“Tag” earns its laughs through character and story

Often, summer comedies are over-the-top farces that strive to be little else than popcorn entertainment. There’s nothing wrong with that, but when one like “Tag” comes along that attempts more, it stands out. The story of five friends who have played the children’s game of Tag together for over 30 years is yet another comedy about man-children who need to grow up. Yet here, the characters are less cartoonish, the relationships dig deeper, and three strong women characters add complexity to the story. “Tag” is an ensemble comedy too, often putting eight key players in a scene together and ensuring they all shine. It’s very funny, but serious about trying harder too.

Talking all things Directing on this 11th episode of the Film Inquiry Podcast

Emily Wheeler takes over for Mike and joins Jay in this 10th episode of the Film Inquiry podcast, in which they talk the movies of the moment.

We’re at the tenth episode of the Film Inquiry Podcast and it’s glorious.

Summer has been keeping us uber busy, myself especially, which is why I am absent from this episode. But thankfully Jay is joined by the wonderful Emily Wheeler, Film Inquiry’s Writers Coordinator. She’s also a mad scientist working on secret reanimation projects a la Frankenstein. Ask her about it, won’t you?

Jay and Emily discuss a slew of recent releases ranging from Dunkirk, to War for the Planet of the Apes, to Baby Driver, to Valerian, to other worlds and beyond.

Let me denote that there are spoilers on several of the movies littered throughout the episode, so if you don’t want to have things ruined go see said films then come back and listen to these two brainiacs as they speak eloquently, and wisely, on the filmic topics.

As always, thanks everybody for all the clicks and listens and feedback. You’re amazing. We’ll be back soon with another epic rant.

Pixar is a studio synonymous with greatness. Or maybe not? On this the eighth episode, Jay and myself rank every single Pixar film from Toy Story all the way up to Finding Dory leading culminating with Jay’s thoughts on Cars 3.

We have differing opinions on which feature is the best from the studio and come to full blows as we make our way down the list. Who’s list will you end up agreeing with more?

As usual, we talk about the best and the worst of what we’ve seen recently and end the discussion on the hottest topic in weeks — the firing of Chris Miller and Phil Lord from the yet untitled Han Solo movie. Isn’t that thing crazy?

If you like the podcast give us some love on iTunes by leaving a review and giving us many stars. Give us a mega-rad shoutout and we’ll name drop you like nobody’s business. As always you find us on twitter and if you follow us we will reciprocate with the like. Thanks, kids!

Hola, people from all over the world!

On this the eighth episode, Jay and myself (Mike) have the time of our lives. We being the podcast by talking about the best and worst of what we’ve seen recently.

Then the controversial discourse begins. I talk about my feelings about Wonder Woman and they are very much against the grain, just so you know. It’s fun to be a contrarian though I don’t hold any reasons to be so flippantly. I fully believe in my opinions and hold steadfast to them. I am not a contrarian for contrarian’s sake.

After that we jump into a discussion about movies that have “rotten” consensuses on Rotten Tomatoes but are films we like or love.

Which then leads to our admission of our unabashed love for King Arthur: Legend of the Sword. We are both go against the establishment and the status quo. Isn’t that why you love us?

We would greatly appreciate any feedback and please feel free to like us and rate us on iTunes and be sure to follow us on Twitter. Give us nice comment and we’ll be sure to name drop you so loud. Thanks pals. We’ll be back soon!

Have a love for cartoons? Sit down with Felicity and Max in this pre-holiday broadcast of the ISA's Wine Wednesdays, and enjoy the laughs and insights into the animation world.

Remember, Felicity and Max always have open Q&A during every Facebook Live broadcast, so you should tune in when they broadcast their next live chat. Even though most broadcasts focus on a particular subject, every writer is welcome to ask anything they like at any time. Felicity and Max will do their best to give you a straight and honest answer.

This is a podcast recording of the ISA's Facebook Live broadcast of Wine Wednesdays. Please note that some promotions offered during the live broadcast are no longer available. We can, however, assist you if you wish to find out more information regarding ISA events, contests, or consulting offers. Just reach out to info@networkisa.org and we will be happy to help.

You can reach out to Max regarding any type of query: max@networkisa.org If you have particular interest in working with him on a one-on-one coaching and development basis, email him at max@thestoryfarm.org. His Story Farm development and coaching service is quickly becoming the best in the business! Felicity can also be reached at Felicity@networkisa.org. She, too, can work with you one-on-one, so don't hesitate to inquire. We can't wait to support you.

Subjects and themes for the broadcasts change from week to week, so stay tuned on most Wednesday evenings at 7:00pm Los Angeles time. For a specific schedule and set of announcements, "Like" the ISA Facebook page and keep up to date.

What scares audiences and why? How do you create the most thrills, scares, and frights in your horror/thriller? Felicity Wren and Max Timm discuss all things spooky and suspenseful in this post-Halloween episode of Wine Wednesday with the ISA.

Remember, Felicity and Max always have open Q&A during every Facebook Live broadcast, so you should tune in when they broadcast their next live chat. Even though most broadcasts focus on a particular subject, every writer is welcome to ask anything they like at any time. Felicity and Max will do their best to give you a straight and honest answer.

This is a podcast recording of the ISA's Facebook Live broadcast of Wine Wednesdays. Please note that some promotions offered during the live broadcast are no longer available. We can, however, assist you if you wish to find out more information regarding ISA events, contests, or consulting offers. Just reach out to info@networkisa.org and we will be happy to help.

You can reach out to Max regarding any type of query: max@networkisa.org If you have particular interest in working with him on a one-on-one coaching and development basis, email him at max@thestoryfarm.org. His Story Farm development and coaching service is quickly becoming the best in the business! Felicity can also be reached at Felicity@networkisa.org. She, too, can work with you one-on-one, so don't hesitate to inquire. We can't wait to support you.

Subjects and themes for the broadcasts change from week to week, so stay tuned on most Wednesday evenings at 7:00pm Los Angeles time. For a specific schedule and set of announcements, "Like" the ISA Facebook page and keep up to date.