The Photograph and The Gentlemen

) Marie and Mike talk about two very different movies in this episode, and they don't even pretend to provide a glib transition as they move from one movie to the next. "The Photograph" is a sensitive romance starring Issa Rae and Lakeith Stanfield. These African-American actors have been gaining recognition with their recent roles, prompting our two critics to have a broader discussion about the representation of characters of color in feature films. Mike actually teaches a course on this very subject, so don't get him started! Their discussion about "The Photograph" taps into their overall podcast strategy of using reviews of specific films to spark consideration of larger cultural issues. The second movie that's discussed, "The Gentlemen," does not fare well under their critical scrutiny. Sensation for its own sake is celebrated by British director Guy Ritchie ("Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels"), and the loud and hollow story mostly squanders the talent of actors including Matthew McConaughey, Michelle Dockery, Eddie Marsan, Hugh Grant and Colin Farrell. Truth be told, Marie and Mike have fun trashing this movie.