Cue Up the Poker Face Movie Curriculum

As a movie enthusiast myself, it’s seldom that I come across a TV show as enamored with films as Poker Face. Given the love for cinema shown by series creator Rian Johnson and star Natasha Lyonne, it’s no surprise that each episode subtly references numerous movies. However, this second season has significantly intensified the feeling that when you’re tuned into Poker Face, you’re immersed in that contagious clip of Vin Diesel extolling the virtues of “the movies.

For those who enjoy a mix of timeless classics, beloved genres, and hidden treasures, the 12 episodes of this series subtly reference or echo these films. If you can’t wait to maintain the intriguing blend of crime and quirkiness following the season finale, these movies could be an excellent addition to your ongoing Poker Face viewing experience. Here’s a curated selection of film references, ranging from obvious homages to subtle winks, and perhaps a few that might just be figments of our collective imagination, as well as some bonus suggestions based on each episode’s plot and the numerous cameos in the series. Get your air conditioning ready, grab your remote control, and don’t forget to invite a friend over to kick-start this film curriculum inspired by Poker Face!

Note: There are spoilers ahead for the entire second season, including the finale.

Inspired by episode one, “The Game Is a Foot”

1994 to 1997 saw the exciting escapades of Mary-Kate & Ashley, while Super Mario Bros. made its debut in 1993. The action-packed Cleopatra Jones premiered in 1973, and Brick hit screens in 2005. Lastly, Beavis and Butt-Head embarked on their adventure across America in 1996.

In the debut episode of this season, Cynthia Erivo makes an appearance as five distinct sisters, four of whom previously starred together in the television series “Kid Cop: Nights”. The backstory of the Kazinskys, child actresses turned crime solvers, brings to mind the movie series “The Adventures of Mary-Kate & Ashley”, where the Olsen twins promised to solve any crime before dinner. Efficient! Erivo’s character, Amber, endures her mother Norma’s abuse, including when Norma criticizes a new outfit as making Amber look like a certain chubby plumber in movies; however, this is an insult meant by Norma, but the ’90s classic “Super Mario Bros.” is worth watching for Bob Hoskins’ dedicated portrayal of Mario. Actress Tamara Dobson, who played the lead in the blaxploitation film “Cleopatra Jones”, also starred with the sisters on their show. Mentioned as Kid Cop’s first love is Joseph Gordon-Levitt, a frequent collaborator with Rian Johnson; if you haven’t seen their neo-noir “Brick”, where JGL plays a high-school detective, you should. Lastly, Amber’s frequent use of the term “buttmunch” might be an homage to Beavis and Butt-Head, right? The satirical “Beavis and Butt-Head Do America” remains amusingly dumb, providing a break from the numerous twists in “Poker Face”.

Inspired by episode two, “Last Looks”

La Bamba (1987), Gloria Bell (2018), Out of the Blue (1980), Slums of Beverly Hills (1998)

In this episode, Giancarlo Esposito and Katie Holmes portray Fred and Greta, a contentious couple who constantly argue, especially about the 1959 instrumental tune “Sleep Walk” by Santo & Johnny Farina. Fred adores it, while Greta detests it. When Natasha Lyonne’s character Charlie Cale hears Fred playing the song, she suspects him of Greta’s disappearance, and her suspicion turns out to be correct! The melancholic tone of the song and its use in this episode to underscore an unexpected death reminded me of its usage in the film La Bamba, where it plays during emotional scenes involving Ritchie Valens’ plane crash. In contrast, Greta prefers Anita Ward’s disco hit “Ring My Bell,” but sadly, she doesn’t get a joyful ending dancing to the song like Julianne Moore does in Gloria Bell. It’s unclear if Charlie has seen either of those movies, but we know she appreciates Dennis Hopper’s film Out of the Blue, which shares a dark and violent theme with Natasha Lyonne, who contributed to its restoration. If you’re looking for more interactions between Lyonne and Kevin Corrigan, check out their performances as young lovers in the 1998 film Slums of Beverly Hills.

Inspired by episode three, “Whack-a-Mole”

The Departed (2006), Assassins (1990, 2004), Documentary Now! (2019)

If a plot revolves around an undercover agent within a law enforcement agency who turns out to be a mole and murders someone they’re investigating due to fear that the person might expose them, then it could be likened to “The Departed.” Martin Scorsese’s influence is undeniable! John Mulaney, in this episode, showcases his wit, particularly when he champions Stephen Sondheim as the premier lyricist of the 20th century. The lyrics recognized by Mulaney’s character, Daniel Clyde-Otis, are from Sondheim’s 1990 musical “Assassins,” which was revived on Broadway in 2004 and gained popularity. You can listen to the song “Everybody’s Got the Right,” referenced in the episode, or watch videos of Victor Garber performing in “Assassins” on YouTube; the latter is quite captivating. Although this deviates from the intended focus of this list, Garber is always worthwhile. Noteworthy as well is the “Documentary Now!” episode titled “Original Cast Album: Co-Op,” where Mulaney plays a character reminiscent of Sondheim, Simon Sawyer. Mulaney’s penchant for spontaneously singing on “Saturday Night Live” is starting to make more sense!

Inspired by episode four, “The Taste of Human Blood”

The Big Lebowski (1998), Easy Rider (1969), Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back (2001)

Which movie showcases Steve Buscemi as an endearing companion more effectively than “The Big Lebowski”? And which film encapsulates the notion of aimless travel across the nation, a concept reinforced by both Charlie and Buscemi’s radio conversations, better than “Easy Rider”? After watching “The Taste of Human Blood,” these two films seem like obvious choices. On the other hand, suggesting “Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back” might be considered a bit out-there. However! The animal activists that Charlie encounters in this episode share several traits with the group Jay and Silent Bob meet in Kevin Smith’s film – they are mostly principled, attractive, and willing to take risks for their cause, just as Charlie does unexpectedly. “Dogma” has seen a comeback; similarly, “Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back” is known for its satirical humor, much like Smith’s signature style.

Inspired by episode five, “Hometown Hero”

1988 saw the release of Bull Durham, Who Framed Roger Rabbit?, and another film titled Eephus is slated for 2024. In 1946, Baseball Bugs graced the big screen, while Yellow Submarine found its way to theaters in 1968. Lastly, Red Rocket was produced in 2021.

In this episode, Charlie talks about marathon-watching “The Office”, and I can’t fault Peacock for their strategic cross-promotion. However, you don’t need to be told to watch “The Office” – especially when the episode “Hometown Hero” presents a variety of viewing options, such as baseball movies. The minor league setting and tense relationship between an experienced player and a newcomer reminds me of “Bull Durham”, while the idea that the Montgomery Cheesemongers might have to close due to their losing streak – which would be sad for their devoted fans and the community spirit their games provide – brings to mind “Eephus”. This season, Charlie Cale’s vintage striped ballgirl uniform is another instance of her embodying Bugs Bunny’s essence, notably in “Baseball Bugs”, and her animated sequence with B.J. Novak as the team’s founder has traces of “Yellow Submarine” (his Sgt. Pepper-style outfit) and “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” (flying clocks, golden stars, and objects brought to life). Lastly, if you enjoy watching a scoundrel, Simon Rex’s performance in “Red Rocket”, directed by Sean Baker, is the epitome of such a character.

Inspired by episode six, “Sloppy Joseph”

The Omen (1976), Jaws (1975), Inglourious Basterds (2009)

In this episode, I can’t help but see young Stephanie Pearce as a devilish prodigy, and Eva Jade Halford gives an outstanding performance of the Damien stare. For a 70s throwback, why not pair “The Omen” with “Jaws”? The episode even quotes Steven Spielberg’s summer blockbuster with “We’re gonna need a bigger boat.” If, like me, you found the class pet Joseph Gerbils’ demise disturbing, balance it out by watching the ruthless Nazi Joseph Goebbels meet his end in “Inglourious Basterds”. That’s one killing spree I can get behind!

Inspired by episode seven, “One Last Job”

Movies such as Heat from 1995, The Inside Man in 2006, Ocean’s Eleven in 2001, Baby Driver in 2017, Out of Sight in 1998, Miami Vice and Kill Bill Volumes 1 and 2 (released in 2006 and 2004 respectively), Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol in 2011, Mission: Impossible – Fallout in 2018, the original Mission: Impossible from 1996, Mission: Impossible III from 2006, Gone in 60 Seconds in 2000, Die Hard from 1988, Weekend at Bernie’s in 1989, She’s All That, Notting Hill, Bridget Jones’s Diary, and Pride & Prejudice were all released between 1988 and 2005.

In this episode, we delve into the world of Sam Richardson’s character, Kendall Hines, an ardent movie enthusiast. This episode is a cinematic extravaganza, filled with references to numerous movies that are woven into both the dialogue and the visual aesthetics. It’s like a dream come true for someone who loves movies as much as I do! The story revolves around Kendall’s screenplay titled One Last Job, which draws inspiration from various crime-thriller classics, such as Michael Mann’s Heat, Spike Lee’s Inside Man, and Steven Soderbergh’s Ocean’s Eleven.

Kendall is first seen watching Baby Driver; his apartment is a veritable movie museum with posters of films like Soderbergh’s Out of Sight, Mann’s Miami Vice, and Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill. Even his employee locker code is a nod to the Mission: Impossible franchise. If that isn’t enough, we see references to films such as Gone in 60 Seconds, Die Hard, and Weekend at Bernie’s.

But the love for movies doesn’t stop there! The episode also explores the secondary genre fixation, romance. A song by Sixpence None the Richer, “Kiss Me,” is reminiscent of the teen movie She’s All That, and the TV in an Indian restaurant where Charlie works cycles through some favorite romantic comedies of Jenny (Geraldine Viswanathan), including Notting Hill, Bridget Jones’s Diary, and Pride & Prejudice (the Matthew Macfadyen hand-flex version).

The episode’s writer and series EP, Taofik Kolade, has truly captured the essence of movies being “the action” in the quote from Heat, “The action is the juice.” This high-spirited, fast-paced episode certainly makes a strong argument for that!

Inspired by episode eight, “The Sleazy Georgian”

1987’s “House of Games”, 1973’s “The Sting”, 1961’s “The Hustler”, 1986’s “The Color of Money”, 1999’s “Detroit Rock City”, and the 1995 release “Empire Records”

Movies like “House of Games” (1987), “The Sting” (1973), “The Hustler” (1961), “The Color of Money” (1986), “Detroit Rock City” (1999), and “Empire Records” (1995)

These films include: 1987’s “House of Games”, “The Sting” from 1973, the 1961 classic “The Hustler”, “The Color of Money” released in 1986, “Detroit Rock City” (1999), and “Empire Records” (1995)

I’m talking about these movies: 1987’s “House of Games”, “The Sting” from 1973, the 1961 film “The Hustler”, “The Color of Money” released in 1986, “Detroit Rock City” (1999), and “Empire Records” (1995)

I’d like to discuss: 1987’s “House of Games”, “The Sting” from 1973, the 1961 hit “The Hustler”, “The Color of Money” released in 1986, “Detroit Rock City” (1999), and “Empire Records” (1995)

Here’s a list of movies I’d like to discuss: “House of Games” from 1987, “The Sting” from 1973, “The Hustler” (1961), “The Color of Money” (1986), “Detroit Rock City” (1999), and “Empire Records” (1995)

Each of these options conveys the same information, but with a slightly different focus or tone.

Jemaine Clement and Eugene Cordero previously worked together in the teen comedy “Detroit Rock City,” and Brendan Sexton III is known for his role in the coming-of-age film “Empire Records.” It’s nice to see Sexton back on screen after working with Natasha Lyonne on Netflix’s “Russian Doll.” In this show, Sexton plays a mysterious character similar to his character Warren from “Empire Records.

Inspired by episode nine, “A New Lease on Death”

* The film Michael Clayton, released in 2007, as well as The Apartment from 1960, Rent Control from 2003, Anatomy of a Fall, which is set to be released in 2023, and the digital works created by Kareem Rahma.

* The films Michael Clayton (2007), The Apartment (1960), Rent Control (2003), Anatomy of a Fall (2023), and the digital collection of works by Kareem Rahma.

As a film aficionado, I’m not haggling; I’ve made my choices! Dive into the brilliance of Tony Gilroy’s masterpiece, “Michael Clayton,” alongside Charlie and her freshly moved-in neighbors, portrayed by Awkwafina and Lauren Tom. After you’ve watched it a couple of times – maybe even ten – you might find it amusing to explore other films revolving around the landlord theme. The 1960s classic “The Apartment” sets the stage for romantic comedies, while “Rent Control” from 2003, featuring Melissa Joan Hart and Carmen Electra, is a less-than-stellar movie in its own right. Each film offers a unique brand of humor.

If you’re still intrigued by the apartment theme, “A New Lease on Death” echoes “Anatomy of a Fall,” providing another take on the question, “Isn’t it peculiar how many seemingly-fatal incidents happen within people’s homes?” for your viewing pleasure.

In honor of Charlie’s new NYC residence – at least for now – I propose a couple of modern suggestions inspired by Kareem Rahma’s cameo as an obnoxious, bro-y buyer: “Keep the Meter Running,” where he dines with taxi drivers, and “SubwayTakes,” which speaks for itself. Enjoy!

Inspired by episode ten, “The Big Pump”

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008), But I’m a Cheerleader (2000)

Considering Clifford Smith Jr.’s gym owner Brick, who’s behaving like an infant due to his excessive consumption of breast milk for muscle growth: Can’t help but be reminded of the story of Benjamin Button as he clings to Natasha Leggero and weeps uncontrollably, much like a toddler having a tantrum. It’s fascinating to see Method Man portray such a chilling and ruthless character in The Wire, contrasted with his pitiful and foolish behavior here. And as for the nods to movies, while this episode may not be heavy on direct references, it’s worth noting that “The Big Pump” being directed by Clea Duvall echoes the number of reunions from the queer classic But I’m a Cheerleader – which also featured Lynskey – as it does nods to Die Hard. That seems fitting.

Inspired by episode 11, “Day of the Iguana”

1973’s “The Day of the Jackal”, 1988’s “Die Hard”, 2003’s “Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle”, and 1928’s “Steamboat Willie”

Or, if you prefer a more conversational style:
1. The movie “The Day of the Jackal” released in 1973,
2. “Die Hard” hit the screens in 1988,
3. “Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle” came out in 2003, and
4. The classic animated short film “Steamboat Willie” was debuted in 1928.

The title ‘Day of the Iguana’ is undeniably reminiscent of ‘The Day of the Jackal’, with similar themes revolving around a renowned assassin, played by Justin Theroux, who also starred in ‘Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle’. The occasional references to ‘Die Hard’ and classic cartoons through Charlie’s wardrobe (Steamboat Willie) may seem repetitive, but it’s refreshing to see how ‘Poker Face’ has carved out its unique narrative paths.

Inspired by episode 12, “The End of the Road”

1. The Killer (2023) -> The 2023 Killing Spree
2. The Godfather Part III (1990) -> The Third Godfather (1990)
3. John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023) -> John Wick 4: Return of the Boogeyman (2023)
4. Jurassic Park (1993) -> Dinosaurs in Chaos (1993)
5. Thelma & Louise (1991) -> Road Trip with a Twist (1991)
6. Mission: Impossible — Rogue Nation (2015) -> Mission: Impossible 5 – The Rogue Agent (2015)
7. Point Break (1991) -> Surf’s Up, Crime Wave (1991)
8. Five Easy Pieces (1970) -> Life in a Nutshell (1970)
9. The Holdovers (2023) -> Movies Still Hanging Around (2023)

At the close of the series, a variety of cinematic allusions keep you entertained until we get more of “Poker Face”. Although no news about renewal has been announced yet, fingers crossed given the cliffhanger finale. Let’s explore them, commencing with Alex (played by Patti Harrison), who deceives Charlie; in reality, she is a world-class assassin, and she had been keeping secrets from Charlie all along. Alex, like Michael Fassbender’s character in “The Killer”, excels at managing her profession’s daily demands. She was on the verge of being employed to eliminate the Pope (echoing “The Godfather Part III”).

The show’s depiction of Alex pursuing Charlie through the home of mob-turned-FBI informant Beatrix Hasp, shot from above, recalls the iconic Dragon’s Breath sequence in “John Wick: Chapter 4”. Furthermore, when Alex refers to Charlie as a “clever girl” for triggering a fire that draws FBI attention, it’s a nod to “Jurassic Park”. Similarly obvious is the scene where they leap off a cliff together, reminiscent of “Thelma & Louise”, though in contrast to that film, both characters survive the fall.

As a fan, I can’t help but express my anticipation for season three, yet acknowledge that Charlie is not completely off the hook. The significant bond in “The End of the Road” unfolds between Charlie and FBI Agent Luca Clark (Simply marvelous, isn’t it? Simon Helberg brings Luca to life). Their dynamic was quite promising; she aided him in solving cases, he climbed up the ranks, and they parted ways amicably. However, Charlie’s unintentional role in Hasp’s demise jeopardizes Luca’s major case and puts her on the FBI’s radar. From being hailed as a “force of nature, a crime-solving genius” (much like Ethan Hunt, the embodiment of destiny in Mission: Impossible — Rogue Nation) to becoming a fugitive, Luca’s situation has drastically changed. With just a fleeting head start from Luca (a Point Break-esque goodbye, with Luca as Johnny Utah and Charlie as Bodhi), she takes off, hitching a ride from a truck driver (Steve Earle!). This escape echoes the end of Five Easy Pieces, adding another layer to the narrative. As we wait for the return of Poker Face, let this watchlist serve as your guide.

2025-07-10 15:56