This week on Geek Girl Soup, Susan, Kelly, and Cort dive into HBO’s The Baby, an eight-episode dark comedy that’s as creepy as it is hilarious. Imagine a baby that’s not just needy but downright manipulative—controlling, violent, and armed with supernatural powers. Natasha, our reluctant protagonist, literally has this baby dropped into her lap, and what ensues is a chaotic mix of horror, humor, and unexpected character growth. The hosts discuss Natasha’s evolution from a self-absorbed, anti-baby individual into a more compassionate person, all thanks to her bizarre journey with this terrifying infant.

But, before we get to The Baby, the crew kicks things off with some fun pop culture news. Martin Scorsese celebrated his 82nd birthday (still no plans to retire!), and we mark the 40th anniversaries of A Nightmare on Elm Street and Night of the Comet—a zombie flick that Cort fondly describes as “so silly, but so good.” The hosts also chat about the latest updates from the Star Wars galaxy, lamenting yet another canceled project, and marvel at the bizarre replacement: Ice Age 6.

The conversation takes a sharp turn into film festival drama, with a discussion of the Camera Image Film Festival controversy, where its director managed to alienate filmmakers by suggesting that including more female creators could lead to “mediocre films.” Unsurprisingly, the hosts don’t hold back their disdain for such outdated views.

In the recommendation corner, Cort enthusiastically plugs Cross, a gritty new series based on James Patterson’s novels, while Kelly praises Emilia Pérez, a Spanish-language musical crime drama that she insists is a must-watch despite her general dislike of musicals. Susan revisits Mike Flanagan’s Hush, calling it a taut thriller that still holds up.

As the hosts return to The Baby, they dive into the nitty-gritty of its themes, characters, and haunting moments. From its Rosemary’s Baby-esque premise to Natasha’s struggles to escape the baby’s clutches, this show delivers a unique blend of chills and laughs. The trio breaks down the mysterious origins of the baby and speculates on its supernatural powers, particularly how it manipulates people’s memories and perceptions. By the time they hit the show’s chilling conclusion, one thing is clear: this baby isn’t just creepy—it’s downright unsettling.

Looking ahead, the hosts preview next week’s episode, where they’ll discuss Thanksgiving (2023), a gruesome holiday-themed slasher. It’s the perfect watch for anyone looking to add a little blood and mayhem to their turkey-filled weekend.

Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Welcome and introduction

[00:01:00] Pop culture updates

[00:06:00] Film festival drama

[00:09:00] Recommendations corner

[00:17:00] Discussion: The Baby

[00:30:00] Creepy comparisons and closing thoughts

[00:36:00] What’s next on Geek Girl Soup?

[00:40:00] Susan and Cort discuss the latest episode of From

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Original music by Garrett Thompson

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In this episode, we’re celebrating the gritty brilliance of Homicide: Life on the Street! Join Susan, Kelly, and Cort as we revisit the classic 90s series that redefined police dramas. We’re diving into standout episodes, unforgettable guest stars, and why Baltimore is truly the show’s fourth lead.

Plus, we celebrate a belated happy birthday for Susan, chat about our own 13th podcast anniversary, and share what we’ve been binging lately (spoiler: it’s a good mix of drama and creepy fun).

Major timestamps:

• [00:01:19] Geek Girl Soup turns 13 🎉
• [00:03:00] Silo the book series & Silo on AppleTV+ obsession 📚
• [00:09:28] Entertainment news (The Onion’s genius takeover & Denzel’s future roles!)
• [00:33:00] Main discussion: Homicide: Life on the Street Iconic guest stars like Robin Williams, Lily Tomlin, and Vincent D’Onofrio. Favorite episodes and characters. Baltimore’s role as a star of the series
• [00:56:00] Recommendations & what’s next
• [01:00:00] Susan and Cort discuss the latest episode of From

It’s a week of mystery, celebration, and geeky nostalgia. Come join the conversation and don’t forget to send us your thoughts on Homicide and any hidden gems we should check out.

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Hosts: Susan, Kelly, and Cort

Editing: Kelly

Cover Art: Kelly with ChatGPT

Show Notes: Kelly with ChatGPT

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Original music by Garrett Thompson

Follow us:

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• BlueSky @GeekGirlSoup

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Email your questions and comments to GeekGirlSoup@gmail.com

Geek on!

Susan and Kelly got LOST at the newly-reopened River Oaks Theatre last night. (It’s gorgeous!) In this bonus episode, we share our instant reactions to the documentary Getting LOST.

In the doc, we see fellow podcasters who got their start chatting about LOST. Hello, Jay and Jack, Colleen, and Ryan and Jen (RIP) Ozawa! We hear inside stories from the LOST cast, producers, showrunners, writers, directors, and superfans. And we get insight into the toxic writers’ room.

The documentary is traveling the country. Catch it when you can!

Getting LOST!

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27098641/

Jay and Jack

https://jayandjack.com

The Broadcast

https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-broadcast-with-amanda-shan-99048

The Transmission

https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/lost-podcast-the-transmission-40656

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Original music by Garrett Thompson

Follow us on Instagram @GeekGirlSoup

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Geek on!

Welcome to the latest episode of Geek Girl Soup, where Susan, Kelly, and Cort celebrate “Keanuversary” – a special tribute to Keanu Reeves for “Keanuvember”! In honor of Keanu’s 60th birthday and the anniversary milestones of some of his biggest films, the hosts take a nostalgic journey through his iconic movies, unique career highlights, and his unexpected origins.

The hosts chat about the following topics:

Keanu’s Roots and Early Career: Born in Beirut, raised in Canada, and a high school hockey star before Hollywood called.

Anniversary Movie Lineup: From John Wick and The Matrix to classics like Speed and Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure, the hosts break down why these films still hold a special place in fans’ hearts.

Keanu’s Good Heart: Remembering his gestures of generosity, like taking a pay cut on The Devil’s Advocate to ensure Al Pacino could join the film.

The Keanu Effect: Why he continues to influence pop culture, from his kindness and humility to his undeniable charm.

Keanu vs. Nicolas Cage: A lighthearted discussion comparing their unique filmographies and what makes each actor a cult icon in his own right.

The conversation also shifts to current events, with reflections on recent election news, a SNL skit featuring Kamala Harris, and commentary on the state of democracy.

Susan and Cort discuss the latest episode of From!

Recommendations:

• Piece by Piece: A unique documentary about Pharrell Williams made entirely with LEGO animations.
• Don’t Move: A thrilling horror movie on Netflix.
• The Remarkable Life of Ebelin: A touching documentary on HBO about a young man’s impact despite physical limitations.

What’s New on Streaming:

• Like Water for Chocolate on Max – A new series adaptation of the classic novel.
• Day of the Jackal on Peacock – Eddie Redmayne stars in a new thriller series adaptation.

Next Week’s Theme:

Homicide: Life on the Street

Listener Interaction:

Send your Keanu movie recommendations or share your favorite Keanu moments with us at GeekGirlSoup@gmail.com or find us on social media @GeekGirlSoup.

Reminder: If you haven’t yet, remember to Vote Blue! The hosts encourage everyone to stay engaged and hopeful as election results come in.

Outro: Until next time, keep it geeky and keep celebrating the iconic roles of Keanu Reeves with us on Geek Girl Soup!

Get ready to pick your poisoned apple as Susan, Kelly, and Cort dive into the enchanting world of witches in movies and shows! They explore the bewitching themes of empowerment and the often misunderstood portrayal of witches, from classics like "Practical Magic" to the eerie vibes of "The Craft."

Susan, Kelly, and Corrt dive into the enchanting world of witches with their discussion on "Pick Your Poison(ed) Apple." They explore various representations of witches across movies and shows, highlighting how these portrayals have evolved over time. From the classic charm of *Bewitched* to the darker tones of *The Craft*, the hosts dissect the cultural significance of witchcraft in media. The conversation touches on the societal implications of witch hunts, both historically and in contemporary narratives, as well as the reclamation of witchcraft by modern feminists. They reflect on how stories about witches have shifted from depictions of evil hags to empowered female characters who are often misunderstood, hinting at a deeper societal commentary on women's autonomy and power.

The hosts delve into character arcs, plot twists, and even the moral quandaries presented in these films, encouraging listeners to think critically about what these stories say about society and gender dynamics.

They reference the documentary *The Burning Times*, which addresses the gruesome history of witch hunts and the societal fears that fueled them. As they recount tales of witches throughout history, they highlight the stark contrast between fear-based narratives and the modern reclamation of witchcraft as a symbol of empowerment for women.

And, remember, say "Happy Birthday" to Cort!

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Original music by Garrett Thompson

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Geek on!

Get ready for a lively discussion on politics and pop culture as Susan, Kelly, and Cort welcome guest Candace to the table! The episode kicks off with an engaging conversation about the importance of voting and civic participation, especially as early voting approaches in Texas. The hosts dive into the latest political news, share their excitement about the upcoming ATX festival, and reminisce about their favorite shows, including "The Leftovers" and "Game of Thrones." The main discussion covers American politics-related films, such as The Manchurian Candidate (both versions), The American President, and Dave.

DETAILS

Susan, Kelly, and Cort welcome Candace, a dynamic political figure and former school board member, to share her journey through the political landscape. Their conversation begins with a nostalgic trip down memory lane, recalling their first meeting at the Con of Thrones in 2018. Candace recounts her experiences serving on the school board in Texas and running for Congress in 2020, shedding light on the trials and triumphs of her political aspirations. The discussion seamlessly transitions into current political events, with the news of Jimmy Carter casting his vote for Kamala Harris serving as a catalyst for a deeper conversation about the importance of voting and civic engagement.

As the episode unfolds, the hosts explore the intersection of politics and pop culture, discussing films such as The Manchurian Candidate, The American President, and Dave. The conversation flows effortlessly between political discourse and fandom, showcasing how both elements shape their identities and beliefs. The hosts encourage their listeners to take an active role in the political process, emphasizing that every vote counts and that local elections can significantly impact communities.

The episode culminates in a heartfelt discussion about the realities of running for office in a polarized environment. Candace shares her candid reflections on the emotional challenges she faced during her campaign, highlighting the need for resilience and the power of community support. The hosts engage in a meaningful dialogue about the broader implications of political participation and the importance of fostering hope and positivity in the face of adversity. This episode is a blend of laughter, personal stories, and a call to action, inspiring listeners to become informed and engaged citizens while reminding them that their voices matter in shaping the future.

Takeaways:

• The importance of grassroots political involvement cannot be overstated, especially in local elections.
• Diversity in media representation is essential, as it reflects our society's complexities and stories.
• Voting early and in person can significantly impact election outcomes, making every vote count.
• Understanding the political landscape requires awareness of misinformation and how it spreads online.
• Political engagement should go beyond just presidential elections and include local school boards.
• Candace shared her personal experiences running for office, highlighting the challenges faced by candidates.
• Susan and Cort conclude with a discussion of "From"

Welcome to the latest installment of Geek Girl Soup, where we dive into the mysterious world of *The Leftovers* and discuss its many layers and nuances. Season 14 kicks off with a deep exploration of the show's complex themes, including how characters cope with loss and the haunting presence of departed loved ones. The hosts, Susan, Kelly, and Court, share their multiple rewatches of the series, revealing just how much it continues to resonate with them after numerous viewings. They also touch on some exciting news in the entertainment world, including the casting of Aaron Pierre as John Stewart in HBO's upcoming Lantern series, sparking a lively discussion on representation in media. Get ready for an engaging conversation filled with cheeky humor and insightful commentary as they unpack the latest developments in *The Leftovers* and more!

A spirited exchange unfolds among Susan, Kelly, and Cort as they delve into the premiere of season 14, celebrating their long-standing love for 'The Leftovers.' Their shared enthusiasm is infectious as they compare notes on their rewatching habits, noting how many times they've seen each season—season one is a whopping ten times! This nostalgic reminiscing serves as a backdrop for a deeper exploration of the show's themes of loss, identity, and existential dread, inviting listeners to reflect on their own connections to the series. The trio's dynamic banter, filled with humor and personal anecdotes, makes for an engaging discussion that resonates with both new and seasoned fans.

The conversation takes a turn towards the exciting news of Aaron Pierre's casting as John Stewart in HBO's Green Lantern series, prompting a rich dialogue about representation in media. The hosts candidly discuss the complexities surrounding casting choices and colorism, expressing both excitement and concern. Their insights into the entertainment industry highlight the ongoing challenges and triumphs of achieving authentic representation, making it a relevant and timely topic for listeners. They reflect on the significance of characters like John Stewart within the larger narrative of representation in comic book adaptations, emphasizing the need for diversity on screen.

As the episode progresses, the discussion shifts toward upcoming films, including 'Smile 2' and 'Woman of the Hour,' as the hosts share their thoughts on horror and biographical narratives. Their playful critiques of trailers and marketing strategies add a delightful layer to the conversation, showcasing their passion for cinema and storytelling. The episode concludes with a thoughtful examination of the emotional depth of 'The Leftovers,' cementing its place as a series that tackles profound themes with nuance and sensitivity. The combination of personal reflection, humor, and critical analysis creates a well-rounded listening experience that invites audiences to engage with the material in meaningful ways.

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Original music by Garrett Thompson

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Geek on!

Join us as we dive into the hidden gems of Nicolas Cage's filmography, focusing on two standout movies: "Dream Scenario" and "The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent." We explore how Cage's unique style and prolific output have led to some lesser-known but equally captivating films. From the whimsical premise of "Dream Scenario," where Cage finds himself appearing in the dreams of millions, to the self-referential hilarity of "The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent," this episode celebrates the quirks and charms that make Cage a beloved figure in cinema. Expect plenty of laughs as we share our thoughts on these films and their unexpected twists. Plus, we reminisce about Cage's career and his ability to oscillate between serious acting and downright absurdity, proving that he truly is a treasure trove of cinematic surprises.

Exploring the wild and wonderful world of Nicolas Cage, this episode of Geek Girl Soup shines a light on two of his latest films: 'Dream Scenario' and 'The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent.' As the hosts navigate through the quirks and eccentricities of Cage's career, they provide an engaging commentary that balances humor with thoughtful analysis. 'Dream Scenario' stands out as a fresh narrative that allows Cage to explore the complexities of fame when his character starts appearing in the dreams of strangers. This surreal concept leads to discussions about the nature of celebrity, how public perception can warp personal identity, and the often darkly humorous implications of such a premise. The hosts share their thoughts on Cage's performance, emphasizing his ability to portray vulnerability while maintaining the quirky charm that fans adore.

The conversation then shifts to 'The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent,' where Cage portrays a fictionalized version of himself, tasked with navigating a chaotic situation involving a superfan and the CIA. The hosts dive into the film's meta aspects, discussing how it cleverly blurs the lines between reality and fiction, allowing Cage to poke fun at his own cinematic legacy. This film serves as a commentary on Cage's career, addressing the pressures of living up to iconic roles while also celebrating his unique contributions to the film industry. Through witty exchanges and reflections, the hosts create a lively atmosphere that not only entertains but also encourages listeners to appreciate the deeper themes present in Cage's work.

Beyond the films themselves, the episode touches on broader themes such as the significance of recognizing hidden gems in cinema and the importance of revisiting films that may have flown under the radar. The hosts connect Cage's work to the evolving landscape of the film industry, reflecting on the losses of beloved actors and the impact of these changes on audiences. Their discussion invites listeners to participate by sharing their own hidden gem recommendations, fostering a sense of community among fans of Cage and cinema alike. By the episode's end, listeners are left with a renewed sense of appreciation for Nicolas Cage's artistry and the unique narratives that continue to emerge from his diverse filmography.

Takeaways:

• Nicolas Cage has starred in a plethora of films, making it challenging to find hidden gems.
• 'Dream Scenario' presents a unique premise where Cage's character becomes a dream celebrity.
• The discussion highlights how younger audiences may not be familiar with classic Cage films.
• Both 'Dream Scenario' and 'The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent' showcase Cage's versatility.

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Original music by Garrett Thompson

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Listen to Cort's...