Movie Postmortem

In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we are joined by the hosts of the Vaguely Nerdy Podcast to discuss Disclosure Day, the alien-contact film that had all of us excited long before it ever reached theaters. We debate the film's biggest strengths and weaknesses, rank our favorite Spielberg alien movies, and even discuss if we've experienced a real-life alien encounter ourselves. We also explore why the film's fascinating premise and strong performances never quite overcome its clunky script.

Was Disclosure Day worth the wait, or is it another reminder that a great premise can only carry a film so far? Tune in as we disclose the truth about this film.

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In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we revisit Bumblebee, the Transformers movie that brought a smaller, more character driven story to the screen. Set in the 1980s, the film follows Charlie and Bumblebee as they form a friendship that feels like a mashup of E.T. and The Iron Giant.

We discuss why the smaller scale works so well, how Hailee Steinfeld carries the emotional core of the story, and why Bumblebee himself is more expressive here than in the entire Michael Bay series combined.

Tune in as we discuss this robot-car coming-of-age story.

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In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we revisit Hook (1991), Steven Spielberg’s sequel to the Peter Pan story that asks a surprisingly grown-up question: what happens when Peter Pan grows up? We discuss Robin Williams’ journey from work-obsessed father back to the Pan we all know, Dustin Hoffman’s delightfully theatrical Captain Hook, and why the film hits very differently as an adult than it does as a child. We also talk about the imaginative production design and whether Spielberg’s emotional core overcomes some of the movie's rougher edges.

Is Hook the flop that people say it is, or should you give it a watch?

Tune in to find out!

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In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review Princess Mononoke, Hayao Miyazaki’s epic fantasy about humanity, nature, and the impossibly difficult task of trying to do the right thing when others yearn for fighting. We discuss the breathtaking animation, the morally complex characters in Iron Town and the forest, and why Ashitaka may be one of the most genuinely noble protagonists we’ve ever covered on the show. Plus, we talk about why this film is so much better than the films it inspired.

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In this episode, we review Akira, the groundbreaking cyberpunk anime that changed animation forever. We break down the film’s jaw-dropping animation, why the iconic bike slide still gets copied decades later, and how Akira helped shape everything from The Matrix to modern sci-fi anime. We also discuss the friendship and rivalry between Kaneda and Tetsuo, the film’s themes of power and corruption, and why the atmosphere of Neo-Tokyo feels so alive and dangerous.

Tune in as we dissect one of the most influential animated films ever made!

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In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we revisit Aladdin (1992), the Disney classic powered by unforgettable music, fun characters, and one of the greatest voice performances in film history. We spend a lot of time celebrating Robin Williams’ Genie, whose improvisational energy completely transformed animated movies and elevated Aladdin into something magical.

Plus, we have an important discussion about genie-wish strategy: if you found a magic lamp, what are the smartest wishes you could actually make without getting tricked? Here's a preview: vague wording around immortality is probably a terrible idea!

Tune in!

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In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review The Transformers: The Movie (1986), the animated classic that traumatized an entire generation of kids in order to sell them new toys. We break down Hot Rod’s rise from reckless young Autobot to future leader, why the animation looked so good compared to other cartoons, and the pure power of the hit ballad “The Touch” by Stan Bush. Is The Transformers: The Movie a Cause for Celebration, or did it just emotionally scar children in the pursuit of merchandise sales? Either way, it’s officially Hot Rod Summer!

Our episode on Transformers

Our episode on Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen

Our episode on Transformers One

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In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review Mortal Kombat (2021), the reboot that tried to deliver brutal fights and iconic fatalities from the popular fighting game it was based on, but was knocked out by poor decision making behind the scenes. We discuss the film’s biggest missteps, from the introduction of Cole Young as a bland audience surrogate to the baffling decision to skip the actual fighting tournament. Tune in to hear why we think this film is a Flawless Defeat when it comes to storytelling.

THE SECRET of RAIDEN'S SHOUT in MORTAL KOMBAT!

@MRSEATS explains what Raiden is saying during his flying attack.

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In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (2023), the fantasy adventure that didn't do well at the box office, but captured the chaotic energy of a fun D&D campaign. We discuss why the humor works, the surprisingly heartfelt character moments, and what part reminded us of our real life family dynamic.

We also offer our Script Stitch-Up to discuss what plot points could have been cut from film ... but you really should wait until Jarnathan finally arrives to hear those!

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In this episode of Movie Postmortem, we review Wreck-It Ralph (2012), the animated adventure that asks: what if the bad guy just… didn’t want to be the bad guy anymore? We share some memories from our time in arcades growing up, then dive into a fun discussion of the film.

We talk about the nostalgia of seeing classic video game characters share the screen, the clever rules that govern how arcade worlds connect, and the heartwarming message of the film that makes Ralph and Vanellope’s friendship so moving.

Tune in as we break down what worked, what didn't, and offer our Script Stitch-Ups for this film.

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