Help Me Watch

In this episode of the Help Me Watch podcast, hosts Chris, Franco, and Jonathan dive into the Star Wars prequel trilogy’s second film, ‘Attack of the Clones‘. They discuss the film’s complex storyline, including Anakin and Padmé’s controversial romance, Jedi politics, and the implications of the Clone Wars. They also touch on Chris’s recent birthday celebrations, some movie news updates, and new releases for early February. Additionally, they talk about the influence of George Lucas’s direction, the evolution of CGI effects, and how modern perceptions might differ from initial reactions. The episode wraps up with final thoughts on the movie and an outlook for upcoming episodes.

00:00 Introduction and Hosts

One Minute Review: Wonder Man

Movie News:

ConformityGate is still going on, and people are now believing that there’s going to be a big reveal during the Super Bowl

RIP Catherine O’Hara

Bob Iger will officially retire from The Walt Disney Company on December 31, 2026 (for approximately 6 to 18 months). Josh D’Amaro, currently Chairman of Disney Experiences, will take over as CEO on March 18, 2026, with Iger remaining as a senior advisor to ensure a smooth transition.

New Releases: 

February 3rd

February 10th 

In this episode of the ‘Help Me Watch’ podcast, hosts Chris, Franco, and Jonathan dive into an extensive review of ‘Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace.’ Along the way, they share personal anecdotes and discuss their experiences with the film, shedding light on its unique qualities and quirks. The hosts explore how the movie, initially celebrated but later criticized, has found newfound appreciation over time. They delve into the rich lore, analysis of characters like Darth Maul and Jar Jar Binks, and reflect on the impact of the film’s music. The episode culminates in a scoring session, recapping their thoughts as they prepare to continue exploring the Star Wars prequels in upcoming episodes.

00:00 Introduction and Hosts Banter

One Minute Review: Fallout Season 2 | One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things Season 5

Movie News:

ConformityGate take 2 (it’s real this time or is it)

Unrelated Game Recommendation: Dispatch

New Releases: 

January 20th

January 27th 

In this episode of ‘Help Me Watch’ Chris, Franco, and Jonathan return from their holiday break to discuss their recent movie experiences, new releases, and do a deep dive into ‘Inception.’ They touch on holiday activities, critiques of recent films like ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash‘ and ‘Stranger Things’ Season 5, upcoming releases, and conclude with selecting ‘Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace‘ for their next review. Engaging discussions range from cast performances to intricate plot details and visual effects in ‘Inception.’

00:00 Introduction and Hosts

One Minute Review: Plur1bus finale | Foundation | Avatar: Fire and Ash | Stranger Things: The Final Episode? | Sean Combs The Reckoning | Man vs Baby

Movie News:

ConformityGate 

New Releases: 

January 6th

January 13th 

We managed to squeeze one last show before 2025 ends.

We had the privilege of having Christopher Bowden on to talk about his new film “Shema” and for some of us to give some honest feedback (it was all good).

Be sure to give this episode a listen and to learn more about the film and how to follow to keep up to date on it. Check out the synopsis and links below.

Shema (the Hebrew word for ‘Listen’) is a story of historical fiction inspired by The Chosen TV Series and the Christian Holy Bible. The film follows Malchus; servant to the Temple High Priest of Israel in 33 A.D. Malchus is violently assaulted by one of Jesus’ Disciples and loses his ear in the attack. Jesus then completely heals Malchus’ ear. But what happened after that? The Bible does not say.

Shema explores the fictional days following that healing; What is the rest of Malchus’ story? How did this event impact his life, and how did he reconcile that he helped arrest the man that healed him? Shema is a fictional story that takes artistic and creative liberties but remains rooted in truth and points toward the character of Jesus.

The film is not rated, but a recommended viewing age is 14+ due to some tense scenes of violence and thematic drama.

Scan the QR code below or visit refocuscreative.com/shema to learn more and purchase or rent the film!

In this episode of Help Me Watch, host Chris and his co-hosts Franco and Jonathan delve into their latest movie reviews and discussions. They start off sharing their holiday preparations and highlight their ongoing and recently watched TV shows like PLURIBUS, Foundation, on Apple TV. They also discuss recent cinema trips to see ‘Wicked Part Two‘ and ‘Zootopia Two,’ offering their insights and impressions. The episode takes a somber turn as they note the passing of notable figures like Rob Reiner, Peter Greene, and Anthony Geary. For new releases, they list notable Blu-Ray and 4K updates, including classics like ‘Mall Rats’ and ‘PeeWee’s Big Adventure.’ The centerpiece of the episode is an in-depth review of ‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,’ a film directed by Dallas Jenkins. The hosts discuss the movie’s plot, performances by Judy Greer and Pete Holmes, and its overall execution, giving it praise for its wholesome, family-friendly story. They conclude with personal anecdotes and wish the listeners a Merry Christmas, hinting at a potential special episode next week.

One Minute Review: Plur1bus | Foundation

Movie News:

Rip Rob Reiner, Peter Greene, Anthony Geary

New Releases: 

December 16th

In this episode of ‘Help Me Watch,’ hosts Chris, Franco, and Jonathan dive into the beloved holiday film ‘Home Alone.’ They discuss behind-the-scenes stories, production challenges, and interesting trivia about the movie, including insights from Chris Columbus and Macaulay Culkin’s commentary. Other topics covered include recent personal viewing experiences and notable new home media releases. The hosts reflect on the movie’s enduring legacy, including its impact on stunt work and how it remains a staple in holiday entertainment. The episode concludes with the announcement of ‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’ as the next and final review for the year.

00:00 Introduction and Hosts

One Minute Review: Plur1bus | The Chair Company

Movie News:

Star Wars the ORIGINAL theatrical release, coming back to theaters in 2027 for its 50th anniversary, will this be the LaserDisc transfer, or did Disney find original 35mm prints somewhere?

Netflix to buy Warner Bros./HBO. Is this the end of physical media? Movie theaters? Life as we know it?

New Releases: 

December 9th

In this episode of the Help Me Watch podcast, hosts Chris, Jonathan, and Franco dive into animated chaos as they review ‘The Polar Express.’ Amidst tangents about Thanksgiving, movie theater mishaps, and the darker aspects of holiday classics, the team dissects the movie’s animation woes, unsettling character designs, and questionable plot choices. They also compare it to other Christmas movies and express mixed feelings about its storytelling and technological experiments. Ultimately, they make plans for upcoming holiday movie reviews, including Home Alone and its sequel.

00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving Recap

One Minute Review: Silo season 2 (one of the worst cliffhanger endings) | Plur1bus | The Chair Company | Now You See Me Now You Don’t

Movie News: Stranger Things Series Finale headed to theaters, if you can get a ticket.

New Releases: 

December 2nd

In this episode of the ‘Help Me Watch’, host Chris and guest Franco delve into the 80s cult classic, ‘Planes, Trains, and Automobiles.’ They discuss the comedic misadventures of Steve Martin and John Candy as they try to make it home for Thanksgiving. The episode touches on the film’s timeless humor, John Candy’s standout performance, and the absurd but relatable travel hurdles that the characters face. Along the way, Chris and Franco share personal anecdotes about travel tribulations, making this not just a movie review but a relatable, laugh-out-loud conversation. They also announce the next movie for review: ‘The Polar Express,’ teeing up a discussion on the uncanny animation and holiday intrigue. Tune in for a mix of movie critique, personal stories, and holiday cheer.

00:00 Introduction and Host Banter

One Minute Review: Peacemaker season 2 | Invasion season 3 | Silo season 2

New Releases: 

November 18th

November 25th

In this episode of ‘Help Me Watch,’ hosts Chris, Franco, and Jonathan dive into the classic film ‘Edward Scissorhands,’ discussing its unique charm, whimsical storytelling, and Tim Burton’s signature style. The conversation covers various elements of the movie, from set design and character analysis to nostalgic reflections and trivia about the cast. Franco’s unexpected references to ‘Only Murders in the Building‘ and a friendly debate on the next film review choice provide additional entertainment. Other films and series reviewed in quick segments include ‘House of Dynamite,’ ‘Gen V,’ and ‘Only Murders in the Building,’ along with upcoming DVD and Blu-ray release updates. The episode wraps up with a selection for the next movie review, ‘Planes, Trains, and Automobiles.’

00:00 Introduction and Hosts

One Minute Review: Only Murders in the Building season 5 | House for Dynamite | Gen V | Peacemaker

Movie News:

Did Netflix leak the season 5 trailer to Stranger Things too early?

New Releases: 

November 4th

November 11th

One Minute Review: Stranger Things (rewatch) | Only Murders in the Building season 5 | Tron Ares | Hereditary

Movie News:

Gushers (yes, the candy/fruit snack brand) released a horror “movie”

New Releases: 

October 21st

October 28th