Being not only a filmmaker, but also a fan of the medium, there are few resources and critics that I can count on to always be on point. Adam Kempenaar and Sam Hallgren have embraced the same technology that has changed the face of filmmaking to breathe fresh air into film reviews. Cinecast is a twice weekly podcast dedicated not only to that latest Hollywood has to offer, but also often overlooked DVDs and independent films.

The show, on face value, is nothing more than an hours worth of conversation between two very different perspectives. Adam Kempenaar, one of the two hosts, has an extensive background in film theory from attending college in Iowa City, while Sam Hallgren has little to no background in film, although he studied theater in Chicago for four years.

This dichotomy in personality is the shows charisma. Kempenaar and Hallgren usually have very different opinions of films, but continue to have intelligent debates in teh spirit of civilized discourse. There is little to no “This film sucked” or “I’m right and your wrong” between the two. They are very good at stating likes and dislike with accompanying, solid, and well thought out points.

The demographic of listeners varies as wide as the gap between Kempenaar and Hallgren, and this has a direct input on the show via email and recorded voice mail. These guys know when they are getting called out for a just cause and happily fight the beating or accept it.

Critics like Ebert and Roper have their distinct tastes to such a point that a listener or reader can predict if the film gets the cliché “thumbs up, or thumbs down.” Cinecast provides a more in-depth and personal approach. It is one of the best things that I can rely on for unbiased interpretations of film as art and entertainment. And, although I don’t always agree with them, I love the debate.

Submitted by Gavin Whalen