Honey, you look a mess.

Summary

In this episode of Fats on Film, host Hannah Ogilvie and guest Dr. Vincent M. Gain delve into the 1958 film Touch of Evil, exploring its themes of fat representation, corruption, and cinematic techniques. They analyze the character of Hank Quinlan, portrayed by Orson Welles, as a symbol of excess and moral ambiguity within the film noir genre. The conversation highlights the cultural implications of fatness, the subversion of stereotypes, and the film's commentary on law enforcement and morality. Through a critical lens, they discuss the use of fat suits in cinema and the broader societal perceptions of fatness. In this conversation, Vincent and Hannah delve into the themes of Orson Welles' 'Touch of Evil', exploring the menacing atmosphere created by Quinlan's character, the representation of innocence through Suzie, and the moral complexities faced by Vargas. They discuss the film's commentary on power dynamics, the anticlimactic end of Quinlan, and the evolution of corrupt cop characters in media. The conversation also touches on the impact of media on public perception and imagines a modern remake of the film, highlighting the ongoing relevance of its themes.

Links to Vincent's content;

@drgaine

https://vincentmgaine.wordpress.com/
https://open.spotify.com/show/2Bii5oZWSs9NHw2XZeK5p3?si=53a216a5aea344e4&nd=1

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Takeaways

Touch of Evil is a significant film in the noir genre.

The opening scene features a groundbreaking long take.

Hank Quinlan's character embodies excess and corruption.

Fatness is used as a cultural concept in the film.

The film subverts traditional hero-villain roles.

Corruption in law enforcement is a central theme.

The film explores liminal spaces between cultures.

Quinlan's character is a representation of self-medication.

Tanya's character offers a unique perspective on Quinlan.

The use of fat suits in cinema carries cultural implications. Quinlan's influence creates a menacing atmosphere throughout the film.

Suzie's naivety represents the corruption of innocence.

The film explores the moral complexities of its characters, particularly Vargas.

Quinlan's character serves as a critique of power dynamics in society.

The anticlimactic end of Quinlan reflects the film's themes of corruption.

Body size is used to represent power and influence in the film.

The portrayal of corrupt cops has evolved in modern cinema.

Media plays a significant role in shaping public perception of law enforcement.

The film's themes remain relevant nearly 70 years later.

Imagining a modern remake opens discussions about contemporary issues.

Keywords

fat representation, Touch of Evil, Orson Welles, film noir, Hank Quinlan, cinematic techniques, cultural concepts, stereotypes, morality, fat suits, Touch of Evil, Quinlan, film analysis, corruption, innocence, power dynamics, Orson Welles, body representation, media influence, remake

Hey baby, I hear the blues a calling, tossed salads and a brand new episode of Fats on Film!

Hannah was joined by TV Columnist at New Scientist, Bethan Ackerley, to talk about 90s sitcom staple Frasier.

We both absolutely adore this show, however it does have some problematic moments when it comes to fatness mainly with the Daphne weight gain storyline. But then surprisingly has very fair, even positive, representation with other fat characters like Daphne's fiance Donny. It is a mixed bag and we do have to remember this is a show in the 90s!

We explore the cultural impact of Fraiser, our favorite characters and our go to lines which still make us laugh 30 years on.

You can find Bethan at;

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BlueSky

Letterboxd

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fat representation, Frasier, sitcoms, body image, media critique, character analysis, Daphne, Niles, Donnie, Kenny, Frasier, relationships, race, body image, Maris, eating disorders, Niles, heart attack, side characters, reboot

Takeaways

Frasier is a significant sitcom that explores various themes, including fat representation.

Sci-fi often lacks positive fat representation, with characters like Jabba and Baron Harkonnen being negative examples.

Daphne's character development and fashion choices reflect societal standards of beauty.

The show critiques fat representation through various character arcs, particularly Daphne's weight gain storyline.

Fat jokes in Frasier often lack sensitivity and depth, reflecting societal attitudes towards body image.

Daphne's relationship with food becomes a focal point in her storyline, highlighting disordered eating patterns.

Supporting characters like Kenny and Donnie provide a contrast to the main cast's dynamics.

The portrayal of fat characters in Frasier often leans towards stereotypes rather than nuanced representation.

The show navigates complex relationships, particularly between Niles and Daphne, showcasing emotional depth.

Frasier's handling of fat representation reflects broader societal issues and attitudes towards body image. Frasier's relationships are complex and layered.

The impact of race in Frasier's dating life is significant.

Frasier has a type: model-like women.

Maris is the prototype for the unseen character trope.

Eating disorders are often used as humor in Frasier.

Niles' heart attack challenges stereotypes about health and weight.

Bebe Glazer is a standout side character in the series.

The Frasier reboot feels stilted and lacks the original's charm.

Frasier's legacy is complicated by its representation of fat characters.

The show receives a two out of five for fat representation.

Learn about emotions and bring your tissues - we are talking Inside Out!

I was joined by singer-songwriter Kate Yeager to dive deep into the emotional well of this film. We speak about the character of Sadness and the decision to portray her as round. We theorise what could have been if Riley was portrayed in a plus size body and we pour one out for the King - Bing Bong.

This may be the most tangential episode yet covering the need for plus size baths, medieval themed restaurants and our experiences existing online.

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Do hashtags work on show notes? Lets find out!

#InsideOut #Pixar #EmotionalIntelligence #FatRepresentation #Podcast

Time didn't heal anything, especially not the patriarchy!

We had to talk about one of the most anticipated horror releases of the year, 28 Years Later, directed by Danny Boyle and written by Alex Garland, returning to the world they created with 28 Days Later from 2002.

I was joined by film critic, editor at whatascreampodcast.com and co-host of Gore Things Pod Ygraine Hackett-Cantabrana to dive deep into this seemingly divisive film.

We talk fat representation, female representation, are placentas magical? What our thoughts on the evolved (or devolved) infected. The themes of the film around patriarchy, family dynamics and our old favourite toxic masculinity.

There is so much to discuss in this episode, we had a lot to get off our chest!

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It took 2 years, countless intermissions and a lot of pushed back schedules, but we made it to 50 episodes of Fats on Film!

I asked across my social media's for your questions and you came in with a variety of topics. From fat representation, my own taste in film, plus size fashion, improving body image and how to deal with the plus size experience.

I want to thank you all for your support over the past 2 years. I know i have been lacking in consistency and I will try to make it better - but please get in touch if you have any ideas via the links below.

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Hey you guys! We have the greatest treasure of all, a brand new episode of Fats on Film!

I was joined by host of the Big,Blonde and Beautiful Podcast, Karolina Howie and we discussed;

-Chunk and his contribution to fat representation especially in children's roles

- The characterisation and treatment of Sloth

- The villainous Ma Fratelli

- Women's roles in male centric-action romps

- A big tangent on the politics of today

This was recorded in February 2025.

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"This is just how we talk in Tuscon, Arizonia."

🎙️ Episode SummaryIn this episode of Fats on Film, we sink our teeth into the FX series What We Do in the Shadows and its refreshingly positive fat representation. From the effortlessly suave Lazlo to Guillermo’s evolving arc, we explore how these characters defy fatphobic stereotypes and bring nuance to fat storytelling on screen.

Joining me is the brilliant Jeanette Thompson-Wessen, an anti-diet, fat-positive, and ADHD specialist nutritionist. Together, we discuss the intersections of fatness, media, and identity, breaking down why representation like this matters and how it shapes perceptions of fat bodies in entertainment.

🦇 What We Cover in This Episode:✨ How What We Do in the Shadows embraces fat characters without making their weight the punchline✨ Lazlo and Guillermo: Complex, confident, and compelling fat characters✨ The importance of diverse body representation in genre TV and film✨ Jeanette’s insights on fat positivity, anti-diet culture, and how ADHD can impact one's approach to nutrition and body image.

🔗 Connect with Jeanette Thompson-WessenInstagram: ⁠@antidietworld⁠Website: ⁠antidietworld.co.uk⁠

💬 Find the me and the podcast at

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What's occurrin'?

This episode, we are diving deep into the ordinary world of Gavin & Stacey; created, written and starring Ruth Jones and James Corden.

Joined by Holly Lowne, the creator behind the fantastic Instagram@the.fat.museum where she showcases depictions of fatness in art spanning centuries and her passion behind showing others how we have always been here.

We talk about how awesome it is to see a tv show created by fat people and showcasing fat characters and ultimately fat love - while also sometimes being problematic in its reliance on tropes. We discuss the appeal of Gavin & Stacey, the intriguing family dyanmics and the authenticity lens it brings to british life.

Also - this is the first time you can watch this podcast too! We are getting modern.

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