Reasons to dump you...

Adventures in Babysitting

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 06:30:00 +0000

With Toronto doubling for Chicago, and a 24 year old Elizabeth Shue playing 17 year old Chris Parker, things are not entirely as you might remember in Adventures in Babysitting. Listen in for an extraordinary ‘night on the town’, where we uncover numerous problems with the movie, and discover the true hero of the entire story. (Hint, it’s also the character who most deserves a follow up film).

Tango & Cash

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 06:30:00 +0000

Does rain cause electrical cables to spark? Do all exotic dancers play the drums? Why do eighties cops never follow the rules? And ultimately, will Tango & Cash live up to Brian’s teenage memories? All this and more in this thrilling instalment of Reasons to Dump You.

A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night.

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 06:30:00 +0000

Join us as we saunter our way through Bad City, losing ourselves inside the western-horror-romance mash-up that is Ana Lily Amirpour‘s A Girl Walks Home Alone At Night. Question is, do we witness the most romantic cinematic scene ever created, and what on earth is the significance of the cat?

Vice

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 07:30:00 +0000

We’re heading to the White House to figure out what the deal was with Dick Cheney and to learn more about his disturbing legacy. Vice gives us amazing performances from all involved, and kudos to hair and make up, but ultimately do our opinions on the film bring us closer together or push us further apart? As usual, expect some agreement, some argument and always general relationship frustration.

An American Werewolf in London

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 07:30:00 +0000

We’re off to the Slaughtered Lamb for a cup of tea and a chat with the locals, so join us by the fire as we discuss comedy/horror mash-up An American Werewolf in London. We muse over many aspects, not least where are David’s parents and how did he pay for that bus journey? Arguments arise over the werewolf transformation scene and Brian seems to struggle to say the word sex. If you need any more convincing to listen, we somehow also manage to mention Frasier Crane, Rod Stewart and Lee Mack. You’re very welcome.

The Matrix

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 07:30:00 +0000

Who knew that The Matrix could spark such an emotional response? If you also feel passionately about it, then you’re not gonna want to miss hearing Brian’s thoughts, feelings and general love for the film. Oh, and Sinéad‘s there too. For facts if nothing else ;)

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Things are getting serious as we watch Three Billboards Outside Ebbing Missouri. With exceptional performances and stunning storytelling, it’s a home run for Writer/Director Martin McDonagh. Expect Brian to get names wrong and Sinéad to make a Stand By Me comparison.

Note: This film is a stunning portrayal of grief, but it’s not an easy watch. If you are suffering grief and loss, please do reach out to someone to talk and ask for help.

Sausage Party

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 07:30:00 +0000

Never again will you look at a hotdog and bun in the same way after watching 2016’s Sausage Party. Once Sinéad has gotten over the weirdness of the entire film, Brian does his best to explain why he chose it. Expect confusion, shock, humour, and a smattering of concern. Plus, a cracking Back to the Future connection by way of Bill Hader (the voice of Firewater, Tequila and El Guaco).

The Karate Kid

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 07:30:00 +0000

We kick off season three by heading into the Miyagi-verse with the original, 1984 film, The Karate Kid. It’s Sinéad’s choice and she is willing to defend it to the death at the All Valley Karate Championship. Brian is in something of a cheeky mood, finding time to raise concerns about the lack of insurance and the length of beach parties. In support of Daniel La Russo, Sinéad ends up with five reasons to dump Brian and he’s lucky to get off that lightly. As we wax off, we also wonder who would win in a fight between John Kreese and Chong Li from Bloodsport. Thoughts?

The Best of Season 2

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 07:30:00 +0000

Mini episode alert! Our top four films from season 2 took us to Miami, New York, Scarborough, and Los Angeles. It’s a delectable quartet of films and we had plenty to agree (and disagree) about, but suffice to say they were all top VHS scorers. Which is your favourite?

Moonlight (10* VHS tapes)

Goodfellas (10 VHS tapes)

Saint Maud (9.5 VHS tapes)

Speed (9.5 VHS tapes)

Ghostbusters

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 06:30:00 +0000

We ain’t afraid of no ghosts and to prove it we are watching the original 1984 smash hit, Ghostbusters. Turns out Brian has a thing for both Louis (Rick Moranis) and Janine (Annie Potz), whilst Sinéad wants to know; why do possessed people always become hyper-sexual? A film full of great comedy lines, iconic images and a mixed bag of special effects, we find plenty to disagree about, not least, Gozer - more David Bowie or more Marie from Roxette? Discuss.

Moonlight

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 06:30:00 +0000

We are keeping things highbrow over here at Reasons HQ, so for this episode, we revisit the Oscar winning film Moonlight. We wax lyrical over the script, performances and style of the film and share an important fact about Naomie Harris’ early career. We’re not just here to provide great facts and reasonably intelligent thoughts though. Oh no. We also find time to ask, why do American kitchens never seem to have kettles and is Brian’s head really expanding?

The Trial of the Chicago 7

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 06:30:00 +0000

Things are getting serious in this episode, as Brian suggests we sit down to watch The Trial of the Chicago 7. If you love a courtroom drama, this will be right up your street and the script is an undeniable zinger. Prepare yourself for a party political broadcast from the Liberal Brian Party and some reality versus drama facts from Sinéad’s personally curated Nerd Alert. (Still up for debate: does Joseph Gordon-Levitt look like Mr Burns' blue-haired lawyer from The Simpsons? Discuss...)

Speed

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 06:30:00 +0000

We may have just found the ultimate date night movie. What is it you ask? Well, it’s Speed. Obviously! Why? Well…Keanu Reeves - tick. Sandra Bullock - tick. Action - tick. Romance -tick. What more does any relationship need? Despite this being Sinéad’s choice of film, Brian’s excitement levels are through the roof and oh boy does he want to tell us all about it. Basically, strap in because we are travelling at well over 50mph. (I know, even we think that’s a cheesy analogy, but humour us this one time).

Dumb and Dumber

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 06:30:00 +0000

We’re off to Aspen with Harry and Lloyd, so jump in the Mutt Cutts van and come along for the ride as we dissect the 90’s comedy, Dumb and Dumber. Brian has been quoting this film for the past twenty odd years and is more than ready to argue it’s case. Bold statements are made, temperatures rise and this could indeed spell the end of the relationship. (No parakeets were harmed in the making of this episode).

A League of Their Own

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 06:30:00 +0000

There’s no crying in baseball, but there may well be tears before this episode reaches its conclusion. Sinéad tries to explain to Brian the eight different levels on which 'A League Of Their Own' delivers but he seems more concerned with Shelley Duvall (who is not even in the film). If you want an emotionally driven - sports - comedy - girl power - based on a true story drama, then join us. Equally if you like hearing a couple argue and list out reasons to separate, tune in!

Goodfellas

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 06:30:00 +0000

As far back as I can remember I always wanted to be a podcaster. Yep, that’s right, for this episode, we’re diving headfirst into the Scorsese masterpiece, Goodfellas. We discover Brian has a crush on Karen, Sinéad thinks she can run from the mafia and Lorraine Bracco was beaten to an Oscar by Whoopi Goldberg in Ghost. Meanwhile our Nerd Alert reveals potential alternate cast and the inspiration behind the bearded man and dogs painting by Tommy’s mum (aka Mrs Catherine Scorsese). Whatever you do, don't let the sauce stick.

Saint Maud

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 06:30:00 +0000

This episode is a full scale love in for Saint Maud, with top VHS scores across the board and only two dumpable offences. If you have a penchant for psychological horror and stunning performances then this is the film for you. We chat awards recognition, the bleakness of the British seaside, ‘godgasms’ and cockroaches (naturally).

The Terminator

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 06:30:00 +0000

The future meets the past and babies are conceived after they’ve been born. Yep, Brian’s film choice for this episode is The Terminator (and don’t forget the ‘The’). Whilst he gets nostalgic for times gone by, Sinéad explains why cyborg Arnie is a mash up of Frankenstein’s monster and Michael Myers. Ultimately, we’re left with a few questions, not least…why keep ammunition casually available on your shop counter? But we hope you enjoy and remember...we’ll be back.

Three Men and a Baby

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 06:30:00 +0000

Prepare yourself from some dodgy French pronunciation and disagreements over montages because we’re here to chat about Three Men and a Baby. That’s right, strap yourself in for a Selleck, Danson, Guttenberg 80’s treat! Brian claims double standards as Sinéad defends the female characters and we both admit that we’d sleep with all three men just to get a room in that apartment. It’s all so nostalgically exciting, we even forget to mention the urban legend of ghost boy. (Trust us - you can Google it).

Bad Boys

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 06:30:00 +0000

Beware! After watching Bad Boys, Brian is on such an adrenalin high, he’s chatting away like he’s ingested an entire Haribo factory. So expect a top speed rundown of the Simpson/Bruckheimer/Bay movie formula. Meanwhile, Sinéad fixates on Téa Leoni’s boots and gives us the recipe for making the perfect prop urine. Finally, say hello to our new segment - ‘Nerd Alert‘ where Sinéad shares as much film trivia as she can, in just a few minutes. Altogether now, 'Bad boys, bad boys, what you gonna do...'

Clue

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 06:30:00 +0000

Was it Mrs Peacock in the Library, Colonel Mustard in the Kitchen or maybe Miss Scarlet in the Dining Room? Let’s be honest, when you’re having this much fun, who cares? Grab a weapon, draw a card and press play to launch our delicious dive into the comedy classic Clue. Whilst Sinéad gets over excited at the endless quotability of the film, Brian drafts a list of reasons as to why she loves slapstick. There’s laughter, VHS scores and reasons to dump you. Oh, and of course, why settle for just one ending?

Wayne's World

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 06:30:00 +0000

We are not worthy, but then again, you probably already knew that. For this episode, we head to a basement in Aurora Illinois, sing Bohemian Rhapsody and schwing our way back to 1992. Rewatching Wayne’s World, I develop an overwhelming urge to buy a Chia Pet, realise I’m Garth and lose focus a bit towards the end. Brian on the other hand, believes the storyline predicted the future, wants to bring back the word honk (puke) and will accept no criticism of this film. No way.

Three Identical Strangers

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 06:30:00 +0000

We are in documentary heaven this week, with Sinéad’s film choice: Three Identical Strangers. It’s an unbelievable true story, that heads in directions you never thought possible, so strap in and be prepared for highs, lows and plenty of angry ranting. Trust us, once you’ve watched this film, you won’t want to stop discussing it.

The Night of the Hunter

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 06:30:00 +0000

L-O-V-E and H-A-T-E. Well, we’re all about the love people. So even though it’s sweltering and our tv is giving off Sahara style heat, we’re sitting in our pants watching ‘Night of the Hunter’ for your listening pleasure. Hit play to hear us chat about Robert Mitchum’s knuckles, Shelley Winter’s mannequin and Wind in the Willows. We also find time to revel in horror influences and discuss greed and corruption, because, you know, our finger’s on the pulse. So, come and join us; there may even be a Cornetto in it for you.

Stand By Me

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 06:30:00 +0000

Sinéad puts her heart on the line by choosing the 1980’s coming of age film, Stand By Me. Expect her to be waxing lyrical over every tiny moment, whilst Brian (wrongly) criticises the opening scene and use of music. We chat about deleted scenes, and worry about the safety rules of American trains, all whilst getting distracted by bin trucks and hummus. If you love the film, come join the fun and if you don’t, then listen just for Brian’s Derry Girls theory. Finally - Goofy is indeed a dog. You’re welcome.

Weird Science

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 06:30:00 +0000

We’re back in the eighties discussing the John Hughes, teenage sci-fi fantasy that is Weird Science. We get a great performance from Anthony Michael Hall, an early appearance from Robert Downey Jr and some fantastic minor characters, step forward please, Gary’s parents. However, even Brian admits this movie hasn’t aged that well and watching Kelly LeBrok make out with a child definitely feels wrong. However, discomfort aside, why not pop on a crop top, join us to reminisce and then go comb your hair.

Knives Out

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 06:30:00 +0000

If you love a top notch mystery/whodunnit, then join us for a chat about the brilliant 2019 film, Knives Out. From the production design, to the script, to the performances, this really is a fantastically entertaining film. We delve into sparring families, privileged upbringings and our shared love of Jamie Lee Curtis, whilst even finding time to argue over Hercule Poirot’s moustache.

Rebel Without A Cause

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 06:30:00 +0000

Brian takes us back to the 1950’s, to watch the iconic film, Rebel without a Cause. We discuss teenagers, the generation gap, masculinity and the effects of fathers (including absent ones). Whilst Brian contemplates smoking again and lists numerous comparisons to Back to the Future, Sinéad is left baffled that the the story apparently takes place in just one day. Weirdly though, we agree on pretty much everything, including the fact that James Dean is quite probably the epitome of cool. (Did you know that T-shirt sales rocketed after this film came out!)

Desperately Seeking Susan

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 06:30:00 +0000

Welcome back! Or hello if you’ve never found this podcast before. We’re starting Season Two of Reasons To Dump You, by watching Desperately Seeking Susan. There is so much to love about this film, not least the desire it provokes to live in New York and the utter adoration for Laurie Metcalf’s performance. However, there is also time for arguments about storyline, amnesia, performances and affairs. And of course, Sinéad is on hand with her Filofax of facts to dazzle Brian. On that note, some final post-podcast facts for you: Richard Edson, who plays the newspaper guy, is also the garage attendant in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, and, Orion Pictures has relaunched and are currently focused on telling stories by underserved voices.

Sinead's Top 5 Reasons...

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 07:30:00 +0000

Another mini-episode for you, to round out Season One, as Sinéad shares her top 5 reasons to dump Brian. You'll find that the top slot, needs no explanation.

Brian's Top 5 Reasons...

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 06:30:00 +0000

In this mini-episode, Brian runs down his top 5 reasons to dump Sinéad, collated from Season One. There are some strong entries here, but just what has made it to the coveted number one spot?

Salem's Lot (1979)

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 06:30:00 +0000

Brian faces fears he’s been holding on to since he was 10 years old, by making us watch Salem’s Lot. After 3 hours, he realises he should have exorcised his demons long ago and falls in love with David Soul’s hair and style. Sinéad is tempted to spend the night tapping at bedroom windows and admits she’d love to live in any Stephen King created town. Join us for a creepy vision of vampires, with vibes of Hitchcock, Hammer, Nosferatu and 70’s nastiness. And no, just to clarify, Barbara Babcock (as June Petrie), was not in Return to Oz.

Carrie (1976)

Wed, 25 May 2022 06:30:00 +0000

We delve into the world of horror with Sinéad's movie choice, the 1976 classic, Carrie. There is so much to enjoy here, not least the excellent hair on display. (We haven’t seen such fantastic locks since Dom won The Great Big Tiny Design Challenge.) Although arguing over music and character motivation, we do agree that Harry Potter had nothing to complain about and that Sue will never forget the trauma of prom, despite what her mother says. We wonder if the 1970’s really was the age of the nipple and decide never to sell a house with a sale board shaped like a cross. And finally, yes, Helen (not Katie) did play Grace, the school secretary in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.

War Games

Wed, 18 May 2022 06:30:00 +0000

As we discuss the 1983 film War Games, Brian's enthusiasm and adoration for the eighties has never been clearer. Unfortunately though, it seems Sinéad isn't giving the film quite as much love as he'd like. Prepare yourself for tension, ranting and some great tips on choosing passwords and buttering corn. By the end, we’re left with many unanswered questions, such as; is Matthew Broderick really the ultimate eighties teenager and will Sinéad dump Brian for a 1983-era Michael Madsen? In the end, all we do know, is that the only winning move is not to play. (p.s: Martin Brest was replaced as Director by the studio when they felt he was taking the film down too dark a thriller route).

Grease 2

Wed, 11 May 2022 06:30:00 +0000

Sinéad tries to convince Brian that Grease is still the word, by demanding a viewing of the cult classic Grease 2. From the very start, Brian becomes obsessed with Johnny’s large collars and has the audacity to disrespect Frenchy. Whilst Sinéad tries to help him understand the camp, hilarious joy of the film, he merely claims that bowling isn’t cool (he’s wrong) and remains unconvinced by Michael’s transformation to a cool rider. The guy has a motorbike and leathers - what more does he need? Fear not though, a happy ending is in sight, as by the end, both of us are ready for a full scale luau themed party. Friends beware and start making your excuses now.

Demolition Man

Wed, 04 May 2022 06:30:00 +0000

Greetings and salutations! Brian’s film choice for this episode is the Snipes, Stallone, Bullock sci-fi action flick Demolition Man. It’s perhaps not quite the masterpiece Brian recalls from his youth, but does initiate some intellectual debate about alternatives to toilet paper and a potential future BanksyBot (trademark pending). Sinéad appears to miss the nudity that Brian sees, whilst he compares himself to Sylvester Stallone and rants about Die Hard. After such a rollercoaster ride we're both in need a beer and may well head down to Taco Bell.

Little Women

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 06:30:00 +0000

Sinéad has her work cut out in convincing Brian that Greta Gerwig’s Little Women is a fantastic adaptation of a beloved (BELOVED!) classic. Brian claims there are too many people living in one house before declaring that he found Inception ‘easier to follow than this.’ Sinéad does her best to explain to Brian the life of women in the 1800’s and somehow only ends up with 3 reasons to dump him. One thing we do agree on is the excellence of Mr Chalamet’s performance and Brian discovers a new crush (but let’s be clear - Efron is still his top dog).

Roma

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 06:30:00 +0000

Brian is keen to inject a dose of culture into the podcast this week, by making us watch the Oscar winning film Roma. We both fall in love with the family's house and get Mexican Downton Abbey vibes, whilst Sinéad shows her naivety and Brian consolidates his dislike for bare feet. Expect a random Goonies reference and prepare for a disturbing 'naked lightsaber dance' (there's no other description for it and Sinéad's eyes may never recover).

Night of the Living Dead

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 18:30:00 +0000

This episode is Sinéad’s cinematic choice - Night of the Living Dead. Join us as we argue over what defines a horror film, but agree that a Ring-Go doorbell would alter the story immeasurably. Meanwhile Brian becomes obsessed with our (non existent) very aggressive legal team and discovers his new favourite film character - Karen. To be fair, she does absolutely steal the entire show, doesn’t she?

(p.s - the boy whose character name we couldn’t remember is Tom - sorry Tom.)

Les Miserables

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 06:30:00 +0000

It’s a bumper episode this week as we chat all things Les Miserables. Initially surprised by Brian’s choice, Sinéad swiftly realises it may have something to do with his penchant for Helena Bonham Carter. After watching the film, we wonder why all pub landlords seem to be cockneys, become concerned with Hugh Jackman’s accent during ‘what have I done’ and point out the clear dangers of swimming in excrement. We also gather further proof (if it be needed) that Brian’s moral compass has gone somewhat askew.

To Sir With Love

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 06:30:00 +0000

Sinéad chooses To Sir with Love for this episode and is more than delighted to spend 105 minutes with Sidney Poitier. Brian has flashbacks to school, turns into a Dickensian caricature and brags heartily about his scotch-egg making abilities. We learn that Sinéad's teaching style would be one of nurture, whilst Brian would favour discipline, with a side helping of flamboyance.

(Finally, if Lulu's people are listening, get in touch about launching Lulu's potato salad. That product has success written all over it.)

Rambo: First Blood

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 07:30:00 +0000

Brian takes a nostalgic trip down memory lane and causes concern with his overwhelming desire for a Rambo Knife (apparently the most wanted kids present of 1982). Sinéad challenges Usain Bolt to a race, Brian insists that he won Junior Kickstart and both believe that if someone had just bought Mr Rambo a coffee, a lot of this madness could have been avoided. (Kudos to Mr Stallone for that end scene though...and p.s - the Sly/Arnie film is Escape Plan, not Prison Break).

Return to Oz

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 07:30:00 +0000

We are coming at ya from Spain for this Oz-tastic episode and Sinéad cannot contain her excitement. We feel all the emotions, discover the weirdness of Victoria Wood's Return to Oz song, get freaked out by stones and discuss a new business venture for Pret A Manger - the lunch pail tree. In conclusion, it seems Brian is morally bankrupt, but we both agree that this may indeed be the darkest Disney film ever made - please discuss.

Bloodsport

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 07:30:00 +0000

This episode we're high kicking our way through Bloodsport with Jean-Claude Van Damme. Brian fully regresses to childhood as we overdose on excessive montage and flashbacks. Whilst Sinéad worries about the poor cleaning standards of the Kumite tournament and struggles to convince Brian that Jean-Claude's love interest is called Janice.

Beast

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 07:30:00 +0000

Sparks fly in this episode as we head across to Jersey with the British psychological thriller Beast. Sinéad stands by her choice of film as we weave our way through the disturbing plot, argue about symbolic meanings, discuss whale jumpers and of course, name check TV classics, Bergerac and The Sweeney. The question is, can we agree on anything anymore?

(p.s...Stay away from Brians glovebox and FACT - Bergerac drove a Triumph Roadster and notched up an impressive nine seasons).

Spirited Away

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 07:30:00 +0000

As we watch Spirited Away, Sinéad pops her Studio Ghibli cherry and Brian's brain becomes overwhelmed. We note similarities between Yubaba and Margaret Thatcher, expose Sinéad's irrational fear of animatronic dinosaurs and get flashbacks to the Bull and Bush pub in Richmond. (Anyone else remember having to practically swim to the toilets?)

A Star is Born

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 07:30:00 +0000

Sinead's off the deep end and has dived straight into her next film choice - A Star is Born (2018) There's highs, lows and facts galore. We wonder if Lady Gaga uses Imperial Leather or Matey bubble bath, Brian worries about everyone's jobs and Sinead is concerned for Gaga's ankles and bare feet. Ultimately though, will Brian be won over or is he in fact actually made of stone?

The Hateful Eight

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 06:30:00 +0000

The Hateful Eight is Brian's choice for episode four and (as usual) Tarantino causes quite the stir. Expect controversy, uncomfortable moments, great facial hair, and a lot of Hercule Poirot chat. We ponder the meaning of the word haberdashery and note Reservoir Dogs comparisons, whilst Brian struggles to say Channing Tatum and decides the film should be called The Hateful Eight and The Slightly Annoyed One. By the end of this epic, we're both just plain exhausted.

Dogfight

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 07:30:00 +0000

It’s episode three and Sinead believes she’s hit gold by introducing Brian to the film Dogfight. Expect adoration for River Phoenix and Lili Taylor, anger at the idea that thirty-two is old and excitement at the appearance of a young Dr Barry Farber. The overriding question though, is does Brian have a heart? His reaction to one scene would indicate maybe not.

The Rock

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 07:00:00 +0000

For this episode, Brian has chosen the testosterone filled Michael Bay flick, The Rock. Expect arguments over whether or not Nicolas Cage gets naked, concern over the foundations of Alcatraz and a lot of Ed Harris love coming from Brian. Do Cage and Connery win Sinead over or is it all too much of an A-Team/James Bond/Indiana Jones/Platoon mash up for her to take?

Fried Green Tomatoes

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 08:25:00 +0000

We are kicking things off with Sinead's choice - the nineties classic, Fried Green Tomatoes. We discuss feminism, get confused with names and angry about bees. But will Brian end up screaming Towanda and claiming the secret's in the sauce?