Gimme Three - A Series For Cinephiles

Nicholas Ybarra & Bella Efstratis

Gimme Three is a love letter to one of the most powerful mediums of artistic expression - a love letter to the films that moved us and the great experiences we've had watching them.
In each episode, hosts Nicholas Ybarra and Bella Efstratis (and frequent special guests) will pick three incredible movies based on a selected theme.

Through fun banter and passionate analysis, the Gimme Three podcast aims to get people back to the theater and expand their watch lists, one listener at a time.

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TV & FilmTV & Film
Film ReviewsFilm Reviews
Film HistoryFilm History
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Episodes

46 - Presidential Films (feat. David Chiu)
Nov 4 2024
46 - Presidential Films (feat. David Chiu)
Send us a text**Enhance Your Election Week Experience with The Gimme Three Podcast!**It’s Election Week! As we all know, this week can be both exhilarating and highly stressful. So, if you need a break from doom scrolling and news coverage, The Gimme Three Podcast has you covered. In this week’s episode, co-host Nicholas Ybarra and guest David Chiu tackle Gimme Three Presidential Films!We start with John Frankenheimer’s political thriller, 7 Days In May. In a similar but true story - the pulse-pounding intricacies of the Cuban Missile Crisis are on display in the film Thirteen Days. Philip Baker Hall tears the house down in the one-person show on film Secret Honor - directed by the great Robert Altman. We stick with the subject of Richard Nixon in Ron Howard’s juicy film Frost/Nixon. Bryan Cranston takes his mesmerizing stage performance to the screen as he portrays Lydon B. Johnson in All The Way. Finally, we end the episode on a more romantic note. In Southside With You, we spend one day with President Barack Obama… on his first date with Michelle. There’s a little something for everyone with all of these incredible picks. Let us know what you think of these presidential films!Support the showSign up for our Patreon for exclusive Bonus Content.Follow the podcast on Instagram @gimmethreepodcastYou can keep up with Bella on Instagram @portraitofacinephile or Letterboxd You can keep up with Nick: on Instagram @nicholasybarra, on Twitter (X) @nicholaspybarra, or on LetterboxdShout out to contributor and producer Sonja Mereu. A special thanks to Anselm Kennedy for creating Gimme Three's theme music. And another special thanks to Zoe Baumann for creating our exceptional cover art.
43 - Horror Films Directed by Women pt. 1 (feat. Jess McLaughlin)
Oct 21 2024
43 - Horror Films Directed by Women pt. 1 (feat. Jess McLaughlin)
Send us a textAre you loving Gimme Three's horror content this month? Well, get ready for even more because we're bringing you six killer horror film recommendations in our newest two-part series: Horror Films Directed by Women! Over the next two weeks, Nick, Bella, and returning special guest Jess McLaughlin have curated a fantastic lineup showcasing the extraordinary work of six wickedly talented women directors. Jess handpicked three films, while Nick and Bella each chose a favorite, and YOU, our amazing listeners, voted on the final selection!In this episode...We kick things off a bang, featuring one of Jess' top picks: Carlota Pereda’s Piggy (2022), a gripping and criminally underrated bloody mystery.Next, Bella presents the audience pick—Coralie Fargeat's The Substance (2024), an intoxicating body horror marvel and every horror fan's latest obsession.And Jess brings us home with Ellie Foumbi’s Our Father, The Devil (2021), a haunting and masterful exploration of fear and identity.Each film showcases its own unique style and themes, ranging from unsettling mysteries to visceral bloodbaths. There’s truly something for everyone in this treasure trove of horror and underrated masterpieces just waiting to be discovered!Support the showSign up for our Patreon for exclusive Bonus Content.Follow the podcast on Instagram @gimmethreepodcastYou can keep up with Bella on Instagram @portraitofacinephile or Letterboxd You can keep up with Nick: on Instagram @nicholasybarra, on Twitter (X) @nicholaspybarra, or on LetterboxdShout out to contributor and producer Sonja Mereu. A special thanks to Anselm Kennedy for creating Gimme Three's theme music. And another special thanks to Zoe Baumann for creating our exceptional cover art.
42 - Hispanic Horrors (feat. Felix Martiz)
Oct 14 2024
42 - Hispanic Horrors (feat. Felix Martiz)
Send us a textWe kick off our month-long horror film extravaganza by also celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. In this episode (a re-release from a 2020 Film Forward episode), co-host Nicholas Ybarra chats with award-winning filmmaker Felix Martiz, and they each provide three outstanding horror films by Hispanic filmmakers. Ybarra and Martiz discuss these incredible films:Issa Lopez' beautiful and grounded cartel-inspired horror, Tigers Are Not Afraid. Mexico's 1968 classic (in every sense of the word) Even The Wind Is Afraid. If you're curious about tentacle lovin', you may be into the bizarre and freaky film The Untamed.Next, we gush over Robert Rodriguez's homage to grindhouse cinema, Planet Terror.We can't do a Hispanic Horrors episode without talking about Guillermo Del Toro's anti-fascist horror film, The Devil's Backbone.George Romero's Dawn of the Dead takes on a whole new meaning when viewed through the lens of the COVID-19 pandemic. Support the showSign up for our Patreon for exclusive Bonus Content.Follow the podcast on Instagram @gimmethreepodcastYou can keep up with Bella on Instagram @portraitofacinephile or Letterboxd You can keep up with Nick: on Instagram @nicholasybarra, on Twitter (X) @nicholaspybarra, or on LetterboxdShout out to contributor and producer Sonja Mereu. A special thanks to Anselm Kennedy for creating Gimme Three's theme music. And another special thanks to Zoe Baumann for creating our exceptional cover art.
40 - James Earl Jones: Deep Voice. Deeper Legacy.
Sep 30 2024
40 - James Earl Jones: Deep Voice. Deeper Legacy.
Send us a textEarlier this month, on September 9th, the legendary stage and screen actor James Earl Jones passed away at the age of 93. Jones made his film debut in 1964 with Stanley Kubrick's Dr. Strangelove, and continued to grace the screen for nearly 60 more years. Beyond the screen, his brilliance shone on stage, earning him two Tony Awards, and his incredible career culminated in the rare achievement of an EGOT.It's no secret that James Earl Jones possessed one of the greatest voices of all time, lending his voice to some truly iconic characters like Star Wars' iconic villain Darth Vader and Mufasa in Disney's The Lion King.In this episode, co-hosts Nick and Bella celebrate three of the late actor's memorable performances, from underrated gems to unforgettable blockbusters—James Earl Jones truly did it all!Starting with The Great White Hope(1970), where Jones earned his first and only Academy Award nomination for his powerful portrayal of Jack Jefferson.Next, we take a trip to a galaxy far far away in Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back (1980) to discuss Jones' legendary voice work as the ultimate cinematic villain, Darth Vader.And we conclude with Field of Dreams (1989), where we explore his heartfelt performance as Terrence Mann.Plus, our producer Sonja Mereu returns with another fantastic edition of "Sonja’s Movie Minute," this time highlighting Jones’ brilliant performance as Roop in the 1970s romantic comedy Claudine.James Earl Jones, thank you for your immense contributions to film, stage, and culture. Rest in peace.Support the showSign up for our Patreon for exclusive Bonus Content.Follow the podcast on Instagram @gimmethreepodcastYou can keep up with Bella on Instagram @portraitofacinephile or Letterboxd You can keep up with Nick: on Instagram @nicholasybarra, on Twitter (X) @nicholaspybarra, or on LetterboxdShout out to contributor and producer Sonja Mereu. A special thanks to Anselm Kennedy for creating Gimme Three's theme music. And another special thanks to Zoe Baumann for creating our exceptional cover art.
39 - The Cornetto Trilogy / Shaun Of The Dead's 20th Anniversary (feat. Daniel Ott)
Sep 24 2024
39 - The Cornetto Trilogy / Shaun Of The Dead's 20th Anniversary (feat. Daniel Ott)
Send us a textSeptember 24th, 2024, marks the 20th Anniversary of Shaun Of The Dead's US Release. The forever-fresh cult classic not only launched Edgar Wright, Simon Pegg, and Nick Frost to mega-stardom, but the film also kicked off a trilogy of brilliant collaborations between the three artists. In this episode, Bella and Nick are joined by Daniel Ott to discuss all three of the high-octane, humanist, genre-bending films of The Cornetto Trilogy (aka The Colours Cornetto). We opened with the film that started it all. Part romantic comedy, part zombie film, Shaun Of The Dead still thrills audiences 20 years after its original release.Second in the trilogy is the pedal-to-the-metal buddy comedy Hot Fuzz, which happens to be Daniel Ott's favorite film of all time. Finally, the most mature and emotional film of the bunch, The World's End, wraps up the trilogy's thematic thread with a wallop of introspection and, of course, some laughs as well.Let us know what your favorite film of the trilogy is!Support the showSign up for our Patreon for exclusive Bonus Content.Follow the podcast on Instagram @gimmethreepodcastYou can keep up with Bella on Instagram @portraitofacinephile or Letterboxd You can keep up with Nick: on Instagram @nicholasybarra, on Twitter (X) @nicholaspybarra, or on LetterboxdShout out to contributor and producer Sonja Mereu. A special thanks to Anselm Kennedy for creating Gimme Three's theme music. And another special thanks to Zoe Baumann for creating our exceptional cover art.
38 - Philip Seymour Hoffman In Supporting Roles
Sep 16 2024
38 - Philip Seymour Hoffman In Supporting Roles
Send us a textThis week, we conclude our tribute series to the legendary Philip Seymour Hoffman. Nick and Bella spotlight three of Hoffman’s most memorable supporting performances. Philip Seymour Hoffman never needed an exuberant amount of screen time to leave his mark on a film. Often, his supporting roles left as big of an impact as the leading characters. First up is one of his earliest roles in the Academy Award-winning film Scent Of A Woman. Next, Hoffman lights up the screen with an uncomfortable amount of energy, charisma, and tension in the juicy 1999 mystery The Talented Mr. Ripley. Finally, we get to explore Hoffman's outstanding comedic chops as he portrays Brandt in the cult classic The Big Lebowski. Also, our producer Sonja Mereu discusses one of Philip’s lesser-known films, Pirate Radio (aka The Boat That Rocked). Please let us know your thoughts on this episode and our entire Philip Seymour Hoffman series. Support the showSign up for our Patreon for exclusive Bonus Content.Follow the podcast on Instagram @gimmethreepodcastYou can keep up with Bella on Instagram @portraitofacinephile or Letterboxd You can keep up with Nick: on Instagram @nicholasybarra, on Twitter (X) @nicholaspybarra, or on LetterboxdShout out to contributor and producer Sonja Mereu. A special thanks to Anselm Kennedy for creating Gimme Three's theme music. And another special thanks to Zoe Baumann for creating our exceptional cover art.
37 - Philip Seymour Hoffman x Paul Thomas Anderson: A Match Made In Heaven
Sep 9 2024
37 - Philip Seymour Hoffman x Paul Thomas Anderson: A Match Made In Heaven
Send us a textContinuing our tribute to the legendary Philip Seymour Hoffman, this week Nick and Bella spotlight three of the most powerful collaborations between Hoffman and visionary director Paul Thomas Anderson.Hoffman and Anderson shared a profound friendship and creative bond, built on deep mutual respect, admiration, and a dynamic artistic synergy. Hoffman appeared in five of Anderson’s films, shaping some of his most iconic works and forming one of the most significant director-actor partnerships in modern cinema.From their five brilliant collaborations, Bella and Nick have selected three standout films showcasing Hoffman’s extraordinary range:First up is Boogie Nights, where Hoffman plays Scotty J, the kind but awkward and vulnerable crew member in Anderson’s dark, raunchy, and wildly entertaining 70s period piece.Next, we dive into Magnolia, one of Anderson’s most acclaimed films, with Hoffman delivering a touching performance as Phil, a compassionate hospice caretaker with a heart of gold.Finally, we arrive at The Master, a masterpiece in both filmmaking and acting. Hoffman shines as an enigmatic cult leader in his final collaboration with Anderson, cementing their remarkable legacy.Also! Our producer Sonja Mereu brings you an incredible and heartwarming edition of Sonja's Movie Minute. In this episode, she reflects on the generational continuation of this creative legacy with Philip Seymour Hoffman's son, Cooper Hoffman, who stars in PTA’s Licorice Pizza.We can’t wait to hear your thoughts on the episode—send us your feedback and enjoy!Support the showSign up for our Patreon for exclusive Bonus Content.Follow the podcast on Instagram @gimmethreepodcastYou can keep up with Bella on Instagram @portraitofacinephile or Letterboxd You can keep up with Nick: on Instagram @nicholasybarra, on Twitter (X) @nicholaspybarra, or on LetterboxdShout out to contributor and producer Sonja Mereu. A special thanks to Anselm Kennedy for creating Gimme Three's theme music. And another special thanks to Zoe Baumann for creating our exceptional cover art.
36 - Philip Seymour Hoffman In Leading Roles
Sep 3 2024
36 - Philip Seymour Hoffman In Leading Roles
Send us a textANOTHER LEGENDARY ACTOR'S TRIBUTE!This week on the Gimme Three Podcast co-hosts Bella Efstratis and Nicholas Ybarra celebrate the life and career of Philip Seymour Hoffman. As hard as it is to believe, this year marks a decade since Philip Seymour Hoffman's tragic passing. In this episode, the duo discusses some of Hoffman's pivotal leading performances. First, we have Sidney Lumet's swan song, the gripping 2008 crime thriller Before The Devil Knows You're Dead. In this one, Philip Seymour Hoffman takes his acting to new, intense heights. Next, we attempt to dissect the dense masterpiece Synecdoche, New York. In what may be his most enigmatic roles, Hoffman knocks it out of the park as the troubled stage director Caden Cotard.Finally, we discuss the intricacies of Philip Seymour Hoffman's Academy Award-winning performance as Truman Capote in Capote. In this episode, Bella and Nick analyze Hoffman's portrayal of vulnerability in all of his characters and its effect on the audience. Stay tuned for more episodes highlighting the work of Philip Seymour Hoffman in the coming weeks. Support the showSign up for our Patreon for exclusive Bonus Content.Follow the podcast on Instagram @gimmethreepodcastYou can keep up with Bella on Instagram @portraitofacinephile or Letterboxd You can keep up with Nick: on Instagram @nicholasybarra, on Twitter (X) @nicholaspybarra, or on LetterboxdShout out to contributor and producer Sonja Mereu. A special thanks to Anselm Kennedy for creating Gimme Three's theme music. And another special thanks to Zoe Baumann for creating our exceptional cover art.
32 - The War Within - America's Love/Hate Relationship with War (feat. Matt Cochran)
Aug 12 2024
32 - The War Within - America's Love/Hate Relationship with War (feat. Matt Cochran)
Send us a textThis week on The Gimme Three Podcast, co-host Bella Efstratis is joined by her good friend Matt Cochran, a cinephile and history buff, for a deep dive into America’s complex relationship with war in cinema. Together, they explore three films that arguably blur the line between being anti-war and glorifying it.Matt’s three film recommendations for this episode include:Stanley Kubrick’s Full Metal Jacket (1987)Sam Mendes' Jarhead (2005)Kathryn Bigelow’s The Hurt Locker (2009)Throughout the episode, Matt provides in-depth history lessons on each war depicted in the films we discuss, allowing us to analyze them not only within their historical contexts but also considering the cultural climate in which they were released.Together, we break down the elements we appreciated in each film while also reflecting on our own contradictions in grappling with the allure of war movies.And, of course, we dive into whether these films really hit the mark with their anti-war message or miss it entirely. Expect equal praise and criticism of these iconic films! We can't wait to hear your thoughts, so send us your takes and let us know what you think of ours!Support the showSign up for our Patreon for exclusive Bonus Content.Follow the podcast on Instagram @gimmethreepodcastYou can keep up with Bella on Instagram @portraitofacinephile or Letterboxd You can keep up with Nick: on Instagram @nicholasybarra, on Twitter (X) @nicholaspybarra, or on LetterboxdShout out to contributor and producer Sonja Mereu. A special thanks to Anselm Kennedy for creating Gimme Three's theme music. And another special thanks to Zoe Baumann for creating our exceptional cover art.
31 - Denzel Washington Films (feat. Trey Armstrong)
Aug 5 2024
31 - Denzel Washington Films (feat. Trey Armstrong)
Send us a textA LEGENDARY ACTOR'S SPOTLIGHT!This week on the Gimme Three Podcast, co-host Bella Efstratis is joined by actor, filmmaker, & writer Trey Armstrong to celebrate his favorite actor of all time, Denzel Washington.Trey recommends a brilliant variety of three incredible Denzel Washington films:First, we have Tony Scott's standout 1995 war thriller, Crimson Tide, featuring a young and powerful Denzel Washington going toe-to-toe with the legendary Gene Hackman.Next, we dive headfirst into Joel Coen's 2021 Shakespeare adaptation, The Tragedy of Macbeth, showcasing Denzel's Oscar-nominated performance as the titular character.Finally, we go back to 1995 for Trey's favorite Denzel film and one of his all-time best performances, as Easy Rawlins in Carl Franklin's neo-noir mystery thriller, Devil in a Blue Dress.Throughout these films, Denzel's remarkable talent and versatility shine as he dominates every scene and proves he can truly do it all.In this episode, Trey and Bella praise these three cinematic gems, discuss the state of the film industry, and share what our generation (Gen Z) wants to see in theaters. They just don't make movies like these anymore, so this is a call to action: Give us more Crimson Tides, and, most importantly, more Devil in a Blue Dress!As this is just the beginning of Denzel's brilliant filmography, expect more Denzel content to come in the future...So let us know what you think of this episode & tell us which three Denzel Washington films you'd like to see in the next episode!Support the showSign up for our Patreon for exclusive Bonus Content.Follow the podcast on Instagram @gimmethreepodcastYou can keep up with Bella on Instagram @portraitofacinephile or Letterboxd You can keep up with Nick: on Instagram @nicholasybarra, on Twitter (X) @nicholaspybarra, or on LetterboxdShout out to contributor and producer Sonja Mereu. A special thanks to Anselm Kennedy for creating Gimme Three's theme music. And another special thanks to Zoe Baumann for creating our exceptional cover art.
30 - Harry Potter Films (feat. Bailey Katler)
Jul 29 2024
30 - Harry Potter Films (feat. Bailey Katler)
Send us a textThis week marks the birthday of one of the most beloved fictional characters of all time—Harry Potter! To celebrate the Boy Who Lived, Bella Efstratis is joined by her fellow Potterhead bestie, Bailey Katler, for an incredible Harry Potter episode!Introducing our Top 3 Harry Potter Films:First, we go back to where it all began with Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001), the film that introduced us to the the magic of the Wizarding World and its wonderful characters.Next, we dive into our favorite, and the BEST film in the series, the unforgettable Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004). Lastly, we discuss the visually stunning and emotionally scarring Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009).In this episode, we discuss what the series means to us, share our favorite characters and scenes, & Bailey reveals a fascinating art history fun fact hidden in the series' production design!Let us know what you think of the episode and tell us your Top 3 Harry Potter films!Support the showSign up for our Patreon for exclusive Bonus Content.Follow the podcast on Instagram @gimmethreepodcastYou can keep up with Bella on Instagram @portraitofacinephile or Letterboxd You can keep up with Nick: on Instagram @nicholasybarra, on Twitter (X) @nicholaspybarra, or on LetterboxdShout out to contributor and producer Sonja Mereu. A special thanks to Anselm Kennedy for creating Gimme Three's theme music. And another special thanks to Zoe Baumann for creating our exceptional cover art.