THEY SHOOT FILMS

Does the world really need another movie podcast? Recovering filmmakers Ken Mercer and F.T. Kosempa are apparently crazy enough to think so. Ken (a Left Coast Hollywood survivor) and Frank (an independent filmmaker from New York) share their bicoastal, idiosyncratic, and often hilarious takes on a curated collection of films that are truly worth talking about.

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February 03, 2026

'Uncut Gems'

Show Notes

In this episode, we dive headfirst into Uncut Gems (2019), the Safdie Brothers’ nerve-shredding thriller that redefined modern cinematic anxiety. Starring Adam Sandler in a career-best dramatic performance, Uncut Gems is a chaotic blend of crime film, character study, and high-stakes morality play set in New York City’s Diamond District.

We break down the film’s relentless pacing, immersive sound design, and kinetic camerawork, exploring how the Safdie Brothers use style to mirror the compulsive psychology of their protagonist, Howard Ratner. From the film’s themes of addiction, risk, and self-destruction to its unforgettable ending, we examine why Uncut Gems has become one of the most talked-about films of the century.

Whether you’re a fan of intense thrillers, indie cinema, or deep film analysis, this episode offers a thoughtful discussion of what makes Uncut Gems so powerful.