This week on Real Movie Stuff, Charles recaps the cinematic chaos (and magic) of the Light Reel Film Festival—because nothing says “film buff” like voluntarily watching 12 movies in one weekend. He breaks down why film festivals still matter (even in the age of endless streaming), and why your couch shouldn’t be your only screening room.

Then it’s review time, as Charles dives into Tyler Perry’s Straw (yes, that’s really the title), Disney Pixar’s Elio (space kid meets emotions... again), and F1: The Movie. Expect hot takes, honest insights, and at least one movie he politely roasts. Buckle up—it’s a reel ride.

Welcome to the very first episode of Real Movie Stuff, where Charles Kirkland Jr. proves he's not just a film critic—he's a film nerd with credentials. Charles spills the popcorn on his journey from podcast co-host to accredited movie maestro and shares the behind-the-scenes scoop on the Light Reel Film Festival (spoiler: it's kind of a big deal).

Joined by Producer Mike, the duo dives into horror films—what they love, what haunts them, and why Ryan Coogler might be the horror hero we didn’t know we needed. They break down Sinners vs. Black Panther (yes, that’s a real comparison), chat about the evolution of scary cinema, and remind us that good horror is less about jump scares and more about smart storytelling.

If you're into movie talk, festival gossip, and hot takes with heart, this episode's got you covered. And don’t worry—no actual critics were harmed in the making of this podcast.

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The Light Reel Festival

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Produced by Defiantly Me Productions

Music: Legend In the Making by Rifflections

On this episode of Reel Movie Stuff, Charles talks with Noa Cohen and DJ Caruso about their Netflix film, Mary.

Mary is a coming-of-age biblical epic in which Mary is shunned following a miraculous conception and forced into hiding. When King Herod ignites a murderous pursuit for her newborn baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph go on the run — bound by faith and driven by courage — to save his life at all costs.

Mary stars Noa Cohen, Ido Tako, Stephanie Nur, Susan Brown and Anthony Hopkins. The film is directed by DJ Caruso (I Am Number Four, Eagle Eye, Disturbia).

MARY IS STREAMING ON NETFLIX RIGHT NOW!

Leila George, star of the hit Apple TV+ series "Disclaimer", drops by to spill the tea with Charles! She shares what it was like teaming up with director Alfonso Cuarón and dishes on how she stepped into the shoes (and youth!) of the iconic Cate Blanchett.

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You can catch Leila George in Disclaimer only streaming on Apple TV+!

Charles had a sit-down with Titus Kaphar, the painter/director, to talk about his new film "Exhibiting Forgiveness," hitting screens on Oct 18th, 2024. Starring Andre Holland, John Earl Jelks, Andra Day, and Aunjanue Ellis, the film delves into themes of love and the weight of childhood trauma. Charles and Kaphar dig deep into how these themes inspired the upcoming movie.

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Exhibiting Forgiveness Trailer

Exhibiting Forgiveness Review