Reel Therapy
🎬 Reel Therapy is where craft, critique and catharsis come together. Hosted by filmmakers Daniel and Donavon, this podcast dives deep into the world of film and television—not just how it’s made, but how it makes us feel. From emotional reactions to sharp script breakdowns, the duo explores what works, what doesn't, and how movies and TV can hit harder with a second draft. Whether you're a screenwriter, a cinephile, or just in it for the feels, this is your behind-the-scenes pass to cinema with heart.
Reel Therapy
242: Mission: Impossible - A Discussion (ft. Dr. Bruce Hutchinson)
In Episode 242 of Reel Therapy, Daniel and Donavon are joined by UCA Professor of Film, Dr. Bruce Hutchinson, to break down Brian De Palma’s 1996 classic “Mission: Impossible”. From script structure to storytelling choices, we dive into the film’s unique six-sequence, three-act structure, its approach to delivering information to the audience, and that messy love triangle subplot. It’s a deep, nerdy, and fun look at one of the most iconic spy films of the ‘90s.
TABLE OF CONTENTS --
00:00:00 - About the Episode
00:00:47 - Greetings from Dr. Bruce Hutchinson
00:02:30 - Mission Impossible
01:48:37 - Final Thoughts
01:57:12 - Before We Go
ABOUT THE MOVIE --
When a covert mission goes sideways, IMF agent Ethan Hunt—played by Tom Cruise in the role that launched his action-star legacy—is framed for the deaths of his team. Hunted by his own agency, he must uncover the real mole, recover a stolen list of undercover agents, and pull off a high-stakes heist to clear his name.
Directed by Brian De Palma and based on the 1960s TV series, Mission: Impossible features a screenplay by David Koepp and Robert Towne. With De Palma’s signature visual style and Cruise’s intense, physical performance (including that iconic vault scene), the film redefined the spy genre and kicked off a billion-dollar franchise.
ADDITIONAL READING --
Want to dive deeper into how Mission: Impossible delivers exposition and handles story structure? We reference this excellent video by Frame Voyager throughout the episode — it's a must-watch for film lovers and screenwriters alike.
LINK: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NqqgJoHHXAQ
FIND US --
To learn more about Bruce and follow his work, find him on:
Instagram: @bdhutch
X: @bdhutch
And for more movie breakdowns checkout:
LINK: https://www.thehutchfiles.com/
For everything Reel Therapy and 241 Studios, check out our website:
LINK: https://www.241studios.com/
Follow us on:
Instagram: @reeltherapy_podcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reeltherapypod
TikTok: @reeltherapy_podcast