The Wasteland Reviewer

The Wasteland Reviewer Recommends (November 16th, 2025)

This series will highlight my weekly journey through previously released films, whether they are rewatches for me or new discoveries. Here are my picks:     

Juno and the Paycock (1930)

What will money do to a family? Juno and the Paycock is an Irish set comedy/drama from film legend Alfred Hitchcock that explores that very topic. We witness an Irish family who finds wealth through inheritance which leads to plenty of drama and challenges for the family. This is not one of Hitchcock’s most dynamic films (with only a few fleeting moments of inspired filmmaking) but that makes sense with the onset of sound and the reliance on stationary microphones at the time. But Hitchcock does use long, stationary shots to give his performers plenty of space to sell the humor and drama of the piece. The performances and the family dynamics make this such an engaging film.

Twentieth Century (1934)

What is one of the key screw ball comedies that set the tone or the genre in the 30s and 40s? Along with It Happened One Night, Twentieth Century sets the stage for this beloved classic subgenre of comedy. Howard Hawks brings his distinct fast-paced and sharp filmmaking to this hilarious film. The conflict between a falling Broadway impresario and his former lover, a now Hollywood diva, is the core to this film. The charisma of both John Barrymore and Carole Lombard elevates this wildly funny and silly romp. Confined and tense, this comedy sees this rich chemistry and banter of Barrymore and Lombard reach impressive heights. The madcap and high energy finale of this film is worth the price of admission with Barrymore acting to the heavens. Full of great characters and plenty of absurd scenarios, Twentieth Century is a classic screwball comedy for a reason.

Topper Returns (1941)

Who is ready for a wild murder mystery, ghost story romp? This genre bending flick is a fun and thrilling film from Old Hollywood. The special effects bringing the ghosts to life are quite impressive. Topper Returns sees a fun-loving young woman accidently murdered when she switches rooms with her wealthy friend. This new ghostly woman is the key to figuring out who lies behind the black-clad specter. There are plenty of hilarious moments thanks to this wild bunch of characters. The dialogue is sharp and funny. The story has plenty of twists and turns along the way. This charismatic cast is full of gorgeous and charming women from Joan Blondell to Carole Landis to Billie Burke. There are some dynamic camera movements to capture the big, ornate sets throughout the film. Topper Returns is the type of romp that will put a smile on just about anyone.

Without a Clue (1988)

Who is the greatest duo of Sherlock & Holmes on the big screen? You just might find that answer by checking out the comedic mystery, Without a Clue. Having Michael Caine and Ben Kingsley taking on the mantle of these classic characters was a genius idea. But even more genius was the concept that is the heart of the film. Watson is the true genius, and Holmes is but an actor who is the face of their stories. This opens the door for plenty of funny and charming shenanigans in Thom Eberhardt’s film. Their banter and chemistry allow this film to deliver good laughs, solid thrills, and a good bit of mystery. There is a solid mystery at the heart of the story which gives these two excellent actors plenty of space to flaunt their talent. Caine as a drunkard is plenty of fun and Kingsley plays the straight man so perfectly. A fresh twist with solid filmmaking makes Without a Clue one of the most unique takes of Sherlock Holmes.

Radioland Murders (1994)

How entertaining can a radio show-gone-wrong truly be? Director Mel Smith finds plenty of laughs and thrills in his 90s comedic murder mystery, Radioland Murders. This high energy, period flick captures the zany vibe exploring the vintage feel of classic radio shows. The only issue is that people are ending up dead! A writer and his soon-to-be ex-wife who works at the station step up to find out the real killer when this writer is the prime suspect. There are plenty of twists and turns as well as investigatory elements that give this film that old-fashioned murder mystery feel. The zippy and high energy character work gives the film plenty of fun moments as well. The cast is stacked with plenty of big names who deliver some entertaining character work. Ned Beatty. Michael McKean. Corbin Bernsen. Christopher Lloyd. Stephen Tobolowsky. Jeffrey Tambor. Michael Lerner. George Burns. Dylan Baker. And even more! This is a fun flick with some classic big band entertainment splashed in this appetizing murder mystery concoction.

The Prestige (2006)

What is one of the most shocking, layered, detailed, and complex films in modern cinema? Christopher Nolan has cemented himself as one of the premiere directors in film. Each new film raises his profile but almost 20 years ago, he delivered one of his best films that still resonates, The Prestige. Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale are rival magicians whose toxic dynamic causes more strife for both. Triggered by the death of Jackman’s wife during a trick gone wrong (which could have been Bale’s fault), the escalation of their violence and revenge is quite compelling to watch. The performances in the film are stellar with both Jackman and Bale delivering top-tier performances. The supporting cast is just as compelling with the likes of Michael Caine, Rebecca Hall, Scarlett Johansson, and David Bowie all standing out. This film has some of the most layered and engaging story structures in film and twists that will never leave you. The Prestige is a must-see cinematic achievement.