean Collin Mako

What are you currently putting on when you’re having a difficult time falling asleep

Ryan Thompson

Please come to Chicago and do a show at the music box!

Ryan Thompson

In video games, you can earn achievements for things that are basic (like finishing the game, or getting a certain score) or arbitrary (like punching a random NPC in the knee 65 times). If you could design an achievement / trophy system for some of your favorite movies, what would it look like?

Gary Sadelstein

My January 2024 project is watching every movie in Adam Sandler's filmography. Was wondering everybody's feelings on Sandler - any favorite performances, guilty pleasures, etc.

Jimmy Leavens

Besides film, what new topic has you hyper fixated on as of late? Geek away

Emily Wolfe

Hallie Meyers-Shyer has a movie in post-production. Will the podcast cover it on either feed? (Also, are there other nepo baby directors who you’d consider covering as a bonus for their famous director parents? Ex: Ishana Shyamalan is supposed to make her directorial debut next year as well.)

Jordan Lundquist

What are your predictions for the 2024 box office? What do you think will succeed and what will disappoint, especially in the era of super hero fatigue setting in?

Connor Scully

What kind of gear ya working with these days? Curious what DVD player is in the studio, projector, speakers, etc. any dreams for 2024/the future? Would also love to hear what Ben uses to record and Marie uses to Post. All gear chat is welcome.

gabbi

what book/video game do you wish got an animated adaptation, as opposed to live-action? i still think about how cool an animated harry potter series could've been (even though it's cursed IP now)

Hadley Anthony

Do you ever feel compelled to revisit old episodes of the pod because you've changed your opinion on a film in a substantial way since the recording? And have you ever seriously considered recording a new episode because of that?

Brendan Cassidy

I found Griffin's dad to be a delight and noticed he has an EP credit on Ball In The House (released in the US as Relative Evil in 2004.) I am something of a BITH superfan as my brother's friend wrote the film and I followed its' development with great interest as a late 90's/early aughts youth. Can Griffin relay any fun Ball in the House anecdotes? I'll bet that David Strathairn is a hoot.

Alexander Elms

I have wondered this too (I have cineworlds one), as when I go to screenings alone I use my wife's card to get an empty seat next to me, and I've always wondered if that does count 2 tickets to the box office.

espntop10plays

would you rather hang out with mikey for a week or nicky for an hour

Sam Osinga

Did it also weird you all out hearing Fat Bastard say donkey in Spy Who Shagged Me post four Shrek movies?

Bonesaw Greene

Ben what’s your new trash reality tv show

Mike Nyman

Best scores of the year?

Nick Beattie

Who is a director that you really want to cover on the podcast but might not be the most practical? whether that be because their filmography is too long, their films too obscure or their style too avant-garde?

Kate McCulloch

Question for everyone, what are your favorite movie scores to listen to while working? I am always looking for more music to listen to at work. Thanks!

Matt

We all know that 95% of actors in American movies and TV are actually British or Australian doing pretty passable American accents. But who are the American actors who do the best British accents? Are there any American (or Canadian) actors who British audiences would be surprised were American?

Jordan Gibson

FOR THE GROUP: If you could Master of Disguise yourself as anyone and spend the day in that persona (keep in mind, you are NOT ACTUALLY THAT PERSON) who would you be and what would you do with your day?

David

What’s the best part of the Hobbit movies? What’s the worst part of the Lord of the Rings movies?

C S

What Oscar Ballot Year would you most like to peek the numbers on? Maybe one with a baffling win,.or just one where it was close? Thanks. And as always: Bam! A pole comes crashing through the window.

Jonah Herwitz

Questions for Mr. Hosley: -What movie was the wettest movie of 2023? -What movie was the Biggest movie of 2023? -What movie had the best chains of 2023? -What are you're most anticipated movies of 2024 I'm the categories of "most wet", "most big" and "best chains"?

Max Schauder

Ben, who is your favorite person on Maine Cabin Masters?

Patrick Trayes

If you could choose one film to show a now-deceased director to show how their legacy has carried on, what would it be? Follow-up: What arcane ritual would you perform to resurrect them?

Bryan Check

Have you guys seen any movies in the ScreenX format? ScreenX is a panoramic film format which presents films with an expanded, dual-sided, 270° screens projected on the front and side walls. I know of at least one Regal in NYC that has this. More broadly, is there any premium format aside from Dolby/imax that you would actually choose over a normal screening?

Reed mikkelsen

What would happen if the Mosters Inc corporation got ahold of Mari's laughter? Surely its a more powerful source of energy that any previous laughs

Jason Sebastian

David, can you define the Colin Farrell hotness scale with 1 being the least hot he’s ever been and 10 being the most hot? Use any 10 movies but I am most interested where the Lobster would land on the scale.

Kenny Matheson

I feel like the mailbags are a good time to get some tv takes. Sorry if I missed it but did Griffin ever finish the Sopranos and if so what did he think? Have any of you watched Slow Horses on apple tv? (but particularly David) It's my favourite show I've seen from apple and it has Oldman's best performance in years. It is very British though.

Ryan

Who would win in a physical fight between all the Blank Check directors at the peak of their powers?

Kenny Matheson

Would you ever consider doing a pairing for the main series. I know you did Musker and Clements but they only worked within the partnership. For example doing the archer's collaborations rather than Powell's whole career or the Godard movies with Anna Karina.

Nick A

David “Subway” Sims - Why is the 4/5/6 platform at 14th Street Union Square SO much louder than others?

Zach Page

Has anyone ever been hotter than Mandy Patinkin in Yentl?

Kenny Matheson

What does David (or anyone else) think of David Cage video games, like Heavy Rain and Detroit: Become Human I think they are bad but enjoyable trash and I do have a soft spot for the interactive movie type of video games. Not a question as it's been talked about a lot but I would definitely be interested in a Sims video game podcast if it ever gets off the ground.

Conor Wadle

If all Mr. Potato parts are individually sentient, what is the worst one to be?

pacoismynickname

He’s not a lock by any means. Maestro isn’t a hit but Cooper could easily win a DiCaprio-style “Here you go, now please stop chasing it” Oscar.

Evan Radigan

What are your guys’ thoughts on referring to fans of “Chappie” (2015) as “Chaps”? e.g. (affecting British stiff upper lip) “…well done, chaps.”

Noah Mulder

Since the show came up in conversation a few times in 2023, what did you think of the new Doctor Who specials? For Ben: What's your fashion forecast for 2024?

Tim Turner

If you had a Monopoly-esque "Get out of Director Jail" card, which filmmakers would you be most tempted to use it on?

Liam

A new deli opens up by the studio and asks you each to come up with a sandwich for them. What would be on your sandwich and what would you name it?

Don Woods

Can Griffin speak to his experience working on the killer fish film “Beneath”? (If it helps, he once responded on Reddit asking to have this submitted for mailbag.)

Charles Decker

TV Commercial Narrator: "Critics are saying that X2: X-Men United is a nonstop thrill ride!" Magneto: "Is *that* what they say?" This snippet from the TV spot for X2 has lived in my brain for 20 years. Which non-sequiturs from TV commercials for movies have taken up residence in your brain? Bonus points if it's a line from the movie responding to something the commercial narrator says.

Tim Turner

Question for Ben: when Griffin interviewed Nic Cage, Cage said he would be in any movie where he could play a chef, submarine captain, or astronaut. Which profession would you most like to play in a movie?

Eddy Bell

Do you enjoy workifying your passions? What’s the downside there? Any?

Jacob Berman

Griffin- you mentioned starting Kingdom Hearts awhile ago. How far through the series are you, and what are your thoughts?

Lev

Do you guys have any opinions on what the "new" type of comedy movie is? I think it was on your Ghostbusters: Answer the Call episode where you briefly talked about how Apatow comedies went out of style, and we still haven't really seen a rise in a "new style" of comedy movie. I was thinking that "I think you should leave" sort of taps into the more absurd and weird internet humor, but are there any movies that replicate this?

pacoismynickname

HOPELESS plea, but can we not cramstuff the comments with miniseries, Patreon franchise and March Madness requests/ideas? The sub gets enough of those.

Nick Paradis

Any chance for a Zeus and Roxanne episode on the Paterson?

Taylor Read

Who is a director that is clearly a blank check, but you guys 100% don’t want to cover?

Nick Biedma

The Gilded Age season 2 hot takes?

Sean Elliott

oooh would love a hideo kojima miniseries

Michael Kaminski

Will you guys ever come out with a blank check book? It’s a no brainer. Leave it in and triple it!

Jordan Feinstein

What are your Gilmore Girls hot takes?

Nathan

Any recommendations for Disney World? Favorite rides or trivia? We’re going next month! Will be on the lookout for any Pip merch.

Tanner Schulz

Clayface as a Batman villain, seems pretty obvious for the star driven/CG heavy comic book movie era right?

Anthony Koval

It's still early of course but it seems to me that Cillian Murphy isn't winning as many Critics' awards for Lead Actor as I would expect. Is there really a chance he loses the Oscar? Also any general/hot Oscar takes you guys have for the year?

pacoismynickname

We all do. They’re like relatives with regrettable political opinions.

Matthew Chmiel

What movies do you think could’ve been more horny?

Matt Skoufalos

Trick question. It's how do you keep both Hosleys from teaming up to begin a global precision fashion era from which the world never recovers

Jason Lester

Who is the most Blank Check director of Hollywood's studio-system era? I nominate either Nicholas Ray or Josef von Sternberg! Both ended their careers with dank-ass unfinished passion projects.

J

How does knowing you will need to talk (or write) critically about a film affect the way you watch it? How does it change the movie going experience for you? Thanks!

nikoli

Is there any interest / possibility in doing a live tour? If not, I’d still be interested in hearing what you’d want to do for it (cover one of the “already heavily discussed” directors, pick disparate films films set in the tour city) My deeply stupid answer is covering Sam Raimi’s ‘50 States of Terror’ Quibi series, but that’s just so I can lock in a Minnesota show. Much love to you all!

Mr. Meow-Meow

Hot dog or hamburger style?

Peter W

David , how has the podcast effected the way you write reviews (If at all) and vice versa.

Matt Skoufalos

Best non-traditional superhero IP yet to be developed into TV or film? My votes are Saga, Top 10, and Seven to Eternity

CK61

Any predications for the upcoming Taskmaster Champion of Champions part 3? It should air just a few days after this episode drops if you wanted to attempt to guess a winner. My money is on Sophie Duker I think.

Adam Foote

Right, I was thinking along the lines of "where did you find excellent food where you least expected it?"

pacoismynickname

Has to be Christopher Walken. Adrien Brody used to work for free, it seemed, but he’s been making better choices recently.

Brandon Bena

David what’s a book you read that you would would want to see adapted into a film? And who would you want to direct it?

Nicholas Sanchez

You two are well known for your “fuck TV, put movies in theaters” mentality. But do you have anyone in your life with a “fuck movies, TV only forever” mentality? I have people in my life who think movies are stupid and that serialized TV is far superior in all ways. Do you?

Daniel Rodriguez

David: Who is your favourite player on the current Arsenal squad? I'm a Martin Odegarrd man myself. Thanks for being one of my favorite parts of Sunday morning.

Danny K

For David I'm a fellow brit, do you prefer British or American audiences when at the cinema? I've always found British audiences polite to a fault, where its near impossible to work out if something's going down well or badly from the room. I am however terrified of hearing that Americans clap during the movie.

Matt Skoufalos

Can we get some weirdo animation stuff on the Patreon feed? Maybe Asimov's Light Years, or some Bakshi biz like Heavy Metal, Wizards, etc.? Lotta funky stuff available on the YouTubes.

Gabriel Gauvin

Ben: thoughts on lobster? The food

Matt Skoufalos

According to David's Oscars spreadsheet, what was the statistically greatest year for cinema?

Phillip Fager

Do you have a white whale movie to cover?

Carter Spillyards

Given the recent trend of studios hiding that their movie is a musical (Wonka, Mean Girls, Color Purple, etc) is there a movie you wish had been a secret musical when you saw it?

xenuxxxl

There’s a rumour that Lucas has anonymously submitted an art house movie to film festivals around the world. Do you think this is true, and if so, what are your thoughts of what it could possibly be? Would this be covered on the podcast?

Matt Skoufalos

For Ben: some of my favorite movie scenes are when people do impossible things with swords, like when Kurgen assembles a sword in three parts out of a saxophone case in Highlander, Antonio Banderas grinds a Viking longsword into a scimitar in 13th Warrior, or Sulu pulls out the collapsible katana in the JJ Abrams Star Treks. What are your top impossible movie weapons moments?

Patrick Randolph

David, binged all off menu episodes on your rec. genie is here, what are all of your dream starters, mains, sides, desserts?

pacoismynickname

Check out Shooting Fish. The soundtrack, maybe the most obscure I own, has a good selection of B-team Britpop-era bands.

Anthony Oleszkiewicz

Quick one: How do you become a salaried film critic?

Charles Joseph

Any favourite TV shows of 2023?

Kalynne McIntyre

David: what video games are you playing right now?

Matthew Smyth

When Prince was doing well in the Razzies v Oscars March Madness you guys talked about how when you were pivoting from Star Wars to Blank Check you considered making the podcast about 'blank check' projects across all media (ie, not just movies, but albums, video games, etc) before deciding to go with the current format of the show. Is there a blank check project or career from outside the world of film and television you guys would've liked to cover if the podcast had gone in that direction?

Anthony Pierre Coco

David: what Saw trap would you have the best chance of surviving? Which would make you go “ehh, I’ll just die” the quickest? Griffin: favorite Muppet?

Scott Cooney

Blank Check has been given a display at the 1964 World's Fair. What do you put in your pavilion?

Andrew

I bought an old in-box action figure from a flea market, from a movie you've covered, do you have a PO Box?

Eric Gendron

Legend of Zelda movie expectations: hype, meh, or bluhhhh?

William Tarbox

Best/favorite physical media acquisitions of 2023? Particular standout is Arrow's BLACKHAT 4k set, which includes of Blu-Ray of the Director's Cut (!), which they included after fan feedback requesting it. Arrow really out there for the people.

Jeremy Costa

In the near future, you are tasked to travel back in time and shoot a "making of" documentary of any film of your choice. Which film set are you going to back to experience?

Brennen Kauffman

Inspired by David joining me in the Jon Bois rabbit hole- what is everyone's favorite movie that maybe, technically, doesn't qualify as a movie?

Alex Simpson

Outback and it’s not even a question. Their Brown Bread rules all

Bradley Reed

I’m hoping to start reading some older film criticism - my wife gifted me a Pauline Kael book for Christmas (humble brag). I’m curious what your relationships are to reading criticisms from before you were alive? And if you typically watch the film before you read them, or will you read first then watch?

iamaparade

Antoine Fuqua or Peter Berg?

Bern Roche Farrelly

It feels like a filmmaker needs four pictures to qualify for the Blank Check treatment, but people, through no fault of their own, don't always get the chance to make four pictures. Which filmmakers stuck with only two or three movies would you love to cover?

Dave

Question for Ben: How do you feel being a part of a movie podcast has changed your taste in movies? Are there any types of movies that you would now seek out that you wouldn't before? What directors/actors/actresses are you a fan of now that you wouldn't be if not for this podcast? Thanks!

Cal O'Boyle

What would it take for Hollywood to give Sir Ridley Scott his third and final Legaprequel installment to the trilogy of Alien films started by Prometheus and continued in Alien, colon, Covenant? (I NEED IT) I know he’s given his seal of approval to Romulus but are we really gonna count that as the final installment?

simon d higgins

You’re given the opportunity to choose a new title for the criterion collection and write the essay for it that comes in the Blu-ray case. What are you choosing?

iamaparade

Outback Steakhouse or Chili's?

Botbotb

Hot Muppet Take

Jeremy Costa

I'm a dinner guest at casa Blank Check. What starter, main course and dessert am I being served?

Lucien Waugh-Daly

Who do you think is the most affordable Oscar-winning actor (still alive and working) to get for your low budget movie?

Austin Lugar

Will you ever do The Offer as a Patreon commentary?

Alex Perry

Jelly: when ?

Scott Cooney

You've been selected as this week's franchise on Doughboys. What's your restaurant concepts style, main dish, and bite of the night?

Daniel Citron

As a follow up for each major contributor to the pod: Spike, Timmy, Johnny, or Vorthos?

Bort

David, Dads of toddlers everywhere want to know: Have you entered the Nina era of Sesame Street? Also, what else is Boss Baby watching these days? Has she gotten into Miss Rachel? Has the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse theme song permanently earwormed itself into your brain? Is Blippi dead behind the eyes?

Jeremy Costa

Cinematic Rorschach Test! Which movie scene immediately comes to mind when you hear the following phrases: Most romantic? Breathtakingly beautiful? Iconic outfit?

Samuel Hoover

How do we bring sexy back?

Dan Roman

How does one make friends who like watching/talking about movies? Films bring me so much joy and fulfillment, but it's lonely to have no one to share it with or even talk to about it. Any recommendations whatsoever, from anyone, would be deeply appreciated. Your show has brought me a lot of happiness, thanks for everything you folks do

Scott Cooney

If Griffin could have his soul eternally-bound to one of his toys (á la Chucky), which would it be and why?

Stephen Flynn

What's the better depiction of Ken's fall to the dark side and subsequent redemption: Barbie or Toy Story 3?

pacoismynickname

Veritable great question! (Really hoping they pluck out these gems. *Please*, not another mailbag ep about Muppets, lunch places/food choices, how to fix MCU/DC/Star Wars, franchises/reboots, what about a so & so miniseries, who’s a future blank-check director, what about David’s video-game podcast, do you like this one specific movie that I like?)

Zachary Neeley

Recently listed to the Carpenter episodes, where you pointed out that even though Mouth of Madness was good, it still felt clear Chevy Chase sucked the life out of Carpenter. I’m wondering if you know of other dead cat bounce (a wildly grim choice for how to describe a last blip up on the way down) movies. I looked at Rob Reiner but not, it was a steady downward slide.

pacoismynickname

We all remember the McConnaissance and its glorious 2014 culmination: the True Detective phenomenon, best actor Oscar win, victory-lap star turn in Interstellar. And then it was over. Today his career is dead-er than ever. (Ben Affleck, famed comeback artist, was always in the game, always cooking.) Is Matthew McConaughey, one of the great American actors and movie stars…finished?

Adam B.

After Mario and Five Night At Freddy’s this year, there’s a rush on video game movies. Any dream pairings of game and director?

Charles

What do you think is the proper amount of time a studio should keep a franchise on ice before rebooting (if at all)?

Begemott

Is there another silent film director you'd consider covering?

Basic Lich

David, Magic: The Gathering Episode when? You've been teasing this long enough. Do you still play and/or what era(s) did you play during? Do/did you play specific formats or just kitchen table magic with friends? What decks/colors were you partial to? Most importantly, what Ravnica guilds (or just colors/pairs if you played in the pre-Ravnica era) represent you/Griffin/Ben/Marie/whoever?

Chris Aoyama

Aside from Aliens VS Predator Requiem (bit?), what movies do Griffin and David have the biggest difference in opinion about? Is there any film that would cause an Ebert-level argument between the boys?

Pablo Ruiz V

If you had to make another Jurassic movie, what's your budgets, who's your director, who's your writer, and what's the vibe?

Jonathan Krause

Is there a director you have covered that you regret covering for some reason? (Maybe in retrospect you feel the series didn't go well, or they didn't fit the format as well as you'd like, etc) Is there a director you once wanted/planned to cover that you now don't plan on covering (their ship has sailed, they've been "cancelled", they've released a movie or two that is so bad that you don't want to have to discuss it)

Nate

I’m eager to hear the pre-Dreamworks half of Spielberg’s filmography covered on the podcast. Any chance that’s coming soon? Additionally are there any plans to cover the rest of the MCU on the Patreon or just leave that where it’s at? Thanks so much!

firreg

What is your relationship to Calvin and Hobbes? Haven’t heard much talk of Spaceman Spiff, Stupendous Man, or Tracer Bullet over the years. Anyway thanks for the pod, let’s go exploring.

Paul Scanniello

Can you all explain your evolving thoughts on Ready Player One? Why is it a masterpiece?

Ruperthrax

Is there any universe where we might see a Blank Check \ Off Menu crossover? Have you ever reached out? Would kill for a Blank Menu or an Off Check.

niiku

Will you cowards cover The Muppets/Jim Henson/Frank Oz either on Patreon or main feed already!?

lydia m.

This is more of a David question but if the others have any input: Aside from early Boyle, what other films would you put into the “Britpop” canon/program in a “Britpop” retrospective?

Eric Brager

https://youtu.be/Zxqkrmkhrjw?si=fxiWY4ugVH3_FhFq

Alex Solliday

Griffin, are you doing any live action acting anymore?

Oscar Tydd

Who would be your ideal 5 person cast for a future Alien movie crew? Who would be the android? Who would be the lead if not Sigourney?

Brian Steveson

Who is a current non-director filmmaker or current non-cinematic artist you’d like to see direct a film?

Sam Lucci

NANCY QUESTION: in The Holiday, Griffin states that the budget specifically for CGI snow was (from memory) 20 million. I don’t believe he says this as a joke or exaggeration. I’ve never been able to find a source for this figure, and felt silly this past Christmas when discussing with some Holiday-loving friends. Griffin, what is your source? Audio commentary? Insider knowledge? Help! Love you, boys! Best wishes in the new year! Thanks again to the Hoz for sending me a make-good Congrarulations tee in Vermont when my package was delivered empty. You’re the best, Ben! 💀🤝🤜🏻

John Mannella

Without irony: What is the state of the blank check boys (and Marie)? How are you all doing? You’ve brought so much joy in the darkest of times, I can’t be the only one who want only the best for all of you.

Jonathan Stark

Do you have any movie watching goals for the year? Blindspots you hope to cover? Franchise to avoid getting sucked into?

Jon Larson

Hello to #TheTwoFriends and Hello Fennel, About a year ago, The Hoz and JJ were guests on MinnMax's Trivia Tower and the next day I decided to start my Blank Check journey starting with the Phantom Podcast. I'm up to the Gina Prince-Bythewood series and the journey so far has been one of the great experiences of my life, so thank you. Throughout the series, there have been directors brought up that you have stated that you will never cover for a variety of reasons. Is there an official list of these individuals or is it more of a fluid concept that is just brought up in conversation? Are there any directors that you currently will not cover that are on the cusp and could qualify for a miniseries if they make something like a Welcome to Marwen? Thank you for everything and be well. I look forward to listening to this mailbag in a year when I finally catch up to this episode.

David Crosier

As a Newcastle resident what were David's favourite...or worst memories of his time at University there?

Maureen Tango

Ben! Share with us your favorite piece of 90s technology!

Holden Martinson

What other blank checks outside of movies would you be interested in discussing? Be it an album, or television show, or a business venture? Patreon bonus ep on Oasis' Be Here Now?

Chris Ess

Why do so many British actors get trapped making agreeable (but only agreeable) historical movies? Is there space for Jack Lowden to have a film career on top of Slow Horses, or is he gonna be yet another performer who stars in one all-timer (Benediction) and then basically disappears from history?

Patrick McCallum

Say the podcast switches format to go through a musician’s discography an album at a time, U Talkin’ U2 to Me-style. Who do you each choose to do a miniseries on?

Chris Berube

Do any millennial directors have a blank check? And if not, given the state of the film industry, will that ever happen?

Zwoozy

At least once per episode, Griffin will talk about his movie theater experience by saying: "I turned to so-and-so and said...". There will also be fist-pumping, thumbs up, and "hooting". Is this all exaggeration, or is Griffin a damn nightmare to sit next to in the theater? Love the show, wishing you all the best year imaginable.

Branden Lau

I need Griffin to unpack why he thinks Robocop 3 is better than Robocop 2

Steven Hoffart

Prawn cocktail crisps, All Dressed Chips, or Voodoo Chips what reigns supreme?

Garrett Reed

This goes out to Ben Hosley! I really want to know more of your neck wear thoughts. Ascots, bolo ties, chokers, what kind of stuff do you like to see on folks? Also what are your thoughts on tie-dye. Garrett

Dan Stadnik

I know that a million things have happened since the 5 year anniversary show, but at the time you all discussed possible BC spin-off content. I know the video game podcast and the sleep podcast are oft-rumored, will we ever get to hear those (or anything else)???

Jonas Hayes

Alright, maybe you’ll never do a PTA mini series so what are your rankings??

Donovan C

Is there any plan to cover new releases in previously covered franchises? E.G. should we expect a main feed episode for Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire or Alien: Romulus this year? Or would you do a grab bag of franchise check-in commentaries further down the line? Is there any enthusiasm left for covering MCU Phase 4?

Josh Darby

Where do you both usually purchase your DVD/Blu-Rays from? I’ve been a collector since my high school days and it’s now nearly impossible in my smaller town to buy them in person (as Target and Best Buy are my best options). So I was curious if there were any trusted online retailers you all use? I’ve found it difficult to know what to use besides Amazon (which I’m not the biggest fan of) Thanks!!

Graham C

Will Dave Bautista win an Oscar in his lifetime?

Tanner Randall

Anyway, we don't post pictures of the little dude on socials but happy to dm or email pictures of a cute as fuck baby if proof is needed

Steven Hoffart

This is primarily for David but goes for the others as well, what video game would you actually enjoy seeing be adapted for Film or Television?

JoeViturbo

Also, when are we getting a porch movie commentary recorded from a porch?

Jack Dear

Heeey, UK blankie here (the bit is dead, long live the bit). I have an Odeon limitless pass that allows me unlimited screenings for £18.99 a month, and I think there are similar cinema passes available in the US. My question is, how are my tickets reflected in box office results? Would booking tickets for films I don't plan to attend boost their box office? Or are cinema pass tickets not counted in the same way?

Scott Lowrey

What's the one director or movie you would like to do but know you cannot do because of the nature of the show (Fellini/Bergman/Debbie Does Dallas)?

Hayley

What movie do they think would make a great Broadway musical? My vote is 1987’s Summer School. Think of how incredible Chainsaw’s song would be.

Tanner Randall

What is a franchise your co-host would really want to cover that you would completely put a full stop to? Side tanget story, a mentor of mine pushed me to reach out about this but I've been too embarrassed to. I had found out I was expecting my first child and it came at a time when I was very terrified of the world in general and had a lot of anxiety about making someone else live in it, so I was struggling to connect with the pregnancy. I had a visit from a friend and we were zooted up trying to come up with baby names and the one that made me giggle to no end was Griffin David R. and although I fought it for a long time, that ultimately is what my partner and I went with. So congrats on helping to make the sweetest cutest happiest little blankie.

JoeViturbo

You might have been asked this question before, but is there ever a film discussion you wish you could revisit?

Ray Straight

With the resurgence of Godzilla in popular culture, from the American Monsterverse to multiple successful Japanese films, in what way would the franchise be best covered by the podcast?

pantyscribblers

if griffin could relaunch any franchise and star in it, what would it be and who would you play?

Kristen

I think a lot about Griffin-termed “popcorn movies” or “movie movies.” What are some of the best blockbuster-ish, good fun, totally-holds up popcorn movies that a Gen Zer should go out of their way to see?

Alejandro G

Would you guys want to do an episode on Screen Drafts? I know Griffin has been on twice, but I want a draft between the two friends

Hayley

It has frequently been said on the show that David listens to the episodes. Has he learned anything from listening back? Have they made any changes based on things he learned/noticed while listening?

Ross

Favorite pizza toppings?

Connor MacKinnon

Hi everyone! Over the last couple commentaries there's been some mention of Magic: the Gathering (the second greatest after Austin Powers TCG obviously). David, what was your history with the game and when you played which was your favourite colour/colour pair?

Brian Case

What were the new-to-you films from your 2023 film watching that resonated with you the most? For me, I made an effort to clear up my blindspots in the Powell and Pressburger filmography. I'm glad that I did because my favorite films are now Colonel Blimp and A Matter of Life and Death.

Hayley

Can you share anything with us data analytics nerds about the kinds of data you have on the episodes and can you share any fun data facts about episodes? Most relistens? Episode where most people stopped listening before it was over? Etc.

Agent Chodey Banks

Since it seems like we're gonna be getting more of them coming up: are there any video games that you guys think would actually make good movies?

James Sansom

I write this as a Brit (not doing the bit)

Jacob Montgomery

The podcast is able to record an episode from space. What movie would be covered?

Nick Tobin

What do you think of this https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/18dOYDc0wuuqHvKJQoRZt4S6w-zCO4v7Z0Kr0_bhUuW8/edit#gid=0

David Bishop

If the age of superhero dominance truly is over, do you have any predictions for the next big genre? Are there already signs of what’s going to rise to the top next? And why isn’t it going to be toy movies, regardless of what Mattel seem to think?

James Sansom

Question for the group, but suspect David is the authority here. Favourite Sunday roast? And is the roast the only meal the Brits do right that they haven't co-opted from somewhere else?

STUART ROSEN

Is there any critic who, if he/she is on the other side of an opinion about a movie, that alone causes you to re-think your own opinion?

pacoismynickname

Josh Hartnett got such a successful internet-generated re-appraisal that CHRISTOPHER NOLAN, famous flip phone user, heard about it and put him in Oppenheimer. Why are people so into being wrong? Scott Speedman, a similar early ‘00s pretty boy, is much worthier of a comeback. See him in Sharp Stick and Crimes of the Future (both 2022). That’s range, baby.

Jason Pauli

Perfect sandwich. What's on it? Details. I want to know everything.

Nick Ingalls

Which franchise that you've covered would you most like to see rebooted by The Muppets?

Mischa Vaughn

Griffin when I envision you, I always picture Zach from the try guys. Have you two met at the short kings convention?

Jacqui Ronan Whitehouse

What are your favorite tiny performances in a movie or tv show? Someone who is only on screen for a few minutes with little to no lines but still makes a huge impact.

Rh

Any hot takes on the films screened in the White House family theater? (Records are released under the freedom of information act.) Side Note: Thank you David for the Classical Baby tip. My son loves it.

Peter M

Griffin has talked about how crushing a disappoint the Burton Apes film was when he was a kid. But what have been the most disappointing movies of your adult lives? As a kid it felt like my life depended on a movie being good. As an adult it would take a lot for me to get that worked up over a bad Spider-Man sequel or whatever.

Daniel Hensel

Are there any movie related things you like to do when you go on vacation? Go to a local theater? Check out shooting locations?

James Young

If you were given the chance to program a double-feature at the Alamo Drafthouse, what films would you show?

Daniel Citron

If you were to touch ET (the titular extraterrestrial from the movie ET: The Extraterrestrial) would he be wet or dry?

Jess Kaplan

I’m super excited for the Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes movie, been watching the trailer a lot in anticipation…. What trailers did you exhaust in excitement of an upcoming film, how did it affect how you enjoyed the film?

Kirk Alexander

You regularly get to gush over actors that you love who work with auteur directors. But are there any actors who mostly work in mainstream movies that you really love? Are there any Gerard Butler or Jason Statham types that you have a sweet tooth for?

Matt cooper

I’m curious to know what David’s job as a film critic was like during the strike

Brandon Langlois

What other careers would you all have if you were not doing what you are doing currently?

Jack

Do either of you have general opinions, predictions, concerns, excitement, etc about the state of the movie biz & performance of non-franchise releases this year? I’m also a Big Picture listener and Sean and Amanda discuss these topics all the time which made me curious to hear what y’all make of it

Rad Rodge

This sounds pretty great

Levi Bouch

Favorite sketch from the recent season of I Think You Should Leave?

Addison

What VHS covers from your video stores' past haunt you to this day? My #1 is Dracula vs. Frankenstein because I never got to see it when I was little and then it was gone. It was the bloody cover of the two monsters mauling each other. Sub-question: do you know anything about what happened to this movie?

Story Mode

What is your favorite theme park attraction based on a movie/franchise covered on the pod?

Michael Petrocelli

Do you ever think you’ll revisit the Star Wars Prequels? Either as a commentary series or to commemorate some kind of milestone? Would love to hear your current perspective on those movies with updated context.

Christopher Hurley

Who is the best director who never got a Blank Check? AKA, who’s excellent filmography would you not be able to justify covering if you followed the Blank Check concept strictly?

Richard Barry

Also excluding London.

Isaiah Bornman

Was Psych a touch point for other Blankies or you hosts? It's front to back movie references and jokes and cameos etc etc Will Monk and Psych get the resurgence of SUITS?

heather

I saw Godzilla - 1 in 4dx and now it seems the natural place for any boaty film, the breeze, the rocking, the occasional fzzts of water. Where would you like to see minimal 4dx?

Alex

What’s a movie that you loved but never want to watch a second time?

David freeman

What director, after this year, do you think has the biggest blank check going forward?

Parker Cooper

Need your thoughts on George C Scott’s character from Hardcore. Specifically the point in the movie where he decides to “Master of Disguise” himself as a 70s era porn producer.

Oliver

Sometimes during the career piece you say things like "they were trying to see if he would be this kind of leading man or fit these kinds of roles." I've always wondered who is "they" and how do you know what they were thinking?

Jacob Montgomery

The Blank Check gang has to permanently swap hosting duties with another podcast. What other podcast would you swap with?

Sam Russell

If Michael Mann makes Heat 2, the unavoidable challenge will be recasting the iconic movie star roles. What are your off-beat pitches for who could replace Pacino and DeNiro?

Alex Papaioannou

Movie theaters are BACK BAYBEE. What would you say was the best theatrical experience you all had this year?

Adam Foote

The Buster Keaton series was wonderful! Would you consider doing more silent films or pre-WW2 directors? This feels like a part of film history that we non-film nerds don't see as often and getting real in-depth conversations about it is really interesting to me

Wade Hollomon

What's the best movie released in January you've ever seen? (excluding limited December releases that go wide in the new year) I always find this to be the month where I'll trek to the cinema to watch a 2/5 movie and convince myself it was pretty good 'cause nothing else is going on.

Lizzie Jouett

David: Are there any film festivals you recommend for someone who doesn’t work in film? What film festivals have you not been to that you want to go to someday?

Corey Miller

For David, favorite Taskmaster players and tasks?

Joseph Browne

Are there any directors covered earlier in the podcast that you wish you could re-do now? With the way the show has evolved and how you’ve all changed as people, how do you think miniseries’ on people like Shyamalan, James Cameron, or George Lucas would change?

Alex Shipley

What are your favorite musical composions of the year? Movie soundtracks/scores or just music albums in general?

Connor Crehan

In front of you are two Ben Hosleys. How do you determine which is the genuine article and which is an evil robot duplicate?

Chet Kazalski

What feature could movie theaters add that would improve the movie going experience?

Nathan Neidlinger

If you could give one currently living director a true blank check to get their truest passion project off the ground, who would that be? I’d go with David Lynch, for whatever reason his projects seem to have trouble getting started, even Showtime wasn’t fully into committing to The Return’s length for a while. I just think his creativity is beyond worth the money put into it.

Blaze Sawyer

Griffin if you could choose a toy company to get your dream license who would it be and which license would you choose?

Benjamin Wiseman

We are months away from Twister becoming the most recent film to get the Alien$ treatment. Is there a movie thats been covered by the pod that's just itching for a sequel about what if there were more than one of the title?

David Britain

You suddenly have the ability to Freaky Friday™️ with a studio executive of your choice. Who do you choose to swap bodies with for a week and how do you use your new found authority to alter the filmmaking landscape?

Alaskan Bull Werm

As the fashion expert of the Pod, could Ben give some insight on his favorite movie outfits?

ders

Also what are some beloved directors you’d never want to cover on the show?

jjdotbiz

Todd Haynes

ders

Both the two friends have talked on the pod about liking my home town of Toronto. What are some of your favourite things to do or see in Toronto (aside from staying in ghost towers with haunted alarm systems)?

Molly Hill

In the spirit of the iconic Six Flags visit circa 2019, any chance of a recorded visit to another theme park or theme "experience" (i.e. Medieval Times) in the near-ish future?

Sam Russell

Would you ever have Lights Camera Jackson on as a guest, and if so what filmmaker/movie would you like to have him for?

Adam Foote

Especially with James Bond and Austin Powers on Patreon there has been some discussion of movie music that I've really enjoyed. How much does a soundtrack or sound effects help or hurt a movie for you? For example, I just showed "Fargo" to my wife because she hadn't seen it and the sound work stood out for me in a way I don't remember happening before. On the other hand, anymore if I hear a Wilhelm scream it breaks me out of the movie for a moment, which might not be a good thing.

Maver

Which movie theater (or chain) has the best popcorn?

Drew Turro

And my memory is failing me - what temperature range does coaxium need to be stored at?

lil rob

What’s everybody’s movie “type”? As in, things that automatically count as positives or you actively seek out. What about the opposite? (E.g.- love 90 min movies, hate 3 hour slogs)

Katy Hanson

If you could make a Muppet version of any movie, which movie would you choose? And which Muppets would you cast? Who stays human?

Alex Coutts

Similar to previous discussions around MIB 2, how would you guys fix Austin Powers 2 to maintain the spirit of the original (i.e. keep Austin funny)?

Kent Siri

David (as father to Boss Baby) and Griff (as eternal child and elder cousin to Cleo and George): What are some under-watched / under-appreciated kids' movies? I've got 3 kids (2, 5, and 7) and we have exhausted the Disney, Pixar, Ghibli, and Dreamworks libraries multiple-fold.

Sean Lynch

Ben what are your thoughts on The Beastie Boys, is their early period the ultimate Scum Bum art?

Stephen Kendall

Given the failure of Fast X and the recent Vin Diesel accusations, where do you think the F&F franchise goes from here? Do they just scrap the whole thing? Wrap it up quickly?

The Ark of E Network

For Producer Ben: I Need To Know, is Ben a fan of the films of Joel Potrykus? Buzzard & Relaxer have such BIG HOS ENERGY!

Conor Quealy

The Big Pic Lawyer Draft ep was possibly the best episode of anything I've heard all year - scope for a fandangled legal drama Patreon series? A Grisham one would make the most narrative sense although those films aren't necessarily my favorites but not sure what other way you could go about it. But the sheer scope of character actors who pop in there would make for a great series on its own

Eric Morris

Who are some upcoming people in fields like DP or make up or other unsung areas that excite you

Matthew Conte

Can you make a career playbook for a Mike Myers renaissance that resembles Adam Sandler's more recent career?

daddyov2

Has Ben seen Paw Patrol The Mighty Movie and if so did he cry? x

Chris Davies

How many more years do you think the show will run, and would you continue the podcast if either of you, or Ben, left the show?

Matthew Conte

Mark Waters' 2005 romcom "Just Like Heaven": nut or butt?

Adam Foote

Is there a "Blank Check Blank Check" guest list? I.e., people who, if they ever came on the show, you would let them pick any movie to talk about regardless of whether it fits with the current series or even if you've talked about it before?

Ryan Circelli

Saw in a Tweet or Letterboxd review of Saltburn that “Emerald Fennel, the director, is too good of a director to be working with Emerald Fennel, the writer.” Are there other writer directors where this is the case?

Eric Morris

What are you thoughts on recent 4k transfers like true lies and the controversy surrounding them.

Mike Ostrov

Re Wonka and most prequels being difficult to justify on a story level: are there any movies that come to mind that really call for a prequel? Like, the original movie was promising but botched the scope of its story and should've been set earlier?

Tyler Duggan

Statement: You guys should know I love your show and genuinely think the world of you all. Ben, keep burying those jeans & pushing that soaked movie agenda! Griffin, I pray you get that Bat-Mite movie and David, I hope every day continues to bring toddler joy to you and your partner. I have a 17month old myself, she is the most amazing thing in the world and I only want to give her the best — which is why we listen to this show in the car on chores day. Question: Can you guys put on tape, for the record, why you’re not covering Greta Gerwig (yet — I assume)? Like, James Wan, Joker 2, Bradley Cooper, but not the first movie to make a billion by a female director or the Oscar nominated/winning(?) two films before that? Not a criticism, just curious. back-up question: Which actor under 40 has had the most interesting portfolio of projects and directors and why do you think that is?

George Dunne

Would you ever do a "bad movie" director? I don't think Tommy Weisu is a very good candidate because he's a bit of a one hit wonder but I feel someone like Neil Breen is someone making truly interesting calamities, is quite consistent and basically makes whatever he wants with no oversight. Maybe not exactly a blank check because hes mostly self funded and has basically no budget but he has the spirit of blank check director.

Drew Turro

What are some of your favorite director commentaries or other special features segments that have appeared on physical media releases?

Matthew Turner

Any chance of more live events in the near future? From Buffalo, but would drive literally anywhere to see the squad!

Jake Olbert

For movies where you have a narrative spanning multiple movies (i.e. the MCU, Star Wars, John Wick, Toy Story, Linklater's Before trilogy), to what extent are you able to judge individual entries in a vacuum (vs. having your experience of a film colored by movies that come after)? Also, has this changed for you as your tastes and sensibilities have evolved?

Daniel Kvoras

What would you pitch as a Blank Check Edinburgh Fringe Production now that Griffin got the full experience, and why would it be a one man show from Ben called “From Porch to Ditch”?

Connor

Where are the best bagels in NYC?

Ben Staub

Does Walmart have what it takes to become the new Steelbook King now that Best Buy is abdicating the throne?

Adam Foote

Outside of NYC, what city have you visited that has the best restaurants?

Evan Derrow

Any chance of a live event outside of NY? Maybe Philly or DC?

andyafterdark

Brief TV Spotlight: Can we get some Ben & David on the latest season of For All Mankind? Any animated show recommendations from Griffin? Thanks for everything y’all do!

Matthew Park

Your homage to the AMC/Kidman ad kills me every time I watch it, which is many! Well done, Ben! Is there any chance that there will be a Fanfare 4ever After on the Patreon?

Wyatt Peake

What New York City restaurants would you recommend?

Rick McLoughlin

What were some of your favorite additions to your physical media collections from the past year? Are there any movies you’re hoping get new physical releases in the future?

Manish Agarwal

Happy new year! Question for Griffin the actor: if you could work with any director covered on the podcast so far, who would you choose?

Areeb Ahmad

Which franchise is more in crisis? DCEU, MCU or Disney Star Wars? And is there a way to recover?

Max Kutsch

What current director who has not *yet* received a blank check do you think would most benefit from one? This can be a new director or an older one who you feel never got the check they deserved. What are your dream “passing the torch” actor pairings in a film, à la Color of Money (Newman/Cruise). What do you think is the best 3-film run ever from a director? He’s not someone I love, but Zemekis’s run in 1985-98 would be an example.

Filip Boratyn

If any of the previously featured directors makes a movie for the Sphere, will you cover it?

Bradyn Shively

What advice/guidance does anyone have starting film criticism professionally? I’d like to do it as a job and have no idea how or if it’s even possible lol

HappyCroc

Would you consider covering a newer director on the anticipation that they will have a blank check career? Gerwig and Fennel both spring to mind as directors who have so far put out films worth covering and that speak to the zeitgeist.

Riley Murtagh

Let’s say someone is making a biopic about Buster Keaton “Maestro” or “Steve Jobs” style - in which they’ll focus heavily on one fragment / relationship in his story rather than try to depict his entire life (ala Bernstein’s relationship with Felicia). What would you like to see as the angle for that movie?

Ramona Peel

Question for David: I was really happy to see The History of The Minnesota Vikings on your 2023 Top 10 list. Are there any other YouTube video essays from 2023 that you found particularly compelling AND cinematic? Or do you feel what Jon Bois is doing is a major outlier?

Scott Dobbin

If you four were The Beatles which Beatle would you each be???? Also, Beatles movie rankings???? 😎

Joanna Hendon

No questions. Just a love letter to the pod and the 4 of you from an upper west side mom lady. Words can’t contain my thanks affection and fandom. Joanna

Evan

Question for Griffin. I know you've played video games based on film or characters you enjoy. Have you gotten the chance to play Robcop: Rouge City? If so, did you enjoy it?

Amos Dreisbach

Video game podcast when?

Connor Crehan

If the Mission Impossible series was still switching directors for every sequel, who are some current directors you would have liked to see make one?

Joshua Batty

What, in your estimation, is the best film adaptation of J.M. Barrie’s original Peter Pan? The animated 1953 Disney? Hook? Pan? Any of the live-action remakes? Will they ever really crack it? What would it take to make a new Peter Pan adaptation exciting for you all?

Jonathan Gorbach

What do you think of Best Song race this year at Oscars? Which song will Barbie producers submit?

Craig O'Callaghan

If you covered an actor's filmography rather than a director's, which actor would have a manageable number of films to cover and the most interesting narrative arc to their career?

Brendan Ford

Griffin and David: What fictional director would make for the best miniseries subject? Ben: What would your weapon and gimmick be if you got to be a Mortal Kombat or Street Fighter character?

Zach Walls

When is the continuing adventures of the keep rpg going to happen? DnD live plays are pretty popular like dimension 20 and critical role

Phil Vannoorbeeck

What is it going to take to get the England bit back in the podcast? I know David hates it but I just want Big Ben and Griffin yelling edited in every time David says he grew up in England. Maybe some weirdo Patreon tier or goal?

Eric Wilkinson

David, Griffin, Ben, and Marie wake up in Middle Earth. What is each of your roles, who possesses the ring, and who makes it to Mordor? Bonus: which 5/10 timer club members join the fellowship alongside you?

Daniel David

can we all agree that the Mask of Zorro is a perfect film

Alexander Elms

Is there a chance you would announce future series further in advance? I like to both get a whole series on bluray if possible so having time for them to arrive and get ahead of the episodes would be really helpful.

Lizzie Jouett

Are there any movie theaters you’ve never been to that you want to see a movie at?

Brian Cruice

Can I get a deep cut criterion channel selection from each of the two friends and Ben? Also, what kind of movie would Ben make with the Steamboat Willie IP?

Sam Hansen

I can't sleep on planes and so for any flights with a seat screen, watch movies the whole way. What qualities do you think make for a good plane movie and do you have a quintessential plane movie?

Matthew Tilden

Have you ever considered doing simultaneous filmographies if they covered similar ground? Criterion's MGM musicals had me thinking of a Minnelli, Donen, Kelly mega-series

Kyle Amato

Shrek 5 - will it actually happen, or is Dreamworks going to be stripped for parts before it gets going? Next year they have a straight to Netflix, KFP4, and something called the Wild Giant. I just wonder!

Jeramy Wainwright

Has Ben ever seen GWAR live and is there ever a chance one of GWAR’s movies is a Ben’s Choice?

Canaan Frese

In the vein of year end lists: what were the best repertory screenings you went to in 2023? If you want to expand further, best you’ve ever been to?

Joshua Ochoa

Why’d David vito Francis Ford Coppola? Was it for the vito (Corleone) pun?

Mark

Is there a penultimate director you would ever want to end the show with, as the last miniseries? Or would you keep going and have the show end in an organic way. Who would that penultimate director be if that would be the case?

Gina Cameron

Favourite books from the past year? What are you reading!

Borj

Fun fact - watched Prisoners the week before baby was due, not a good idea lol

Andy Hazel

Could we please get an update on Ben’s buried jeans? If you do Peter Weir, could you please get an Australian guest on one episode? For context.

Michael Ogden

Who are the best directors of sequels?

SamFace

Hello from England... As someone who has only had the British cinema-going experience (many times at the Vue in "D"islington), I always hear about cheering, clapping and screaming going on in American screenings... Do any of you have experience in both and which do you prefer? Also I hear you put chocolate on your popcorn... Is this true 😱

Nate Shu

Have you two been playing much Cine2Nerdle? Do you have any favorite strategies you want to disclose?

Zach Mccowin

What are your thoughts on the Twilight Zone episode Once Upon a Time that stars Buster Keaton?

Borj

Congratulations and ditto! Would love to hear David’s answer to this.

Max Horsthemke

Would you ever consider covering a truly cursed filmmaker? Woody Allen, Mel Gibson, Brett Ratner?

Luis

My partner and I like to play a game called Famous/Normal where we guess the last time a famous person had to do something extremely mundane (for example: last time Natalie Portman went to a CVS, or last time Sly Stallone had to pick up a package at UPS). In that vein, what is the most normal, quotidian bullshit you’ve ever seen a famous person have to do?

lil rob

Ben (or anybody else): what are your favorite movies for fashion inspiration?

Joshua Ochoa

Can you talk about your favourite Cronenberg films? Since more normal fans are afraid of the length and don’t understand how varies his mog is, I don’t think he’ll win a March Madness anytime soon.

Marnie Shure

The Book of Henry and Elizabethtown episodes seemingly left you with renewed resolve not to slip further into "bad movies podcast" territory. Despite those concerns, is there another movie you secretly wish you could just absolutely eviscerate on mic?

Mark Kalzer

Did Love Guru make you retroactively hate earlier Myers movies by proxy? Like could you watch Wayne’s World right now or do you need some distance?

Jonathan Popalis

David: who won the OG for RJ & IQ trade?

Matthew Conte

When I teach a book to my high schoolers, I like to pair it with a movie that is not an adaptation of that book and maybe even has a lot of superficial differences but is still thematically resonant (for instance: Joy Luck Club and Turning Red, All Quiet on the Western Front and 1917, Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress and the 400 Blows). Do you have any suggestions for movies to pair with our next two texts, Fences and The Great Gatsby? Keep in mind they have to be appealing somehow to the youths.

Connor Sweeney

David: favorite/most emotionally affecting episode of Bluey? Also, could Chilli get it?

Peter Schomburg

What are some of your favorite recent indie comic series you’ve read? Basically anything outside of marvel and DC

Joshua Ochoa

David love Peter Weir

Borj

Why, in today’s age, are movies still being delayed with scheduled releases overseas? For example, I got express vpn and watched May December on Netflix. It’s not in cinemas until 1st Feb. I’m not going to see it the cinemas now which hurts box office. The Holdovers, Anatomy of a fall, all of us strangers, Priscilla, the iron claw are all released on the 18th Jan. 5 movies I’d love to see but most people don’t have the budget or time to do that at in a week, particularly at $25 a ticket. Seems self defeating for international box office and drives torrenting. Thanks for all the hard work you do! Love the show, love from Australia.

LT

What contemporary critics do you read (aside from folks who have been on the show)? Thanks for answering and much love to Ben.

Jason O'Rear

What's a movie that you think would be most improved with the addition of Paul from Paul (2011)?

Sean Mowry

With Barbara’s filmography on the horizon, what other short filmography filmmakers (5 movies or less) are you considering covering? Elaine May, Gina Prince Bythwood, Fosse, and Henry Cellick are all filmmakers I had never heard of and I’ve enjoyed diving into their movies, so wondering if I could get a tip off for who to expect next, thanks all!

Ben Phillips

We need more Joe Reid each year, so how about doing a Retro Blankies episode each year? Instead of a spreadmaster style episode, we make Griffin do the work and have to rush to do his awards for 1978 off the dome whilst David and Joe read from their spreadsheets.

Ben

What do Kevin Feige and James Gunn need to do to get us back onboard with superhero movies? Will either of those guys still have their jobs five years from now?

Jestin

Given the recent release of The Holdovers, would you consider doing an Alexander Payne series? It would be concise, interesting, and a good excuse for plenty of Giamatti talk. Thanks!

Tim Chapin

We need a sandwich tier list. What is each of your type 5 favorite type of sandwich?

Jonathan Krause

Which actor/actress are you most hoping to have a late/career resurgence or career pivot? Inspired by the recent discussion on Hugh Grant

Tokyo Game Life

As a new dad, I’ve mastered the art of watching a movie piece by piece over the span of several days. What’s a movie that benefits from not watching it all in one sitting?

Seth Filbin

Top 5 foods, if you had to eat them forever.

Joshua Ochoa

Can David share with us his Criterion Closet experiences and which films he took from the closet?

Josh Hogan

Create the perfect director by using one director for each category. 1) Ability to get performance 2) blocking and composition 3) weirdness/quirkiness/style 4) box office draw 5) Visual storytelling 6) X-Factor I guess some of these are vague. You can interpret however you like or add categories.

chet sauer

david! what’s your favorite taskmaster season/contestant?

Michael Venne

2023 was one of the best years in video gaming history. David, we know you’ve been known to play with your joystick. Griffin and Ben dabble as well. Play any good games this year? What stage are you on in Disney Bubble Sugar Rush Popper, Griffin?

Justin Clements

Which director you’ve covered filmography would make for the most insane and overly complicated Official Trading Card game a la the Austin Powers TCG?

Spike Kittrell

Can David please give his 2024 State of Letterboxd address?

Hogan

Who is a current director with 2-4 movies that just FEELS like they’ll be an exciting blank check director to cover one day?

Joshua Ochoa

The phrase came from an episode of the pod tbh. From this past year too.

Rhett

Which current comedian(s) deserves the kind of Jim Carrey/Mike Myers/Will Ferrell type of star-driven film run we so rarely see these days?

Nennydog

Would rather to pretend to Godfrey Reggio that you loved Naqoyqatsi or to Mike Myers that you loved Love Guru?

Abe Something

What’s your favorite and most undersung film of all-time? The one you’ve never heard anyone mention but you recommend to friends? I.E. “Girlfriends” — an excellent film no one seems to be aware of.

Zac Crane

What movie do you all dislike that had a great marketing campaign?

Sean Gibbons

Have any of you checked out the Cine2nerdle battle mode?

Hayley Field

Favorite recent steel book purchase or release?

Alex London

Which 2023 film most deserved the kind of low-effort movie tie-in video game that they no longer make?

Mohammad Ahmed Hassan

I am curious how much awareness you guys have of Bollywood? The whole death of the movie star idea is interesting to view in the context of Bollywood, an industry run on movie stars like Shahrukh Khan. I would love to see more international recognition for someone like him. Patrick Williams did a very good video on Bollywood last year.

George Seabrook

Griffin, where did the phrase "big tiddied hit" originate, and why can't you stop saying it? Are there phrases or words like that for David or Ben, which annoy the others but you cant stop saying? Also for David, can you disclose why Hit Man is going to Netflix as it's behind paywall?

Pascoe

Are you waiting for Peter Jackson to release another fiction film before you cover him? (Assuming that's an inevitability)

Gabriel Gauvin

Slides or Thong sandals?

Hogan

Favourite pizza in New York?

Francisco Gutierrez

David, do you consider yourself British, American, or both? Has this changed over time?

Johan Malmgren

Im in a reading rut. Recommend me a really good book!

JoeWolfie

What movie theaters would you recommend someone to visit for their first time in NYC? And what are each of your favorite spots to catch a matinee?

Reddit_Is_Harold_Lauder

Did Grif eat a garbage plate while he was in Rochester?

Adam Gainey

Do you think animated performances should be eligible for acting nominations? Regardless, who would you have nominated? I will hang up and listen

Jordan McNaughton

any thoughts on the roles/films Martin Scorsese chooses to act in, outside of his own? (Dreams, Quiz Show, Shark Tale)

Macky Dee

Who are your favourite working anime directors who aren't Hayao Miyazaki?

Willoughby B. Dobbs IV

Are there still plans to go to Galaxy's Edge and do a six flags/Atlantic City episode? I know the pandemic sorta topedoed the original plan?

Dane

What does a Harry Potter commentary series look like? There are a few possible blank check directors which could complicate things and also some stinky fantastic beasts movies. Would it ever be possible?

Richard Pierce McLain

Over the years there have been many times that you guys have said, "Ben, have you ever seen _____? You'd LOVE it!" Ever considered doing a Ben's Got No Choice style of palate cleanser? David's beloved The Hidden strikes me as a great inaugural movie for this.

Charles Hubbard

We’ve seen David’s Sight & Sound list. Does Griffin have one? If so, what’s on it? Same goes for Ben & Marie.

Eric Brager

Would you consider having JJ on the show for an “Oops All Dossiers” episode where he talks about his process and his favorite BC deep dives?

Gina Cameron

What are your favourite tv shows released over the past year? Do you think the blank check model still exists for showrunners or does the system run differently for tv?

Agnes Maarja

Is boinking back in cinema?

Catherine O'Ryan

Of all the genres people on social media long to return to the mainstream - 90s style teen flicks/erotic thrillers/rom coms etc - which do you think could actually return in a major way? Cheers guys 🫡

Rhett

It is sometimes unfathomable your Videology trivia team could have ever lost… what was your ballpark overall record? If you humbly don’t consider yourself the juggernaut team, who was?

Gabriel Gauvin

I am a new parent & first time girl dad. What 3-5 films (other than Interstellar) will pack a harder emotional punch and benefit from a rewatch with this new perspective on life.

Joshua Schrier

David: as a father to a young girl, what movies/TV are you currently enjoying with her and what do you look forward to showing her in the future?

Sean Murtaugh

Will there be a Congratyoulations 2024 fashion line?

Ang Lee's Dad

20th anniversary speed round: what's the best performance in each of: Ocean's Twelve, The Village, Shaun of the Dead, Prisoner of Azkaban, Sideways, Anchorman.

Kyle McNevin

What was the last movie that made you angry?

Thomas Vanhuyse

Are you thinking of upping the price, or adding an extra tier to your Patreon? Life has gotten more expensive in general, so my $5 is worth less now than a couple of years ago. I would be happy to give you guys more.

Eric Winter

Do you think Best Picture is a two horse race between Oppenheimer and Barbie, or is there the possibility that the voters will coalesce around a smaller movie a la CODA?

Douglas

Griffin - favorite non-US dvd/blu-ray purchases?

Taylor Owens

Since 2023 saw a number of financial underperformers that cost $250-350 million dollars just to produce, how do you think hollywood realistically gets these blockbuster budgets back under control?

Alex Bagnara

Not really a question but gotta say I loved the ep with the Scott Hasn’t Seen crew! And your ep on their feed. Great stuff this year!

Nick W

whats your perfect seat in a movie theatre? i'll take my answer off the air, thanks

Edward Rose

After the glorious Olympics episode, what other British cultural event/thing/place/person would David most like to do an episode on?

Joshua Brown

When will you finish the first half of the Spielberg miniseries?

Andrew Forster

Favourite movie posters?

outb0undflight

Have you guys ever given any thoughts to covering the Hammer Draculas on the Patreon feed? Those were a constant presence in my house growing up and now that the Bit is finally dead I'd love to hear David's perspective on them as a Brit.

Matthew Bolton

Nic Cage turned on the Christmas lights of my small English city a few years ago, because he lived here and a neighbour slipped a note under his door. Which movie star would you involve in a municipal event, and what kind of event?

Roel

Why does Hollywood hide the fact that a movie is a musical in there marketing?

Adam Butterworth

If you had to cover another large-scale public event á la The 2012 London Olympics Opening Ceremony, what would you choose and why?

Daniel Marx

With a lot of the 'great filmmakers' reaching their 80s and even 90s, is there a point where you think directors should retire, or should they keep going until they kick the bucket?

Stan

Ben question, favorite music release of 2023? (The two friends can also answer if they would like)

Christina Lohr

We’re about three weeks away from the Oscar nominations being announced—what are your predictions for the Best Picture slate? Any sure locks or shocking snubs?

IronTusk93

If a movie was made about Ben's life, who would direct it and star in it, and what would the plot be?

Tim Cybart

Question for all of you, I recently took my wife and children to see The Boy and the Heron. Afterwards my wife who had previously never seen a Miyazaki film said “That was like Little Bear but for adults”. My question for you is, why did it take me so long to marry this incredible human being, and more seriously, what is your all time favorite comfort movie?

Jake Filton

In the same vain as JD’s game from the most recent walk episode, some 2023 VS. questions: - Marshawn Lynch vs. Jarnathan - Napoleon vs. Landlord Hong Chau - The Alien from Asteroid City vs. Margaret Simon - Leonard Bernstein vs. the atomic bomb - Priscilla Presley vs. Felicia Montealegre - The Heron vs. Cassandro - The Von Erich brothers vs. The Attic Penis in Beau is Afraid Thank you and blank it

Brad Boron

If you could have a Blank Check series director as a guest to cover one of their own films, who would it be? Also, seconded on wanting to hear your GotG Vol. 3 takes.

Robby Allten

If you could give ANY movie a hyper-reverant legacy sequel, what would it be?

Tomas Marinara

If you got the chance to turn Ben into an Ernest P. Worrell or Austin Powers style comedy character with a series of films, what would his trademark attire be and what would be his ideal adventures (ie would he save Christmas, Go to Jail, Time Travel)?

Daniel

The mistah blankie shirt is a cryptic hit, whether people know the show or not. Where do you see Blank Check in 10 years? Spin off shows? Reboots? AR commentary watch-alongs?

jack read

in your opinion which Sesame Street character would make the best blank check guest and which of them would make the worst. thank you

John Hardwick

Any thoughts on James Cameron’s use of AI in remastering his back catalog? Has he pulled a “George Lucas” and gone too far? Is the trend of machine-assisted “remastering” here to stay?

Andy C

With the current state of the MCU, what would you guys do to fix the franchise?

Fledge

It's been talked about in the past that one way to do directors with longer filmographies would be to break them up into sections, returning to them after doing a shorter filmography in between. Is that something you think you will do in the future?

Will Pottorff

Favorite blu-ray brand I.e. Shout! Factory, Arrow, etc.

Jonas Hayes

What is the best 3+ hour movie?

Turtle from Entourage

Who would you consider to be one of the best regarded non "blank check" directors?

Henry Massey

Any danger of revisiting the Star Wars Prequel Trilogy on the Patreon? 10th Pod Anniversary perhaps?

Andy C

Ben: which 2023 film would be best improved by replacing all the actors with skeletons?

Micah Woo

2 parter question… How did you learn to spot and understand themes in both single pieces of work as well as directors over arching filmographies? And, Is there anything you’d recommend to others looking to learn the same?

Thomas Glazer

My wife and I just had a daughter (named Romilly)! Any thoughts/advice on introducing kids to “da moviesh” and other content?

Paul O'Regan

Which characters should be in Marvel's first X-Men movie? I want them to focus on a young team, with nothing to do with all of the old guy characters they've brought over so far.

Brian Case

How Diet Cokes do you think Jodie Foster's character consumed during the Cuba to Key West boat trips in Nyad?

Ross

Do you guys use the office for things other than recording the show? Because it is starting to sound like a mix of a clubhouse and a coworking space. (My assumption might be David could use it to have a quiet place to work outside the house, Griffin could maybe do voice recording stuff there, Ben could work on his chain collection, etc)

Mike Finnerty

David has talked about his love of Arsenal on the podcast and saw he logged the David Beckham documentary on Letterboxd recently. Can David please dedicate 3 minutes of this ep discussing his relationship to English football in the late 90s/early 2000s, what are his memories of going to Highbury, did he go to Newcastle games when he was in uni, what are his memories of Euro 96, etc. Cheers!

Cameron Palin

What are the best physical media pickups you guys had this year? Any blank check films from 2023 impossible to track down?

Scott

What are your personal most influential movies of the last ten to twenty years? Not necessarily your favorite films, but the ones you think have done the most to change/influence the way movies are written or shot or made.

Ben Ritter

When are we going to get fingered?

Lucas Roetter

How does Ben feel about *that* bathtub featured in Saltburn? Would you lads ever journey to do a live show in Chicago???

Jonathan Boriss

As a collector of toys and blu-rays I love when you guys talk about them. Any chance of a blu centric episode?

Max Anderson

Why wasn't the John Carpenter miniseries called Podcast From New York?

Peter Angelinas

what do you consider the greatest animated short film of all time from an innovation perspective? (including looney toons, fleischer, Hanna barbera, etc)

corndair

A restaurant calls you to make a signature Blank Check cocktail menu. What are some of the drinks available?

Jacob Geller

The show has been running for almost a decade now- what are the episodes y'all think have best captured the energy of what you want to be doing with Blank Check? Which ones make you go, "yeah, we really nailed it with that one"? Love the show, cheers to another great year.

Brian Williams

Sounds for Sleeping Sleepy Sleep Sleep second episode drop date?

Tyler Willits

Would you be able to explain the difference between the Director, the AD, and the Cinematographer? It gets all confusing on who does what. Alternatively, what's the best meal you've had in the Blank Check Studio?

roar totito

Have you guys played the avatar game? Thoughts?

Levi Bouch

Favorite Lynch film? Thoughts on Twin Peaks?

Zachary Friedman

Argyle trailer is driving me nuts these days. What is the most annoying movie trailer that still haunts you?

Lee Morgan

What are some of David’s favourite UK media that didn’t cross the pond?

Sam Gillard

Who has the best final film of all the deceased directors you’ve covered?

Joey Bednarski

We hear a lot about the Gentleman’s 6, but what movie is the perfect 5? The platonic ideal of average? The very center between good and bad? Have you covered any of these films?

xavierrn

I recently watched every Nicolas Cage movie in order. It was not a good idea. Anyway, if you were to watch everything an actor ever appeared in, who would you choose?

Chris Mangan

Since you dang ass freaks got me hooked on collecting steelbooks, where do you buy your steels and what is each of your favorite steelbook you own?

The Duke of Eggslap

what are your three go-to movies for a good ol’ fashioned cathartic cry?

Sean Simon

I want to hear from David a little recap of his favorite games of the year (or any surprises) and from Griffin his favorite tie-in merch of the year!

Callan Michael Webster

What’s the movie either have you have seen that you IMMEDIATELY needed the other to see for their opinion??

Knut Helland

Is 2024 the year of Rohmer?

ryan mcgrath

Hopefully it’s David’s video game podcast.

Kevin Fennell

Many podcasts (including your guests Paul scheer, zouks, Gabrus) have waxed quixotic quite a bit about the phenomenon of 90s kids finding porn in the woods. Now I wonder if the Brit’s had this same notion or if there was some sort of equivalent? I’ll take my answer off air

Frank_sausage

What do you think happens with major franchise filmmaking as audiences seem to be extremely fatigued with that style of storytelling? Or more specifically the MCU - do they eventually reset?

Isaac Westergard

Any of y'all ever been to Medieval Times?

Sarah Gifford

Thoughts on Godzilla: Minus One?

Ross

What was the best performance in the worst movie you’ve seen in the last year? Worst performance in the best movie?

Britt B

Favorite “YA” movie?

Victoria Caudle

Will you hire temporary researchers who can access source language material when covering non-English speaking cinema? JJ did a great job with Park Chan-Wook, but a lot of questions you had about production/context etc are readily available in Korean!

JP Robichaud

Has Ben seen The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai and if so, what did he think of it?

Jason Fortin

No question, just a comment. I love Ben’s picks. We need to keep them coming. It’s a nice break. Love the podcast and really looking forward to 2024. BTW - Griffin, we met at the Rhode Island Comic Con. I introduced myself as a Blankie. You looked a little horrified, I was a little drunk. Cheers!

Ryan Daugherty

What non-movie media (books, video games, board games, music, etc) have any/all of you been enjoying recently?

Robert Ellefsrød

Which episodes would you like to redo, if any? And why is it A Master Builder?

Josh Denlinger

Scream franchise commentaries when??

Turtle from Entourage

What movie set, past, present, or future would you want to be a fly on the wall for?

Si Squires-Kasten

Now that the bit is retired, which UK comedians would you like to get on the podcast? And which Blank Check guests would make the best Taskmaster contestants?

Branden Stewart

Thoughts on James Cameron’s remasters of The Abyss and True Lies?

Hogan

Have you ever thought about filming the podcasts to watch on video? Fun AND money!

Adam Mincks

What are your favorite films/filmmakers from the “slow cinema” movement? And of the filmmakers who are considered a part of the “slow cinema” movement, who would you most like to cover on the show?

Corey Johnson

Griffin, if you could manifest a complete toy line from a movie that never got one, what would it be, and what kind of figures/playsets would it entail?

Ross

Favourite or underrated Canadian / Australian / NZ directors?

bk

Hello! Is there any chance of a Blank Check tour in the works for cities across the. US? I know travel is a tough issue, but I know fans like myself who live outside of NYC would love the chance to be a part of that live show magic. Thanks for all you do, blank it!

Carleton Caldwell

How much was the steak?

John rosenberg

Friedkin When

Samuel Lively

Just moved to Brooklyn - what movie theaters or experiences do I absolutely need to check out. Love you guys.

Jordan Deschamps

Would you ever consider doing an OOPS! All mtv movie awards?

Adam Truelove

If Ben could live in the world of any film covered in 2023 what would it be?

Sigmund Weaver

Worst movie you’ve seen in 2023?

Jordan McCarthy

Is there a director you’ve covered where you would consider not continuing with new releases? Be it personal real life behaviour or too many absolute stinkers ala Zemeckis’ Pinocchio?

Brian Sweeney

David, who is on your Taskmaster Mount Crushmore?

Lewis Redfearn

Are there any 1-film directors that you predict will have a blank check career?

Janelle Gabriel

Is Little Women the answer to what if there were Four Sisters?

Alberto Alatorre

Would you ever try a Ben’s choice type of situation, but, for recurring guest? A Yoshida’s or Li’s choice would be much appreciated.

Chandler Mellon

If every Eagle and every Bear in the world went to war with each other, who would come out on top?

Micah Levine

Do you each have fond memories of a particular rep series showing in NYC?

Sean Dudley

What are your thoughts on Steamboat Willie entering the public domain?

Henry

What are the best games you all played in 2023?

Charles Spina

Question for the Dog… Can someone make the five without rocking the house and vice versa? Should there be an additional blankie category called David’s House Rockin Rockstars?