The Next Reel Film Podcast

“The course of action I’d suggest is a course of action I can’t suggest.”
The Road to Clear and Present Danger
After the success of Patriot Games, Paramount Pictures was eager to continue the Jack Ryan series with another adaptation of a Tom Clancy novel. With Harrison Ford set to return as the intrepid CIA analyst and Phillip Noyce back in the director's chair, the stage was set for Clear and Present Danger. The film, released in 1994, brought a new level of complexity to the series, delving into the murky world of covert operations and political machinations. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the Jack Ryan series with a conversation about Clear and Present Danger.
Navigating the Murky Waters of Clear and Present Danger
In our discussion, we dive into the intricacies of Clear and Present Danger, exploring how the film captures the complexities of the political landscape and the moral ambiguity of covert operations. We examine Harrison Ford's portrayal of Jack Ryan, noting how he brings a different energy to the character compared to his performance in Patriot Games. The film's ability to balance the high-stakes political drama in Washington with the intense action sequences in Colombia is a point of interest, as we analyze how these two seemingly disparate storylines ultimately converge.
Uncovering the Layers of Corruption
Clear and Present Danger takes us on a journey through the labyrinthine world of government corruption, where personal agendas and political maneuvering take precedence over the greater good. We discuss:
  • The performances of Henry Czerny and Harris Yulin as the villainous Ritter and Cutter
  • Willem Dafoe's role as John Clark and the film's portrayal of covert military operations
  • The emotional impact of James Earl Jones' character, Admiral Greer, and his relationship with Jack Ryan
A Thrilling Addition to the Jack Ryan Series
While Clear and Present Danger may not be perfect, it remains a compelling entry in the Jack Ryan series. The film's ability to tackle complex themes and its unflinching look at the darker aspects of government operations make it a thought-provoking and engaging watch. Harrison Ford's performance as Jack Ryan, coupled with the strong supporting cast, elevates the material and keeps the audience invested in the story.
Clear and Present Danger stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Tom Clancy's novels and the Jack Ryan character. Its exploration of political corruption, moral ambiguity, and the consequences of unchecked power remains as relevant today as it was upon the film's release. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
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Creators and Guests

Host
Andy Nelson
With over 25 years of experience in film, television, and commercial production, Andy has cultivated an enduring passion for storytelling in all its forms. His enthusiasm for the craft began in his youth when he and his friends started making their own movies in grade school. After studying film at the University of Colorado Boulder, Andy wrote, directed, and produced several short films while also producing indie features like Netherbeast Incorporated and Ambush at Dark Canyon. Andy has been on the production team for award-winning documentaries such as The Imposter and The Joe Show, as well as TV shows like Investigation Discovery’s Deadly Dentists and Nat Geo’s Inside the Hunt for the Boston Bombers. Over a decade ago, he started podcasting with Pete and immediately embraced the medium. Now, as a partner at TruStory FM, Andy looks forward to more storytelling through their wide variety of shows. Throughout his career, Andy has passed on his knowledge by teaching young minds the crafts of screenwriting, producing, editing, and podcasting. Outside of work, Andy is a family man who enjoys a good martini, a cold beer, a nice cup o’ joe. And always, of course, a great movie.
Host
Pete Wright
#Movies, #ADHD, & #Podcasting • Co-founder @trustory.fm🎥 The Next Reel Family of #Film Podcasts @thenextreel.com🎙️ Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast @takecontroladhd.com📖 Co-author of Unapologetically ADHD • https://unapologeticallyadhdbook.com

What is The Next Reel Film Podcast?

A show about movies and how they connect.
We love movies. We’ve been talking about them, one movie a week, since 2011. It’s a lot of movies, that’s true, but we’re passionate about origins and performance, directors and actors, themes and genres, and so much more. So join the community, and let’s hear about your favorite movies, too.
When the movie ends, our conversation begins.