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MAILBAG 2023 - Ask Us Anything! (Patreon)

Published:
2023-01-02 16:16:40
Imported:
2026-06
Tags:

Content

Happy New Year to all you dang ass freaks!

To kick off another spectacular year of podcasting, we're doing another MAILBAG SHOW!

From NOW until 10:00 PM EASTERN TIME TOMORROW (1/3), please submit your burning questions in the comments below. 

Our *seventh annual* mailbag show will drop on Patreon on 1/11 - stay tuned!

Files

Comments

Alaric Hahn

Have you ever had the Cheeto popcorn? I think it's exclusive to Regal Cinemas and is wildly weird and intermittently tasty.

James Scott

I’ve never been brave enough! I do love a dill pickle seasoning myself tho…

wy'r ddraig

It's Plummer. He is devastating in the dance scene and he has a whistle.

J

Peter Jackson series when?

Luis

Do you believe that Payakan should have been forgiven by his Tulkun brethren?

Ion87

Bond Rankings? Forgot them at the end of Moore.

Nicholas Crenshaw

which studios do you believe will define the decade - can paramount sustain the juice they have right now ?

Daniel Marx

What's your Blu-ray holy grail?

Austin Burgos

What are some of y’all’s favorite comic book runs and series?

Matthew Chmiel

What’s the greatest theatrical experience you’ve ever had?

Alexander Thatcher

What's the most boring movie you've ever done on the main feed and/or Patreon?

Ryan Kelly

What was your favorite movie poster of 2022?

Christina Lohr

For Grif, building on the laserdisc discussion from the Koyaanisqatsi episode: are there any movies you saw for the first time on laserdisc? How does laserdisc compare to other video formats, and do you think it will ever see a niche revival?

Connor Crehan

Thoughts on Andor? It was my biggest surprise of last year personally

Grant M Capps

What did y’all think of Sondheim and Lansbury’s last performances being in Glass Onion?

Jacob Berman

Griffin- how has your Kingdom Hearts journey gone? What world would you want to see in a future game?

Alex

What studio title fanfare brings you the most comfort?

Connor Lynch

Can we have a studio tour? Can Producer Ben talk about the new recording set up?

Velocityprime1

Will the Super Mario Bros. Movie be the highest grossing film of 2023?

Benjamin Simon

Should we just do happen to see any of you on the street, what’s the preferred thing to do? Say hi? Awkwardly stare? Call in a burger report??

Irene Buckbee

MFK -> streaming video services.

Paul Aftanas

In the vein of Griffin and Marie's adventure of seeing the way of water, what is your worst movie going experience? also what is your best?

Alex Thompson

What movie that you’ve covered without a Lego set would you like to see get a set and what would you want the Lego to be?

Jayden Earnshaw

What is the one non tourist thing everyone should do/try when they come to New York?

Stephen Browne

Griffin and David obviously know a ton about movies and directors. On a scale of 1-10, how well do you think you would be able to direct your own movie?

Scott Dillon

Any hints at what the 2023 March Madness theme will be?

Jimmy Boyle

If you were forced to put down hard cash on what the next theatrically released Star Wars movie will be, what would you guess and what is it’s title?

Taylor Cole

Where y’all on LCJ these days?

Lastchants

What’s the next Disney movie you’d like to see in the Criterion Collection?

Willoughby B. Dobbs IV

Would you ever consider doing a series on Rian Johnson even though you already covered TLJ on the main feed? The Knives Out movies seem like perfect blank check movies. If not main feed, maybe eventually the KO movies on Patreon?

Chet Kazalski

Favorite LGBTQ filmmakers? (John Cameron Mitchell Miniseries?)

Matt Genné

Totally down with retiring the bit: utterly and forever. But my question is, is David inclined to launch a retaliatory bit about Griffin &or Ben that lasts upwards of six or seven years?

Austin Vetter

I recently moved to NYC. What are your favorite places to see movies?

Wyatt Peake

What are the chances we get a PDF version of David’s movie spreadsheet?

Darren Hinchy

Have you considered doing any spin-off podcasts?

Alex Cox

Could you give us an audio walkthrough of the new studio (merch on display, entertainment setup, etc)?

Scott Hacker

How has hosting Blank Check changed your life?

Sawyer Huelat

Would love to know your top movies starring Glen Powell that are focused on flying planes!

Danny Wilson

Do you think the top box office earner in the year you turn 75 will have a superhero in it or no?

Ben Tomassetti

From one Ben to another, are there people in your life that you enjoy/let call you Benjamin? Or is it only when you’re in trouble? Any other nicknames outside of the metric ton the show has come up with? (Also, for the longest time I thought it was Ben singing the opening song)

Berkreviews.com

Who are the best "one and done" (limited filmography) directors?

Zach Walls

When is the next D&D game we have waited long for the continued adventures in the keep universe? Have any of you watched live play D&D like Critical Role or Dimension 20?

Kivi

Tom Hanks mini series? TTYD, From Earth to the Moon, BOB, Larry Crowne. Think it would be a good one.

Nick Strauss

Since Last of Us is coming out this month, what would be your ideal video game movie? Any ideas on cast/crew?

will margules

Will James Gunn ever direct an original property again?

Francisco Sousa

Hey guys, have you ever seen any Portuguese Movie and if so, what did you think?

Reid Cameron

Rank the Marlowes! Eliott Gould, Humphrey Bogart, and Robert Mitchum!!!!!!!!!

Jason Puckey

Now that Griffin is a part of the Disney family, how can David and Ben join?

corndair

Avatar 3 is rumored to have "Ash Na'vi". Do you think we should get new elemental forms of Na'vi in every sequel, and if so which are you looking forward to most?

George Seabrook

Since there's no chance of a Potter series for good reason, want the gang's take on the three leads' careers: Daniel Radcliffe in dang ass freak actor territory, Rupert Grint in Shyamaland it seems, what should Emma Watson be doing with her acting career?

Jeff Burnett

à la THE FABELMANS, who would you cast as your parents in a movie? (Mine would be Sandra Bullock and Christian Slater.)

Adam B.

Babylon thoughts?

Adam Mincks

You’ll probably never cover it, since it is tv AND he didn’t direct every episode, but: Have you seen “Wednesday” yet? If so, do you think it is a step in the right direction, a step backwards, or just stagnation for Burton?

Greg

What's changed the most in your respective careers (acting, criticism, producing) since you started?

Jayme Coveliers

David, I’d be very curious to hear your process for choosing seats at a theater. What’s your go to for your normal theater, Dolby, IMAX, etc?

Stephanie

What are some “for your reconsideration” picks you’d curate for each other?

Dan K

What will it take to get a live show in Glasgow? I can hook you up with a venue

Matt Dingerdissen

What are your favorite hobbies/activities/sports to occupy your time when you're not working or watching movies?

Spencer Asmann

Andor episodic commentary after season 2?

Paul Thompson

There is so much discussion in the press of the ways evolving financial/infrastructural forces are reshaping movies, but what are the dominant creative trends you guys see emerging over the past couple of years?

Mikko Viinikka

In an old episode (I forget which, sorry), you said every director should make a space movie. Of the living directors you've covered who haven't made one yet, whose space movie would you most like to see? (Cameron Crowe, Kathryn Bigelow, James L. Brooks, Ang Lee, Nancy Meyers, Michael Mann, George Miller, Gina Prince-Bythewood, Elaine May, Jane Campion, Sam Raimi, Henry Selick)

Wade Hollomon

Best AMC in Manhattan that's NOT Lincoln Square?

Jason Fortin

Favorite steelbook releases? Mine have been the latest round of Lionsgate release. Warrior is fantastic.

Amos Dreisbach

What are the gang’s most anticipated movies of 2023?

Terry Toner

Favourite film starring a wrestler?? Also who is the best wrestler turned movie star??

Eric Darling

Are there any film genres/movements/films of specific countries either of you are planning on diving into next year?

Johnny Thompson

Which director you’ve already covered would you want to come on the show to talk about a movie of theirs or just any upcoming mini series?

David Sky

In one of the National Treasure commentaries you mentioned not having covered a Nicolas Cage movie cuz he has mostly worked with auteurs like the Coens, Scorsese, Coppola, etc. When deciding on a director to cover, what are some factors that prevent you from choosing some of these high profile directors? Obviously Scorsese and the Coens would be tough because they have such long filmographies but just curious if there are other reasons.

Robson Trudgill

Top five fave movie theaters in NYC (either a collective list or you can all pick individual lists)

Benjamin Haworth

What did Griffin think of Wednesday? How does it feel for Burton to be relevant and popular again?

Andrew Lee

Thoughts on Louis Letterier stepping in for Justin Lin for FAST X? Also the plan to bring Brian back as has been telegraphed on Vin Diesel’s Instagram?

Matt Kazinka

What's your personal tourist's guide to NYC? What do you tell friends to go see when they are visiting? In particular, are there any NYC movie theaters you think are especially worth checking out?

Tim Turner

For Ben: Nic Cage famously told Griffin that he'd be in any movie where he could play a chef, astronaut, or submarine captain. What role do you want to play in a movie?

Anthony Koval

What are your guys’ thoughts on HER (2013)? I saw David only gave it two stars and considering it’s a sad robot/romance movie, it’s very out of character for him not to like it! Also Spike Jonze series when? We must get the Jackass movies on Patreon!

Johnny

Heard your ad on the Video Archives podcast. So when is QT going to guest on BC??

Aidan Howells

What director (covered on the show or not) would you like to see make a musical? And is there a specific musical you'd like them to make? Also, Gene Kelly series when?

Andrew Lampella

Is Star Wars still the 2 friends' #1 franchise, or has another franchise overtaken it?

Macky Dee

What has been all of your best communal cinema experiences in the pandemic times? Glass Onion for me was a reminder of how much more special a comedy can be when the crowd is all-in - so a real shame it got such a limited theatrical run!

David freeman

What were Davids favorite video games of 2022? If he didn't have much time for gaming, what are the video games he's most excited for coming out?

Drew Bernard

Can David please unmute me on Twitter (@cirusweatherbe) if I promise to never bring up “the bit” again?

Spencer perry

For Griffin, as a certified Toy Boy, what were some of your favorite new action figures/collectibles released in 2022?

Cody F. Schmidt

David: have you played Pokémon Scarlet/Violet and what are your thoughts? Is Orthworm the best new Pokémon?

Adam Butterworth

I have to assume both Griffin and David made their own lists for the Sight and Sound poll. Would either/both of you care to share?

Isaiah Bornman

Hello, After the landmark episode in podcasting from Tim Simmons and Sean Fennessey on Blu-Ray collecting, are you ready to top them with a video tour of your collections? Xoxoxo

Jibril Gagale

Which recent movies/performances would you put on your “high crimes” list?

Sam Gillard

Favourite movie theatre not in New York or LA?

Alex Bagnara

Andor thoughts? Is it the best Disney Star Wars or the best Star Wars since the original trilogy?

Michael Kaminski

Will you guys ever write a Black Check book? Also, did David grow up in England or did he just vacation there several times?

Zack Stoudemayer

Are there any directors you feel like you would HAVE to cover at some point that you would be reluctant to just based on personal taste? (Not counting guys like Allen, Polanski, etc)

Kyle Beaudette

People have been making podcasts for a long time now, but I've yet to hear anyone fart into the mic. -Will it happen-

Josh Ingram

Dear Spreadmaster. A merry ex(cell)mass to you! How often do you revisit your selections for winner in your Oscar sheet/or what are 2-3 selections that you think would surprise the blankies? Ps as a dad of two I relate to Dave’s exhaustion as someone who listened late at night w my daughters trying to get them to sleep. Hello fennel!

Willie Simpson

Don't you think it makes more sense to track ticket sales as opposed to box office? That way we can compare eras and overall film success a lot clearer than using inflation models (which a lot of people don't even bother using in the first place). It just becomes difficult to understand if a movie is a hit or not, considering mysterious advertising budgets and other factors...Tickets sold is simple IMO.

Toastman Jack

What if you guys did a patreon bonus ep that was just an hour of commentary reacting to various Lumieres' shorts? Alternatively, the same thing but with Georges Melies, I'd love to see Ben either react to the quaintness of the Lumieres or the imagination of Melies. Also if you guys ever did Frank Oz, would you have to combine with it Jim Henson because of The Dark Crystal? As connoisseurs of context, it would be remiss to skip most of Frank Oz's Muppet work if he was done solo. You could also tie it in with a Muppet films Patreon Comm series to increase the hype, that's probably my best mini pitch so I'm not gonna hound you with anyone else (except Lam Nai-Choi, look him up, Riki-Oh is the goat). Best wishes on the 2023 year, I hope MM is fun!

Scott

RRR! Has Griffin seen it? Are there other peices of Tollywood cinema Blankies should seek out? Does RRR have an actual shot as a dark horse best picture nominee?

Tim Turner

Which filmmaker in "director jail" would you most like to see get another opportunity?

Tyler Allard

There's a new show on PBS Kids called City Island. The main character is a lightbulb named Watt. Did Griffin audition for that role? Because it's the most Griffin looking character design and you should be paid for the likeness no matter what. <3 you, bye.

Jay S.

Thoughts on the Sight & Sound 100 greatest films of all time list?

Daniel Davis

You've retired some bits since this show started, but what about creating some new ones?

Ross Kroeber

Favorite new watch of an older movie in 2022 (that wasn’t for the show)?

Péter Frivalszky-Mayer (freevo)

Griffin, I love it when you analyze a performance on the show. It's one of the many things that make this podcast so unique. Can you give away some of your techniques, tips and tricks, anything we should be paying more attention to while watching a performance? I'd love to improve my skills in critiquing actors' performances, and I'd like to know where to start.

Jack O

Would you ever consider doing a commentary episode after enjoying a special gummy? Especially if it’s a mind blowing movie like 2001 or Fury Road? I’m sure Ben could arrange this.

Thomas Machacz

After that video of Vin Diesel on the Avatar set, who would you guys like to see him play in Jimmy C’s sequels?

Alex

For David: How do you feel about movie theatre culture/etiquette in the UK versus the US? When my (British) partner and I visited family in the US a few years back and caught a film, he was horrified to see people loudly cheering and applauding throughout the film.

Max Marriott

Would you ever consider having some sort of contest where one lucky winner gets to pick a director for a miniseries? Maybe one year as an alternative to March Madness?

Bret McNair

What kinda movie do you wanna see from Jordan Peele next? Do you want him to stay in horror? Different genre? Maybe try an IP?

Isaiah Bornman

Could be patron only but I bet that Peeper of a pro-doer would love to get that camera out for a house call

David Britain

Hey fellas! What are your desert island albums? The songs and bands (and composers) you can't live without?

Sofia Car

How do online circles like film twitter from impact how you watch/criticize movies? Is it all bad or is there something to gain?

Adam Macias-Celestina

I just joined Letterboxd and have been adding every movie I’ve seen but I was blown away to see David had over 4000 movies watched. When you guys say you’ve watched a movie do you count movies you start to watch but lose interest in/ have on in the background while on your phone or something.

Stephen Blakley

Could you please cover 1997 classic mess "Spawn"? Or at least briefly chat about it here. #BlankCheckBoysAreBackInTown

Will Lipsenthal

Desert island game (actor version, aka blank check for actors): you’re stranded on a deserted island and you can only bring one actor’s filmography. Is there an actor that has both the diversity of film and quantity to keep you satiated on a deserted island? Samuel L Jackson might be my choice

DF

As more and more award bodies stumble (HFP being exposed, coda winning best picture), do you think there will ever be a new prestige award given out that holds the same weight?

Paul Sorrells

How long must we wait for the next episode with a 20 minute Kit Fisto tangent?

Spencer Sap

Ralph Bakshi? Too horny and/or problematic?

Craig Shaner

Now that we’re ten years out (🫠), what’s your favorite media from 2013? Movies, albums, comics, video games, anything.

The Real Kal-El

Imagine: The year is 2059 and Robo-Bezos has ordered the Black Check: The Griffin and David Story to a full biopic with early Nü Oscar attention. What will the poster look like? Who plays whom and who would be the best fit to direct this? The billing? Where will it premiere? And where will the Bowen Yang cameo come in?

Alex Stroup

If you could change one common behavior of Blankies on the Reddit, what would it be?

Branden Stewart

What’s your take on the James Gunn/DC drama?

Jeff Burnett

Griffin, do you think Pixar lost some thing that they maybe never recovered from, in some ways, when Joe Ranft passed? I wish we could’ve seen his directorial efforts.

Adam K

How do you guys deal with your mental health?

Taylor Johnson

Who is the next Christopher Lloyd? Is there a working character actor with similar energy, range, and ability to pull off big iconic oddball performances like him?

Josh Katz

Can you make like Double Threat and release episodes of your show w/o ads on Patreon? It’s a huge value-add, and one warranted by the subscription rate, I think.

Brandon Magaw

What IP from the past do you feel deserves an update? My suggestion is the The Real Ghostbusters animated series. Blank Check Prod. can voice all characters in the new studio: The Two Friends Zone! (My suggestion for the studio name)

LT

Who wins 1v1 Toruk Makto or Usul riding Shai Hulud

Eliot Foster

Who's is Ben's favorite director? Who is Marie's favorite director?

Péter Frivalszky-Mayer (freevo)

What was your biggest "wait, THEY know about our podcast?" moment when you learned that someone listens to you guys?

Alexandre Huve

Dear Ben, Griffin and David. As a French listener I only have this very chauvinistic question: which French filmmaker could qualify for a blank check mini series?

Story Mode

What are your favorite theme park attractions based on movies covered on the podcast?

Andrew Reck

For David: If Griffin and Ben grew up in different countries, which countries would they be from? What kind of SFX would you drop each time they reluctantly say “I grew up in ____”.

Charles Hubbard

Where is David’s Sight and Sound Top 10 available to see?

Ethan Page

For Ben, any favorite cool looking types of fish? We hear a lot about Ben's affinity for water but not so much about its inhabitants.

Jake Yosafat

David, for us new-ish parent listeners, what’s your approach to Boss Baby screen time and content introduction? What has been a hit? What was maybe rolled out too soon. When (if already) did a feature length movie become a viable sitting session?

Callan Michael Webster

My question about your escape room 2 opinions last year got picked but both of you hadn’t seen both versions yet, hoping for an update? Obviously fine if not as I’m aware you’re both busy boys! P.S. I just want to say that A Question of Silence is a GREAT underseen 80’s (female directed) Swedish movie that’s one of the best of all time (and on YouTube).

Taylor Owens

Despite the online film culture mostly being a cesspool, are there any ways you think internet culture has actually caused something positive in the film industry?

Nelmesferatu

David which Eastenders hardman do you think would be a better fit for the Fast and Furious Crew - Phil Mitchell or Grant Mitchell?

James Macon

Marie and Ben recently gave a shout out to Big Night in Brooklyn on the Avatar the Way of Water Episode. My partner and I checked them out and loved them so much we added to our own registry (thanks for the idea Marie!). What are some other local shops you recommend/would like to shout out?

Kirk Alexander

What's your number one "I'm mad that the Oscars screwed this up" take? Is it something that needed to get nominated but didn't? Or is it a case where the wrong movie won? (I'm still kind of mad that John Goodman didn't get nominated for 10 Cloverfield Lane and that Good Will Hunting beat Boogie Nights for screen play.)

Péter Frivalszky-Mayer (freevo)

Who would you like to see go back to making originals (after doing franchise/IP films) and who would you like to see tackle an IP (after making original movies)?

Alex

For Griffin: Ignoring the realities of what company owns what franchises or what theme parks currently exist, what film (series or standalone) would you love to see get the theme park attraction treatment? (This is inspired by me just seeing Avatar 2 and thinking about how great it will see this in Flight of Passage lol)

Bradyn

What is everyone’s at home setup for movies/TV/gaming? And another question because I’m greedy! What are some interesting almost guests or miniseries you’re comfortable sharing? Thanks for years of joy and fun with the podcast! Love y’all.

Mallori Longo

What house from a movie would you most like to live in for one week?

Robert Hargreaves

For David, what are your favorite memories of going to Uni in Newcastle?

Alexander Elms

With the end of the bit, can David go full UK on more subjects now? And can David please give his though on non London areas of the UK including the Midlands (where I grew up) and the North West (where I live now)

Andy Wilson

Would you ever consider doing the films of a filmmaker who primarily does documentaries? Werner Herzog, Michael Moore, Erroll Morris, Joshua Oppenheimer, Alex Gibney, etc?

Jonathan Popalis

Can we get three minutes on ANDOR with the OG bit of analyzing it like it’s a totally original concept?

Sean Mowry

Are there books on filmmaking that you would recommend? And are there incredible books or articles that the beloved researchers could share in the description of podcast episodes or on Patreon? Eager to get a peak at even a tiny portion of the dossiers' bibliography!

Zach Terrell

Gotta hear those Sight & Sound lists and how about a Ben ranking for each director's filmography?

J Em

Marie's choice when??

Joshua Ochoa

Which well known actors/directors do you think would enjoy Ben the most? And who do you somewhat know that you could be willing to burn an ask on?

simulyosh

How have movies been important in your love lives? How has the passion for them helped or hurt lol

cello

Can we get a pulse on the New York theatre scene

DarkImbecile

I’d be interested in hearing your rankings of the studios, taking into consideration output, logo, talent relationships, franchises, etc.

Botbotb

Favorite theater experience from this year?

Mikko Viinikka

Hypothetically, if you were to do a Danny Boyle miniseries, who would be your dream guests, currently alive or plucked from history via time travel, for each episode? The sky's the limit.

Dan Zins

David can we get your pokemon game rankings or top 5 pokemon?

Mike Finnerty

For David, Griffin and Ben: which of your favourite musicians or bands are the most deserving of the biopic treatment?

Ryan Moncrief

Favorite Criterion Collection Blu-ray cover art?

Amy Plitt

Favorite movies about New York City?? (I hope one is the original Taking of Pelham 123)

Ty McClellan

if you could pitch one new subway line to the city what letter would it be and where would it take you?

Steve Wiley

Chances of a quick Greta Gerwig series leading up to Barbie?

Tree Palmedo

Netflix has perhaps been the biggest issuer of blank checks in the last few years, but it seems like they might be slowing down (especially after a year where none of their checks seemed to really clear besides Glass Onion and maybe GDT’s Pinocchio). Has all these movies getting made been worth the slow death of theaters? What are your top 5 Netflix blank check movies?

lil rob

What would your ideal movie theater be? Money (or space/time) is no object. Ben’s porch but a big screen? The AMC but only one seat? D-BOX but Herman Miller loungers?

Kyle Nazario

If you could have a company make a custom video game, just for you, what would it look like?

Manton

Coffee or tea?

Sam MacLennan

With the rise in success of legacy sequels (Top Gun Maverick, Creed, Matrix 4, etc). Which franchise would you like to see reborn?

Sam Blum

Please describe them in detail and have the others try to guess

Jeff Burnett

In THE SIXTH SENSE, do you think Cole is aware Malcolm is one of the ghosts he’s seeing?

Josh B

Griffin has mentioned seeing some movies late because of his mum. I had the same and only saw things like Die Hard and the Godfathers in my 30s. Any films that David or Ben saw weirdly late in life too?

Steve Wiley

And Barbie vs. Oppenheimer box office predictions?

Jonathan Gage

Question for David, as a fan of trains and an ex-londoner, are you excited about the Elizabeth Line?

turnip

Who's a director you love that wouldn't fit into the show's premise?

Joe Cunningham

More spreadsheet details please! Can we hear a full list of nominees and winners from a random year?

ItWasRamirez

What video games have you been playing lately?

Vasa Lukich

Any chance of a Toronto live show?

Lionel Olivares

Has David revisited Toy Story 2 since the birth of Boss Baby? During the pandemic, "When She Loved Me" hit hard because I realized I was Jesse, and my daughter was growing too fast and would eventually leave. Sorry for the super serious question!!

Mike Finnerty

Who are your picks for the actors and directors that are going to break out in 2023?

Michael Rogerson

David - can you elaborate on why you dislike Hot Fuzz?

Hendoh Bendoh

Had any good dreams lately? What happened in em?

Chris Tompkins

The Alexander Gudonov trilogy! Show Ben the Amish lifestyle in 'Witness', TomHanks being funny in 'The Money Pit', and how not to rob Nakatomi Plaza in 'Die Hard'...

Jake Williams

Could you all talk a bit about the set up you each have for watching movies at home? What's important for you (distance to tv/laptop, lighting...)? Do you try to make it as theater-ish as possible, etc? Thanks!

Sam Blum

If you could have one blank check director direct a remake of another blank check director’s film, who would it be and which film?

Ian Benson

hey friends, it's the guy who made the lisa fancam (thanks for the love david, promise to make you a miss spider fancam soon) in some random episode, griffin, you say greenberg is one of the greatest sweater movies of all time, and i am curious about what else makes the top five? my pick is local hero. thanks for all you guys make!

Andrew Spitzer

In the The Post episode, Ben asks for there to be a Ramen Comedy (a Ram-Com). Thoughts on Tampopo - a Japanese comedy about making Ramen?

Leo Martin

What’s the most work you have ever done in a series you ultimately cancelled?

Austin Frie

Dear Griffin: You and I live at polar opposites on the spectrum of religion and politics (Conservative, Catholic, Canadian) Still I believe that you and I could be good friends if we had the chance. Are there people in your life who hold wildy different beliefs than you, but who you still respect and admire?

James Williams

What’s your favorite pizza topping?

Aric Yakel-Kuntz

Can you share the research source that are used for the shows? I'm very curious what John Carpenter book Ben was reading.

Jonathan Ruholl

David has said on Reddit before that you'll probably do Satoshi Kon at some point. What other anime directors would be contenders? Mamoru Hosoda, Makoto Shinkai, and Isao Takahata would be great. Masaaki Yuasa, Hideaki Anno, or Shinichiro Watanabe would be cool too but they probably do more TV work than movies

Chris

Please list all of your feelings about Jason Statham?

Lizzie Jouett

What are your favorite Christmas/holiday movies??

Timothy McAleer

Forget the usual rules about picking a miniseries - length, feasibility, etc. If you had to cover a director who has the best Ben movie, David movie and Griffin movie, who would that be? Bonus points if there's a perfect guest movie.

Nick

What do you consider to be some of the greatest or most memorable theater-going experiences of your life - either because you were deeply moved by the movie at that moment in your life, or because of something great / funny / weird / profound that happened at the cinema?

Begemott

If you could have any of the directors you've covered be a guest on the podcast, which director would you pick? And which movie would you have them watch?

John Welter

Can you guys talk about your Blu Ray collections a little? Any out of print, rare steel books, favorite releases, etc?

Hunter Plummer

So, what's the name of the mail dog?

Dan H.

Griffen, what's your favorite action figure of 2022, particularly Marvel Legend? David, what's your favorite video game moment of 2022?

Timothy McAleer

@David, since all video games are about the trials of being a dad nowadays, do you expect past/future games to hit you differently? Do you think that will be a bigger change in perspective than movies about dads?

JCRO

The Moore Bond series was a delight...any chance of another blank check "Actor" rather than "Director" series? Thinking the Willis "Die Hard" series,or the Denzel "Equalizer" (especially with Equalizer 3 due this year) for example?

Mike MacNeil

What are your thoughts on the Avatar boycotts from groups like Indigenous Pride L.A.?

Domenic Mezzanotte

How many Assassin’s Creed games has Ben played and which is his fave?

Moises Tavera

If Ben was able to do a Ben’s Choice crossover with The Video Archives, what would he choose? I’m sure Quinten would love Ben’s choice.

Blaze Sawyer

Are there any movies that you think are due for a remake? A movie where the plot or even just the general concept was interesting but was messed up in execution. It doesn’t even need to be an exact remake per say, it could be a reimagining like Under the Skin being somewhat a reimagining of the concept of Species. Thanks for the hours of entertainment, keep up the great work.

Finch

Am I Fennell?

Jeremy M

You have been given a 9-hour slot at a film festival to program any film covered on the podcast. Using the runtimes, which films would be exhibited and why?

Jay Marks

re: Griffin's mysterious bleach stains on his clothes even though he doesn't use bleach... Did you ever figure out what these were?? Do you wear clothes without having washed them when you first buy them? I had the same problem and I think it's something in our sweat (only some people!) that reacts with newly purchased pants

Charles

Do you have a “dream movie” you wish a director you covered would make / had made? Question inspired by all the discussion of Kubrick’s Napoleon, which I would have loved to see, but your answer doesn’t need to be something that the director actually worked on or considered. It could be something totally from your imagination.

lil rob

Please? Every nerd online has weighed in. Lynch needs a Blank-Checkining.

Aidan Wall

What movies best approximate generalized anxiety?

Alexander Monterrubio

Griffin, when you were like “I want all my picks back and I want David god damn Putney because I feel like it!” Like, how did you come up with that?

Jason Howard

current favorite screens in NYC? my personal fave is screen/theater(?) 1 at the AMC times sq and I feel a lil bad about it

Noah Mulder

What are your favourite movie trailers?

Damien E

When, oh when will you do the 'Resident Evil' movies? I love these terrible, entertaining, dreadful, ridiculous films. I know. It's not much of a question but still...

Theo Gibb

Do people ever recognize you on the street from the podcast? Is this annoying or fun?

Andy Germuga

If you were to program a double feature with a meal in between, what are the movies and what is the meal?

Tristan Burrell

Is there an actor or sub-genre you are dying to cover but no director path will get you to? e.g. Would love to hear you guys to dive into a Van Damme picture (which I guess John Woo could get you to). But thats me, what about you?

Benedict Paul

Hi guys, we watched Eyes Wide Shut with subtitles the other night and for the first time I read Leelee Sobieski's whispered line about an ermine-lined cloak (I've seen the film maybe 10+ times and never knew that's what she said to Dr Bill). Has there been an instance where you guys noticed an incredible new detail in a favourite movie you've seen multiple times before? Lots of love

Chris Ess

1. Ingmar Bergman, Noah Baumbach, and Terrence Malick are sitting in the lobby. You have scripts for House of Gucci, Ready Player One, and the Hateful Eight ready to go but no directors attached. Who gets what project? 2. Same question, but this time Wong Kar Wai, Claire Denis, and Lynne Ramsey, with scripts for In the Cut, Never Let Me Go, and Hannibal 3. Same question, but this time Sofia Coppola, Robert Eggers, and Barry Jenkins, with scripts for King Kong, The Hobbit, and the Lovely Bones

LT

Bonus tier?

Tanner

How are you guys?

Sam F Seagroves

What is the best moment of male nudity in film?

Timothy McAleer

Should Wario or WaLuigi be in the Mario movie, sequels, spin-offs? Who is more star in the Puss-in-Boots: The Last Wish of the franchise? The TV show writes itself - DuckTales but Wario.

JT Sitko

What is your Game of the Year? Could be best game or the exploitative mobile game you can't stop playing.

David

1. What are your albums of the year? 2. X or Pearl?

Andy Clark

If you could pick one “we gotta do ‘em” director to move to the front of the line (not including already-determined minis for 2023), who would you choose and why?

Tommy

If there was a movie made about the adventures of Blank Check and the Doughboys, who would you want to direct?

Nick Simpson

Not really a question but I just want to hear you guys talk through the 2022 Box Office in general - The successes (Top Gun, Avatar, Horror) the flops, the state of Marvel etc. And then what you think the 2023 box office landscape will look like and what will and won’t hit this upcoming year.

James C

Is it a bit of an insult to never win an Oscar but be given a lifetime achievement/honorary one? Do you think winners would rather go without?

Patrick Randolph

What is the nerdiest director you’d choose but are “afraid” we’d all stop listening? (We wouldn’t!)

Austin H

Re-listening to the Elle episode the other day, and Griffin said something poignant about directors surrounding themselves with the right people in the filmmaking process, to trust them to help make sure a story or an experience is conveyed tastefully or properly. With filmmaking being a collaborative effort, while also identifying the authorial flare the directors you cover have, do you feel yourself being pulled one way or the other from time to time on the eternal debate of auteur theory? Also David how many people have sent you the new Scream VI poster? Yang Gang!

Canon Gregoire

Howdy fellas, thanks for a year of great episodes. I have a question for one David Sims. Since you also have a passion for video games, I was wondering if you've played God of War (2018) and/or God of War: Ragnarök and your thoughts on them, especially being a parent yourself, a lens to view the work that i do not. I know Amazon has ordered a series based on the duology and if you have played the game(s) I'm curious what your opinion is about that too. Here's to another great year of clears and bounces baybeeee!

Jacob Moore

Are you interested in covering filmographies from controversial/guilty-of-crime directors once they are dead? Im thinking like Polanski or Woody, etc

Whitney N Vann

When was the last time a Golden Globe mattered? When I see an old trailer with ‘Golden Globe nominee’ for an actor, how old should it be for me to assume it isn’t bought and paid for?

Étienne Fillion-Sauvé

Do you think there will come a time when you will condense the new releases of directors previously covered into single episodes?

max kyburz

would you ever consider covering - in one episode - Lou Adler, director of Up in Smoke followed by Ladies & Gentlemen, The Fabulous Stains?

Thomas Dempsey

I have eight bookshelves in my room, each one a different color and with different dimensions / # of shelves. Describe your favorite shelf that you own and what do you use it for?

Brian German

Does David ever feel weird having to review a film and interview the people involved?

Joshua Batty

Best burger in NYC? I know Moo Burger is one of David’s old haunts, but c’mon… I’m talking ANYWHERE in the city!

Mike Nyman

Favorite modern film composer? Favorite score of 2022?

Nate Pester

Since we're probably not going to get a Gore Verbinski series anytime soon, can we just get the Griffin losing his virginity story?

Kat White

What attraction should be added to Pandora: The World of Avatar in WDW to honor the Way of Water?

Matthew O'Reilly

You can only keep the films of one major studio, all the others are lost forever. Which studio’s work is saved?

Ian Davis

Hi, what were some of your favourite albums of 2022?

Thomas Glazer

Did Griffin ever wind up playing Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga and, if so, what were his thoughts?

Pablo Ruiz V

So how DOES Jimmy C do it? He's a master storyteller that tells universal stories in spectacular worlds. But what does he do differently than anyone else that explains his last three movies have all grossed $2billion+?

Elizabeth Lally

No question, just thanks for being a bright spot of my week.

Johannes Wiberg

Do any of you have a skill / weird ability / party trick (anything from playing an instrument to a Donald Duck impression) that hasn't yet come up on the pod?

Austin Barrett

What are your favorite desserts and what film would pair best with them?

Andrew Duvall

Which living filmmaker or actor that hasn’t won an Oscar still seems the most baffling?

Danny

Forky's top five films of the year?

Travis Dunsmuir

Wes Anderson is a director that sometimes gets thrown around on the blankies subreddit as a possible director for the pod to cover. My question is - is Wes even a blank check director? It seems like he's only made passion projects. would love to hear your thoughts, thanks!

theeoin

This one is for David, but the rest can answer too I guess: Do you think Arsenal can sustain their title challenge?

Matt Rixner

Could we get an “MTV Cribs”-style behind the scenes tour of the new studio?

Joe Turner

Cats, dogs, birds, or sssnakes? Coffee, tea, kombucha, or apple cider vinegar in the morning?

eviltheatre

Do you think films are becoming more sincere? It feels like with things like Top Gun: Maverick, Avatar: The Way of Water, and even Elvis and The Batman that we're slowly exiting the era of "Deadpool" level irony where everything is tongue-in-cheek and the general public is embracing things which are more sincerely themselves.

Blake Anderson

David loved griffins keep role playing game energy. Bring back mendu? Did/would you guys ever play d&d again?

Charles Salem

Talk about Babylon! TALK ABOUT BABYLON!!!!!!! Especially the ending!!

Casey

What are some of your all time favorite film reviews? I always think back to Ebert’s classic Aliens review!

Travis Dunsmuir

There's a big pool with Payakan the tulkun in it, and you wait in line til its your turn to swim up to it and hang out for a few minutes.

Toño Bretón

If you owned a movie theater, what would you show to start getting people back to the movies?

Neil Forbes

David, as a new father, how has your relationship to movies changed? Ben and Griffen, how has David grown as a friend/business partner since becoming a dad. Let’s really open up and get heartfelt and sincere.

Benji Black

If you were to do a series about someone who wasn't a director, who would it be? (My example being Ray Harryhausen didn't direct any of his movies but he's the name people think of with those movies)

Nicholas Champion

Did any of you see any live theatre this year that you loved? I'm a big fan of Joey's newsletter and am curious if any of the BC crew patronized any great shows this year!

Danny

VERY IMPORTANT QUESTION: Does forky eat with their hands, or with their prongs, or even with a conveniently forky sized fork?

mattgeeee

What movie have you not seen at a theater would you most like to?

Adam Simmons

What would you like to see next for home theater tech? Is 4K Blu as good as it’s going to get, or is there any desire for HFR/(better)3D in TVs? What about sound/lighting (or at-home 4DX)?

Caleb Clark

A streaming service of note has offered Blank Check Productions a sizable budget to produce an hour long Blank Check Holiday Special. You have full creative freedom. What does it consist of?

JF

David: Top 5 train films? Griffin: Is the Chappie Deal explanation actually going to happen? (I'm the one who has posted too many theories about it on the subreddit, so I need some ray of hope for 2023)

pacoismynickname

Sum up the podcast in a few words: blank check, clear, bounce. Of course you did an episode on 1994’s Blank Check, but as a goof. I’m sure there’s at least one film called Clear, but there’s nothing important by that name. That leaves 2000’s Bounce. Not only does the pod have an obligation to cover it, but there’s lots to talk about. Post-Oscar Gwyneth Paltrow and Ben Affleck, some real names below the line, the high concept, even the Affleck character’s alcoholism (very meta). In question form: When?

Charlie Dennis

If you were given a blank check to design your own theme park, what would you design?

James Sansom

David. This is a Brit writing so please don't think I'm doing the bit. But what do you miss about Britain? Marmite? Cadburys vs Galaxy? Football? Eastenders? Curious if returning to the States felt like a balm or are there still things you try to get sent over to you?

David Taylor

What character from the Blank Check history of films covered on the podcast would you like as guest or host?

Scott Dobbin

Do you ever keep your movie tickets?? If so, where?? Signed, Scott with fading ticket to Barry Lyndon screening from three years ago on dresser

LT

What effect will Avatar and Dune’s success as franchises have on the film industry

Peter Angelinas

If you two were lost at sea due to a forced water landing, and they offered the podcast to two directors (living or dead), which two directors best express your overall vibe and would best replace you as hosts of the show? (Bonus: who would replace Ben? Bens replacement has to be a famous producer)

Nick Simpson

A ‘Would You Rather’ just for David: Would you rather a full neutralizer style erasure of the UK Bit on Griffin, Ben and the fans but every episode going forward now is at minimum 3 hours long; or the UK Bit stays around but every episode goes back to being 90-100 minutes like the first couple years of the podcast?

Mark F

If you could cover just a 3-5 films by a director with a large filmography, who would you choose?

Peter Angelinas

Question 2: favorite sandwich at Anthony and Sons?

Max Cargill

I would love to know what you guys think of the Mike Flanagan Netflix shows. I just finished Midnight Mass, and was thoroughly impressed.

Sean Elliott

Would you consider resetting the podcast back to pretending that only one Star Wars film exists when Taika's star wars film is released?

HappyCroc

Are there any art-house directors you would consider covering? Von Trier or Wong Kar Wai would be fascinating.

Jason O'Rear

What is a dream physical release for each of you? Could be an existing edition out there that is a Holy Grail, a movie that doesn't have a proper release, a movie you'd like a specific upgrade for, or even a TV series. Thank you guys so much for all the work you put into the pod and even more so for fostering a community of rad, kind people, many of which that have become close IRL friends.

Zac Crane

Why does it feel so dirty and wrong to buy Avatar merchandise compared to other franchise IPs?

Kevin Carey

How do you think about whether to cover someone like Jordan Peele, who has all the qualifications of a Blank Check filmmaker, but is only three films into what will likely be a much longer filmography?

Stuart Hay

What are your thoughts on Godzilla? Not as a potential series to cover, but just general opinions on the several stages of the series.

Turtle from Entourage

Tarantino wants to do only 10 films and then retire in order to not diminish his legacy. While I think this notion is pure crap. I'd be curious to know if you have any examples of directors who continue to get better after their 10th plus film. PS if you can do a Lynch series and/or get the Hollywood handbook guys on the show I would be the happiest man alive

Christian Ford

What movies do you most want to cover that don't fit the Blank Check/franchise formula?

Theodore Rosenblum

If you could eat any sandwich from a movie, which sandwich would it be?

Brent Carroll

How far will Dune go as a film franchise? Beyond part 2 into Messiah and end there, or ‘children’ after that?

Daniel Bartholomew

David do you think Arsenal going to win the league this year?

Will Elliott

What is Griffin’s dream Haslab project?

Danny Cox

Okay, can we get serious here? Do all Blank Check Guests HAVE to be hotties, or is that just coincidence on your all’s part

Sami Pöyry

Who are your guys? (all-time favourite film critics / writers) Also, is Blank Check film criticism? Shout out to my man Ben, The Mind Warrior.

That's Auntertainment

If the Blank Check boys hosted SNL, who would be the musical guest, and what would be in the sketch lineup?

Sam

Mr. Sims, what are you and the child formerly known as the Boss Baby’s favorite episodes of Bluey? My kid loves anything with Muffin, probably bc they’re exactly the same, and I just get destroyed by the more emotional eps

Nate Shu

You all joke all the time about Blank Check Productions, but in the fantasy world where you were given Spielberg/DreamWorks-level control of a studio, what would you greenlight for your slate? Night Eggs is a given.

Michael Tatum

What would be your dream plot for Sully 2: The Sullying?

Alex Staniloff

Who would be the subject of your fantasy burger report? Please include famo AND burger choice.

Evan

This is for everyone. There is a question that has been a heated debate in my friend group and I'm hoping you guys can settle it once and for all. Are there more doors in the world or more wheels?

Simon Keenan

With the grand opening this year of the official Blank Check office, the continuing success of the podcast both main feed and Patreon, how do David, Griff, Ben and Marie see the podcast going forward and evolving over the next few years? What goals (if any) are they setting for Blank Check?

fred reed

Now that Sean’s been on. Where, for the love of god is Chris Ryan?

PeteMcVries

what are your favorite DVD/bluray labels? and do you care a lot about special features or is it more important to simply own the film in a certain format (4K, steelbook, etc.)? also, happy new year!

Jase

Greatest Jason performance in film? This is a serious question so no Voorhees chatter plz.

James

Does the Aquaman episode eliminate James Wan as a possible subject? Guy has launched/revived more franchises than most directors plus he has one of the wildest Blank Checks in recent memory

Amanda Hasaka

Are you ever gonna make it to WDW and can I plan the trip

HM Hong

Mamma Mia Here we go again patreon when? Will greedily lap up a one-off esp in light of David’s live tweets now. Please make our january less blue ❤️

Jordan Gibson

How can we send fun stuff to your new studio??

Bill M

Who would run the fastest 100 meter? Furthest long jump? Most food eaten in a competitive eating scenario?

Tanner Randall

I am soon to be a first time father, so I have a David focused merchandise spotlight question. What's the best movie related gift, toy, thing to get for a little dude/dudette?

Bobby Mageau

What live action director would make a great animated film? (That hasn’t done so already)

Daniel Monteshenko

As of the day of recording, is David's favourite Beyoncé album still Dangerously In Love?

Eric Smith

What are your favorite books about film?

Manny

If this was a physical mailbag, which SW prequel character would you prefer to deliver it you, and hang out afterwards for a chat?

Joel DeJong

Whether you've covered it on the show or not, what check bounce movie do you personally have the most affection toward?

Jonathan Kidman

Any interest on doing commentaries on phase 4 of the MCU or has that ship sailed?

Alex Conway

Lads! When are we getting Blue Talk? The Bluey podcast, where David cries at breaking down episodes, Griffin tries to perfect his Aussie accent and Ben gets an Aussie nickname.

Brennen Kauffman

Possible speed round question: does Ben know about the Denver Nuggets? They have a player named Bones and a superstar who's a giant dang horse freak

Scott Sawtell

Thoughts on Phil Tippett's opus Mad God?

Kyle Fortenberry

Where does Rock-a-doodle’s Goldie Pheasent sit in your pantheon of sexy cartoon characters?

Jackson Kelly

Not a question, but I would love to hear you guys talk about Malick at some point.

Josh Milligan

What movie was a pleasant surprise for you in 2022? (New or old flick works)

Sebastian Murillo

Ben, have you read or watched Chainsaw Man? Griffin and David, if you were allowed to cover one film from director that you don’t want to cover (ala John Landis, Bryan Singer, Roman Polanski, etc) what film would that be?

Paul Chandler

Would Ben prefer to fight 100 duck sized Griffins or 1 horse sized David?

Nicole Journal

What is everyone's personal top five franchise ranking? How about filmographies from main feed?

Jack Dear

Was David ever a fan of the BBC show Film...? It was cancelled in 2018 and it's hard to imagine publicly funded film criticism/discussion on British TV again.

Sam Axel-Ander

Griffin, what was your favorite toyline of 2022?

Lucien WD

If you cover the first half of someone living's career (say, Ridley Scott) will you do their new releases as they come out, or wait til you do the second half?

Max

Do y'all have any favorite director commentaries?

Bmk

If you could choose the repertoire screening, what movie would you want to be the Boss Baby’s first movie theater Experience with you? (This question is for both the Doggy Daddy and Uncles Ben and Griff)

Ryan Appleton

Any chance we could get a Patreon episode in 2023 that is another ‘Oops All Box Office’ or potentially even a movie trivia face-off (David v. Griffin, with Ben as host)?

Kristopher Vahle

Apart from passing comments on a Lubitsch or a Hitchcock, I have not heard many of your guys’ takes on figures from the golden age. Who are some of your personal favorites in terms of actors/writers/directors from early Hollywood?

Matt

Did you guys get into any weird TV or movies during lockdown? I started watching British panel shows (i.e. Would I Lie To You, Taskmaster, Big Fat Quiz of the Year) and am still mainlining them on Youtube.

Danny Kirsch

Mostly for David but for everyone potentially: favorite Pokémon? Least favorite?

Jacob Dominguez

I have a really tough question to ask Griffin….what are Griffin’s thoughts on all the drama with Fast X’s production, & how has it changed his appreciation of Vin Diesel? I hate to say it, but after seeing the way Justin Lin was treated etc. it really doesn’t reflect that well on Vin at all! I’m still lookin forward to the movie, but all of that drama has tainted it for me.

Ryan

If you could briefly jump into an alternate universe to watch one film that didn't manage to make it through the gates here, what would it be? (Kubrick's Napoleon, Welles' Don Quixote, The Vega Brothers, Batman Triumphant, etc.)

Jennifer Pérez

If you could have any fictional meal from any movie, what would it be? And if you could pick three fictional guests, who would you dine with?

Matt

Another TV question directed at David: Star Wars vs. Star Trek streaming TV output - which is better?

kat ☕️

Which unmade/unrealized passion project from a director would you like to see most? (e.g. del Toro's At the Mountains of Madness etc.)

Josh Denlinger

When are you guys going to do commentaries for the Scream movies!?! The latest poster for Scream 6 of the subway map seems like they are pandering to David.

Amir

I had a wonderful (and scary) afternoon last year taking up Ben’s recommendation to watch Gaspar Noe’s Climax on mushrooms. Can we make that part of the annual mailbag? What’s another movie that’s a good one to watch on psychedelics? Thanks!

Tyler Messervey

Who is the Mitch & who is the Wiger of the pod?

Steven Hoffart

A few years back I asked about Poutine so I’ll keep it on food: What sauce do you get on your chicken wings?

Lance

If you aren't planning on doing the first part of Spielberg this year, can you at least find an excuse to do "1941"? Maybe a live show?

Andy Hazel

Could we please get an update on Ben’s clothing line? Just how many jeans are currently in the ground and when does he expect them to be ready?

Shawn Barney

Here is my dumb question. I became a subscriber cuz I love Star Trek, and seeing the Two Friends do the original six movies was what made me a Patreon Subscriber. Is there any plans in the future to finish with the TNG films, OR, do another watch along with the Director's Edition of TMP, cuz I'd love to hear David's thoughts on that new version of the film.

Riley M

If you could write a blank check for any director, who would you give it to? Also: would love to hear any thoughts David has on Andor's deep dive into the rules and administration side of the Empire.

Kai Broach

If you could give out a blank check for one book-to-movie adaptation, what would it be?

josh pease

I’ve been listening to older eps lately and there’s a really fun progression of you all coming to terms with having a hit podcast. I’m curious how that has changed your life, both in a day-to-day sense but also in a “career path/plan/trajectory” sense.

Nick Maddox

If it were possible to see an animated character eating a tasty burger for a burger Report, which character would you want it to be and why? My pick would be Tasmanian Devil and I think he would tip well.

Charles Horton

With Avatar 2 shaping up to make over 2 billion... 1. Do you think the three remaining sequels will follow? 2. Is Avatar now king of the franchises or is it still too early to say? 3. Can it manage to avoid having an insufferable fanbase (Star Wars, MCU and DCU)?

Adam Kirkman

I have noticed that a number of David’s critic colleagues have put books out recently. Will we be getting a David Sims book in the future and if so, what might it be about?

Bayly Hunter

no question, just wanted to thank Producer Ben for helping me find my car after the Sully live show. probably wouldve been lost in brooklyn if i hadn’t run into him on the street!

Gerry Canavan

The last few years of March Madness winners (Carpenter, Kubrick) have shown that some directors you've previously ruled out as "too talked about / too obvious" might work out really well for the show after all. Is there any chance that we can get a Tarantino series and a Wes Anderson series somewhere in the next bit of time? They're my very special guys.

Scott Southard

Many action/war movies have a really good Big Room where characters attempt to solve the larger than life problem of the movie (ie. Strangelove, Armageddon, War Games, etc). It's usually some kind of control room with a load of technology, screens, and mid-level specialist employees (this is often a place you'll hear an important character demands of the computer whiz, "Enhance"). What's the best Big Room?

Russell Wise

What forgotten or completed franchise would you like to have another film? Ernest goes to Pandora? Apple Dumpling Gang takes Manhattan?

Josh Denlinger

Would you consider covering the Pokémon movies as Patreon commentaries?

Jim Ferguson

Ever considering doing live shows outside of the NYC area? A live show tour perhaps?

Dan

Would you rather see a Michael Bay movie made with the budget of a Hallmark X-mas movie, or, a Hallmark X-mas movie made with the budget of a Michael Bay movie?

Leroy Beckett

Hello! The Barclays Centre episode helped me get into the NBA (I’m now a tragic Knicks fan). Just want to check if Ben is aware of Bones Hyland?

Dustin

How long do you see the podcast lasting? Is there any sort of off ramp in site? Or are you guys gonna be the modern day siskel/ebert and do this till the grave? I just fear david will pull the plug if the bit keeps resurfacing

Nate Goldstein

Would you consider doing both Mario Bros movies as a franchise when the new one comes out?

Nicholas Champion

Just adding on to the chorus asking about your blu-ray collections, in the wake of the momentous Fennessy/Simmons blu-ray extravaganza Big Picture episode. Favorite releases, organization schemata, any you have on display, favorite boutique retailers, white whales... Anything physical media related!

GCOD

Can you guys talk TÁR for a minute? Curious to hear your thoughts

Stephanie Cumings

Do we need a Shining prequel/sequel/remake with Mia Goth in the Shelley Duvall role?

Anthony Oleszkiewicz

What advice do you have for an aspiring film critic trying to break into the industry?

Norman Normalperson

As someone who lived in London at the same time as David. I'd by curious to know if our paths ever crossed. To determine this. What was David's Favorite mainstream cinema, art house cinema and DVD shop when he lived in London?

James

There are a ton of dang ass freaks in the motion picture BABYLON. Rank them 1-5.

Adam

Who would be Blank Check’s fourth dancer if you had to compete in an After Yang-style dance-off?

Frickward Testicles

Is there a genre of movie or type of miniseries you folks still haven't covered as much of yet that you're hoping to do more of in the future? And are there any elements you generally try to avoid when choosing a potential miniseries?

Mike Flynn

If an upcoming guest hasn’t listened to the pod before, do you have go-to episodes you recommend so people get a sense of format/vibe/what they’re in for?

Michael Natale

Ben has been asked this very specific question already, but to Griffin, David, Marie: If you had to pick one character from any film covered on Blank Check to watch get blown up (grenade, land mine, dealer's choice), who would it be and why?

Adam Bleeker

I really want to ask a brilliant enough question so that you'll notice this comment long enough for me to sneak in a truly heartfelt thank you. Like many I found y'all during the first, darkest part of lockdown. After a day off trying to keep my family sane and healthy, listening to two people commit to the bit about Star Wars really saved my life. This podcast was a lifeline to my favorite thing in the world; movies and talking about movies. So thank you, for being my lifeline and my joy in the worst time. I guess my question is, how do you deal with parasocial relationships?

Coby Dominus

What's the one OOP blu-ray disc you'd recommend splurging for, if any?

Mike Flynn

P.S. this isn’t the evil Michael Flynn

Sean Sperry

Would you ever consider doing a “Blankies Awards” for just the films you cover on the podcast for that year?— in addition to the current blankie awards that you already do with Joe Reid.

James Breen

What movie are you most looking forward to in 2023 and are the rumours true that Chris Pratt is voicing the atomic bomb in Oppenheimer?

Jason Riggs

At what age will David first show his daughter Star Wars, and will it be in release order, chronological order, or Machete?

np5028

How do you psych yourself up for a movie that you’re not looking forward to?

Alex Regnery

When will Marie get her own spin-off and what will it be?

William

What do you think about the oldest bit of all time, the unsolved Sumerian joke: “A dog walked into a tavern and said, ‘I can’t see a thing; I’ll open this one.’” Follow-up question, did this just become Ben’s favorite joke?

James King

What was the best movie you saw for the first time in 2022, that was not from 2022?

niiku

I really think the Muppet films deserve a Patreon series. There’s a lot of incredible craftsmanship in those movies to discuss, at least up to Christmas Carol. What’s it going to take to pull the trigger on this?

Maureen Tango

Ben what’s your favorite piece of 90s technology?

Ethan Albert

David, can we please get more Taskmaster takes? Is there anyone you wish they would have on? Also for the record I think Ben would have the best prize tasks. Xoxo Gossip Ethan

Brian Conoley

So - Avatar 2 came out, and was really fun. We know King James is making five total, my question is: would you rather Cameron focused all his time and skills in the world of Pandora? Or make three different movies in the same span of time?

Ruairi Carroll

What's your controversial hot take on Top Gun Maverick?

CK61

David, what is your favorite episode of Father Ted? I remember hearing you mention it once and wanted to hear more because I love that show.

Brad Boron

You can only watch one series of movies for the rest of your lives. Obviously you want something that you love, but the number of films matters as well since you only get one. Which one do each of you choose?

Matt

If you could see any movie again for the first time, which would you pick?

Delaney Blair

any chance you guys will do the new star trek trilogy on the patreon feed? i know into darkness is a bummer but can i counter that star trek (2009) and beyond are both great and the cast is charming as shit??

Jim Ferguson

Play the “Box Office Game” for Blank Check episodes. What are the top 5 most listened to episodes of the show and what are Griff’s guesses?

Charles Bean

The White Noise credits rip so hard! What’s your feelings on it?

DJV

Seeing “Meshes of the Afternoon” on the Sight and Sound top 20 makes me wonder about y’all’s favorite shorts. Discuss? And Griffin: Which is the best Keaton short—“Cops,” “The Scarecrow,” or “The High Sign”?

Michael Moceri

Any advice for someone who is starting a movie podcast?

Steve Cimino

Has the show gotten harder to book as you’ve gotten more “famous”? Meaning, do you have to tell friends/past guests ‘no’ more because you’ve got Pattons and Lin-Manuels on tap?

Noah

More likely to win best picture- Avatar: the way of water, but Lydia Tar is the leader of the Sully clan or Tár, but Jake Sully is the conductor of the Berlin Philharmonic?

Jordan Neerhof

Please explain the hatred of FX’s Fargo

Christopher Kennedy

Has Griffin watched The Santa Clauses or National Treasure: Edge of History, and if so, what are his thoughts on the costumes and/or hair styles of Allen and Bartha? Does the Krumholtz cameo give closure to his character? And what does it mean to be on the edge of history?

Eric Wilkinson

Criterion closet picks. (Could include Arrow, Steel books, etc)

Henry Leineweber

How do you think the podcast has affected both your careers?

Adrian Muniz

When is the Shania Twain erasure getting rectified by her being invited on to talk Huckabees?

Seth B

The year is 2033, society has collapsed, and Ben has become the leader of the most powerful clan of survivors. How does he rule his people?

Too Much of Not Enough: A Silverchair Podcast

What’s the process for selecting guests? You have had the fantastic Joe Reid on many times but (I believe) not his podcast co-host Chris Feil. Same for Patrick Willems and someone he’s collaborated with a lot, David Chen, who I think would be a wonderful addition to the show’s guest repertoire. (I know it used to be a location thing but the pandemic kind of put paid to that.)

chet sauer

what’s your go-to cocktail or adult beverage?

himartin84

When are we getting Oops! All Subway Lines, where you all discuss your favorite lines/routes throughout NYC? Any non-driving transit would be cool, honestly.

Alex

Why do you think some directors with amazing careers never hit the superstar heights, even if they have a few beloved blockbusters? I’m looking at Weir, Ashby, Don Siegel, Schaffner. Even Bob Clark! People who don’t get placed in the great directors pantheon, but definitely rule.

Jeremy Fried

If y'all decided to do your own version of Podcast Like Like It's 1999 what year in film would you want to cover every single movie of?

Kristofer James

If you could choose any film from the past to be remade with a "blank check" budget, what film would you choose and what changes or updates would you make to the story or production?

EJ

With the return of 3D HFR, what are your updated takes on 2019’s Walking the Talk: A Funeral for Frames? Has the broader public moved past the soap opera associations? Will there be a wave of cheaply done 3D HFR that turns off the public like the post Avatar 1 wave? What have you heard about future 3D HFR technological developments (I’ve heard whispers online that Cameron is working on glassesless 3D)? And most importantly are you excited for the HFR re-release of Titanic in February?

Andy

What is your favorite movie that takes place on an island?

Caleb O'Brien

I know some filmmakers are no-go—Polanski & Allen for obvious reasons, Verbinski for Depp (though I’d love him sometime in the future). Are there any others that for whatever reason you’ve decided you won’t cover?

Sloane

Ben: thoughts on pipes? Not the smoking kind the ones that u use to transport liquid

Ben

Will David ever make his Super Mario World podcast?

Joshua Schrier

David: as a new father, what movies or TV shows are you especially excited to share with your daughter as she gets a little older? In the 3-8 year range?

Susan Hill

I’ve been finding that movie theater manners have gone to shit. Everyone is so used to watching all their media at home, they just keep behaving like they are at home—full volume conversations with other people, checking their phones and texting, etc. Personally I want complete silence, please don’t even whisper to your friends—I recognize this is rigid and unrealistic, but am I alone in thinking the theater experience is worse, but not because of the movies, because of audiences? What’s a reasonable expectation for a theater-going experience in 2023? I never want to stop going to the theater, but one disruptive person can ruin it for me and I just don’t want to be that person who narcs to an usher. Would love your perspective!

Douglas Wykstra

Every summer when I was growing up, me and my 3 sisters would pile into our grandparents' van and ride for 9 hours to their house in a different state, and a few weeks later they would drive us the 9 hours back. My grandparents' van was one of those vans that had a VCR and an 8-inch CRT screen in it (it goes without saying that this struck the 4 of us as an incredible luxury, a sign that our grandparents were wealthy beyond our wildest imaginations), but they only ever had the same 3 movies in it: Mrs. Doubtfire, Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993), and An American Tale: Fievel Goes West. The combined runtime of these films was 6 hours and 46 minutes, which meant that, no matter how sick of them we were, we always ended up seeing all three on every 9-hour drive, because how else are you going to get through that. To this day I can't watch any of those movies without returning to those endless drives, the staleness of the air shared by four kids and two septugenarians, the sense of irritation you end up getting from just having your siblings within two feet of you for 9 straight hours, the sense of carsickness that isn't nausea so much as it is every nerve receptor in your body revolting at being made to sit in one position for 9 straight hours, the simultaneous sense of overstimulation and lethargy that happens in that situation. Do you have any films that awaken this sort of Proustian sense-memory in you, and is it a memory you enjoy returning to, or, like with me, a memory so unpleasant that the movie is effectively ruined for you, whatever its original merits? I still have never even tried to watch the original An American Tail.

SuiteTooth

What are your current favorite shoes to wear? And what do you think of people who take their shoes off at the movies?

TJ Myers

Jimmy Stewart or Cary Grant?

Zinny Donovan

Following on from the Nicolas Cage chat on the National Treasure eps, what are the best and worst wigs in cinema history? You can notice scenes from the phantom menace reshoots based on Ewan's hair, and its a real bad one

David Kirk

Do you feel like the podcast is evolving to a place where you are more likely to do mini series on the likes of Fellini or Tarkovsky rather then James Wan or James Gunn?

EJ

What are your limits as far as covering movies with mature content? You’ve obviously done Verhoeven and Harmony Korine has been a potential series for a while but is someone like Von Trier off the table?

Mesfin Mebrate

If you can get a neuralizer (the flashy thing from Men in Black) to wipe your memory of a specific film, which movie would you want to forget so that you can watch it again? Conversely, which films would you want to keep your memory of, because they are always more fun with each successive rewatch? And finally, are there any you want to forget about completely?

Kyle McNevin

What Director would see the greatest jump in their probability of being covered on the show if you could choose to skip an episode on a particular movie?

topher mehlhoff

Have you ever entertained the idea of a series covering a non director who nonetheless has significant control over their movies (like a movie star or a producer)?

Ian Michael Wilson

Does David have any improv experience. I know about Ben & Griffin's UCB experience but is David just naturally cursed? Also we know Griffin performs but does Ben still hit the improv stage every now and then? Mess around and crank out a Harold every couple months? Sincerely, Not an improv guy

Megan Bennett

I recently rewatched The Miracle of Morgan’s Creek and was reminded how much I like Diana Lynn, who plays the sister. What’s your favorite performance in a classic film from an actor who never became a household name?

Konstantin Cherganov

what are the weirdest conversations you’ve had about potentially covering a director? how far the rabbit hole have you gone?

Flynn

Would you rather spend a week with the Omatikaya or the Metkayina clan?

Jack

Griffin: good merch or good special features/commentary David: good worldbuilding to open the film or good kiss to end it Ben: pirate clothes or miniature animals

Andrew Woodberry

Genre mashups seem very popular these days. If you could M. Night an existing kid's movie, which would it be & can you describe the new ending to me?

Simon Crowe

Would you considering covering - either on main feed or Patreon (in lieu of a franchise) - a 70s auteur chosen by some kind of audience vote? I’m thinking Altman, Bogdanovich, or Ashby since the others you might do anyway.

Molly Verga

For those of us interested in joining you in collecting physical media, could you please recommend your favorite sources for buying new discs, for tracking down older discs, and for information about upcoming disc releases?

Seth Johnson

Say you have a Movie Magic Time Machine that let you go to spend 24 hours on the set of any movie while it's being filmed. You can talk to anyone, poke around any set and see anything related to the production (but they need to continue filming tomorrow, so no murders or arson, please.) What film do you go visit before the Time Machine pulls you home again? (With one souvenir, if you think you can get away with it.)

Dave Kaleta

If you could curate a tasting menu meal to pair with the entire catalog of Blank Check what dishes/drinks would you serve?

Simon Crowe

That was my main question, but also just wanted to say Lumet from 64-76 or so would be wild.

Eric Scheib

Just a couple questions on newer releases: did you guys watch the new Santa Clauses series on Disney+? And are you on team “Babylon is good”? Thanks, love the show.

Mischa Vaughn

Just watched the Before trilogy over the holiday for the first time. Don’t get me wrong I think they’re good but people talk about them like they’re the best screenwriting on earth. Please help me understand why folks think they are extra amazing?

Dane

Have you ever sat down to record an episode, made it halfway and cancelled the episode/series/director etc. ?

Brett Schwartz

Do either of you play trivia anymore? If so, (obviously, I don’t want to know where or when or details like that) what kind of trivia do you like, do you have a regular group?

Jake

My friend and I arrived late to Kung Fu Panda 2 because we were smoking a joint and missed the opening scene. The ending cuts to Po’s family shown to be still alive which we were thrilled by, but for everyone else, they already knew that. In my opinion, we improved the movie. What is the latest you have ever arrived to a movie and how did it change the experience?

Tyler Keen

What are your most anticipated movies in 2023?

Pail

What TV producers or TV-only franchises do you think follow Blank Check-style narratives?

Joseph Dakin

After 6 years making the show, has Blank Check changed your approach to writing, acting, and producing? Thanks for the laughs and the context!

Mr.Mitch2000

My goodness, I can’t believe I’ve been following you guys for now 5 years! Before I get to my question, I just want to say thank you Griffin, David, and the Benducer that is Ben, as well as many of the past-future guests that make the show as well, for making a great entertaining movie podcast. Each listen makes my day. Keep up the good work! Question: since the Oscar’s will be soon, I want to her y’all’s predictions on who my get a best picture nomination and who might win it?

Ian Isaboss

Has David played any of the David Cage "movie-games"? (Heavy Rain, Beyond: Two Souls, or Detroit: Become Human)?

Don Woods

Does Griffin have any behind the scenes details about “Beneath” - particularly about his monologue before being thrown to the killer fish? I find the movie oddly fascinating

jan teeken

This one's for us spreadsheet nerds; David, how do you have your spreadsheet laid out? Do you have one sheet for every year, or perhaps devided by decades? And do you have different rows as years going from left to right or do you work horizontally? These are all burning questions we need to have answered.

James Cain

Do you have a spreadsheet/structure based on what directors you will cover across the year, aside from the March Madness? Obviously some directors are more Griffin's or David's depending on taste and was curious how you balanced that. Being a New Zealander, it was great to see Jane covered last year, does highlighting cool directors people might not know as well factor into it more and more nowadays?

Zach & Steph Fialkow

Griffin, I believe you are in the same Mets-focused Twitter group/chat as my brother. He's told me that every time you (understandably!) leave the chat when it gets too active, everyone else in the chat comments "Griffin left." in succession. My question is: Thoughts?

Sam K

Ben we have heard about Porch Movies (my family had a cheap TV on our porch too in the summer) but what about Porch TV? Porch video games? We sometimes dragged our PS1 out to play Twisted Metal.

Phillip Malzer

What’s your favorite/ best physical media find you bought at a thrift store ? Could be in terms of the bargain you got for it or the rarity of the purchase

Jacques Lemarie

Who first pronounced “robot” as “rubut” or “robut”? Was it Griffin/David or John Hodgman?

Jordan Gibson

Can Ben's choice just be all of the Toxic Avenger movies?

Nathan Truman

Have you guys seen any good theater lately? Broadway/off-broadway/off-off broadway

Judd

I love the podcast. But whenever Griffin introduces an episode, I wonder about the metaphor in the title. The “blank check” is written by the studio. The director uses the check to finance the movie. So the check has to clear before the movie even gets made. If the check bounces (baby), there’s no movie, but the ultimate success of the movie has nothing to do with the check clearing or not. I’m sorry if this has come up before.

Conor Wadle

Has Ben ever buried boots?

Sacher

How successful do you think the trend of de-aging/resurrecting Hollywood stars is? And do you have any thoughts or interest in ABBA Voyage?

Alice

For Griffin, Ben and Marie(?): assuming it’s a movie that has been released before today what do you think The Boss Baby’s favorite movie is going to be as a teenager?

Edward Savoy

Can you power rank 2022’s “Eat the Rich” films (Triangle of Sadness, Glass Onion, The Menu, Windfall, and Bodies, Bodies, Bodies), the “ain’t the mooviesh something” films (The Fablemans, Babylon, Blonde, and Empire of Light) and “sexual abusers: VERY BAD” films (Women Talking, She Said, Barbarian, Resurrection, and Tar)?

Mike Robertson

I am in dire need of knowing what David considers the greatest food scene in the history of movies. What’s David’s favorite? Can be the enjoyment of said food or just the food itself. Is it the matrix filet or the Spanglish Sammie? Sorry if this has come up before.

Lando Givens

Have you guys had a chance to read Wesley Morris's excellent peice about the utter disappearance of movie stars in today's climate, with the recent success of some recent mid budget genre films (Lost City, Bullet Train, Nope, Free Guy, Everything Everywhere), do u think there's a chance the movie stars might return? Especially since Marvel movies have been underperforming are audiences ready to embrace star driven vehicles again?

Seth Filbin

Would you guys ever consider doing a live show on the West Coast?

masonlusk

I’ve been waving this flag for while: I love Nic Cage and recently I was watching a slew of Jake Gyllenhaal movies and I started to think that he and Nic Cage are kind of very similar. I think you could swap an age appropriate Nic Cage into any Jake Gyllenhaal role and vice versa. Prisoners with Nic Cage. I see it Okja with Nic Cage. I can see it. The Rock or Adaptation with Jake. I can see it. Here is my question: I can see Jake Gyllenhaal in Face/off. But following the same heuristic. Who the hell could be swapped out with John Travolta in any movie? I can imagine different actors in one or two Travolta roles but who could replace Our most bovine movie star in every movie?

Hannah H

A question for Ben: I've been reading the excellent Michael Azerrad book 'Our Band Could Be Your Life', and was wondering if you had any other books about music you might recommend? Alternatively, do you have any band recommendations for someone into that era of alternative/punk music?

Mark Lieberman

What would it take to get the Oscars to add awards for outstanding cast, stunt ensemble, first feature, etc.? It seems like a slam-dunk to please hardcore movie fans without alienating anyone who already doesn't care about the Oscars. If you were the Oscars and could retroactively give out Outstanding Cast awards for recent years, which movies that didn't win other ajor Oscars would you choose?

David Crosier

Can we hear your thoughts on Andor, given the origins of the Pod?

Eli Sands

For David: do you have any favorite pieces of film criticism, or critics who have especially influenced your writing? Thanks!

Malloy Malloy

Since ours will likely suck, which movies dystopian future would you rather live in?

Emmett

In the Justice League episode from November 26th, 2017 at the hour and 7 minute mark, Griffin states that he and Ezra Miller were “the John Wayne and John Ford of summer camp sketch comedy” considering the current controversies around Ezra, would Griffin be onboard with doing a two person improve show with Ezra vis-à-vis “Middleditch and Schwartz” and what would the tour be called?

Norman Normalperson

In the early 90s Hal Hartley basically invented what we nowadays call "A Cinematic Universe" where he had reoccurring charters appearing in films that weren't sequels. Without him no Martin Donovan playing Hap in Insomnia. Through his career he has received no Oscar noms, has never made a film that grossed even 10s of millions. But he never seemed at all interested in doing so. All his films are basically blank cheques because he only ever needed a cheque written out for CASH with a a budget under a million dollars. Would you consider doing him? It could be a BC reclamation project. You could use your powers to bring Hal a whole new audience.

Omeed

What are your top 5 movies that you covered in 2022? To make it easier, let’s say for episodes released in 2022.

Omeed

Also, are there are any plans to do live shows outside of New York this year?

Rebecca Mercado

Thoughts on the current state of the rom-com? Did you see Ticket to Paradise? Did that make you more or less optimistic?

Drew Raley

Paul Schrader: Nut or Butt? Also, Brian DePalma: Nip or Tip?

Andrew Dittmann

What are your personal rules for how to use Letterboxd? I feel like it's different for everyone

Richard Copping

What are your favourite childhood commercials/adverts?

Ben Starkey

Physical media update, specifically Griffin's 3D bluray collection.

Drew Comerford

If you were King Ralph'd, what would your first order of King business be? I would like answers from all three of you if possible.

Cethan Leahy

Now that so many film directors transition to TV, do you find yourself more likely to watch shows when Blank Check directors do it? For example Wednesday.

Andrew Carden

Just saying, you should add Neil Simon to an upcoming bracket.

Eric

Are you guys reading any comic books nowadays?

Lizz

Are there any up-and-coming actors who really popped for you this year?

Mr.Mitch2000

Hello Fenals! I am new to being a Patreon subscriber and am curious to know if there will be more love shows planned in the future of 2023? Also, what are the goals that blank check wants to strive for this year?

Alex Solliday

I really want to hear more about your setup in the new office. What kind of projector? What kind of sound system? What kind of chairs? all that jazz.

Péter Frivalszky-Mayer (freevo)

Here's a more blank checky question. Which movie by one of your favorite directors did you feel was so self-indulgent that it caused you to reconsider their previous works and realize they were pretentious all along? For an example, Birdman could come to mind for some.

Nicholas Colucci

If you had to live in any movie’s setting which would you choose?

Jeremy Costa

Do you remember the first cinematic experience that made you fall in love with the movies?

Borj

Would love to know your thoughts about how and why studios release movies at different dates throughout the globe? Being in Australia, it is pretty frustrating that this still occurs and seems unnecessary.

Jonathan Boehle

What are your thoughts on the Avatar box office run so far, any final gross predictions?

Steve Cimino

Also, please talk for at least 120 seconds about Babylon

Rory Dawson

Most treasured blu ray/most regretted blu ray purchase. Love your work folks : )

Trevor Talley

Have any of you been in a fight and did Ben win?

Rory Dawson

Having covered so many filmographies now, is there a particular stage in a career arc you find yourself preferring? Eg white hot debut, late career return to form, gonzo apex career blank check mess. I find myself liking the early nearly-there-but-not-quite-classics. Like a Sweetie or a Paths of Glory.

Matthew Conte

What director would you most want to see make their Fabelmans next?

Marzi Margo

why is les mayfield's 1997 auteurist masterpiece "flubber" so poorly regarded despite being a perfect film?

Matthew Conte

Is the part about cinematic universes true, though? I'm not as expert level film nerd as a lot of check mates but right off the top of my head I know Jacques Demy characters pop up in different films throughout his filmography. Also Kevin Smith's View Askewniverse, also in the '90s.

Matthew Conte

Which of Hitchcock's post-Birds movies are nuts and which are butts?

Allogistics

Why don’t you join the blankies discord, much cooler than the subreddit

Nick Gerber

I know you all have incredibly busy lives but would you ever consider touring australia? I know we would have to drug David to get on a long haul flight ala Mr T, but we have a bunch of great old cinemas that could host recordings in most capital cities, you could visit all the matrix filming locations in Sydney and Ben could bring Congratulations to Sydney Fashion week!

Matthew Conte

What two currently working actors would you like to see in a body swap movie?

Rob

This was a twitter prompt recently but what piece of shelved or lost media would you most like to see? 'Shelved or lost' referring to something that actually exists, like The Day The Clown Cried or the Dr Strangelove pie fight ending, not a hypothetical like Jodorwoski's unmade Dune adaptation. Alternate question: when is Shirley Li next available to come on your podcast :)

Paul Sorrells

Which streaming only movies most deserve a criterion release and why is it Tom hanks greyhound?

Gianna Burkhardt

I recently binged the John Wick movies and, arguably, he has the best dog. Which movie dogs (or animals) do you feel are some of the best?

Tab Jaguar

Has Griffin's career been negatively impacted by his takes?

Leelee G

How many new checkmates do I need to recruit to achieve my dream miniseries “Pods of Girlfriends Cast: The Films of Mark Waters”?

Erick Pessoa

Griffin, David and Ben, who surprised you the most by telling you he/she/they listen to Blank Check? Anybody unexpected?

Dan Stadnik

I know it's too late for 2023, but for 2024, would you consider making real physical "blankies" awards, and delivering them to the winners each year? I imagine if there is a financial burden, your checkmates would be willing to throw down a few more bucks.

Andrew Haworth

BEN WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE WEEN ALBUMS!!!

Andrew Haworth

DAVID WHAT ARE YOUR FAV SEASONS OF TASKMASTER AND CONTESTANTS!

Howard Bean

Any chance for future Patreon episodes where you have adventures outside of the studio? I especially love your Trolls: The Experience episode with Richard Lawson so much, as well as your Toruk: The First Flight episode. Hearing about your time with these bizarre productions and experiences is so delightful and funny.

Zachary Rimer

What are your biggest classic movie blindspots? For example has anyone secretly never seen the Godfather?

John Hardwick

2 friends: Biggest volte-face of a flick upon rewatch? Hoz: Best flick to watch while tripping…(that only you would think of)! Thanks! Much love!

Jacob Peattie

I had a question about films making you cry. When you say that a film made you cry does that include getting a a bit choked up, or do you need to be a little misty eyed? Do those tears need to be shed? Or is "crying" a description reserved for full on sobbing? When somebody else says they cried at a film, which of these do you assume they mean?

Kevin

Because we've got some Big Fans of Europa (and space in general) on the pod, do you have any opinions about the first year of JWST bringing us all kinds of amazing space news?

Chris Aoyama

Since Marvel Phase 4 is complete now, any official plan to do commentaries or is it still TBD?

Sean Gillum

Would you rather live on Pandora or a Star Wars planet of your choosing?

Andrew Reck

Andor? Andor? Andor? Andor? Andor? P.S. Ben what do you think of the fashion on Andor?

Zak Marrinan

Are you considering any more international directors like Bong Joon Ho, Akira Kurosaka, Ruben Ostland? I would love to see a deep dive on Lynne Ramsay's filmography (We Need to Podcast about Kevin)

McKenzie Davies

Jumping on the Sight & Sound train, but also- If you were elected President, what would you screen first in the White House? (Clinton screened Blank Check director George Miller’s Lorenzo’s Oil first!) (Fun fact: Jimmy Carter screened more than 400 movies during his 4 years, I need him to drop the Letterboxd @)

Jacob Dadon

If you guys managed to get one of your miniseries subjects onto the pod, would you prefer to focus on a single movie like a normal episode with them, or would you try to cover their whole career?

Thalia Castro

how does david know so much about history (tips?)

Cody Cloud

When’s the next Ben’s choice? Can you give any hints?

Dubious Legacy

Ben, which movies that the show introduced you to are your favorites? Have any entered the Ben Canon with other Ben's Choice movies? I'm remembering enthusiasm for Barry Lyndon, Sweetie, Koyaanisqatsi... anything else?

Alberto Manuel Lamoso

Totally get why Gore Verbinski is off the table for the time being, but I wanted to ask if there was any thought given to simply doing the Pirates franchise on Patreon and then when/if you ever get around to doing GV, skip those movies on the main feed. Would be unconventional to be sure but it eliminates three whole Johnny Depp movies being discussed in public, which I take to be the main drawback

Jared

Since the Miyazaki series you have mentioned wanting to branch out and do other foreign and/or animation directors. (I think you mentioned that lead to the great series on Musker and Clements…) However, I am surprised I have never heard any of you mention Satoshi Kon. Have you ever given him a thought for a series? He was incredibly influential and there would only be 4 films.

Dylan keirsted

Which actor would you like to see drop dong in a movie? Respectfully of course..

Francis Cooke

Having loved the Fosse series in 2022, are there any other (primarily) musical directors you'd consider for future miniseries? (I'll put in a small plug for Jacques Demy, one of my favs) Also, David - now that the bit is dead and buried, how are you feeling about Arsenal's run at the Premier League title this season? Any post-World Cup thoughts?

Simon Pulsifer

Stanley Kubrick rises from the grave. What film from the 2020s do you show him to illustrate where cinema has gone in the last 20 years, and how do you think he would react to the film?

Peter Angelinas

Thoughts on the trend of musicians taking on directing and campaigning their music videos? Is it category/awards show fraud? Is it legit and should long music videos be eligible for Oscars? I.e. Taylor Swift, Kendrick Llamar

Love

Please elaborate on your thoughts about Ruben Östlund winning the Palme d'Or for the 2nd time!

Davey Morrison

What’s a miniseries you would love to do, but don’t think you ever will (due to length or any other reason)?

Davey Morrison

You’ve covered the best walks in movie history and there has been talk about some good runs, but what about jumps? Do you have any favorite movie jumps?

Alex Horton

In February, I will be going to Orlando for the first time. I'll be going to Disney for 2 days and Universal for 1 (Maybe Legoland too). I know all of the iconic and hyped up rides to go on. But as someone who as only every been to a few Six Flags parks, what are some easily missable or overlooked places I should absolutely visit while I'm there?

Shane Warbrooke

Just a little game for funsies: any three directors you've covered doing any movies you've covered. What would you like to see? Spielberg's 2001? Campion's Terminator? Etc

Davey Morrison

You’ve mentioned Sidney Lumet’s “Making Movies” - do you have any other favorite books about movies?

Ian Davis

Oh yeah, any plans for The Atlantic, The Review podcast to make a return? Really enjoyed listening to David, Shirley, Sophie, Spencer, etc having a nice old chat. It is missed…

Isaac B

anything planned for future congratyoulations products?

Bill Bush

Two questions: what's the big idea? And just who the hell do you two think you are?

MJYakks

Why are critics/film awards so enthralled by bummer movies? Will there ever be critics/award shows who don’t celebrate sad, depressing films that only a handful of people have seen?

Josh Darby

Would Babylon qualify Damien Chazelle for a mini-series?

Augusto Castro

For Griffin: what are you collecting right now? Super7 Ultimates? Hasbro Star Wars? Lego Avatar? For Ben: please, comment on Griff's collection. Thanks.

Andy Sanchez

What do y'all think of IMDB trivia? Is it now PR practice to add IMDB trivia entries? I feel like I'm seeing a lot of long entries for newer movies focused on interviews, that look markedly different from how IMDB trivia entries have historically looked

greg kerr

What was your favourite discovery of 2022 that wasn't made last year? Eg. An old movie you hadn't heard of before, an obscure toy etc.

Ruperthrax

Have Ben or Griffin seen Europa Report? Not asking David because he hates Europa.

Ben Ritter

When are you going to cover Mr Corman?

Andy Sanchez

Can we get a rundown of your follow up viewings of Avatar: The Way of Water? Which format did you like best? Did Griffin wear the tights to future screenings? Did David?

Jonathan Nichols

Dear Ben, David, Griffin, JJ, and Marie, I’ll ask the question before the sentiment: How do y’all budget your time for movie-watching? I’m always struggling to see everything I mean to, and I would like to prioritize catching up on films this year. I find it more enriching than other forms of entertainment (tv, video games), but it’s sometimes harder for my wife or me to settle into a movie at the end of the day. Any tips? And on a brief sentimental note: I became a diehard Blankie in 2020 after years of my sister Lauren urging me to listen. Witnessing y’all’s friendship, humor, and earnest love of low, middle, and high art films helped reinvigorate my cinephilia and got me through the worst depths of the pandemic when I lived alone. Shout out to Lauren and y’all. Keep up the inspiring work. Blank it, Jonathan

Dani Gleeson

Which movie from 2022 would you like to have a PS2 era style videogame tie in if possible? Del Toro's Pinnochio as an overly cheery platformer with a Mussolini boss fight cooould be fun? Thanks for becoming my favourite podcast this last year and getting me through many dreary walks around wet, cold Scotland, Dani <3

Ben Coller

Bonkers question I came up with while half asleep: Of all the friends of the podcast (hosts, crew, past and future guests, etc.), whose biopic would do the best at the Oscars? A multifaceted I’m Not There-style biopic about the many lives of the Benducer perhaps? One of those “famous person as a child” movies about Gethard’s experiences at Action Park? A boring, by-the-numbers, unsurprising biopic about David’s uneventful youth growing up in New York and nowhere else? Love to hear your suggestions! Love y’all, Ben Coller from New Jersey

Eric

Dossiers: have y’all considered making those available to the audience? Maybe at the end of a mini-series, or after an episode is posted? Could be a good patreon benefit or you could make them available for a la carte purchase. For movies I love, I find myself wanting to read the dossier!

505

Please recommend some podcasts from the last year or so

Liam Haber

Specifically for BEN, but have you noticed your taste and appreciation of film changing the longer you work on the podcast? It’s fun listening to early episodes where you seem somewhat disengaged, but fastforward to now and you provide some great analysis and thoughts on the craft of filmmaking.

Akhil Akhil

Is there any plan to have a “Blank Check Presents:” universe where different hosts pick up different variations - really loved the All-girls “Birds of Prey” ep and think it might make sense to use your reach to actually have different sub-pods for specialized stuff (like World cinema masters, Bollywood, Hong Kong cinema etc) by connoisseurs better suited to address the context.

Riley Johnson

What’s the most toxic relationship you’ve ever had to a movie?

Revenge of Trash Boy

Any movies where your opinion on it took a 180 degree pivot after the episode dropped?

Liam

If you could have a sandwich named after you, what would be the sandwich? Or what would be the “blank check” sandwich?

Jeremy Kozeluh

Are there any movies you’d like to redo the eps for because of your opinion changing drastically upon reflection/ rewatching?

Jonathan Boriss

As a collector of toys and blu-rays I love when it comes up on the pod. What do your collections look like? How big? What are you into? I know Big Picture just did a blu-ray episode but would love for the Two Friends to do their version. I want to see the steelbooks!

David Mulhern

I got some Bombas socks as a gift last year (and then bought a couple more pair - they're great socks). Anyway, I've never encountered another product where people basically just recite the ad copy to me like people do when they see I have them on. They like to ask if they're as comfortable as the ads say they are, tell me about the donation policy, which I guess is nice, but it's weird how people just compulsively tell it to me like I don't know. And then the other day this guy was like "you know they make t-shirts and underwear now too!" Anyway, I guess the question out of all this is like, have you guys ever experienced this phenomenon? It's crazy-making.

Sam Petersen

How do you feel about people leaving subtitles on all the time? Helpful for shitty sound mixing? Ruiner of punchlines?

ajas11

Friends of the pod sean fennessey and timothy simons recently shared their favored physical media pickups. Would love to hear each of your top 3-5 (whether a movie you love or a specific edition of a release)

James Scott

How do y’all take your popcorn when seeing a movie? Butter, no butter, any powdered cheese or anything like that?

Nick Armstrong

Are there any directors that one co-host really wants to do, but the other co-host either really doesn’t want to, or even downright forbids it?

Steve Heron

Hey... how's your day going? Just checking in.

Patrick McCallum

If you could switch formats for a miniseries and cover a musician’s discography a la U Talkin U2 2 Me, one album per episode, who would you most like to cover and why? Whose album trajectory best fits the Blank Check mould?

Nathan

Griffin Newman in Kingdom Hearts when!?!?

Kent Siri

David (as a father of a boss baby) and Griffin (as a grown man with a taste for the infantile): what are your top under-the-radar recommends for movies that kids would love (say, between 3 and 8 years old). We've exhausted Miyazaki, Pixar, Disney, Dreamworks, etc. and need to add some bounce to our babiieeeeeees' watch lists.

Will Rogers

3 part question: have you ever considered a ranking of films covered for the year? Where would Crocodile Dundee fall for you? Would you please consider rewatching Crocodile Dundee for dialogue?

john barry

What're your thoughts on the video archive review of star 88?

Ang Lee's Dad

1993 speed round, best performance in each of: Jurassic Park, Addams Family Values, Dazed and Confused, Tombstone, Dave, Sleepless in Seattle, Super Mario Bros.

Noah Ontiveros

Of all the directors you’ve covered who would win in a royal rumble?

Abigail Andrews

Would it possible to somehow do a one off 'Oliver!' episode for pure proper street-urchin/ pick pocket vibes? Carol Reed (main feed or Dickens Patreon) mini-series when?

Matthew Levell

I’m a big fan of the two friends’s policy to return to past directors whenever they release a new film. By my count there are 13 Living Directors who have not released a film since their miniseries finished. How would you rank your interest in new work from them? John Carpenter Ang Lee Tim Burton Sam Raimi Michael Mann Hayao Miyazaki Cameron Crowe Kathryn Bigelow Jane Campion James L Brooks Brad Bird Nancy Meyers Musker and Clements

Forrest Bowling

Big fan, long time listener, first time caller Gotta ask, is this the Mets year?

Scott Browne

With Way Of Water’s success is there hope of any kind of 3D home media resurgence ? Me and some friends are avid 3D collectors reduced to importing from Japan and Australia to get our fix .

Louis Frey

How and why did Vin Diesel become Griffins guy?

Craig K

What’s your aunt’s favorite color?

Michael Crommett

Now that you’ve covered so many examples, do you think Blank Checks are ultimately good for the quality/health of cinema? What do you think of filmmakers (Sean Baker and Yorgos Lanthimos come to mind) who don’t ever cash a huge check but use their success to make further idiosyncratic, small films?

Steve Semian

As a parent hoping get his children(14 and 18) into “old” movies and - god forbid - foreign/subtitled movies, any foolproof recommendations?

Chris Lynch

I love when you rank director’s films, but I feel it was a missed opportunity to rank John Carpenter’s Scores. Would love to hear your thoughts on them! I’m partial to the Assault on Precinct 13 Main Theme.

Rajan Awasthi

Hey David, is The Atlantic's Review podcast ever going to come back? Loved that podcast and this one of course! Have a good day

Joseph Seeger

David, would James Cameron be into Animorphs?

Eggnog The Space Cadet

David! What was your favorite English football club growing up? Who were your favorite players?

Aidan

can you give us your thoughts on the new 100th anniversary disney fanfare that was in front of strange world aka a literal war crime

Tom

I tweeted at Lee Unkrich, who’s currently promoting his new book on the The Shining, to ask if he’d been contacted about guesting on your shining episode, and he replied that he wasn’t asked. So my question is, LEEEEE UNKRICHHHHH

Kozibear

What are your thoughts on the great Canadian City of Montreal?

Adam Reiner

What are Ben’s thoughts on chain mail? The ultimate fashion chains for Congratulations 2024 line!

ghostofjo

Griffin what's your favorite Kingdom Hearts game

J

Are there specific challenges to covering a director that never worked in the Hollywood system? Any foreign directors you've been itching to cover?

ives

Who is hottest? Christopher Plummer in “The Sound of Music,” Alan Arkin in “The Russians Are Coming,” or Albert Finney in “Tom Jones”? And why does no one talk about how hot these dudes were in the 60s?!?

JenTheDog

Chain restaurant from another country or area of the US you wish you had access to in NYC?

Kate

I’m a big fan of the show desert island discs — do you guys enjoy that show too? (I think it seems like something you’d like!) What would be your castaway items? (eight recordings, a book and a luxury item) Thank you + love the show! ❤️

Charlie Kessler

Merchandise spotlight! Did you ever make your own merch as a kid? For example, and for reasons I'll never fully be able to unpack, when I was probably 4 or 5 I wrapped a brick in Toy Story wrapping paper and pretended it was a fruitcake from Pee Wee's Christmas Special. My parents still have it at their house to this day. Does this make me a dang ass freak?

Brian Inciong

With movies getting longer and longer these days, I'm curious what are your strategies for bathroom breaks during movies? When do you know when to go? What foods/drinks should be avoided? Etc. etc.! Thanks! Love the show!

Wes MacDonald

I absolutely love needle drops with a dance in movies, (think Beau Travail, Another Round, Mountains May Depart, etc). So what do y’all think about dancing in movies, and what are y’all’s favorite dance scenes?

Norman Normalperson

The Academy have very rudely never given Donald Sutherland a nomination, What are the top 5 films you would give him a nod for, and what's the one he should have taken home the statue for?

Russ

As a GNR fan, how does Griff feel about Slash being in Capital One ads?

Madeleine Remi

Any thoughts about Justin Lin’s departure from Fast 10 and Louis Leterrier replacing him?

Matthew West

How do you decide when to combine films into one episode vs just starting at a later point in a filmography? I know usually this isn't relevant but looking at someone like Carl Th Dreyer who has about 6 hard to find silent movies - would those hypothetically be condensed or skipped? I think those episodes would be interesting but probably wouldn't bring in the best numbers

Matthew H

Is there a director whose filmography you would prefer to cover via Patreon-style commentaries? Or a franchise you would prefer to cover via regular episodes?

Winnipeg Bisque

a Griffin question—what do/did you find most appealing about Survivor? & favorite seasons/contestants?

Matthew Conte

Where is Marie's go-to cheesesteak

Michael Motyka

What’s the last movie you all saw? was it a nut or a butt?

Wilson Belbin

What was the best lunch you had at a commentary record in 2022?

masonlusk

If Star Wars comes out in 1992 Who do you cast in the main roles?

Alex

How much longer do we have to wait for a Tony Scott series? If you’re gonna keep doing white guys at least pick one who’s aware that black people exist

Tyler Solar

What SNL cast member, current or past, do you want to see have a film career?

Daniel Citron

ET: if you touched him, would he feel wet or dry?

jl0629

They already brought this up on one of the Patreon episodes. Might’ve been Oops all the Burger Reports.

jl0629

I know David wants to do Wong Kar Wai (Mood for Love, Chunking Express). Plus there’s British director Peter Weir (Master and Commander).

jl0629

Sounds like they need to do another fanfare episode

jl0629

Show them Duck Soup

jl0629

I feel like Griffins answered that on one of the times he’s discussed a Fast and Furious film and/or Riddick.

jl0629

Raimi just did Strange 2 while Campion released Power of the Dog. Mann and Miyazaki both have films slated for this year.

jl0629

I know they’ve discussed doing a Patreon series of Philip K Dick adaptions.

jl0629

I know David wasn’t crazy about Burton but initially came around to doing him.

jl0629

Best was Jupiter Ascending “If this is a space opera, why is there no singing?”

Rad Rodge

I'd really love to hear this one haha, I can't bear to trawl back through all 650 comments but being lucky enough to spot this one I want to endorse it

Jonathan Krause

What will happen after the tipping point when you've covered so many living, still-working directors that you have more than 52 new releases to cover per year?

Andy Sanchez

Thoughts on Aaron Taylor Johnson as Bond?

Andy Sanchez

From the episode, it seems like it bother either of you that Holly Hunter is willing to work with The Big Hurt again in the Broadcast News epilogue—why not? It seems like a huge compromise of her values and ruins her arc for me

Nolan Murphy

I failed to get a question in before the deadline, but you guys failed to consider the human factor, I did not know this post was gonna be posted on Patreon at this exact hour. With that being said, what’s your favorite Bill Hader SNL sketch?

J

Totally! I know they've mentioned a few, mainly curious if it presents a research issue or possibly a cultural context concern. Curious to know how they think about it!

Will Rogers

I’m late so maybe it’s for next year but… would you consider a Mailbag Challenges pod? For example, I. Halle ge you to rewatch Naked Gun 1 - 33 1/3 and still say the original isn’t superior by a mile.

Jack Tucker

to griffin specifically - was the lightyear movie always going to not work or was there a way to make a buzz lightyear movie that you would have been into?

Kenn Edwards

Does the fact that the Reddit/fan conversation is just a constant, never-ending stream of “my dream miniseries is…” and “when will you cover…” not annoy all of you guys collectively as much as The Bit annoys David? I feel like it’d annoy me. I’d beg for everyone to just be grateful. They already get to vote in March Madness!!

Julie H

How are y’all doing in the Vulture Movies Fantasy League?

Henry Meyer

Favorite Jackie Chan movies

Vegan Police

So upset that I missed the deadline, but I will still try to submit the following questions: What are y'all's thoughts on Neil Breen? Would you consider a "disaster artist" such as him to be an auteur?

Tony Jennaway

Does anyone know what happened to the Austin Powers episode(s)?

jimmy leavens

Do you find yourself changing a lot of ratings on Letterboxd? Like what qualifies at 2, 3, 4 and changing? What’s your approach?

Chloe Jade Skye

I know I’m well past “late to the party” for this thread, but I also don’t know where to suggest a director. A Man Called Otto is making me want a Marc Forster miniseries. Not because I love a single movie that he’s made, but because of the sheer range of conversations that miniseries would allow. Craig Bond talk? Will Ferrel talk? Modern Hanks? Halle Berry Oscar convo? Every episode would have an amazing hook; and that alone makes me want it to happen

Andrew J. Eisenman

Has David seen Obayashi’s “The Little Girl Who Conquered Time?” This feels like something Griff would like as well, but it’s like a venn diagram of David films specifically.