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Reel Rap S6 E5: Elaine May’s ‘Mikey and Nicky’ (1976)

Shane and Bennett discuss Elaine May’s masterpiece

John Cassavetes and Peter Falk star in May’s 1976 film that reflects the chaotic nature of life and teaches about film in a way that no class or textbook could ever convey. Bennett and Shane declare Mikey and Nicky one of the best films ever made and May an unrivaled genius — a far cry from previous Reel Rap films and directors. They also discuss smoking on trains, belt hygiene and drinking out of tiny glasses.

TV sucks. Movies mostly suck. Write from the heart and don’t take a writing class — Shane Pfender reflecting on other mediums after Mikey and Nicky.

Listen to the episode below, or find us on SoundCloudApple Podcasts or Spotify for more podcasts.

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Additional music by Kevin MacLeod
Read Nathan Rabin’s essay on Mikey and Nicky here.
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A comedy duo straight out of William Penn’s backyard, Bennett Glace, an adult Disney fan, and Shane Pfender, an ordained minister, have for years lent a critical eye to Hollywood’s most tedious auteurs. They are a comedy duo for film snobs and slobs alike. Exhausted by the current uninspired landscape of film criticism, the two work to find a new language with which to understand and interact with the films they cover on their inimitable podcast, Reel Rap.