Movie of the Year: 1999

Three Kings (feat. Best Movie Year Ever author Brian Raftery!)

In this episode of Movie of the Year, the Taste Buds dive deep into Three Kings, the 1999 Gulf War satire movie directed by David O. Russell. Set in the aftermath of the Persian Gulf War, the film follows a group of U.S. soldiers—played by George Clooney, Ice Cube, and Mark Wahlberg—as they set out on a gold heist and instead face the moral complexities of war. This Three Kings movie blends action, comedy, and political commentary while paying homage to war films of the past.

War and Morality in the 1999 Three Kings Movie

We explore how Three Kings uses the Gulf War setting to comment on U.S. foreign policy, the chaos of post-war Iraq, and the blurred lines between heroism and self-interest. The film is not just a war movie—it’s a war satire and a war comedy-drama rolled into one, making it a unique entry in late-90s cinema.

David O. Russell’s Bold Directing Style

From unconventional camera techniques to sharp tonal shifts, Three Kings is a prime example of David O. Russell’s fearless filmmaking. We discuss how his approach, both on and off set, shaped the movie’s lasting legacy and why it stands apart from other Gulf War movies.

Three King's Multicultural Cast Redefines the War Genre

With a diverse lineup that includes Clooney, Wahlberg, and Ice Cube, Three Kings challenges typical casting for war movies. We break down how the characters’ backgrounds and performances enhance the story’s authenticity and cultural reach.

Guest Panelist: Brian Raftery

Joining us is Brian Raftery, author of the upcoming book on Hannibal Lecter’s cinematic history. Brian also created the acclaimed Ringer mini-series Mission Accomplished, chronicling the making of Three Kings and the tension between David O. Russell and his cast. His behind-the-scenes insight adds depth you won’t find anywhere else.

Find all of Brian Raftery's everything here, including his book Best. Year. Ever. How 1999 Blew Up The Big Screen. 

Bonus Segment: Magnolia (1999)

As a special treat, the Taste Buds also discuss Paul Thomas Anderson’s sprawling epic Magnolia, another standout from the cinematic powerhouse year of 1999. They examine how both Magnolia and Three Kings reflect the ambitious, risk-taking spirit of late-90s filmmaking.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, our Three Kings podcast episode offers fresh insights into one of the boldest war films of the decade. Listen now to hear how this Gulf War satire still resonates today.