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Welcome to Kicking the Seat!

Ian Simmons launched Kicking the Seat in 2009, one week after seeing Nora Ephron’s Julie & Julia. His wife proposed blogging as a healthier outlet for his anger than red-faced, twenty-minute tirades (Ian is no longer allowed to drive home from the movies).

The Kicking the Seat Podcast followed three years later and, despite its “undiscovered gem” status, Ian thoroughly enjoys hosting film critic discussions, creating themed shows, and interviewing such luminaries as Gaspar NoéRachel BrosnahanAmy Seimetz, and Richard Dreyfuss.

Ian is a member of the Chicago Film Critics Association. He also has a family, a day job, and conflicted feelings about referring to himself in the third person.

Ep561: Reelpolitik: Scout's Honor

Ep561: Reelpolitik: Scout's Honor

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Today, the Kicking the Seat Podcast welcomes Danielle Solzman of Solzy at the Movies for a “Reelpolitik” look at Mr. Smith Goes to Washington! Frank Capra’s 1939 dramedy stars Jimmy Stewart as a wide-eyed interim senator whose illusions are shattered on the crooked steps of Washington, DC. Ian and Danielle delve into the iconic movie’s history; touch on its relevance in today’s charged political climate; and detour into some of the Old Hollywood biographies Danielle has been reading during lockdown.

Also, Ian recommends Danielle’s written review of the film; teases about the latest episode of The Spoiler Room Podcast; and tells you how to participate in the After Hours Film Society’s first-ever Zoom Q&A—hosted by Keeping it Reel’s David Fowlie!*

Episode 561 is full of hooey!

Show Guide:

Mr. Smith Goes Off on Washington: 0:00 - 2:11

Intro Music: 2:11 - 2:25

Intro: 2:25 - 6:50

Mr. Smith Goes to Washington Trailer: 6:50 - 8:31

Mr. Smith Goes to Washington Discussion: 8:31 - 57:37

Outro Music: 57:37 - 57:53

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*As mentioned in the intro, to join David’s Botero discussion, simply rent the movie from Film Movement Plus—then send an email to info@afterhoursfilmsociety.com with the Subject Line “BOTERO Zoom”. A representative will send you a secure Zoom link for the Monday night Q&A.

Ep562: Friday the 40th: Psych!

Ep562: Friday the 40th: Psych!

Ep560: Late Screening: Fixing Good

Ep560: Late Screening: Fixing Good