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Ever find yourself stuck in a cinematic time warp? That's where Addy and I landed when "Sexy Beast" leaped out from our movie vault. We kick things off with a bewildering opening straight out of a Looney Tunes sketch, before diving into the meat of this unconventional heist film where the loot is less glittering jewels and more the intense, heart-thumping interactions between characters. Listen as we unravel the threads of a narrative spun with the central theme of escaping one's past, and how the formidable Don, played by Ben Kingsley, casts a shadow long enough to chill your spine.
What happens when a self-proclaimed 'sexy beast' is stripped of his bravado by a ghost from his old life? We dissect the transformation of our protagonist, whose veil of arrogance is torn away by Don's relentless pursuit, leading to a captivating exploration of power dynamics and masculinity. The film's dream sequences and the significant influence of the protagonist's wife drive our conversation further into the depths of the story's complex psychological landscape. You won't want to miss how we unfold the narrative's symbolism and dissect character arcs that mirror the struggle to sever ties with a life of crime.
Wrapping up, we shine a spotlight on Ben Kingsley's tour-de-force performance, which set expectations sky-high for his later roles, like the Mandarin in "Iron Man 3." Plus, we give a nod to the stellar contributions from Ian McShane and Ray Winstone. As we break down the film's artistry, from impactful scene transitions to the authentically flavored British dialogue, our final verdict lands at a generous three and a half stars. This episode peels back the layers of an oddball movie that dares to twist heist film conventions, all woven with humor and everyday banter that breathes life into the script.Support the Show.
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Explore the unseen battlefields of the heart through the lens of "Civil War," a film that pulls back the curtain on the human cost of conflict, devoid of the usual heroics. Joined by the incisive Adi Aisha, we dissect this raw and unflinching narrative that refuses to choose sides, forcing you, our listeners, to confront the uncomfortable reality of war's true victims. Our spirited discussion scrutinizes the filmmakers' decision to leave the war's origins obscured, raising questions about the impact such omissions have on our understanding of the story and how it reflects the complexities of real-world warfare.
Witness the transformation of war journalists from idealistic truth-seekers to desensitized observers in a world that feeds on the chaos of conflict. Adi Aisha and I delve into the role of media in war, using Kaylee Spaney's character as a vessel to explore the ethical dilemmas faced by those who report from the frontlines. The film's controversial ending serves as a crux for our debate, as we navigate the moral quandaries and the consequences of actions taken in the pursuit of the perfect story. We reflect on how the film's portrayal of these character arcs mirrors a broader societal desensitization, especially in the age of social media.
Concluding with a critique that balances appreciation of the film's artistic merits against the frustrations of missed narrative potential, our dialogue is an invite to listeners to consider their own stance. The episode is not just a review; it's a contemplation of what "Civil War" achieves in its depiction of the human condition amidst the backdrop of an unending civil strife. We share our varied takeaways, rate the film, and extend the conversation to you, urging you to join in and share how the movie resonates with your perceptions of war, journalism, and the blurred lines between art and reality.Support the Show.
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Ever wonder how a modern remake stands up to a cult classic? Strap in as Addy Asher and I break down the latest "Roadhouse" remake—where the promise of high-octane thrills meets the harsh reality of missed potential. Without the nostalgia goggles (I'm yet to watch the original), I expected a wild ride but found myself grappling with the film's attempt at humor and a less-than-stellar debut by Conor McGregor. We'll dissect the marketing missteps that might have buried this film's chances at success and debate whether the streaming giant Prime could've given it a better shot at the spotlight.
This episode takes the pulse of both versions of "Roadhouse," zeroing in on the heart of the film—the protagonist, Dalton. The original Dalton was a man with depth, his past trauma and strategic thinking adding layers to his tough exterior. Contrast that with the remake's Dalton, who seems to have traded vulnerability for invincibility, and you've got us questioning the impact on our connection to the story. Addy and I tackle the character evolution head-on, musing over the lost anticipation and engagement—a casualty of the remake's action-heavy approach.
As the curtains close, we don't hold back on our candid critique of the film's direction and missed opportunities to spotlight Jake Gyllenhaal's prowess. The action scenes, fight choreography, and the rest of the cast under our microscope reveal a film that could have soared but instead plummeted in our esteem. We even revisit those expectations—like the Family Guy-famous roundhouse kick—you won't find in this remake, laying bare how such omissions can leave fans feeling shortchanged. Join us for an unflinching look at a remake that could've been a contender but ended up down for the count.Support the Show.
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Step into the eerie glow of the '70s showbiz limelight as my guest, Adi Asher, and I dissect "Late Night with the Devil," where ambition dances devilishly with fate. Imagine, if you can, a world where the pursuit of fame could cost you everything, even your soul. We dive headfirst into the heart of Jack Delroy's character, a late-night host caught in the tangled web of his own ambitions. His moral compass spins wildly as he vies to eclipse none other than Johnny Carson. Through the film's single-location setting, we peel back the layers of a mysterious elite club, hinting at the sinister and secretive, much like the cryptic corridors of "Eyes Wide Shut."
Adi and I then shift gears to the darker side of fame. We discuss the shocking extremes some go to for notoriety, contrasting a teenager's assault for TikTok fame with the film's narrative of a Faustian deal that's as costly as life itself. We ponder the eerie similarities between this and the plot of "The Devil's Advocate," where success's shadow looms long and heavy over one's moral fiber. The film's chilling subtext prompts us to question the moral dilemmas we face in our own quests for recognition and the haunting possibility of losing ourselves along the way.
But it's not all doom and gloom; we also share a laugh about our own late-night hosting dreams, tossing around the notion of an OnlyFans account as a quirky stepping stone to stardom. We even dare to dream big, issuing a playful challenge for none other than Quentin Tarantino to grace our podcast with his presence. Whether it's through laughter or critical analysis, Adi and I bring our unique perspectives to the fore, critiquing the film's impact and its reflection of our societal obsessions with the limelight. Join us for a compelling journey into the heart of cinematic suspense and the soul of ambition.
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Prepare to be enthralled and possibly a bit disturbed as we, Michael Pishonery and Addy A'Shula, along with our guest AJ, offer an unflinching critique of wealth and its follies through our discussion of the dark comedy "Saltburn." This episode promises to unravel the psychological twists of a film that's as darkly humorous as it is thought-provoking. We're not just talking about the plot here; we're dissecting the film's take on class dynamics, the impact of an outsider's seductive creepiness on a wealthy family, and Barry Keoghan's spellbinding performance. Carrie Mulligan and Rosamund Pike's smaller but no less significant roles also come under our spotlight, as does the movie's ability to shock and intrigue with scenes that push the envelope.
Venture into the realm of the privileged elite with us as we dissect the necessity of shock value in film. Is it just a ploy to hook viewers, or is there a deeper meaning behind the hedonistic depictions of the rich? Listen as we debate whether the portrayal of wealth in "Saltburn" eclipses its artistic quality or enhances its narrative. The discussion takes a turn towards a transformative moment within the film, contemplating metaphorical interpretations of power shifts and personal metamorphosis. We'll also delve into how the casting choices contribute to the movie's thematic layers, creating a relatable yet surreal experience for the audience.
Wrapping up our in-depth conversation, we speculate on the ambiguous outcomes for the characters, particularly the elusive Elspeth and the machinations of the mysterious Oliver. As we share our personal standout moments, we analyze the broader social commentary "Saltburn" offers on class and privilege, and how it contrasts the lives of the untouchable wealthy against the striving middle class. Don't miss our insights on the film’s intricate details, which shape the narrative and leave a lasting impression. Discover which scenes left us awestruck, and join us in the examination of a film that boldly challenges viewers with its narrative choices and stunning conclusions.Support the Show.
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Step into the narrative ring with us and special guest Adi Aishua as we explore the emotional landscape of "The Iron Claw," a film that brings the tumultuous tale of the Von Erich wrestling dynasty to life. Zac Efron's portrayal of family and fame dives deep into the Von Erich clan's journey, marked by patriarch Fritz's heavy hand and the brothers' search for validation amidst the chaos of the ring. Listen closely as we dissect the actors' stunning physical metamorphoses and the poignant depiction of brotherhood that resonates far beyond the wrestling arena, a testament to the film's powerful storytelling.
The conversation takes an unexpected turn when we geek out over a He-Man cameo, playfully considering digital wig makeovers and the alchemy behind the iconic transformation. We waltz through the film's soundtrack, lose ourselves in the era's beats, and unpack how music underscores the emotional pulls of the narrative. With Adi Aishua's fresh perspectives and our shared enthusiasm, we peel back the layers of the on-screen relationships that amplify the drama and tug at the heartstrings.
Wrapping up the episode, we venture into the broader realm of cinematic storytelling, drawing parallels with Brendan Fraser's return to the spotlight in "The Whale" and the artful direction of movies that leave a lasting impact. Our musings wander into the daring territory of "Epstein the Musical" before grounding back to the reflections on the Von Erich saga, offering listeners a hearty mix of history, tragedy, and the riveting complexities of family legacy. Tune in for a discussion that's as gripping as the wrestling moves it depicts, and stay for the unexpected detours that make this episode truly one-of-a-kind.Support the Show.
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Ever wonder how a movie can make you laugh, grip your seat, and still leave you wanting more? Join us as we navigate the cinematic odyssey of 2023, where we dissect the year's silver screen spectacles, including the gravity-defying stunts of "Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part 1." Our discussion veers through the Italian locations that left us awestruck, blending a rich tapestry of critique and nostalgia that only true film enthusiasts can appreciate. From the personal anecdotes tied to the locations to the challenge of distinguishing this year's gems from last, we promise an episode filled with insightful banter and a relentless quest for the movies that truly shine.
Imagine Tom Cruise scaling another skyscraper in his fifties. We chew over the "Mission Impossible" saga's future and its daredevil lead's career longevity, debating whether the franchise should stick to its spy thriller roots or continue upping the ante. We also can't help but muse on the parallels with other action giants, like the "Fast and Furious" series. But we don't stop there; animated wonders and the web-slinging excellence of "Across the Spider-Verse" are on the agenda too. We pick apart the narrative depth, moral dilemmas, and whether cameo appearances enhance or distract from the storytelling.
Let's not forget the punchlines and face-palms that movies can sometimes bring. We take a no-holds-barred approach to the cringe-inducing dialogues from the "Madame Webb" trailer, sparing no criticism for what looks to be 2024's potential popcorn fodder. From admiration for unexpected comebacks like Brendan Fraser's gripping performance in "The Whale," to the whimsical hopes for a bolder "Mario Brothers" sequel, we cover the highs, the lows, and the laugh-out-loud moments that make going to the movies—or just talking about them—a blast. So, settle in for a ride through the best, the worst, and everything in-between from the world of film in 2023.Support the Show.
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Has the superhero genre finally met its kryptonite? This episode pulls no punches as we take aim at the cinematic disappointments that marked 2023, with a particular side-eye at the superhero fatigue that "Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania" so clearly embodies. We throw down the gauntlet on Marvel's relentless release schedule, debating its toll on even the most die-hard fans. But it's not all doom and gloom; we shine a light on "Across the Spider-Verse" for its breath of fresh air in a stifling year for the industry.
You thought "Barbie" was just child's play? Think again. We strip down the layers of misguided marketing that left us with more than we bargained for, peeling back the political veneer that the trailers carefully concealed. In an era where even the heavyweights like David Fincher stumble, we dissect the disconnect that left "The Killer" in the shadows of his past glory. And as for the legacy sequels like "Indiana Jones 5," we grapple with the question: Are they redefining classics or just riding on nostalgia's coattails?
We wrap things up with a reflective glance at the year's challenges and a hopeful gaze towards the horizon. Despite the stumble of DC films and the waning allure of the big screen, we spot a flicker of hope in the surprising dynamism of "Godzilla Minus One." And as we bid adieu to the year with a mixture of humor and weariness, our anticipation for "Deadpool 3" proves that our love for cinema burns eternal. So join us as we raise a toast to the past and set our sights on the cinematic adventures awaiting us in the new year.Support the Show.
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"Is 'The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes' more than just a fancy title?
we dive headfirst – or maybe just toe-dip – into the Hunger Games prequel. Will it soar like a songbird or hiss away like a snake? Let's find out!We're going to investigate young Snow. Does he chill us to the bone, or is he more of a snowflake? We'll dig into Rachel Ziegler's performance too. Spoiler alert: There's singing involved – because what’s a Ballad without a few tunes?
Get ready for a rollercoaster of ‘why did they do that?’ as we compare this prequel to the beloved original trilogy. It's like déjà vu, but with less... well, everything. From casting choices that had us scratch our heads to plot twists that left us spinning in circles – we're covering it all!
Join us for laughs, rants, and maybe even a few revelations as we navigate the maze that is 'The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.'
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"Get ready for a riveting cinematic journey on today's episode! We kick off with the intriguingly divisive film “The Killer.” Did its meticulous storytelling captivate or fall flat? We're divided, and you'll want to hear why.
Next up, “John Wick” - a film that starts slow but explodes into action. You won't believe our comparison to a certain Avenger's tactic! Plus, we dive into the world of CGI, budgets, and how they shape movies like “The Killer.”
Our final act? A sneak peek into “The Killer Does His Taxes.” Yes, you read that right. It's a unique blend of mundane and mayhem that ties into our wider discussion: what makes a film truly gripping?
Join us for this episode as we explore these cinematic puzzles. Bring your popcorn and your opinions – we want to hear them all! Tune in now for an episode full of surprises."
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Prepare for an enlightening foray into the cinematic universe of Gareth Edwards' 'The Creator.' We've dissected this low-budget gem to reveal the secret ingredients that helped it beat the odds and emerge as a sleeper hit. You'll also discover how it carefully straddles futuristic and post-apocalyptic themes, carving out a unique niche in a crowded genre. From drawing parallels with iconic movies like Blade Runner and Terminator, to appreciating the nuanced performances of child actress Madeline Yuma and John David Washington, we've got it all covered.
In a world of stereotypical villains, 'The Creator' paints its human antagonists with shades of grey, offering justified reasoning for their prejudice against AI. Our discussion throws light on this unique portrayal and the power dynamics between humans and AI in the movie. We also dissect the pivotal events that act as a catalyst for the inevitable conflict, drawing comparisons with movies like Avatar. Despite the serious themes, the movie doesn't get preachy, focusing more on the action and the heart of its story.
Gareth Edwards' background in VFX proved to be an ace up his sleeve in overcoming budget constraints and delivering a visually stunning masterpiece. We delve into how this expertise, coupled with creative techniques like practical lighting and minimal crew, tricked the audience into believing they were watching a big-budget spectacle. Wrapping up the episode, we explore the cultural impact of 'The Creator' and its contrast with its "twin movie". The final segment takes a step back from the movie itself and sparks a conversation about the broader theme of film and ambition. So buckle up for a roller coaster ride through the making and impact of 'The Creator.Support the Show.
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Prepare for an intense journey as we tackle the controversial film, The Sound of Freedom. This stirring cinematic piece, starring Jim Cavieziel, bravely dives into the chilling underworld of child trafficking. We unpack its harrowing narrative and applaud the remarkable performances that breathe life into these grim realities. But how does a film address such shocking truths without losing respect for the victims? Tune in to find out.
Through the lens of Jim Caviziel's character, Tim Ballard, we navigate the terrifyingly real world of child exploitation, and the emotional journey he embarks on for redemption. Despite its modestly low budget, Sound of Freedom pulls no punches in its technical and narrative execution. With impressive tension-building, it sucks you into the stark reality of its dark themes.
Lastly, we examine the ripple effect of this movie on its viewers and the controversy it has sparked since its release. The Sound of Freedom, despite its limited marketing support and lower budget, has struck a nerve, inspiring many with its powerful message and outstanding performances. We share our candid insights and reflections on this provocative film. Be prepared for a discussion that's as compelling as the film itself.Support the Show.
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Buckle up for an exhilarating rush of adrenaline as we steer you through the cinematic universe of Gran Turismo! This is one riveting ride you won't want to miss, as we discuss the thrilling world of high-speed racing.
we're going full throttle into an extensive analysis of the film's subplots and cinematography. From the character development of the antagonist to the romance subplot and the lack of female representation, we're laying it all out on the track. The film's innovative use of GoPro and FPV drone shots has added an intriguing dimension to its cinematography;
Last but not least, we're going to pull back into the pit stop and share our thoughts on Gran Turismo's overall enjoyability. How does the sound design amplify the racing scenes? How do the visuals contribute to the movie's scope? So, gear up and join us as we navigate through the fast lanes of Gran TurismoSupport the Show.
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What if we told you that a seemingly innocent children's movie could harbor harmful, sexist undertones? That's exactly what we tackle today as we analyze the controversial movie Barbie. We tear apart the movie's 'girls rule, boys suck' narrative, unearthing how this message might negatively impact its youthful demographic. From its lack of substantial story to the awkward dialogue, we expose the damaging messages the movie sends, regardless of the story's last 15-minute attempts to salvage it.
Moving on, we put the character portrayals under the microscope, focusing on how Ken's character contrasts sharply with Barbie's superficial journey. We ask tough questions about the film's objectification of men, especially the shocking portrayal of Ryan Gosling's Ken. The film's PG rating adds another layer to this discussion, raising questions about its target audience and the detrimental messages it could be passing on to impressionable minds.
Finally, we don't shy away from the bigger picture, linking our critique of the Barbie movie to the societal necessity of critical thinking and acceptance. The film seems to suggest that any criticism is equivalent to being anti-feminist, a notion we contest. We also champion the importance of recognizing diverse opinions and values as integral to societal development and empowerment for both men and women.
So, buckle up as we embark on this eye-opening journey, scrutinizing what lies beneath the surface of seemingly harmless entertainment.Support the Show.
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Why do so many video game adaptations fall short of the mark? Today, we're joined by Denise Chan and Martin Yeung as we tackle this pressing question and dissect the complex world of video game movies. From the debacle of Alone in the Dark to the more recent success of The Last of Us show, we dive into the key factors that contribute to the success or failure of these adaptations.
Together, we explore the significant differences between the storytelling of a movie and a video game, as well as the role of studio executives who may not be in tune with the games they're adapting. We also discuss the importance of staying true to the source material, as seen in iconic adaptations like Mortal Kombat. By examining our favorite video game adaptations, such as the animated series Arcane and the classic Wreck-It Ralph, we draw conclusions on the elements that make for a good adaptation, and how these stories can stand on their own while still honoring the games that inspired them.
Don't miss out on this fascinating conversation about the intricate process of adapting video games to other mediums. Join us as we uncover the secrets behind successful adaptations and discuss the challenges creators face in bringing beloved video game characters and stories to life. Share your favorite adaptations and let us know why they worked (or didn't) in your opinion!Support the Show.
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Today, we're diving headfirst into the world of Super Mario with the highly-anticipated movie adaptation. Is it a must-see for all video game enthusiasts, or should you give it a miss? As lifelong fans of the game franchise, we were excited to see this on the big screen. And we have to say, it did not disappoint!
In our conversation, we discuss how the movie stays true to certain aspects of the game, while also introducing new elements that keep things fresh and exciting. We also examine the movie's production quality, including its special effects, cinematography, and music, and the simple foundational narrative. From the visually stunning moments to what voice acting worked and what did not, we'll give you our take on what makes this movie stand out. We also weigh in on the performances of the actors, the nostalgia of it all, whether non-gamers will enjoy the movie, the feel-good moments of the film, and more! Join us as we delve into one of the best video game adaptations ever made, The Super Mario Bros. Movie!Support the Show.
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Spoiler alert! The Scream franchise has just released its sixth film and we are so excited to share our thoughts, theories, and criticism about the newest movie. Joining us for this episode is Luke Agius, an incredible photographer and film director with 15 years of experience. Tuning in, you’ll hear all about what we thought of the film, why we think the killers should be sent to prison instead of dying, Easter eggs from the other movies, the interesting number of killers in Scream 6, and so much more!
Next, we delve into our favorite and least favorite parts of the film before discussing plot holes, the absence of fan-favourites and what plot twists didn’t work.
Sometimes, in slasher franchises that span over years like the Scream movies do, original characters need to be killed off to move the plot forward , we discuss our opinions about how the franchise handles murders as well as our theories for future sequels.
Can Luke win a game of SCream Trivia for a secret prize?
To hear all this and get some insight into why you should watch Scream 6, tune in now!Support the Show.
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Today we are looking into the Scream franchise with the release of Scream VI. Though it hasn’t been long since the reboot of the Scream movies with the fifth movie in the franchise ‘Scream’, Ghost Face is back with Scream VI. In this no-spoiler review, we discuss how the franchise has produced consistently good films, and how rare this is compared to other long-running movie franchises.
We discuss what the film did well, such as subverting expectations, nods to previous Scream films, and suspense-filled horror sequences. why is Sidney absent in this sequel, why this film lacks its own unique identity.
Tune in to find out more about what we might expect from Scream VII before finding out where Scream VI ranks in the Scream franchise, what rating it gets, and whether or not it is a movie worth seeing.Support the Show.
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Hollywood is continuing with its mission of live-action remakes, and adding another to the list of nostalgic reboots is Pinocchio, a classic childhood favourite by Disney about a marionette’s journey to becoming a real boy. Despite being supported by a star-studded cast, the movie has not been received well, with many saying it is the worst movie of all time, but is it that bad? In this episode, we put the debate to rest and explain why the critics are right about Pinocchio as we unpack the movie from beginning to end, from the boring dialogue and childish jokes to the underwhelming cinematography. We discuss why the live-action version does not work, why it feels like no effort was put into making the movie, and why Michael had to use subtitles to understand Tom Hank’s voice acting. We unpack the characters’ cringy Italian accents, the terrible CGI moments of the movie, how it relied on the nostalgia of other franchises, why the remake does not live up to expectations, whether the animation quality saves it, and more. Tune in to find out why this movie is a perfect cure for insomnia with Martin and Michael!
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Another year of movies is done, but what can we expect from 2023? This year looks like it is going to be an amazing year for movies, but with so many, what stands out from the rest? To help us unpack the ultimate upcoming movies of 2023 is film director Matt Vella .Matt is the perfect guest to help us with this list. In our conversation, we discuss and dissect the big, exciting, and most anticipated movie projects of 2023. We talk about a possible Mummy reboot, expected trends in movie franchises, what we want less of in 2023, our anxiety around Super Mario, why the Fast and the Furious is a dying movie franchise, and the movies that you should avoid. Hear about upcoming immersive sci-fi movies, exciting animated franchises, horror movies that will make you jump out of your seat, insider information, and our ultimate wishlist for 2023. Tune in to find out about this year’s potential blockbuster hits with Denise, Martin, Michael, and Matt Vella!
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