This week we discuss two Neo-Westerns directed by Chinese American filmmaker Chloé Zhao. The first is The Rider (2017), a semi-fictionalised account of former bronc rider Brady Jandreau. With a cast of real people playing themselves, Zhao captures an honest depiction of life in rural South Dakota, and of a man dealing with the effects of a life-altering accident. The second is Nomadland (2020), starring Frances McDormand as Fern, a widow who chooses to take up a life on the road living out of a van. The film has received much critical acclaim, garnering 4 Golden Globe nominations, and is a clear Oscar contender.   Timestamps The Rider (00:07:10) Nomadland (00:33:30) John Spillane’s review of Birth (01:12:55)    Links Instagram - @callitfriendopodcast @munnywales @andyjayritchie @thejohnspillane   Lane Scott video –  https://youtu.be/Ab_CnUA9aIM   Rolling Stone article – https://www.rollingstone.com/movies/movie-features/wild-horses-how-the-rider-became-the-breakout-movie-of-2018-629297   Trey Parker & Matt Stone on Sean Penn – https://youtu.be/sCq3K2O8htw   Justwatch.com – streaming and rental links https://www.justwatch.com

Broadcast on:

15 Feb 2021