The Flick Lab

In this episode of the podcast, Karri and Henrik delve into the origins of 'Friday the 13th,' exploring the first three films that birthed the iconic Jason Voorhees phenomenon. While the hockey mask-wearing serial killer has become a cultural staple, the question arises: do the initial entries in this enduring franchise truly merit their place in cinematic history? They also examine the enduring power of nostalgia in shaping the series' cultural significance compared to the movies themselves. The discussion covers a wide array of discussion points, including character development, storytelling, thematic elements, ethical considerations in Hollywood, legacy, and other topics. Films covered in this episode: Friday the 13th (1980) Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981) Friday the 13th Part 3 (1982) Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by [Nick Grivell](https://instagram.com/prodbyiof).

American writer-director-editor Nick Vaky and Taiwanese photographer-cinematographer Luke Liu form a filmmaking and production company/art collective. Nick and Luke's serendipitous meeting took place in Taiwan. They quickly discovered they have an abundance of chemistry between them and forged a lasting creative partnership, resulting in a prolific body of work encompassing short films, photo shoots, and diverse projects. Their collaborative endeavors extend to the YouTube channel Mint Volcano, dedicated to sharing their passion for Asian and Taiwanese Cinema through film analyses and reviews. How did Nick's journey lead him to Taiwan? What cultural hurdles did he encounter when acclimating to his new environment? What distinctive artistic styles define Nick and Luke’s body of work? And what does the future hold for this talented duo? Mint Volcano's Youtube channel is here: https://www.youtube.com/@MintVolcano Nick Vaky's portfolio and details can be found at his home page https://nickvaky.com/ Luke Liu's body of work can be located at his home page https://jungfengliu.com/ Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Guests Nick Vaky and Luke Liu aka Jung-Feng Liu. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell.

The Flick Lab turns half a decade old. Hosts Karri and Henrik are interviewed about the podcast experience by Aku, Karri's astute sibling of the male kind. The situation quickly escalates into two hours of alleged hilarity. What have been the shining moments and the darkest hours of podcasting? Would Karri and Henrik recommend podcasting to anybody? Given the opportunity to turn back the clock, would the architects of The Flick Lab embark on this odyssey once more? Karri comes clean with his current views on the future of the podcast. Henrik reveals his driving motives. Does celluloid art need to possess meaning? Are there some films that should never be discussed? Podcast seized, supervised and overseen by Aku Mäkelä. Featuring dethroned coffee brewers Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Episode chopped by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune penned and conducted by Nick Grivell.

The Flick Lab turns half a decade old. Hosts Karri and Henrik are interviewed about the podcast experience by Aku, Karri's astute sibling of the male kind. The situation quickly escalates into two hours of alleged hilarity. What have been the shining moments and the darkest hours of podcasting? Would Karri and Henrik recommend podcasting to anybody? Given the opportunity to turn back the clock, would the architects of The Flick Lab embark on this odyssey once more? Karri comes clean with his current views on the future of the podcast. Henrik reveals his driving motives. Does celluloid art need to possess meaning? Are there some films that should never be discussed? Podcast seized, supervised and overseen by Aku Mäkelä. Featuring dethroned coffee brewers Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Episode chopped by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune penned and conducted by Nick Grivell.

In this episode of the podcast, the Lab has a discussion on "All Quiet on the Western Front," the story of timeless impact; a renowned German novel that has inspired three film adaptations. There is the Academy Awards-winning 1930 film, celebrated as a monumental incarnation of the story; the praised 1979 TV movie, which garnered accolades like the Golden Globe and Emmy; and the 2022 Netflix adaptation, with four Academy Awards to its credit. Karri and Henrik debate and decide which adaptation truly deserves the highest praise, exploring the essence and artistry behind each portrayal. Films covered in this episode: All Quiet on the Western Front (1930) All Quiet on the Western Front (1979) All Quiet on the Western Front (2022) Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell.

In this episode of the podcast, Karri and Henrik investigate the highly successful Chinese action movies Wolf Warrior 1 and 2, which perhaps ironically, rely heavily on Hollywood's cinematic language while looking at the world through Chinese patriotically tinted glasses. But instead of nationalistic fervor, do the movies accidentally end up communicating more about Chinese political frustrations, weaknesses, or perhaps even revealing a Chinese state-level inferiority complex? Films covered in this episode: Wolf Warrior (2015) (战狼) Wolf Warrior 2 (2017) (战狼2) Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell.

In this episode of the podcast, two Westerners analyse two Chinese war "propaganda" movies, The Battle at Lake Changjin I & II (Water Gate Bridge), offering their candid feedback. These are among the most successful Chinese 'blockbusters' of all time, the first part being the biggest hit in China's history, grossing at least $913 million after its 2021 release. The topic of these action-heavy war movies is China's role in the Korean War, with a particular focus on the showdown in Changjin, part two concentrating on the battle at its reservoir, which was a turning point for the war. Is the Chinese propaganda there as claimed? Is it over the top or warranted? How does it compare to American war movies and their messaging? Karri and Henrik also discuss the American acting, whether the UN troops retreated from Changjin, the shortcomings in storytelling and CGI, Hollywoodization of Chinese cinema, and other topics. Films covered in this episode: The Battle at Lake Changjin (长津湖, 2021) The Battle at Lake Changjin II (Water Gate Bridge) (長津湖之水門橋, 2022) Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell.

In this episode of the podcast, Karri and Henrik discuss Die Hard, but what's left to say about it? The duo believes there's still room to discuss some of the less frequently tooted perspectives out there. Yet even The Flick Lab has to ask THE most frequent Die Hard question and answer it, so on behalf of all humanity, we can put the subject to bed once and for all and media doesn't have bring it up ever again. Films covered in this episode: Die Hard (1988) Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell. Photo of Nak... Fox Plaza by Tom Bernard (Public domain).

In this episode of the podcast, Karri and Henrik embark on an exploration of Sisu, the Finnish nazi butchering hit action movie that has been making waves around the world. As devoted advocates of Finnish culture, Karri and Henrik seize this opportunity to critically examine the cultural export of "sisu" and delve into its potential complexities. With a discerning lens, the hosts analyze whether the cinematic style of "Sisu" the movie is a captivating breath of fresh air or a potentially tiresome, or even a desperate encounter. Films covered in this episode: Sisu (2022) Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell.

In this episode of the podcast, Karri and Henrik continue scouring Filmdoo.com, an international film streaming website, to discover its best free short films available. The duo sifts through a total of 33 random selections, unearthing hidden gems from around the world. This episode is not sponsored by Filmdoo. Part 2 of 2. Films covered in this episode: https://www.filmdoo.com/films/love-bakery https://www.filmdoo.com/films/the-prisoner-short https://www.filmdoo.com/films/man-under https://www.filmdoo.com/films/last-train https://www.filmdoo.com/films/staff-riding https://www.filmdoo.com/films/train-surfers https://www.filmdoo.com/films/a-mongolian-couch https://www.filmdoo.com/films/down-the-stream https://www.filmdoo.com/films/vienna-waits-for-you https://www.filmdoo.com/films/flow https://www.filmdoo.com/films/broken-short https://www.filmdoo.com/films/transmormon https://www.filmdoo.com/films/tomgirl https://www.filmdoo.com/films/drag-king https://www.filmdoo.com/films/draft-day https://www.filmdoo.com/films/masa https://www.filmdoo.com/films/televisnu https://www.filmdoo.com/films/altered-focus-burma https://www.filmdoo.com/films/a-doctors-job https://www.filmdoo.com/films/rice Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell.

In this episode of the podcast, Karri and Henrik scour Filmdoo.com, an international film streaming website, to discover its best free short films available. The duo sifts through 33 random selections, unearthing hidden gems from around the world. This episode is not sponsored by Filmdoo. Part 1 of 2. Films covered in this episode: https://www.filmdoo.com/films/cognitio https://www.filmdoo.com/films/mr-christmas https://www.filmdoo.com/films/curiosity-kills https://www.filmdoo.com/films/a-second https://www.filmdoo.com/films/fragments https://www.filmdoo.com/films/our-homeland https://www.filmdoo.com/films/128 https://www.filmdoo.com/films/the-shadow-man https://www.filmdoo.com/films/risks https://www.filmdoo.com/films/mae/ https://www.filmdoo.com/films/through-the-mirror https://www.filmdoo.com/films/marimba Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell. You may also be interested in these podcasts: The Foxhole Companion Chronological History of WWII as seen through the silver screen. Starting in 1936 with The Seventh Cross starring Spencer Tracey and Jessica Tandy. Currently on season 3 and the summer of 1941. All your favourite war movies and some that will be! Get Me Another GET ME ANOTHER is a podcast that explores blockbuster films and those movies that came in their wake and tried to replicate their success.

In this episode of the podcast, we look at Mission Impossible III. Is it a triumph or... just okay? Is it a glorious high or an uninspiring return to form? While Karri struggles to locate the movie's identity or anything truly worthwhile, Henrik takes a more generous view but admits that time has dulled some of its luster. As they dive deeper, the hosts explore the film's influence on the subsequent 'Mission' movies and whether they surpassed its achievements. The episode raises the question: where does Mission: Impossible III stand in the franchise's evolution, and how has its legacy been impacted by the later films? With the benefit of hindsight, can we now fully appreciate MI3's place in the larger context of the Mission: Impossible series? While the hosts may not always agree on the film's merits, one thing is certain: Mission: Impossible III is a movie. Films covered in this episode: Mission: Impossible III (2006) Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell.

In this episode of the podcast, we pose the question: is Mission Impossible II a work of art or a flaming dumpster fire? M:I-2 certainly is the most divisive of all the 'Mission' movies. Audiovisual professionals Karri and Henrik present their contrasting views on the movie, and engage in a lively discussion. The arguments for and against the film are explored in depth from the perspective of Karri and Henrik, who dissect the film's strengths and weaknesses, from the directorial choices of John Woo to the soundtrack by Hans Zimmer. The duo also delve into topics such as the use of slow-mo, the dangerous stunt work, action, studio meddling and how personal expectations and taste buds can heavily impact one's perception of the film. Henrik also raises the hypothesis that the franchise is attempting to bury its past. Films covered in this episode: Mission: Impossible II (2000) Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell.

In this episode of the podcast, Karri and Henrik dive into the charms of Mission Impossible and examine the first film in the franchise. Karri questions the greatness of the 1996 classic. Both hosts also explore the idea whether or not the first film contains a foundational formula for the franchise to follow, and if not, what then is the blueprint of the Mission Impossible franchise, and what are the elements that have lasted to this day. The Flick Lab dissects the origins of this Tom Cruise blockbuster franchise in what is the first of three Mission Impossible episodes. Films covered in this episode: Mission: Impossible (1996) Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell.

Why are the Jurassic Park / World Sequels so bad? Karri and Henrik tackle this question, the entire franchise, and discuss the latest entry, Jurassic World: Dominion. Talking points include Spielberg and his family plots, tactile dimensions, the feeling of first time awe, self-awareness of The Lost World, character build issues and legacy characters, whether Jurassic movies are franchise compatible or not, Dominion's identity, and other topics. Films covered in this episode: Jurassic Park (1993) - Steven Spielberg The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997) – Steven Spielberg Jurassic Park 3 (2001) – Joe Johnston Jurassic World (2015) – Colin Trevorrow Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018) – J.A. Bayona Jurassic World: Dominion (2022) – Colin Trevorrow Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell. Episode image by Lothar Dieterich.

In this episode of the podcast, the Finnish media mavens Karri and Henrik present the part 2 of their captivating cinematic exploration. In this exciting installment, the hosts delve deep into their cinematic experiences from the past year, featuring a selection of films from 2022 and beyond. Join Karri and Henrik on a journey through the dark and foreboding Finnish horror genre, meditative and introspective Japanese pieces, and high-octane American action thrillers. Along the way, our intrepid hosts offer unique insights and perspectives that will both entertain and enlighten, providing a fascinating guide to the world of cinematic splendor and shenanigans. Discover the hidden gems that you simply can't afford to miss, and receive an advance warning of the cinematic disappointments that are best left to wither away. Films covered in this episode: The Blind Man Who Did Not Want to See Titanic (2021) Hatching (Pahanhautoja, 2022) Lapland Odyssey (2010) Girl Picture (Tytöt tytöt tytöt, 2022) A Snake of June (2002) What Did Jack Do? (2017) Don't Look Now (1973) The Guilty (Den skyldige, 2018) The Guilty (2021) Don't Look Up (2021) 2019 Il Ultimo Silenzio (2004) Still Walking (2008) 2039 Il Ultimo Silenzio (2022) The Man From Nowhere (2010) The Menu (2022) A Bag of Marbles (Un sac de billes, 2017) The Midnight Club (TV, 2022) The Sandman (TV, 2022) Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell. Additional music from 'ENIGMA vol.2' by Aim to Head. Episode image by Gerd Altmann.

In this episode of the podcast, get ready for a cinematic adventure as media pros Karri and Henrik dive into their movies watched in the past year - including films from 2022 and beyond. From Hollywood blockbusters to international and indie gems, this is an inside look at the films that they simply couldn't get enough of and the ones that left them feeling disappointed. Along the way, they'll share their unique insights and perspectives, providing you with an entertaining and informative guide to the world of cinematic splendor. Tune in to discover the films you can't afford to overlook and get an advance warning of the duds you can leave gathering dust. Look for the part 2 of this episode next week. Films covered in this episode: Departures (Okuribito, 2008) The Green Knight (2021) Top Gun (1986) Glass Onion (2022) The Kid Detective (2020) Top Gun: Maverick (2022) X (2022) Pearl (2022) Pinocchio (1940) Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio (2022) Creepshow (TV, 2019-) Jack Reacher (2012) Jack Reacher: Never Go Back (2016) Don't Breathe 2 (2021) The Last Samurai (2003) Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell. Additional music from 'ENIGMA vol.2' by Aim to Head. Episode image by Gerd Altmann.

On December 6th every year, during Finnish Independence Day, hundreds of thousands of Finns gather around the telly to catch the movie they've seen countless times - The Unknown Soldier - in one of its three incarnations. The Winter War, however, is the lesser known Finnish war film, crushed under the fame of the aforementioned giants. Does The Winter War deserve its share of the limelight, however? Films covered in this episode: The Winter War (1989) (Talvisota) Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell.

Cancer. It's a universal concept that we all have heard about or know about. Despite all of our differences, there's more in life that connects us than divides us, and sometimes those shared experiences may veer to the unpleasant, such as cancer and death. Does even cinema fear cancer? Do any films about cancer exist, or is the concept being actively avoided, even in movies that are supposedly cancer movies? Also, can cancer be funny? Join The Flick Lab for another round of movies as we delve on these topics and discuss 4 movies about cancer. Films covered in this episode: Wit (2001) Tig (2015) Ikiru (1952) Cries & Whispers (1972) Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell.

In this episode of the podcast, the two Finns Karri and Henrik discuss Paraguayan cinema. The film industry in this beautiful and proud South American land-locked nation has remained tiny, but it has finally garnered some due attention. The duo comes across elements of creative film-making, American influences, themes of poverty, affluence and integrity. Karri and Henrik analyse the Top 3 films from Paraguay, as determined by IMDb with the following formula: must be (mainly) filmed and produced in Paraguay, acted by Paraguayans, with over 100 ratings. 7 Boxes (2012) and The Gold Seekers (2017) (Paraguayan selection to the Academy Awards, unnominated) are two action and adventure oriented films from the directing duo Juan Carlos Maneglia and Tana Schémbori. The Heiresses (2018) is an award-winning drama film about a prestigious but troubled female couple running out of money. Films covered in this episode: 7 Boxes (7 Cajas, 2012) The Gold Seekers (Los Buscadores, 2017) The Heiresses (Las herederas, 2018) Hosted by Karri Ojala and Henrik Telkki. Edited by Karri Ojala. The Flick Lab theme tune written and performed by Nick Grivell.