In 480 B.C., Sparta faces an existential threat as the Persian “God-King” Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro) leads an army of over 300,000 to conquer Greece. King Leonidas (Gerard Butler), bound by Spartan law and honor, defies the odds and leads 300 elite warriors to the narrow pass of Thermopylae to hold off the invaders. Framed by the narration of Dilios (David Wenham), the story paints a mythic tale of sacrifice, bravery, and defiance, with Leonidas’ Spartans using cunning and raw strength to face impossible odds. Meanwhile, Queen Gorgo (Lena Headey) fights a political battle at home, rallying support against traitors and skeptics to aid her husband’s cause.

In this episode, River and Tony delve into the film '300', discussing its graphic novel origins, the role of narration, cinematography, character development, and the themes of honor and sacrifice. They explore the impact of betrayal on the narrative and the significance of the final stand of the Spartans, ultimately reflecting on the legacy of the film and its inspiration for future generations.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Retro Review Series

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In the quiet suburban town of Maybrook, Pennsylvania, a chilling mystery unfolds when seventeen children from the same classroom vanish in the dead of night, leaving their homes at exactly 2:17 a.m. The only student left behind is Alex Lilly (Cary Christopher), a quiet kid who seems to hold secrets.

In this episode, River dives deep into the film 'Weapons,' directed by Zach Cregger. He discusses the film's unique storytelling approach, character performances, and the technical aspects that contribute to its horror elements. River also explores the themes of loss, community, and the supernatural, while providing insights into the director's vision and style. The conversation culminates in River's personal rating and recommendations for viewers, emphasizing the film's potential appeal even to those who may not typically enjoy horror films.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Weapons

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Set in a vibrant, 1960s-inspired retro-futuristic world on Earth-828, The Fantastic Four: First Steps introduces Marvel’s First Family—Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, Johnny Storm/Human Torch, and Ben Grimm/The Thing—as established heroes balancing their superhero duties with their tight-knit family bond. When the cosmic Herald, Silver Surfer, arrives to warn of the planet-devouring Galactus, the Fantastic Four must unite to protect Earth from annihilation.

In this episode, River dives deep into the latest installment of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, 'Fantastic Four: First Steps.' He discusses the film's direction, character performances, and overall themes, while also providing insights into the MCU's future phases. The conversation highlights the film's strengths, such as its retro design and character dynamics, as well as its weaknesses, particularly in villain development and emotional stakes. River shares his thoughts on the cast, including Pedro Pascal and Vanessa Kirby, and reflects on the film's place within the broader MCU narrative.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Fantastic Four

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Superman (2025) follows Clark Kent, a young but established Man of Steel, as he navigates his dual identity as a Kryptonian hero and a bumbling Daily Planet reporter. When tech billionaire Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) orchestrates a scheme to turn public opinion against Superman, exploiting his controversial intervention in a foreign war, Clark must prove he’s humanity’s protector. Alongside whip-smart reporter Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), his loyal dog Krypto, and a colorful crew of heroes like Mr. Terrific, Hawkgirl, and Green Lantern Guy Gardner, Superman faces kaiju-sized threats, pocket universes, and Luthor’s manipulative brilliance. The film blends high-flying action with heartfelt moments, exploring themes of hope, kindness, and the immigrant experience in a cynical world, all while setting the stage for the new DC Universe.

In this episode, River dives deep into the much-anticipated Superman 2025, directed by James Gunn. The conversation covers various aspects of the film, including its direction, character performances, themes, and visual effects. River shares his thoughts on the casting choices, particularly praising the performances of David Corenswet as Superman and Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane. He discusses the film's direction, noting its chaotic pacing and cartoonish elements, while also highlighting the impressive visual effects. The episode concludes with a recap of the plot and a reflection on Superman's cinematic history, setting the stage for the future of the DC Universe.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Superman 2025

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Set in the sweltering Jim Crow-era Mississippi of 1932, Sinners follows twin brothers Smoke and Stack Moore (both played by Michael B. Jordan), World War I veterans who return to their hometown of Clarksdale after years working for the Chicago Outfit. Armed with stolen gangster money, they buy a sawmill from a racist landowner, Hogwood, to start a juke joint for their Black community—a haven of music and defiance.

In this episode, River delves into the film 'Sinners,' directed by Ryan Coogler. The conversation covers various aspects of the film, including its direction, cinematography, character performances, and the themes of freedom and cultural identity. River highlights the film's critical reception, box office performance, and the unique blend of horror and drama that Coogler masterfully executes. The discussion also touches on the film's musical score and visual effects, emphasizing their contributions to the overall impact of the film. Ultimately, River provides a comprehensive review and recap of 'Sinners,' showcasing its significance in contemporary cinema.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sinners and Ryan Coogler

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Christian Wolff (Ben Affleck) has a talent for solving complex problems. When an old acquaintance is murdered, leaving behind a cryptic message to "find the accountant," Wolff is compelled to solve the case. Realizing more extreme measures are necessary, Wolff recruits his estranged and highly lethal brother, Brax (Jon Bernthal), to help. In partnership with U.S. Treasury Deputy Director Marybeth Medina (Cynthia Addai-Robinson), they uncover a deadly conspiracy, becoming targets of a ruthless network of killers who will stop at nothing to keep their secrets buried.

In this episode of Legit Cool, the hosts dig into 'The Accountant 2,' chatting about its production, box office success, and how it feels compared to the first film. They explore Christian Wolff’s evolution, new characters, and the shift to a more action-heavy focus, while weighing its themes of family and redemption. The conversation covers what critics thought, the sequel’s strengths and weaknesses, and how well the plot and character arcs come together. They dive into character dynamics, especially the portrayal of autism, and discuss how relationships and motivations could’ve hit deeper. The hosts also critique the action sequences, pacing, noting some inconsistencies and missed chances to flesh out characters. They touch on ethical dilemmas like child labor, the balance of action and story, and themes of legacy and hope. Overall, they debate the film’s clarity, action effectiveness, and how it stacks up to the original, sharing their take on its highs and lows and whether it’s worth the watch.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Film Discussion

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Two months after the rogue AI “Entity” unleashes global chaos, Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) and his IMF team — Luther (Ving Rhames), Benji (Simon Pegg), and Grace (Hayley Atwell) — race to stop it from triggering nuclear war. Defying orders to surrender the Sevastopol submarine’s key, Ethan chases the Entity’s agent Gabriel (Esai Morales) across London, the Bering Sea, and South Africa, facing insane stunts like biplane brawls and underwater wrecks.

In this podcast episode, River reviews 'Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning,' reflecting on the franchise's legacy, the film's execution, and character performances. He expresses disappointment in the film's narrative structure and villain portrayal while acknowledging the franchise's historical significance and action sequences. In this conversation, River reviews the latest installment of the Mission Impossible franchise, discussing the legacy of villains, particularly Philip Seymour Hoffman, and the emotional journey of Ethan Hunt. He critiques the film's direction, storytelling, and character dynamics, highlighting the challenges faced in delivering a satisfying conclusion to the series. The review also touches on key plot points, character sacrifices, and the overall impact of the film within the franchise's history.

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Christian Wolff (Ben Affleck) is a math savant with autism, working as a freelance accountant for dangerous criminal organizations while hiding behind a small-town CPA office. When Treasury agent Raymond King (J.K. Simmons) starts closing in, Wolff takes a legit job auditing a robotics company, where clerk Dana Cummings (Anna Kendrick) uncovers a $61 million embezzlement scheme. As Wolff digs deeper, hitmen target him and Dana, forcing him to unleash his lethal skills. With his estranged brother Braxton (Jon Bernthal) and a mysterious ally, Wolff unravels a deadly conspiracy while confronting his past and evading the law.

In this episode of Legit Cool, River and Tony dive deep into the 2016 thriller 'The Accountant,' starring Ben Affleck. They explore the film's unique blend of action and character study, discussing the portrayal of autism, the challenges of original IP films in today's cinema landscape, and the critical reception versus audience response. The conversation highlights the film's underrated status and the standout performances, particularly by Affleck, while also addressing the themes of unlikely heroes and the underdog narrative. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the film 'The Accountant,' exploring its plot, character performances, and the representation of autism. They discuss the dynamics between characters, the direction of the film, and the impact of action sequences. The conversation highlights the balance between storytelling and action, emphasizing the film's unique approach to character development and its gritty realism. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the intricacies of a film's narrative, character development, and thematic elements. They discuss the potential of a sequel, the depth of the protagonist's character, and the symbolism present in key scenes. The dialogue explores the motivations behind the characters' actions, particularly the protagonist's dual life as an accountant and a criminal, and how these elements contribute to the overall storytelling. The hosts also reflect on the film's execution, including its montages and character dynamics, while questioning the moral implications of the protagonist's choices. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the film 'The Accountant,' exploring its intricate plot, character development, and emotional depth. They discuss the action sequences, the significance of art in the protagonist's life, and the impactful twist involving Justine's character. The conversation highlights the film's exploration of family ties, trust, and the portrayal of autism, culminating in a thoughtful review and rating of the film.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to The Accountant

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Marvel Studios’ Thunderbolts follows Yelena Belova, Bucky Barnes, Red Guardian, Ghost, Taskmaster, and John Walker, a band of antiheroes drawn into a covert operation by the calculating Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. Tasked with a high-stakes mission for the shadowy O.X.E. organization, they uncover a dangerous trap that tests their fractured loyalties. Forced to unite, the team navigates intense action and personal demons to confront a formidable threat. Directed by Jake Schreier, with a striking score by Son Lux, Thunderbolts blends gritty character drama, sharp humor, and vivid visuals, delivering a bold addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe that explores redemption and resilience.

In this review of Marvel's Thunderbolts, the conversation explores the film's significance within the MCU, focusing on character development, particularly Yelena Belova's emotional journey. The discussion highlights the film's themes of trauma and redemption, the authenticity of team dynamics, and the quality of dialogue. The review also touches on Valentina's role in shaping the narrative and the film's action sequences, humor, and visual appeal. Overall, Thunderbolts is presented as a refreshing and engaging addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, marking a potential turning point for the franchise. The conversation delves into the themes and character arcs of the film 'Thunderbolts', exploring the introduction of characters, the significance of the Sentry's rise, the chaos of the void, and the resolution leading to the formation of a new Avengers team. The discussion highlights the emotional depth of the characters, the impact of their vulnerabilities, and the film's connection to the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe, while also reflecting on the future of the franchise.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Thunderbolts and MCU Context

Captain America: Brave New World follows Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) as he navigates a global crisis involving a newly discovered metal, adamantium, found on Celestial Island. When an assassination attempt on President Thaddeus Ross (Harrison Ford) leads to Isaiah Bradley’s (Carl Lumbly) imprisonment, Sam uncovers a deeper conspiracy involving the Serpent Society and Samuel Sterns (Tim Blake Nelson). The film blends political intrigue with action, setting up future MCU conflicts.

In this Legit Cool review of Captain America: Brave New World, River unpacks, um, a film that’s, well, kind of a mess. The plot’s all over the place—adamantium conspiracies, Red Hulk chaos, just too much going on—and the pacing, ahh, it’s like it can’t pick a lane, dragging then rushing with no rhythm. Sam Wilson’s arc as the new Cap? Man, it’s got heart, but it feels unearned—unlike Steve Rogers, who grinded for the shield across a trilogy, Sam’s handed the role without the world buying in, and that’s a letdown. Even with a hefty $180 million budget, the action’s flat—shield tosses clip through walls, VFX look cheap, nothing like Winter Soldier’s crisp knife fights. Critics and fans aren’t vibing either, with a 48% Rotten Tomatoes score signaling trouble. River’s worried about the MCU’s path, wondering if Marvel can recapture its storytelling spark and give characters the depth they deserve in what’s coming next.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Captain America: Brave New World

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