Twists, Turns, & Tension: Why We Love Mystery Movies

Welcome back to The Film Library, a Kanopy podcast where we spotlight hidden gems, cult favorites, and emotional deep cuts. No film degree required.



This week, hosts Kristy Puchko (Entertainment Editor at Mashable) and Jeff Rauseo (true crime junkie and twist-ending evangelist) dive into the shadowy world of mysteries and thrillers.



From Jake Gyllenhaal’s chilling ambition in Nightcrawler to Nicolas Cage’s quiet heartbreak in Pig and his unhinged menace in Longlegs, Kristy and Jeff share the Kanopy thrillers that unsettle, surprise, and linger long after the credits roll.



Follow Kristy on Instagram @thekristypuchko and Letterboxd @kristypuchko.



Follow Jeff on Instagram, TikTok, and Letterboxd @jeffrauseo.



Follow Kanopy on Letterboxd to see the full episode list.

Stream the films we mention for free at kanopy.com with a library card or university ID from a participating institution.



🎞️ Episode Highlights

00:06:00 – Jeff kicks things off with Nightcrawler and Jake Gyllenhaal’s intense performance

00:09:00 – Kristy highlights the emotional complexity of Pig starring Nicolas Cage

00:12:00 – Jeff revisits the neon-soaked serial killer procedural Manhunter

00:14:00 – Kristy recommends the mind-bending time loop thriller Triangle

00:17:00 – Jeff brings in the grounded realism of A Hijacking, a Danish hostage drama

00:19:00 – Kristy explores The Awakening, a ghost story with gothic atmosphere

00:21:00 – Jeff breaks down the occult horror and Nicolas Cage’s performance in Longlegs

00:24:00 – Kristy shares her pick: Sea Fever, a tense and eerie maritime thriller

00:26:00 – Jeff unpacks the slow-burning tension of The Invitation

00:29:00 – Kristy makes her case for Serenity—and why she loves its bonkers twist

Welcome to The Film Library, a podcast from Kanopy for movie fans who want to dive just a little deeper.
Hosted by Kristy Puchko (Entertainment Editor at Mashable) and Jeff Rauseo (movie lover, collector, and social media creator), The Film Library is your guide to discovering the stories behind the movies you love and the hidden gems you haven’t met yet. Inspired by Kanopy’s themed collections, Kristy and Jeff shine a spotlight on unforgettable performances, cult classics, overlooked Oscar snubs, and timeless cinema moments that deserve your attention.
Whether they’re breaking down a campy horror legend or raving about a scene-stealing supporting actor, their banter is thoughtful, hilarious, and refreshingly down to earth. No film degree required - just curiosity and a library card.
With over 30,000 movies, documentaries, and TV shows available for free on Kanopy (no ads, no subscription, just your public or university library login), your next great watch is waiting.
Subscribe to The Film Library wherever you get your podcasts and stream every title at kanopy.com.

• No. of episodes: 15
• Latest episode: 2025-06-27
• TV & Film

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