Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/ Pinecast (https://pinecast.com) en-USJohn Atom, Jason Maher John Atom, Jason Maher jmhimara@gmail.com no Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/ https://storage.pinecast.net/podcasts/covers/2d8b7b5e-733b-478a-8933-0f6438dc5526/sample03.jpg episodic Copyright 2026 S6E1 - Seven Samurai (1954) https://pinecast.com/guid/ef3121aa-462d-4419-8b85-fb4da21d56a2 Tue, 31 Mar 2026 03:12:26 -0000 01:36:36 A new season, and old theme. For season 6, the Heroic Purgatory team revisits the topic of gateway films, i.e. popular or accessible works of cinema that serve is a gateway to the wider world of asian cinema. In the first episode of the season, John and Jason discuss Akira Kurosawa's 1954 classic, Seven Samurai. Heralded as one of the best movies ever made, Seven Samurai is not only an action masterpiece, but also an astute work of social and existential commentary.

Enjoy the discussion!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2026/03/s6e1-seven-samurai-1954.html

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]]> no Best Films of 2025 https://pinecast.com/guid/252f86c6-5cc3-4a78-a1b6-1bb8d03cdfd8 Mon, 09 Feb 2026 05:39:05 -0000 02:21:36 With another year behind us, it's time for John and Jason to once again reflect on what's passed and list their favorite movies of 2025.

Enjoy the discussion!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2026/02/best-films-of-2025.html

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]]> no Award Special - No Other Choice (2025) https://pinecast.com/guid/668b30f4-c4f9-4e1a-822e-c0ea79346e24 Thu, 15 Jan 2026 05:46:59 -0000 01:59:52 In preparation for the upcoming award season, we are covering the highly regarded 2025 gem of filmmaker Park Chan-wook, No Other Choice.

Enjoy the discussion!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2026/01/award-special-no-other-choice-2025.html

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]]> no Xmas Special - They Live (1988) https://pinecast.com/guid/ceca961b-2fd8-4b7a-9f47-26cedf3d44d5 Mon, 22 Dec 2025 01:09:19 -0000 01:53:59 It's that time of the year again, and the Heroic Purgatory crew has decided to celebrate the festive season by revisiting John Carpenter's They Live (1988). John and Jason discuss the symbolism, the politics, the style, as well as the balls to the wall action of this 80s classic.

Enjoy the discussion!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2025/12/xmas-special-they-live-1988.html

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]]> no Special - Halloween (1978) https://pinecast.com/guid/c7af55b2-9c71-4f47-9ce0-541727742745 Mon, 27 Oct 2025 02:57:46 -0000 01:46:14 After a longer than usual break, the Heroic Purgatory podcast is back with a Halloween special, covering none other than John Carpenter's Halloween (1978). John and Jason discuss this horror classic's aesthetics, historical significance, and its metaphorical representation of patriarchal norms. We also talk about the sequels.

Enjoy the discussion!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2025/10/special-halloween-1978.html

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]]> no S5E8 - Project A https://pinecast.com/guid/d3ec6c61-7dce-4b6a-8dee-b843487bb241 Wed, 30 Jul 2025 04:41:07 -0000 01:45:14 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, we tackle a classic, Jackie Chan's Project A.

We hope you enjoy our discussion.

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2025/07/s5e8-project-1983.html

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]]> no S5E7 - War of the Arrows https://pinecast.com/guid/eb31e0e8-e536-487c-b84f-b374bb42f45f Tue, 15 Jul 2025 15:17:43 -0000 01:22:16 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason travel to the Kingdom of Joseon to witness the Qing invasion of Korea in the War of the Arrows (2011). Both hosts characterized this film as a fairly straightforward historical action flick, albeit one with excellent action scenes, pacing, and historical accuracy.

We hope you enjoy our discussion.

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2025/07/s5e7-war-of-arrows.html

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]]> no S5E6 - The Sword of the Beast (with guest Jack Eason) https://pinecast.com/guid/7d7da32f-688f-454f-90ec-164c1339b310 Tue, 01 Jul 2025 15:29:34 -0000 01:45:10 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, John, Jason, and invited guest Jack (Optimism Vaccine) discuss Hideo Gosha's 1965 chanbara film, The Sword of the Beast. Far from a simple minded samurai flick, the film reflects the anxieties, tensions, and complex politics of the time by deconstructing the faux nobility of a past era.

We hope you enjoy our discussion.

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2025/07/s5e6-sword-of-beast-with-guest-jack.htmIn

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]]> no S5E5 - Dragon Inn https://pinecast.com/guid/d744c481-9e2d-4663-88da-09bb8ed52b58 Sat, 31 May 2025 23:37:27 -0000 01:35:34 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory we put on our wuxia hats and EastmanColor glasses for King Hu's 1967 iconic piece, Dragon Inn. It is a film of many influences coalesced into a Ming dynasty tale of brave warriors standing up to an evil eunuch's army, with beautiful action pieces and big emotional swings. We discuss how the film holds up today and how it compares with the more recent Tsui Hark produce New Dragon Gate Inn (1992).

We hope you enjoy our discussion.

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2025/05/s5e5-dragon-inn.html

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]]> no S5E4 - Hero (2002) https://pinecast.com/guid/1bd18a99-7514-49e4-b056-ec58c4661768 Mon, 19 May 2025 03:45:42 -0000 01:30:23 This week in the Heroic Purgatory podcast, we talk about Zhang Yimou's 2002 wuxia film, Hero, staring Jet Li, Maggie Cheung, and Tony Leung. A film as beautiful as it is controversial, Hero is one of the director's best known works, toping both Chinese and international box offices and catapulting the filmmaker into the world of commercial mainstream filmmaking.

We hope you enjoy our discussion.

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2025/05/s5e4-hero-2002.html

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]]> no S5E3 - 13 Assassins https://pinecast.com/guid/544a430f-ff79-41bd-94a4-bd569ee187b0 Tue, 06 May 2025 05:14:33 -0000 01:53:30 This week, the Heroic Purgatory team travel to Edo period Japan to witness the bravery of 13 warriors against a tyrannical and sadistic lord. That's right, in this double whammy of an episode we discuss 13 Assassins, both the 1963 version directed by Eiichi Kudo and the 2010 version directed by Takashi Miike (with a light sprinkling of the 1990 version also thrown into the mix). Listen to the heated debate between John and Jason about which version is the better film.

We hope you enjoy our discussion.

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2025/05/s5e3-13-assassins.html

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]]> no S5E2 - Once Upon a Time in High School https://pinecast.com/guid/98a5a58a-44be-487d-8b8b-600f27e3ad1f Tue, 15 Apr 2025 02:54:30 -0000 01:30:10 The year is 1978. The place: a high school in Seoul, South Korea. The film: Once Upon a Time in High School. The Heroic Purgatory Asian Cinema Podcast is excited to bring you one of the most celebrated films of New Korean Cinema, Yoo Ha's 2004 coming of age story in an increasingly militaristic nation. John and Jason are joined by long time South Korean film reviewer Paul Quinn (http://www.hangulcelluloid.com/) to discuss the film themes, historical significance, and various references to Bruce Lee.

We hope you enjoy our discussion.

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2025/04/s5e2-once-upon-time-in-high-school.html

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]]> no S5E1 - Fist of Fury https://pinecast.com/guid/252a0465-52e7-477d-a927-4fc329fa383f Wed, 02 Apr 2025 02:49:47 -0000 01:33:48 The Heroic Purgatory Podcast returns with a brand new season, this time focusing in historical martial arts. We kickstart the fifth season with the 1972 Bruce Lee film, Fist of Fury. We discuss the film's historical context, action choreography, it's impact on Lee's career as well as its legacy in Hong Kong and Asian cinema.

We hope you enjoy our discussion.

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2025/04/s5e1-fist-of-fury.html

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]]> no Special - Remembering David Lynch https://pinecast.com/guid/ffaca747-1c1a-4139-bb27-7900c91fd888 Wed, 26 Feb 2025 03:10:48 -0000 01:34:14 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, we celebrate the life and works of the recently passed David Lynch (1946 - 2025). We discuss Lynch's career and the films that left the biggest impression on our lives.

Enjoy!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2025/02/special-remembering-david-lynch.html

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]]> no Special - Best of 2024 https://pinecast.com/guid/f0613e1f-d879-488c-96b8-13527a423c19 Mon, 03 Feb 2025 03:39:59 -0000 01:56:08 Yet another year is behind us, so John and Jason get back behind the mics on this special episode of Heroic Purgatory to discuss their favorite films of 2024.

Enjoy!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2025/02/special-best-of-2024.html

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]]> no Special - Lone Star (1996) https://pinecast.com/guid/e42baf4e-259a-4d41-8bb5-9cac53254f7f Mon, 16 Dec 2024 17:07:23 -0000 01:11:20 In another special episode of Heroic Purgatory, we take a right turn towards Texas to visit John Sayles' Lone Star, a film about history and identity. We discuss the film's authenticity, brilliant performances, and which version of history is right or moral.

We hope you enjoy our discussion.

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2024/12/special-lone-star-1996.html

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]]> no Special - The Corman Poe Cycle https://pinecast.com/guid/2ee87907-e656-4210-8a3c-5cf06b7ef232 Thu, 31 Oct 2024 19:10:51 -0000 01:21:30 Halloween is here, and Heroic Purgatory is celebrating the spooky season with a spoonful of Roger Corman, Vincent Price, and Edgar Allan Poe. That's right, in this special episode we discuss Roger Corman's Poe cycle. Though we focus mostly on The Raven and The Pit and The Pendulum, we touch on all 8 films as well as other Corman and Price films in the scary category.

We hope you enjoy our discussion.

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2024/10/special-corman-poe-cycle.html

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]]> no Special - Alien (1979) https://pinecast.com/guid/e7e5502d-aa27-4c6a-ab7f-409cb5a0c5a8 Fri, 04 Oct 2024 04:13:33 -0000 01:57:10 In a season of female action heroes for the Heroic Purgatory podcast, we tackle what may be perhaps the first female action hero in the history of cinema: the iconic Ripley in Ridley Scott's 1979 seminal science-fiction horror film, Alien. From the special effects to the production design to the paradigm-shifting female-led action franchise, we can't help but admire every detail of this masterpiece.

We hope you enjoy our discussion.

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2024/10/special-alien-1979.html

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]]> no S4E12 - House of Flying Daggers https://pinecast.com/guid/fa1ee59e-b950-45fb-8381-17e27fc1bcdc Wed, 28 Aug 2024 17:09:29 -0000 01:37:23 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, we discuss Zhang Yimou's 2004 wuxia love story, House of Flying Daggers, staring Zhang Ziyi, Takeshi Kaneshiro, and Andy Lau. We discuss the film's impressive visuals, anti-authoritarian themes, and its place in Yimou's expansive filmography.

We hope you enjoy our discussion.

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2024/08/s4e12-house-of-flying-daggers.html

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]]> no Special - Japan Cuts Film Festival 2024 https://pinecast.com/guid/b36c14d7-36dc-4fdf-b4fb-7d27ec87d43c Sun, 21 Jul 2024 05:09:27 -0000 00:57:11 Once again this year, the Heroic Purgatory podcast is covering the Japan Cuts 2024 film festival which took place between July 10 and 21. As usual, the podcast will present John's and Jason's favorite films of the festival. Additionally, this page includes short written reviews by John of the Japan Cuts movies he managed to see.

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2024/07/special-japan-cuts-film-festival-2024.html

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]]> no Special - Interview with Japan Society https://pinecast.com/guid/c7c5d762-799e-44c1-874d-050d23aa3936 Sun, 07 Jul 2024 05:42:22 -0000 01:26:14 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, in anticipation of the upcoming Japan Cuts 2024 film festival, we interview two members of Japan Society: director of film Peter Tatara, and programmer Alexander Fee.

Find out more about the festival at: https://japansociety.org/film/japancuts/

We hope you enjoy our discussion!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2024/07/special-interview-with-japan-society.html

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]]> no S4E11 - Righting Wrongs / On the Run https://pinecast.com/guid/308d6b95-e26b-4205-b8e0-39d9cfcdb1e3 Fri, 21 Jun 2024 04:41:51 -0000 01:28:55 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, we take on a Hong Kong Yuen Biao double feature, Righting Wrongs (1986) and On the Run (1988). Both films see Biao share the screen with a female co-star, Cynthia Rothrock and Patricia Ha, two riveting action stars who steal the show and make these movies memorable.

We hope you enjoy our discussion!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2024/06/s4e11-righting-wrongs-on-run.html

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]]> no Special - Shin Godzilla (2016) https://pinecast.com/guid/e31c41de-46d5-4176-b665-4ea5915c5656 Wed, 29 May 2024 05:04:06 -0000 01:37:42 In this special episode of Heroic Purgatory, we discuss the 2016 kaiju movie, Shin Godzilla, as well as the franchise's various other incarnations that followed it. We talk about the film's themes, social commentary, visual aesthetic, and its place in the Godzillaverse.

We hope you enjoy our discussion!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2024/05/special-shin-godzilla-2016.html

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]]> no S4E10 - The Villainess (2017) https://pinecast.com/guid/47f33537-ac77-4cd1-84f7-24e87afa585c Wed, 15 May 2024 04:29:24 -0000 01:18:39 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, we discuss the 2017 South Korean film, The Villainess. We discuss the film's action, style, and the merits of its questionably derivative revenge story.

We hope you enjoy our discussion!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2024/05/s4e10-villainess-2017.html

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]]> no S4E9 - The Heroic Trio (1993) https://pinecast.com/guid/2939f555-c3d4-48b1-877c-f2c0cf01b2ab Tue, 30 Apr 2024 18:07:05 -0000 01:04:38 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, we talk about The Heroic Trio and its sequel Executioners, both starring three giants of HK cinema, Michelle Yeoh, Anita Mui, and Maggie Cheung. We discuss the genre-mashing effect of these two films and debate passionately on which is the better one.

We hope you enjoy our discussion!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2024/04/s4e9-heroic-trio-1993.html

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]]> no S4E8 - Lady Snowblood (1973) https://pinecast.com/guid/82e98e98-eaaa-4b88-8dbf-3b420969a2a5 Thu, 11 Apr 2024 17:48:28 -0000 01:12:54 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, we resume our fourth season to talk about the iconic revenge film, Lady Snowblood (1973). We talk about the historical significance of the film, it's phenomenal action set pieces, and Meiko Kaji's role in the film's everlasting longevity.

We hope you enjoy our discussion!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2024/04/s4e8-lady-snowblood-1973.html

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]]> no Best Films of 2023 https://pinecast.com/guid/5102d5d8-84cb-4e75-be6c-2575b8de2fd3 Sun, 28 Jan 2024 05:54:31 -0000 01:56:10 In the first episode of the year, the Heroic Purgatory hosts discuss their favorite films of 2023.

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2024/01/best-films-of-2023.html

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]]> no Halloween Special - Carrie (1976) https://pinecast.com/guid/12c1a09e-5785-4a6b-b3a6-3a297b3ccd1b Thu, 02 Nov 2023 17:38:40 -0000 01:14:16 For this years Halloween, we go to the prom with one of the most iconic horror movies ever made, Brian de Palma's Carrie (1976). Does the film stand the test of time? What is the social commentary hidden behind Carrie's blood-stained innocence?

We hope you enjoy our discussion!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2023/11/halloween-special-carrie-1976.html

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]]> no S4E7 - A Touch of Zen (1971) https://pinecast.com/guid/010888ae-69a7-44a2-9153-7ab44deef609 Mon, 16 Oct 2023 19:39:24 -0000 01:31:19 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, we resume our fourth season to talk about the iconic revenge film, Lady Snowblood (1973). We talk about the historical significance of the film, it's phenomenal action set pieces, and Meiko Kaji's role in the film's everlasting longevity.

We hope you enjoy our discussion!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2023/10/s4e7-touch-of-zen-1971.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no S4E6 - My Wife Is a Gangster (2001) https://pinecast.com/guid/c10d3164-521c-406b-8897-fc2e66d39d44 Wed, 20 Sep 2023 15:27:32 -0000 01:27:02 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, we discuss the 2001 South Korean film, My Wife is a Gangster. Does this 20+ year-old action comedy pass the test of time, or is it just another trope-filled product of its time?

We hope you enjoy our discussion!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2023/09/s4e6-my-wife-is-gangster-2001.html

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]]> no S4E5 - Alita: Battle Angel (2019) https://pinecast.com/guid/c97838df-8ca4-4bc2-9232-0e104fea496d Wed, 30 Aug 2023 04:12:06 -0000 01:18:58 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, we discuss the 2019 American film, Alita: Battle Angel, based on the Japanese manga Gunnm by Yukito Kishiro. Is James Cameron's and Robert Rodriguez' adaptation faithful to the source material, or is it just another run-of-the-mill Hollywood blockbuster. Listen to what John and Jason have to say about the film.

We hope you enjoy!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2023/08/s3e5-alita-battle-angel-2019.html

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]]> no S4E4 - Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984) https://pinecast.com/guid/2bf51a1f-77af-4b52-80a5-402fbaadd483 Wed, 16 Aug 2023 03:49:31 -0000 01:48:51 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, we discuss the 1984 film, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind by legendary filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki, based on his own manga with the same name. We talk about the differences between the film and the manga, the environmental and ecological themes of the movie, as well as its overall place in Miyazaki's remarkable oeuvre.

We hope you enjoy!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2023/08/s4e4-nausicaa-of-valley-of-wind-1984.html

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]]> no Special - New York Asian Film Festival 2023 https://pinecast.com/guid/2edbc125-75a8-42cf-9bf9-8f320383bc55 Thu, 20 Jul 2023 16:21:02 -0000 01:50:36 For the third year in a row, the Heroic Purgatory podcast is covering the New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF) which took place between March 10 and March 19. As usual, the podcast will present John's and Jason's favorite films of NYAFF 2023 (in addition to a general overview of the festival). Additional, this page includes short written reviews by John of the NYAFF movies he managed to see.

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2023/07/new-york-asian-film-festival-2023.html

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]]> no S4E3 - Chocolate (2008) https://pinecast.com/guid/1fcb96ac-3bd2-49a2-aea8-92aa307625f3 Tue, 04 Jul 2023 04:32:49 -0000 01:09:46 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, we discuss the 2008 Thai action film, Chocolate. From the makers of Ong Bak and The Protector, this is another entry in a series of Thai films that found significant international success. Is chocolate worthy of its predecessors? Listen to our discussion and let us know what you think.

We hope you enjoy!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2023/07/s4e3-chocolate-2008.html

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]]> no S4E2 - Yes Madam/Royal Warriors (1985/1986) https://pinecast.com/guid/0c781e1f-0207-4a36-98e2-eeaa02e5988b Mon, 19 Jun 2023 03:32:26 -0000 01:20:43 In the 2nd episode of season 4 of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason take on a Michelle Yeoh double feature, Yes Madam (1985) and Royal Warriors (1986). They discuss the importance of these two films in the "girls with guns" genre, their merits, their flaws, and how they hold up in midst of the Hong Kong Golden Age.

We hope you enjoy!

Timestamps

0:01:46 - Film Discussion

1:01:34 - News

1:07:28 - Cultural Consumption

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2023/06/s4e2-yes-madamroyal-warriors-19851986.html

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]]> no S4E1 - Police Story: Supercop (1992) https://pinecast.com/guid/1727d0d8-72f1-453c-89f7-a60a4bd8f06b Mon, 29 May 2023 15:08:47 -0000 01:26:18 Welcome to season 4 of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast, centered around female action heroes. We start the season with none other than Police Story: Supercop, staring Jackie Chan and Michelle Yeoh. One of the best action movies of the 90s, Supercop catapulted Yeoh into international fame and started a new chapter in Jackie Chan's career.

We hope you enjoy!

Timestamps

00:00 - Film Discussion

1:05:50 - News

1:16:08 - Cultural Consumption

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2023/05/s4e1-police-story-supercop-1992.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

Follow Jason: https://twitter.com/filmnohito

]]> no Special - Big Trouble in Little China (1986) https://pinecast.com/guid/cb3f994b-b31e-45c2-9a36-e7f0bef0f1ee Mon, 15 May 2023 04:24:57 -0000 01:28:11 In this special episode of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast, John and Jason talk about John Carpenter's 1986 classic, Big Trouble in Little China. They talk about the film's influence's, legacy, and Kurt Russell's underappreciated comedic chops.

We hope you enjoy!

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2023/03/osaka-asian-film-festival-2023.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no OAFF 2023 Special https://pinecast.com/guid/d9b622b8-1693-43f4-a695-ee8ca7f60e61 Sun, 09 Apr 2023 14:23:03 -0000 02:02:19 For the second year in a row, the Heroic Purgatory podcast is covering the Osaka Asian Film Festival (OAFF) which took place between March 10 and March 19. As usual, the podcast will present John's and Jason's favorite films of OAFF 2023.

We hope you enjoy!

Timestamps

1:29:05 - News

1:46:50 - Cultural Consumption

Website link: https://www.heroic-purgatory.com/2023/03/osaka-asian-film-festival-2023.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

Follow Jason: https://twitter.com/filmnohito

Follow John: https://twitter.com/mildly_scifi

]]> no Best Films of 2022 https://pinecast.com/guid/bf95653c-ef87-4e86-824b-85c6874ec9d1 Mon, 16 Jan 2023 03:50:57 -0000 01:44:14 In this special episode of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast, John and Jason rank their favorite films of the 2022.

Let us know what your favorite films were.

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2023/01/best-films-of-2022.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no S3E13 - In the Mood for Love (2000) https://pinecast.com/guid/2c46e518-285b-409e-8c50-224f20889d9f Tue, 27 Dec 2022 06:33:57 -0000 01:45:45 In the final episode of the season, John and Jason discuss Wong Kar-Wai's In the Mood for Love (2000), perhaps his most famous film. A seminal film in the history of Hong Kong cinema, it denotes a transitional period in the director's career. But is it his best? Listen to our discussion and let us know what your opinion is.

We hope you enjoy.

Timestamps

2:23 - Media Consumption

28:12 - News

35:26 - Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2022/12/s3e13-in-mood-for-love-2000.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

Follow Jason: https://twitter.com/filmnohito

]]> no S3E12 - Oldboy (2003) https://pinecast.com/guid/88f46547-c4c4-4cb4-93bb-7346f2d14d24 Tue, 29 Nov 2022 16:11:37 -0000 01:27:23 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast, John and Jason discuss Park Chan-wook's 2003 masterpiece, Oldboy. A film as dark as it is entertaining, it contains themes of class, religion, fate, and vengeance. Listen as we attempt to analyze one of the most well known Korean films of all time.

We hope you enjoy.

Timestamps

2:03 - Media Consumption

14:20 - News

19:44 - Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2022/11/s3e12-oldboy-2003.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no S3E11 - Uncle Boonmee (2010) https://pinecast.com/guid/20f1d0a0-a56d-4add-a64e-3c8b8ffe6594 Tue, 08 Nov 2022 07:13:07 -0000 01:31:27 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast, John and Jason discuss the 2010 Palme D'or winning film, Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall his Past Lives, directed by Apichatpong Weerasethakul. They attempt to decipher some of the film's most cryptic imagery and its place in the director's illustrious career.

We hope you enjoy.

Timestamps

1:42 - Media Consumption

31:14 - News

36:52 - Film Discussion

Website link:https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2022/11/s3e11-uncle-boonmee-2010.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no S3E10 - The Twilight Samurai (2002) https://pinecast.com/guid/b455bbad-bd2a-4665-92f5-a97e58aeb0ca Thu, 27 Oct 2022 01:54:41 -0000 01:39:49 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast, John and Jason discuss the 2002 Yoji Yamada (of Tara-san fame) film, The Twilight Samurai. Along with its sequels and related films, we discuss the historical setting, multitude of themes, and Yamada's expertise in everyday drama.

We hope you enjoy.

Timestamps

2:18 - Media Consumption

32:03 - News

34:12 - Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2022/10/s3e10-twilight-samurai-2002.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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Follow John: https://twitter.com/mildly_scifi

]]> no S3E9 - The Assassin (2015) https://pinecast.com/guid/8561f6ae-13d4-4125-a455-0b9f87b1efdf Mon, 03 Oct 2022 03:37:31 -0000 01:15:23 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast, John and Jason discuss the highly acclaimed 2015 film, The Assassin, directed by Taiwanese master Hou Hsiao-Hsien. We talk about the film's cinematography, editing, action, its mythic origins, and whether or not it deserves its numerous accolades.

We hope you enjoy.

Timestamps

3:04 - Media Consumption

27:29 - News

31:49 - Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2022/10/s3e9-assassin-2015.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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Follow John: https://twitter.com/mildly_scifi

]]> no S3E8 - Burning (2018) https://pinecast.com/guid/8d7e10e1-18d4-439d-bdf4-4514eecf0f2a Mon, 12 Sep 2022 05:47:15 -0000 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast, John and Jason discuss the 2018 Lee Chang-dong film, Burning. They talk about the film's themes, style, influences, and its nuanced take on social and existential issues.

We hope you enjoy.

Timestamps

3:02 - Media Consumption

23:20 - News

30:45 - Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2022/09/s3e8-burning-2018.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no S3E7 - Departures (2008) https://pinecast.com/guid/2cfc65e5-5792-4938-a49a-655ca1ae8278 Tue, 23 Aug 2022 14:13:47 -0000 01:40:35 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast, John and Jason discuss the 2008 Oscar winning film, Departures. They talk about the film's obvious popular appeal, beautiful score, themes of death -- and finally they ruminate on whether it truly deserves its myriad of awards.

We hope you enjoy.

Timestamps

2:52 - Media Consumption

21:27 - News

28:16 - Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2022/08/s3e7-departures-2008.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

Follow Jason: https://twitter.com/filmnohito

]]> no S3E6 - The Mission (1999) https://pinecast.com/guid/620747bf-df39-4abb-a944-9459dccaf976 Tue, 09 Aug 2022 03:35:05 -0000 01:26:32 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast, John and Jason discuss Johnnie To's 1999 film, The Mission. They talk about the film's style, characters, deep underlying themes, as well as its place in Hong Kong's heroic bloodshed genre.

Enjoy!

Timestamps

1:35 - Media Consumption

14:50 - News

20:24 - Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2022/08/s3e6-mission-1999.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

Follow Jason: https://twitter.com/filmnohito

]]> no Special - NYAFF 2022 https://pinecast.com/guid/5c71e180-948e-430b-84e4-f9f25ff6f1b2 Tue, 26 Jul 2022 14:18:47 -0000 01:53:12 In this special episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason discuss their favorite movies from the 2022 New York Asian Film Festival.

Timestamps:

1:48 - Media Consumption

10:32 - News

17:13 - Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2022/07/special-nyaff-2022.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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Follow John: https://twitter.com/mildly_scifi

]]> no S3E5 - Taste of Cherry (1997) https://pinecast.com/guid/a9e3f7d5-3d39-4b54-9c03-331c72a0177b Wed, 06 Jul 2022 04:59:34 -0000 01:12:30 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast, John and Jason tackle their first Iranian film with Abbas Kiarostami's 1997 Palme D'or winner, Taste of Cherry. They discuss the film's deep philosophical themes, cultural references, and unique visual aesthetic.

Enjoy!

Timestamps

2:10 - Media Consumption

20:05 - News

30:29 - Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2022/07/s3e5-taste-of-cherry-1997.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no S3E4 - Raise the Red Lantern (1991) https://pinecast.com/guid/2289d628-f85f-4d96-ae2c-bb735ca3aab1 Mon, 20 Jun 2022 04:36:38 -0000 01:31:28 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast, John and Jason travel to mainland China to discuss Zhang Yimou's seminal 1991 film, Raise the Red Lantern. They discuss the film's accolades, allegorical interpretations, and its place in the director's multifaceted career.

Enjoy!

Timestamps

2:18 - Media Consumption

25:15 - News

27:27 - Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2022/06/s3e4-raise-red-lantern-1991.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no S3E3 - Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon (2000) https://pinecast.com/guid/bd8a43a1-90bc-4f9f-ad45-3b2f96d68410 Sat, 04 Jun 2022 21:11:58 -0000 01:29:26 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast, John and Jason discuss Ang Lee's 2000 Wuxia film, Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon. Breaking all kinds of records when released, the film revitalized the Wuxia genre and brought international recognition to Ang Lee, Chow Yun Fat, and Michelle Yeoh. Listen to John's and Jason's discussion and see if they think the film stands the test of time.

Timestamps

2:16 - Media Consumption

15:13 - News

22:30 - Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2022/06/s3e3-crouching-tiger-hidden-dragon-2000.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no S3E2 - Parasite (2019) https://pinecast.com/guid/7d2ff948-43af-4abf-8955-f171c44eb926 Mon, 23 May 2022 05:32:33 -0000 01:41:22 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast, John and Jason discuss Bong Joon-ho's award winning and record breaking 2019 film, Parasite. They discuss themes of class and gender present in the film, its comparison with other films like Kurosawa's High and Low, and speculations about the film's legacy and success.

Timestamps

2:14 - Media Consumption

14:30 - News

18:55 - Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2022/05/s3e2-parasite-2019.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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Follow John: https://twitter.com/mildly_scifi

]]> no S3E1 - Drive My Car (2021) https://pinecast.com/guid/c09dd8f7-4ca1-43d0-871f-b51701c01318 Thu, 05 May 2022 16:18:35 -0000 01:39:35 Welcome to the 3rd season of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast. This season's theme is "award winners." What are the biggest award winners in Asian cinema? How where these films received at the time, how are they received now, and can they tell as something about the state of Asian cinema at the time of their release?

John and Jason start the season with this year's big Oscar winner, Drive My Car (2021) directed by Ryusuke Hamaguchi, based on three short stories by Haruki Murakami. They discuss the film's ample subtext, its merit as a Murakami adaptation, and debate whether the films 3-hour runtime is justified. As always, we hope you enjoy.

Timestamps

7:56 - Media Consumption

29:29 - News

30:38 - Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2022/05/s3e1-drive-my-car-2021.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no OAFF 2022 Special https://pinecast.com/guid/55bc75eb-3a81-4617-96b7-ef4db951a523 Mon, 28 Mar 2022 05:39:35 -0000 01:59:26 In this special episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason discuss their favorite movies from the wonderful 2022 Osaka Asian Film Festival.

Timestamps:

2:53 - Media Consumption

19:12 - News

23:42 - Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2022/03/oaff-2022-special.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

Follow Jason: https://twitter.com/filmnohito

Follow John: https://twitter.com/mildly_scifi

]]> no Best of 2021 https://pinecast.com/guid/273d472a-c432-42cc-8ea4-b11d923a3e18 Sun, 30 Jan 2022 06:15:34 -0000 As we move steadily through the new year, John and Jason take a look back at 2021 and talk about their favorite movies.

Timestamps:

2:23 - Media Consumption

15:04 - News

25:32 - Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2022/01/best-of-2021.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

Follow Jason: https://twitter.com/filmnohito

Follow John: https://twitter.com/mildly_scifi

Intro music: "A Good Bass for Gambling" by Komiku

Outro music: Ninja Girl (2021) Original Soundtrack

]]> no Christmas Special 2021: Tokyo Godfathers https://pinecast.com/guid/9e7b1753-a3d8-4974-8827-748032d7080a Sat, 25 Dec 2021 16:52:30 -0000 01:23:04 Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays everyone. In this special episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason tackle Satoshi Kon's 2003 film, Tokyo Godfathers.

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2021/12/christmas-special-2021-tokyo-godfathers.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

Follow Jason: https://twitter.com/filmnohito

Follow John: https://twitter.com/mildly_scifiEpisode Notes

]]> no November Special - Cowboy Bebop https://pinecast.com/guid/2411efb1-975c-4dc8-bc00-e30d35f75743 Mon, 29 Nov 2021 06:03:53 -0000 01:47:54 In this special episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason discuss the iconic 1998 anime series, Cowboy Bebop. The boys talk about the characters, their favorite episodes, and like many others, they join the perennial bounty hunt for the myriad pop culture references buried within.

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2021/11/november-special-cowboy-bebop.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

Follow Jason: https://twitter.com/filmnohito

Follow John: https://twitter.com/mildly_scifiEpisode Notes

]]> no Halloween Special - The Thing https://pinecast.com/guid/afb3801e-66c6-49d8-a804-726e6a05fea3 Fri, 29 Oct 2021 04:09:57 -0000 01:47:38 Season 2 might be over, but our coverage of great movies continues. In this special episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason talk about John Carpenter's 1982 film, The Thing, and the various iterations that preceded it. Starting with John W. Campbell's novella, Who Goes There, and the Howard Hawks 1951 adaptation, The Thing from Another World, we delve into the many themes and interpretations contained inside this timeless story, focusing primarily on the Carpenter version.

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2021/10/halloween-special-thing.html

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]]> no S2E10 - Made in Hong Kong (1997) https://pinecast.com/guid/aa6e6152-a6b0-46ee-9c59-b50b357094b9 Sun, 10 Oct 2021 03:03:58 -0000 01:39:09 Alas, the season finale is here. In this final episode of season 2 of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason discuss the 1997 Hong Kong film by Fruit Chan, Made in Hong Kong. We talk about the film's style, themes, and place in post-handover Hong Kong. We also share some overall thoughts on the topic of this season, 90s Asian cinema.

Timestamps

3:32 - Media Consumption

18:19 - News

24:27 - Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2021/10/s2e10-made-in-hong-kong-1997.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no S2E9 - Whispering Corridors/Memento Mori https://pinecast.com/guid/1e6fecf4-ff1b-48e9-9577-d52df9c94aaf Sat, 11 Sep 2021 17:11:57 -0000 01:29:07 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason discuss the first two entries in the South Korean Whispering Corridors horror franchise: Whispering Corridors (1998) and Memento Mori (1999). Both films are shining examples of the rising Korean cinema of the 90s. We talk about their political symbolism, same sex relationships, as well as the role that these films played in the rise of Korean horror cinema.

Timestamps

2:26 - Media Consumption

16:04 - News

25:33 - Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2021/09/s2e9-whispering-corridorsmemento-mori.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no S2E8 - Ghost in the Shell https://pinecast.com/guid/32e5976b-3cc7-4b6e-a366-b019521c01bb Wed, 18 Aug 2021 05:16:13 -0000 01:48:53 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, John, Jason, and guest host Dr. Brian Ruh discuss Mamoru Oshii's 1995 animated masterpiece, Ghost in the Shell. They spend a lot of time discussing the film's philosophical/theological themes, Oshii's unique style, as well as the various sequels and spinoffs of the franchise.

Timestamps:

2:58 Media Consumption

10:18 News

15:36 Film Discussion

Buy Brian's book: https://www.amazon.com/Stray-Dog-Anime-Films-Mamoru/dp/1403963

Follow Brian on twitter: https://twitter.com/brianruh

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2021/08/s2e8-ghost-in-shell.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no Special - NYAFF 2021 https://pinecast.com/guid/a1f99063-544e-4f45-af6d-e1002686c1ee Tue, 03 Aug 2021 01:09:54 -0000 In this special episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason discuss the 2021 edition of the New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF). For the second year in a row, NYAFF goes online (well, partially), which means everyone in North America can enjoy their wonderful selection of Asian films. In this episode we talk about our overall impression of the festival and list our favorite films.

The festival will run from August 6th to the 22th. For info and ticket purchasing visit nyaff.org

You can rent films individually, or purchase a bundle pass here.

We hope you enjoy.

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2021/08/special-nyaff-2021.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no S2E7 - The Wedding Banquet (1993) https://pinecast.com/guid/b558aa69-4e10-4eaf-ac5b-98281cf654d9 Wed, 14 Jul 2021 02:29:09 -0000 01:26:59 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason return to the coverage of 90s Asian cinema by discussion Ang Lee's 1993 film, The Wedding Banquet. In this film, Ang Lee presents yet another clash between tradition and modernity through the lens of a Taiwanese immigrant struggling to balance his personal life with his filial duties. Can those two worlds ever reconcile? Listen as we discuss these themes, and more!

Timestamps:

1:57 Media Consumption

10:27 News

15:52 Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2021/07/s2e7-wedding-banquet-1993.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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Follow John: https://twitter.com/mildly_scifi

]]> no 18 Special - Cinema as Struggle: A Retrospective on Kazuo Hara and Sachiko Kobayashi https://pinecast.com/guid/be798e3b-c9f7-4987-baa5-4ee875cf08b5 Mon, 28 Jun 2021 03:00:32 -0000 02:14:16 In this special episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason take a brake from 90s Asian cinema to discuss a retrospective on the cinema of documentarians Kazuo Hara and Sachiko Kobayashi, presented by Japan Society.

The series runs until July 2nd, and can be viewed here: https://film.japansociety.org/page/cinema-as-struggle-the-films-of-kazuo-hara-and-sachiko-kobayashi/

Timestamps:

2:24 Media Consumption

5:41 News

9:54 Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2021/06/special-cinema-as-struggle.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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Follow John: https://twitter.com/mildly_scifi

]]> no 17 S2E6 - The Quiet Family (1998) https://pinecast.com/guid/cf572bc7-9dbf-4000-88a8-06d1bcd903aa Mon, 21 Jun 2021 04:50:53 -0000 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason revisit South Korean director, Kim Jee-woon, this time discussing his 1998 feature film debut, The Quiet Family. They talk about the comedy, the horror, and the film's political commentary on military regime of South Korean dictator Park Chung-hee.

Timestamps:

3:00 Media Consumption

21:47 News

37:13 Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2021/06/s2e6-quiet-family-1998.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no 16 S2E5 - Out of the Dark (1995) https://pinecast.com/guid/77507080-70f1-4713-b393-08be5b3ad06f Mon, 07 Jun 2021 01:47:12 -0000 01:27:24 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason discuss the 1995 Hong Kong comedy, Out of the Dark, directed by Jeffrey Lau and starring Stephen Chow and Karen Mok. They talk about the Chow's most memorable scenes (in this film and others) and how Chow's particular brand of comedy elevates all his films above the competition.

Timestamps:

1:36 Media Consumption

16:17 News

24:10 Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2021/06/s2e5-out-of-dark-1995.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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Follow John: https://twitter.com/mildly_scifie

]]> no 15 S2E4 - Hana-bi (1997) https://pinecast.com/guid/a6fcfbb2-18e6-44a6-a816-b182943f84c4 Tue, 25 May 2021 05:37:12 -0000 01:32:06 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason discuss Takeshi Kitano's (Beat Takeshi) 1997 Golden Lion winner, Hana-bi (aka Fireworks). They talk about the film's uniquely minimalist aesthetic, beautiful soundtrack, and potential message of hope and/or nihilism, depending on the viewer's mood. We hope you enjoy!

Timestamps:

1:58 Media Consumed

6:58 News

12:47 Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2021/05/s2e3-hana-bi-1997.html

Follow the show on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no 14 Oscars 2020 special: Nomadland https://pinecast.com/guid/a1b8abe4-1f17-4db6-b947-6b0b07514c5a Mon, 10 May 2021 04:28:47 -0000 01:24:57 In this special episode of Heroic Purgatory, we are taking a break from our coverage Asian cinema in the 90s to discuss the 2020 Best Picture Oscar winner, Nomadland, directed by Chloe Zhao. We discuss the film's merits as a work of social criticism along with its philosophical musings about the beauty and harshness of the "nomad" lifestyle. 

Timestamps:

2:02 Introduction

2:58 Media Consumption

10:53 News

16:24 Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2021/05/oscars-2020-special-nomadland.html

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]]> yes 13 S2E3 - Green Fish / No. 3 (1997) https://pinecast.com/guid/cdc32a4c-fb03-4a1a-903b-73e978391152 Mon, 26 Apr 2021 14:52:52 -0000 01:26:54 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, we tackle a South Korean double feature: Green Fish and No.3, both from 1997. We talk about the similarities and differences between these too films, their artistic merits, as well as their commentary on Korean society of the 90s.

Timestamps:

1:15 Introduction

1:54 Media Consumed

8:00 News

12:38 Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2021/04/s2e3-green-fish-no3-1997.html

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]]> no 12 S2E2 - Happy Together (1997) https://pinecast.com/guid/2bd339bb-c0aa-4fa6-aab4-aea65ece4c7d Mon, 12 Apr 2021 04:27:23 -0000 01:30:25 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason discuss Wong Kar Wai's 1997 film, Happy Together. They discuss the film's technical aspects, its place in the director's filmography, as well as the film's larger statement on the politics of the time.

Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

1:40 Media Consumed

9:43 News

14:00 Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2021/04/s2e2-happy-together-1997.html

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]]> no 11 S2E1 - The Eel (1997) https://pinecast.com/guid/1bb83940-f669-4302-8993-0dbe86f3f218 Sun, 28 Mar 2021 03:28:01 -0000 After a long delay, the second season of the Heroic Purgatory podcast is finally here. In this season we have decided to focus on Asian movies from the 90s, so be prepared for all kinds of 90s goodness with all the great movies and bad haircuts that it entails.

In the first episode of the season, we talk about Shohei Imamura's 1997 Palme D'or winner, The Eel. We discuss various interpretations of the film and try to understand the complex psychology of Imamura's characters.

Timestamps:

01:00 Introduction

05:04 Media Consumption

19:14 News

33:15 Film Discussion

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2021/03/s2e1-eel-1997.html

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]]> no 10 Christmas Special 2020 https://pinecast.com/guid/883d4d52-9077-4bbb-897b-fb2a109e485c Thu, 24 Dec 2020 20:22:17 -0000 02:17:20 The holiday season is finally upon us.

John and Jason close 2020 with a Heroic Purgatory Christmas Special, discussing their favorite Holiday themed movies, among other things.

We procrastinated a lot more than usual in this episode. Actual film discussion starts at 42:05.

Finally, we'd like to wish every one of our listeners a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a Happy New Year. See you in 2021.

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2020/12/christmas-special-2020.html

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]]> no 9 Episode 8 - Devils on the Doorstep (2000) https://pinecast.com/guid/d46183e6-06a9-4893-aac1-8df1329099e5 Mon, 07 Dec 2020 04:38:28 -0000 In the final episode of the first season of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast, John and Jason discuss Wen Jiang's 2000 war drama/comedy, Devils on the Doorstep. They talk about the effectiveness of the film's comedy, its statement on propaganda, the morality of war, and much more.

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2020/12/episode-8-devils-on-doorstep-2000.html

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]]> no 8 Episode 7 - Memories of Murder (2003) https://pinecast.com/guid/3be4acc6-e615-456f-a455-5333eb36fe37 Tue, 24 Nov 2020 05:29:23 -0000 01:38:11 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast, John and Jason discuss Bong Joon-ho's 2003 crime-thriller, Memories of Murder. They delve into the film's themes and messages, its statement on class and woman, as well as its stance on the past politics of South Korea.

Next Episode: Devils on the Doorsteps (China, 2000)

Website link:https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2020/11/episode-7-memories-of-murder-2003.html

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]]> no 7 Episode 6 - Eat Drink Man Woman (1994) https://pinecast.com/guid/80c97b08-9ca4-4023-be81-2b5f44dc707a Mon, 09 Nov 2020 04:41:35 -0000 01:52:05 In this episode of the Heroic Purgatory podcast, John and Jason talk about Ang Lee's film, Eat Drink Man Woman, the final part of his "Father Knows Best" trilogy. They attempt to analyze the themes of tradition vs. modernity, as well as the film's autobiographical elements. As a side note, they also ponder on the current state of Asian cinema and what it means for Western audiences.

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2020/11/episode-6-eat-drink-man-woman-1994.html

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]]> no 6 Episode 5 - Audition (1999) https://pinecast.com/guid/db7ee2b2-9ef6-4039-ae7c-b1afe5531873 Mon, 26 Oct 2020 02:55:25 -0000 01:33:18 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason celebrate the spooky month of October by discussing Takashi Miike's seminal 1999 horror film, Audition. They talk about the film's feminist themes, its excessive violence, as well as its overall place in the horror genre.

Website link:https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2020/10/episode-5-audition-1999.html

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]]> no 5 Episode 4 - The Killer (1989) https://pinecast.com/guid/260df89d-9a7c-48ad-84aa-9f0336a9aea9 Sun, 11 Oct 2020 23:22:06 -0000 01:16:00 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason tackle John Woo's 1989 action flick, The Killer. They delve into the film's action, production values, religious themes, as well as its place in the "Heroic Bloodshed" genre which John Woo helped invent.

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2020/10/episode-4-killer-1989.html

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]]> no 4 Bittersweet Life (2005) https://pinecast.com/guid/c9b5507d-491d-45b5-b86b-b7819b94616c Sun, 27 Sep 2020 03:16:21 -0000 01:17:48 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason discuss Kim Jee-woon's action/crime film, A Bittersweet Life (2005). They talk about the film's existential themes, its well-crafted action scenes, as well as whether or not the whole thing is just happening in the main character's head.

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2020/09/episode-3-bittersweet-life-2005.html

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeroicPurgatory

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]]> no 3 Episode 2 - Battle Royale (2000) https://pinecast.com/guid/79278618-e47b-4c10-a6a9-02c83eb9ab7a Sun, 13 Sep 2020 20:14:39 -0000 01:06:16 In this episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason discuss Kinji Fukasaku's final feature film, Battle Royale. Released in 2000, the film is as controversial now as it was then. We talk about the film, its sequel, the novel it was based on, and much, much more.

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2020/09/episode-2-battle-royale-2000.html

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]]> no 2 Episode 1 - Police Story (1985) https://pinecast.com/guid/e8de2c86-20a3-475a-b775-1ec1fee99431 Sat, 29 Aug 2020 20:21:52 -0000 01:06:22 In the first actual episode of Heroic Purgatory, John and Jason talk about Jackie Chan's seminal action-comedy, Police Story (1985). Considered to be one of the best action films of all time, Police Story was the first among many films that would catapult Jackie into international stardom.

Website link: https://heroic-purgatory.blogspot.com/2020/08/episode-1-police-story-1985.html

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]]> no 1 Introductions https://pinecast.com/guid/2e38d348-7d76-4182-94a0-54e8269cffd4 Sat, 15 Aug 2020 19:12:33 -0000 00:46:40 Introducing the hosts of the Heroic Purgatory Podcast Welcome to the inaugural episode of Heroic Purgatory: An Asian Cinema Podcast. In this episode, the hosts, John and Jason, introduce themselves and talk about their history with Asian cinema, as well as their plans for their new podcast.

Be sure to follow our show and let us know what you think.

Follow John on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mildly_scifi

Follow Jason on Twitter: https://twitter.com/filmnohito

Follow Jason's Japanese Cinema Blog: https://genkinahito.wordpress.com/

Intro music: "A Good Bass for Gambling" by Komiku

Outro Music: "Bleu" by Komiku

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