Forgotten Cinema

This week on Forgotten Cinema, Forgotten Summer continues with "War of the Worlds", Steven Spielberg's intense adaptation of the H.G. Wells classic.
After covering "Flight of the Navigator", discussing "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" in their Lead Up series, releasing a Patreon-exclusive episode on "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial", and reviewing "Disclosure Day", it only felt right for the Mikes to tackle another one of Spielberg's unforgettable alien films.
Both Mike Butler and Mike Field love "War of the Worlds". From Spielberg's masterful direction to the relentless pacing and unforgettable set pieces, the film remains just as gripping today as it was upon release. Even after multiple viewings, Butler finds himself on the edge of his seat throughout much of the movie.
Of course, the Mikes still have a few nitpicks. Cruise's portrayal of Ray as an almost unbelievably irresponsible father feels exaggerated during the first half of the film, though both agree it ultimately pays off as his character grows over the course of the story. Butler also revisits one of the classic criticisms of the story itself: how could an incredibly advanced alien civilization spend (at least!) centuries preparing to invade Earth without accounting for the planet's microscopic dangers?
One of the film's highlights for both Mikes is Tim Robbins' unforgettable performance, which leads to one of the movie's most tense and memorable sequences. They also discuss the controversial ending that has divided audiences for years. While both are ultimately satisfied with it, Butler understands why some viewers struggle with the family's reunion. However, the Mikes point out that both the ending and the aliens' ultimate fate come directly from H.G. Wells' original novel.
Thrilling, suspenseful, and packed with unforgettable moments, "War of the Worlds" remains one of Spielberg's finest modern blockbusters and a standout entry in the alien invasion genre.
What do you think of "War of the Worlds"? Let us know in the comments below!
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Forgotten Cinema content!
🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts.
✨ Support us on Patreon for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/forgottencinema
🛍️ Grab some Forgotten Cinema merch: www.etsy.com/shop/ForgottenCinemaShop
Check out our website: https://www.forgottencinemapodcast.com
0:00 - Introduction
2:44 - Film Facts
11:26 - Film Discussion
35:43 - Who Would You Recommend This To?
39:28 - Why Is This Forgotten?
42:21 - Plugs
#ForgottenCinema #WarOfTheWorlds #StevenSpielberg #TomCruise #DakotaFanning #TimRobbins #ForgottenSummer #SciFi #00sMovies #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms

Join Mike Field and Mike Butler for a special Now Showing episode as they discuss the new independent sci-fi/drama/thriller "Abductee"; written and directed by William Hopp and starring Dusty Sorg and Virginia Newcomb. The film follows Drew as he deals with constant sleep paralysis that he believes might actually be alien abductions and enlists the help of his reluctant sister to help him figure out just what is going on.
The Mikes will break down what they appreciate from this indie film that separates it from the rest of the pack as well as their reactions to the film's story.
And don't forget to check out Forgotten Cinema's interview with William Hopp. Out now!
Check out the trailer and see all the theatrical screenings for "Abductee" at the film's website: https://www.abducteemovie.com/
Find all social media info at https://linktr.ee/abducteemovie
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Forgotten Cinema content!
🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts.
✨ Support us on Patreon for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/forgottencinema
🛍️ Grab some Forgotten Cinema merch: www.etsy.com/shop/ForgottenCinemaShop
Check out our website: https://www.forgottencinemapodcast.com
#ForgottenCinema #Abductee #WilliamHopp #DustySorg #VirginiaNewcomb #SciFi #Thriller #IndependentFilm #IndieFilm #Filmmaking #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion

In this special bonus episode of Forgotten Cinema, the Mikes are sitting down with Writer/Director William Hopp to discuss his new film "Abductee" which as of this episode release is on a roadshow across independent cinemas across the US. Mike Butler and Mike Field will discuss with William the genesis for the film, what went into making this independent production, the trials and tribulations that came about after production wrapped, inspirations, and more!
And check out our Now Showing episode for "Abductee" coming out the day after this interview releases for the Mikes' thoughts on the film!
Check out the trailer and see all the theatrical screenings for "Abductee" at the film's website: https://www.abducteemovie.com/
Find all social media info at https://linktr.ee/abducteemovie
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Forgotten Cinema content!
🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts.
✨ Support us on Patreon for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/forgottencinema
🛍️ Grab some Forgotten Cinema merch: www.etsy.com/shop/ForgottenCinemaShop
Check out our website: https://www.forgottencinemapodcast.com
#ForgottenCinema #Abductee #WilliamHopp #Interview #SciFi #Thriller #IndependentFilm #IndieFilm #Filmmaking #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion

This week on Forgotten Cinema, Forgotten Summer begins with "Flight of the Navigator", Disney's beloved family sci-fi adventure that has earned a nostalgic following over the years.
Neither Mike Butler nor Mike Field remembered much about the film beyond its iconic alien spaceship, making this revisit almost like watching it for the first time. Butler still finds plenty to enjoy, appreciating the movie's sense of adventure and imagination, while Field is a bit less enthusiastic.
One surprise for both Mikes is just how long it takes before the famous ship actually enters the story. Instead, the film spends much of its runtime exploring David's mysterious disappearance, his return years later without having aged, and the strange circumstances surrounding his experience.
The discussion quickly turns to what could have been. Both Butler and Field agree that "Flight of the Navigator" is a perfect candidate for a modern remake. The film introduces fascinating ideas that never reach their full potential, from the emotional impact of David's time jump and his parents' reaction to getting their son back, to the connection between David and the ship itself. There is an even richer science fiction story waiting to be told.
While it may not fully capitalize on its incredible premise, "Flight of the Navigator" remains a charming family adventure whose imagination continues to inspire nearly forty years later.
What did you think of "Flight of the Navigator"? Let us know in the comments below!
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Forgotten Cinema content!
🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts.
✨ Support us on Patreon for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/forgottencinema
🛍️ Grab some Forgotten Cinema merch: www.etsy.com/shop/ForgottenCinemaShop
Check out our website: https://www.forgottencinemapodcast.com
0:00 - Introduction
3:38 - Film Facts
9:47 - Film Discussion
31:40 - Reviews
37:12 - Who Would You Recommend This To?
41:32 - Why Is This Forgotten?
46:09 - Plugs
#ForgottenCinema #FlightoftheNavigator #PaulReubens #SarahJessicaParker #ForgottenSummer #SciFi #80sMovies #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms

This week on Forgotten Cinema, the Mikes revisit "Secret Window", the psychological thriller based on a story by Stephen King and the winner of this season's Audience Choice.
For Mike Butler, this is a film he has never really connected with, and a rewatch does little to change his opinion. While he praises the direction, performances, and the film's small-scale, almost independent feel, the story itself continues to frustrate him. The central twist does not land, many of Mort's decisions feel dumb, and perhaps most importantly, Butler never finds himself caring about Mort despite the torment he endures throughout the film.
Mike Field is much more positive on the movie, though he does not dismiss Butler's criticisms. He appreciates David Koepp's directing choices, the film's pacing, and the way it steadily builds tension. Even if some of the story's weaknesses remain, Field finds enough atmosphere and craftsmanship to make the experience worthwhile.
The discussion ultimately becomes less about whether "Secret Window" is objectively good or bad and more about what audiences need from a psychological thriller. Is the strong direction and atmosphere enough when the story itself leaves you cold? Or do the film's flaws undermine everything else it does well?
What are some of your favorite film twists? Let us know in the comments below!
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Forgotten Cinema content!
🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen to podcasts.
✨ Support us on Patreon for exclusive content: www.patreon.com/forgottencinema
🛍️ Grab some Forgotten Cinema merch: www.etsy.com/shop/ForgottenCinemaShop
Check out our website: https://www.forgottencinemapodcast.com
0:00 - Introduction
2:38 - Film Facts
8:34 - Film Discussion
30:04 - Reviews
31:28 - Who Would You Recommend This To?
34:45 - Why Is This Forgotten?
37:53 - Plugs
#ForgottenCinema #SecretWindow #JohnnyDepp #DavidKoepp #StephenKing #BasedOnABook #MoviePodcast #FilmDiscussion #UnderratedMovies #ClassicFilms