When they’re in their wheelhouse, it’s a great listen. Certain movies are just a great fit for them to review, but if they happen to not like a movie, boy, do they pout and nag. I think there’s this balance that movie podcasts need to adhere to, in regards to opinion and information. And often, they let their personal opinions of movies really prevent them from just being objective, especially when it comes to morality. They’re not as bad as many of the other podcasts, but they can get really petulant when they don’t agree with something in a movie, especially considering their ages. But like I said, when they review a movie that’s right in their comfort zone, that’s when they really shine.

I found this show while wanting to take a deep dive on a particular title, and found it an enjoyable enough listen that I’m working my way through their back catalog of episodes. Bev is ostensibly the sidekick but she really makes the show a worth listening to. She’s witty and knowledgeable and well-read, so her insights are fresh and interesting. I don’t like it when Ryan sings. A nightmare.

Knew I'd stumbled into a twitch-leftist podcast when heroes of 'Once Upon a Time in the West' (Harmonica, Sergio Leone) were derided for Harmonica 'me-too-ing' Jill, forcefully ripping her sleeves and tearing off her collar. Attention, childlike floaters [spoilers]: Harmonica knew Frank had assassins outside waiting for Jill, so he arranged appearances and Jill's fear/demeanor, setting them up to ride into his trap and be killed, saving the life of Jill — a woman he didn't harm at any point in the movie… a woman he restored as heiress to a fortune. But Harmonica didn't understand CurrentYear politics, and that's what these people consider more important than elegant plot and honor. Clicked off and deleted when that foolishness was repeated soon after, another somewhat subtle point flying over their heads into the setting sun while they signal synchronized incredulous scorn.

It feels like I have wandered in the desert of movie review sites for years since the death of Roger Ebert. Every time I think I have found a comfy place to hear and share thoughts on movies some genre or trend emerges that leads me to ask myself “what did I ever see in you “ After finding and thoroughly enjoying THE TOP 100 PROJECT during COVOD, I now feel like I have a place to call home where I can take a load off and listen to thoughtful movie commentary that gels with my sensibilities. Bev and Ryan magically balance the scales between artistic insights and practical entertainment - that’s no easy job and they are masterful at it. As important, is their entertaining curation of each episode. Each of them prepare for an episode that maximizes the discussion without being stilted. The basic design of the show cleverly moves the conversation along in a spirited and never cumbersome way. IN A NUTSHELL, awards & recognitions and Ryan’s aspect ratio comments really offer helpful insight for a devout movie fan like me that doesn’t possess the the critical technical knowledge of film. The mere fact that they include comments in each episode about the score alone elevates their show above 98% of all other movie criticism podcasts. Finally and most importantly for me:: I have finally found in Bev my movie soul mate. She forthrightly understands the need for movies to be art. We agree on nearly every artistic aspect of films from the development of characters and dialogue to the use of visuals and sound. It isn’t that I frequently differ from Ryan’s takes on movies but to say I never disagree with Bev’s reviews. Bev has confirmed so many of my thoughts on films that I previously thought I held alone. Better yet, she has pointed out scores of elements that I missed and end up adding depth to my sentiments and to the film. A Big Thanks to Bev! All of this is to say: Happy 500th Episode!!!! To everyone out there searching for a podcast that will increase your appreciation of films through out history , this is the podcast for you. Not a single clunker in the 500 episodes. Great thanks from a big fan. John

Entertaining, perceptive, and well-informed discourse on widely known films, their casts/producers/directors, and the times in which they were made.

Absolutely love the podcast. My companion for the entire AFI thank you!! I know you two don't seem to be a fan of Terrance Malick but i think it would be interesting to hear you guys talk about a movie that maybe neither of you two really like so please do any one of his films as he is one of my favorite directors!!

Bev and Ryan are so smart and funny. I stumbled upon this years ago when the Heathers episode came out. Bev and I agree, that movie is amazing. I have been hooked ever since. I have even gone back and listened to some more than once. If I could wish one wish for a future review it would be for them to cover Say Anything.

great podcast. charismatic hosts, informed takes, relatable perspective 🤙🏾 please change the name though, like… we’re past the AFI list at this point, fortunately i must add.

I love the Ellis' approach and research into critiquing these film classics......not a fan of the AFI and their milquetoast lists but I have gone through the back catalog of episodes and have enjoyed the Ellis' honest, informative and always entertaining dissection of some of my favorite films (although I was taken aback by their dislike of one of my all-time faves, "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington"; however, their review opened up a new perspective of looking at that movie for me).......also I love Bev Ellis's disdain for Richard Dreyfuss--hilarious! (how about reviewing "The Goodbye Girl"??).....this is an explicitly-languaged podcast, which for me is the shortest road that a good or great podcast can take to my heart--keep cursing guys! You two do great work and I hope you continue to do so for a long time to come. Give this film podcast your undying attention people-you'll always learn something. Thanks Mr. and Mrs. Ellis!

This is my favorite podcast and I always listen to it after watching a film. They always point out things I didn’t pick up and i love Bev’s insights into editing and how Ryan can remember everything (especially when it comes to the oscars). I appreciate how they can disagree with each other and have very thoughtful discussions about why. If they like a film i didn’t like, or vice versa, i usually rewatch it because I trust their opinions. And they actually make me laugh, which I think is rare in podcasts. I love you guys pls do Boogie Nights and more foreign films (or just more PTA)

You two clearly have the best marriage. Not only do you get along but you make each other laugh. That said it’s your reviews that are the star of each show. They are really good and informative. Last year you did your favorite comedies. You need to repeat that format for other categories. Another thought, how about by actor? The five best movies of Paul Newman or Meryl Streep etc. No matter what keep doing what you two clearly love.

I don’t always agree with their assessments, and I think they allow their politics to intrude into their analyses too often, but the hosts are enthusiastic film lovers whose conversations are often enjoyable and sometimes edifying. In my books, that makes a solid podcast that is fit for a bike ride, a run, or a nap. Listen, learn, enjoy.

“Jarring missteps in my opinion.” Thanks for adding that last part otherwise I would have taken it as objective truth. That’s how you began your discussion of one of the greatest movies ever made. Right after that I turned you off and removed the podcast from my library. Bye Felicia.

Husband and wife team review movies. Unfortunately their commentary is quite shallow. They apply their narrow personal perspective to every film and seem unable to take a step back and see the bigger picture (pun intended), particularly the wife. They view older films strictly through a modern lens, both in terms of social commentary and in the filmmaking itself. There are much more worthwhile review options out there.

I love your podcast and have listened to almost all of them, Ryan has a lot of information to share, he does talk way too fast sometimes but I try to keep up with him Bev is intelligent in her analyses. I love the way you guys review all aspects of the plots,reviews and everything else. I like to rewatch the movies after your reviews. .. from Margot NYC

I love the podcast; it’s really helping me learn more about movies and improve my critical thinking about them. I always watch movies and then immediately download the podcast for your analysis. That said, the spoilers are so irritating given that I’ve not seen many of these movies and would like to enjoy them for the first time! It’s always “spoiler alert” immediately followed by the spoiler with no time to skip or pause to avoid it. I understand these are older films but I just feel that the spoilers are totally unnecessary to the podcast, so I wish you’d leave them out. I’ll still keep layering though as that’s my only critique!

One of my favorite podcasts. I love how much they know about the movies they review and their insight into film. And I appreciate that they don’t take 2 hours to review a movie like some others. Always smart and funny and I love that they are a couple!

Occasionally informative. Sometimes funny. Nice to hear different opinions on classic movies. Like most hardcore liberals, they’re unable to stop themselves from thinking everyone wants them to interject their politics into talking about movies from decades ago. They sure think they’re funny making ‘jokes’ about President Trump given that the guy they elected has an incurable habit of dressing up in blackface and inappropriate behavior towards women... yet somehow they never mention him. Funny, eh?

Ryan and Bev are great hosts who guide you through the AFI lists chronologically which makes for a great journey through film history! Ryan is super knowledgeable and and can rattle off academy awards info off the top of his head! Bev has a great grasp on the social issues and always does a great job of addressing the historical context of each film. It’s so addicting I caught up on all the episodes covering films I’ve seen in around a year! They have covered almost 400 films now! And they constantly post episodes and never take extended breaks. You won’t regret just starting off right with the oldest episode of a film you’ve seen. Or any film you don't mind hearing spoilers for.

I love listening to podcasts about the movies I watch. I’m making my way through AFI’s Top 100... lists and would love it if Bev and Ryan would discuss movies that made the Thrills, Laughs and Passions list since they’re done with the original and revised Top 100 Movies lists. I recently watched Strangers on a Train, Sex and the Single Girl and Sabrina. Would love to get Bev and Ryan’s take!

I’ve heard many a film podcast far and wide but Ryan and Bev are the best at what they do. They always offer fresh and insightful perspectives on all the films they watch, whether it’s one I’ve never heard of or one I’ve seen countless times. Thank you for bringing back my love of movies.

I am a dyed-in-wool fan. Funny, highly entertaining yet deeply insightful. The two hosts have great respect for one another AND are respectful of their listening audience (I just can’t stand podcasters who spend their first 20 minutes joking with one another or yakking endlessly about what they did over the weekend). Kudos to Mr & Mrs. Ellis for staying on-task while having fun. I respectfully request that they review any of the following five movies (take your pick): THE MIRACLE OF MORGAN’S CREEK TOPKAPI JUDGEMENT AT NUREMBERG THE ELEPHANT MAN JUGGERNAUT Keep up the great work!

In a world with a million movie podcasts, these two are tops. Ryan always has fun facts to whip out, and I especially appreciate Bev’s take on whichever film they’re discussing.

You can tell that this pair is truly passionate about film. They always reference very relevant examples and comparisons between the current film and ones in the past. Always very original trivia and fun banter between the two. I’ve been listening to these two for 6 months now, and I have listened and relistened to hundreds of their podcasts. I’m always excited to realize that a film I just watched was reviewed by them, even if I don’t always agree with their opinions, they are well supported and I always feel like I learn something from them. I’m also a half-Canadian listening from the States, so my Canadian side always feels patriotic when I hear their accents. I’m not one for the mushy stuff, but they’re pretty freaking adorable together too.

I love this podcast. It is like all of us do with our friends over dinner. Real movie people. My only minor complaint is that there seems no reason that Ryan needs to drop the F bomb so much. Occasionally, ok... but so often. The podcast is so intelligent that this diminishes it a little. Still worth 5 big stars for the fun banter. Suggestions- granted I love astronaut movies but how about The Right Stuff, Hidden Figures, The Martian? (Also, Jerry McGuire)

Love the podcast. My boyfriend and I have been going through the Top 100 as we listen. Also please do Hereditary!!

I've ripped through about 70 episodes in 2 weeks, Been going through both AFI lists myself and this is a great companion piece as well as other movies that they've covered. Very entertaining and insightful.

I’ve really enjoyed your show. Of course I have a suggestion for you. Please review the NASCAR movie ‘Kenny Rogers Six Pack’ featuring Dian Lane, Erin Grey, and Anthony Michael Hall.

I was looking for examples of how good an AFI-list related podcast can be and this is by far my fave. Insight and info is great. The chemistry is undeniable. So happy to see it going beyond the top 100. More episodes for all to enjoy!

If you want to hear good people knowledgeably talk about some of the greatest films ever made, this is the podcast for you. Ryan and Bev are likable and down to Earth and with so many podcasts I often find myself going back and listening to what they have to say on some of my favorite movies. Great job and keep the fantastic work coming! Also, don’t have any kids cause that will end the podcast!

They drop a ton of spoilers for movies they’re not even talking about.

The reviews are a basic outline of the films, but the hosts are fun to listen to, and there’s a lot of interesting related information that gets randomly thrown in. Fun for a quick overview!

I stumbled across this podcast by accident and am now working my way through the entire catalog. If you enjoy the podcast FilmSpotting, you’ll like this one too. Thanks to Ryan and Bev for all the great episodes!

Recently got into podcasts and this has quickly become a go-to for me. Bev and Ryan have natural chemistry and always bring well thought out and insightful opinions to the movies they review. I am loving the "reasonably good questions" segement and hope you two keep up the great work!

Thank you Ryan and Bev Ellis for this extraordinarily entertaining podcast listing the Top 100 movies of all time. They finished the list, but thankfully the insightful views keep coming. Give it a try. I look forward to it.

Love the podcast in general and have probably listened to over fifty episodes in just the past week, but just wanted to mention, as someone who has lost hours down the rabbit hole of mulholland-drive.net, I enjoyed the discussion of that movie in particular. Maybe one day Bev will give us her full rendition of the Spanish version of Roy Orbison's "Crying". Silenciooooo.

The hosts have a good rapport, are knowledgeable and clearly love great films. The only major downside, and it's huge, is Ryan talks like he's snorted a bunch of speed and will explode if he talks under 55 words every 20 seconds. I don't know if he's reading straight from notes or it's just how he is in general, but it's really annoying and takes me out of the subject matter. When I do check them out now, which is only occasionally due to this issue, I change the setting on my App. to slow him down, but then of course Bev, who speaks in a normal cadence, is now wallowing through quicksand, which is equally disconcerting. Would be Five stars if Ryan could manage to chill out and run a half marathon, not a sprint...cheers.

I've only listened to a couple of episodes so far and they have both been fantastic. Looking forward to listening to all of them. Keep up the good work!

These two are absolutely great. They both have their own opinions and both have a lot of knowledge over the film in question. So cute. So entertaining. Where can I donate???

I have had to revise my review. The tone of this podcast is uneven. The generally good episodes are interspersed with ones that are marred by intolerance and poor choice of language. It's too bad, I had gotten to like the series.

This podcast was essential material for me when I was teaching a high school Intro to Film course last year. Now that I'm in graduate school for cinema studies, I can say Bev and Ryan really do know their stuff. I just love it--I never miss an episode and hope these two continue to do their great work once they complete the project in the coming weeks. Thanks for all your hard work and wonderful insight, you two!

I found this podcast while looking for an Apocalypse Now review and now its one of my favorites! I love it and its inspired me to watch all the AFI movies too.

As a movie buff in training, this is far and away the most entertaining and insightful podcast around. Ryan and Bev's passion radiate throughout. Even if I don't always agree with their opinions, their points are always well expressed and valid. Great work.

Great podcast to listen to while going through AFI's top 100 movies.