5 For: Don Juan Demarco (1995)

In this week’s Movie Memory Machine: Five For mini-episode, Landen and Truman float through five films that, like Don Juan DeMarco, revel in myth-making, larger-than-life stories, and dreamlike quests for meaning. From tall tales spun in German hospitals to grand adventures told through strawberry-eating potheads, they recommend movies that blend fantasy, memory, romance, and the occasional Chaplin impression. Because sometimes life is better when you believe your own legends—even if the pants are optional.

Films Discussed:

1. The Adventures of Baron Munchausen (1988)

2. Big Fish (2003)

3. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)

4. The Fall (2006)

5. Benny & Joon (1993)

Topics Covered:

• Terry Gilliam’s chaotic filmmaking magic (and danger)

• Tall tales, mythic storytelling, and sad dads in Big Fish

• Ben Stiller’s surprisingly tender directorial turn in Walter Mitty

• Tarsem’s visual masterpiece The Fall and the mythic healing power of storytelling

• Johnny Depp’s Chaplin cosplay energy in Benny & Joon

Key Takeaways:

• Sometimes the myth is better than the man—and that’s okay.

• If you watch The Fall in 4K, you may actually astral project.

• Product placement is easier to forgive when you’re older and sadder.

• Terry Gilliam’s sets were hazardous, but Uma Thurman still made it mythic.

• Strawberry-eating potheads ruin DVD collections but enhance podcast anecdotes.

Listener Prompt:
Which movie makes you believe in larger-than-life stories (even if it’s a little messy)? Tell us using #MovieMemoryMachine.

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