Movie Wars

Kyle and comedian and film critic Matthew Blevins dive deep into "Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome," the third installment of the iconic franchise. The duo discusses how this film strays from the gritty, innovative essence of its predecessors, feeling more like a product of the 80s than a continuation of the Mad Max legacy. They express disappointment with the film's lack of compelling villains and the odd tonal shifts, particularly with Tina Turner's character, who feels out of place in this post-apocalyptic world. Their conversation touches on the film's failures to maintain the high stakes and harsh realities of the earlier entries, leading to a less engaging experience. As they wrap up, Kyle and Matthew reflect on the evolution of the series and express anticipation for the next installment, "Fury Road," which they hope will recapture the franchise's original intensity and creativity.

Takeaways:

• The discussion highlights how the Mad Max franchise evolved from groundbreaking innovation to a more conventional 80s action film format.
• Matthew Blevins expresses disappointment in how Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome diverges from the series' original themes and tone.
• The episode critiques the film's reliance on children and how their presence detracts from the overall narrative quality.
• Kyle and Matthew analyze the incongruity of Tina Turner's character and music within the Mad Max universe.
• The hosts reflect on the stark contrast between the gritty world of previous films and the seemingly cheerful atmosphere in Thunderdome.
• They conclude that while the film has its moments, it ultimately fails to meet the franchise's high standards.

The podcast delves into the latest discussion surrounding the Mad Max franchise, particularly focusing on the often controversial Beyond Thunderdome. Hosts Kyle and Matthew engage in a vibrant dialogue that critiques the film’s departure from the gritty, anarchic world established in its predecessors, notably Mad Max and The Road Warrior. Their conversation highlights the stark tonal shift in Beyond Thunderdome, emphasizing how it leans into an 80s aesthetic with mainstream music and a lighter narrative approach that feels more like a family film than a brutal dystopian saga.

Listeners are treated to a critical analysis of the film's characters, especially Tina Turner's Aunty Entity, whose presence raises questions about the film's thematic coherence. The hosts express their confusion about her role in a world where survival is paramount yet features moments of levity and cheer. They also explore the film’s unique setting of Bartertown, contrasting it with the desolate landscapes of earlier films. The discussion touches on how Thunderdome's attempts at world-building ultimately fall short, lacking the visceral stakes that made the previous entries so compelling. While acknowledging some creative elements, the overall sentiment leans towards disappointment in how the film underutilizes its potential to explore deeper themes of survival and morality in a post-apocalyptic context.

Is 2018's Upgrade a rebirth of 80's sci-fi favorites in the vein of Total Recall? This episode of the Movie Wars Podcast dives deep into the film "Upgrade," highlighting its innovative approach to the sci-fi genre, particularly in how it explores the intersection of technology and humanity. The hosts discuss the significance of the film's unique visual style and action sequences, emphasizing the director Leigh Whannell's ability to create a compelling narrative within a low-budget framework. They analyze the character dynamics, particularly the relationship between the protagonist Gray and the AI Stem, noting how the twist reveals Stem as the true antagonist, which adds depth to the story. Throughout the discussion, they reflect on the broader implications of the film's themes, drawing parallels to societal issues surrounding technology today. The conversation culminates in a passionate exchange about the potential for future films to revive the action sci-fi genre, with a hopeful outlook on what directors like Whannell can achieve.

Movie Wars Podcast dives into the thrilling world of the film "Upgrade," directed by Leigh Whannell. The hosts, Kyle, Seth, and Drew, unpack the intricate layers of this action-packed sci-fi film, which tells the story of Grey Trace, a man who becomes a quadriplegic after a brutal mugging that also claims his wife's life. The narrative takes a twist when Grey receives an experimental computer chip implant, enabling him to regain his mobility and seek vengeance against those who wronged him. Throughout the discussion, the hosts highlight the film's unique blend of practical effects and innovative cinematography, particularly praising the use of a locking camera technique that immerses viewers in Grey's journey of transformation and autonomy. They explore the themes of technology's impact on humanity, ethical dilemmas surrounding AI, and the film's nods to classic 80s action and sci-fi tropes.

The conversation delves into the production challenges faced by Whannell, particularly the film's microbudget of under $5 million, and how that constraint led to creative solutions that enhanced the film's aesthetic and storytelling. The hosts reflect on the cultural commentary embedded in the film, which resonates with contemporary issues of technology dependence and the blurred lines between man and machine. They also draw parallels between "Upgrade" and iconic films like "RoboCop" and "Terminator," discussing how Whannell revives the genre while offering a fresh perspective on familiar narratives. As they share personal insights and reactions, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the film's craftsmanship and thematic depth.

In this lively episode of Movie Wars, listeners are treated to an engaging discourse that not only celebrates the film "Upgrade" but also critiques the broader landscape of sci-fi cinema. The hosts emphasize the importance of well-crafted characters and dialogue, acknowledging that while the film excels visually and thematically, certain narrative elements could have benefited from further development. Ultimately, the conversation encapsulates a love for the genre and a desire for future filmmakers to draw inspiration from the innovative storytelling showcased in "Upgrade." The episode concludes with the hosts expressing their hopes for the future of sci-fi films, leaving listeners excited about the potential for more groundbreaking narratives that challenge the status quo.

Takeaways:

• The film Upgrade effectively blends science fiction with action, showcasing an intriguing near-future setting.
• The director, Leigh Whannell, utilized innovative camera techniques to enhance the fight scenes significantly.
• The film's commentary on technology and humanity resonates with contemporary societal issues, making it relevant.
• Seth, Drew, and Kyle discussed the film's budget constraints and how they led to creativity.
• The podcast highlighted the importance of practical effects in filmmaking, noting their impact on realism.
• Listeners appreciated the character dynamics, particularly the relationship between Gray and Stem, which added depth.

WHEN WILL THE REBOOTS END? The Crew was going to do Falling Down today (we'll do it in a couple of weeks), but then they announced the dreaded American Psycho reboot. Queue the collective groans. This episode dives deep into the cultural implications and frustrations surrounding the incessant trend of Hollywood reboots, with a particular focus on the upcoming American Psycho remake. The crew discusses their thoughts on the original film, its adaptation from Bret Easton Ellis's novel, and how the unique elements of the story may be lost in translation. With lively debates on the effectiveness of the original's satire and the potential pitfalls of a new interpretation, they explore whether the reboot is a necessary addition to the cinematic landscape or just another cash grab. Tune in for insights, critiques, and a few laughs as they navigate the complexities of this controversial topic.

Takeaways:

• The discussion centers around the impact of reboots on beloved films, particularly American Psycho.
• The hosts express frustration over Hollywood's trend of remaking classic films instead of creating original content.
• They explore the psychological elements of American Psycho, emphasizing its dark comedy and satire.
• Willem Dafoe's performance is highlighted as a standout, showcasing his emotional range.
• The cinematography is praised for its intentionality, capturing the surrealist nature of the story.
• The crew reflects on their experiences with adaptations, noting the challenges of translating complex narratives.

The final installment of The Crow series holds its breath and dives into the 2024 reboot that inspired the series in the first place. When the first 2024 trailer was dropped, it marked the only time Kyle marched into his studio and recorded a "reaction" podcast(something Kyle prides himself on never doing). It was there that the MWP Crow series was born. The hosts express their disappointment with the film's failure to capture the essence of the original, highlighting how it lacks the compelling character development and emotional weight that made the 1994 version a classic. As they dissect the film's plot, pacing, and character motivations, they point out that the reboot feels more like a generic action movie, drawing unwarranted comparisons to the beloved original. The conversation reveals a split among the hosts regarding the film's merit, with some leaning towards a more forgiving view while others maintain a critical stance. With engaging banter and insightful commentary, the episode underscores the challenges of rebooting a cherished franchise and the impact of expectations on audience reception.

The discussion centers around The Crow franchise, particularly the latest reboot, which has prompted mixed emotions among the hosts. Kyle expresses his relief at finally wrapping up the Crow series, while Seth shares the challenges of the endeavor, emphasizing that the reboot was essentially an excuse for him to revisit one of his favorite films from 1994. As the conversation unfolds, Kyle critiques the reboot for its lack of originality, insisting that it shouldn't have clung to the original characters' names, Eric Draven and Shelly. The hosts compare the reboot to previous installments, noting how the reboot fails to capture the essence of the original while trying to appeal to a younger audience. Drew suggests that the film could have benefited from a different title altogether, emphasizing that the reboot's reliance on familiar names detracted from its potential to stand alone as a unique story.

As the conversation progresses, the hosts dissect the pacing of the film, lamenting how it takes a significant amount of time before any Crow action occurs. They draw parallels to the original movie, which established the action early on, allowing viewers to invest in the characters and their motivations more deeply. The reboot's slow buildup and emphasis on backstory lead to a lack of emotional investment in the characters, particularly in the romantic relationship between the leads. Despite some positive elements, such as the cinematography and soundtrack, the overall consensus remains that the reboot doesn't live up to the original film's legacy. The conversation concludes with the hosts ranking the films in the franchise, ultimately placing the 1994 Crow at the top, with the reboot falling lower on the list.

The episode effectively captures the hosts' nostalgic reflections on the original Crow film while critiquing the latest reboot for its shortcomings. Their discussion delves into themes of originality, character development, and the challenges of reimagining a beloved franchise. The hosts' camaraderie and humor shine through as they navigate their differing opinions, leading to a thoughtful exploration of what makes a film truly resonate with audiences. Each host brings their unique perspective to the conversation, resulting in an engaging dialogue about the Crow franchise's past, present, and future.

Takeaways:

• The podcast discusses the Crow franchise, wrapping up its commentary on the reboot.
• Listeners are led through a comparison of the Crow reboot to its predecessors.
• The hosts share personal experiences and views on the evolution of the Crow series.
• Critiques focus on the choice of names and character development in the reboot.
• There is a significant discussion about how the setting and lighting impact the film's tone.
• The conversation highlights the expectations set by the original movie and its iconic status.

The Crow: Wicked Prayer is widely regarded as one of the worst films ever made, and this podcast episode dives deep into its myriad flaws and absurdities. The hosts dissect the film's lack of coherent plot, poor performances, and bewildering decisions, such as a supposedly satanic cult that feels more like a community potluck than a menacing group. They highlight how the movie fails to capture the dark, gritty essence of the original Crow series, instead opting for a bright, uninviting desert backdrop that detracts from the story. With tongue-in-cheek humor, they explore the ridiculousness of the characters and their motivations, ultimately concluding that the film is a train wreck that somehow manages to be entertaining in its ineptitude. Join the hosts as they reflect on the cinematic disaster that is Wicked Prayer, offering a blend of laughter and exasperation at the film's many shortcomings.

The Crow Wicked Prayer, often regarded as one of the worst films ever made, serves as the focal point of this engaging podcast episode that delves into the depths of cinematic failure. The hosts—Kyle, Seth, and Drew—embark on a critical analysis of the film's numerous shortcomings, from its disjointed plot to abysmal performances. With Edward Furlong leading a cast that includes Tara Reid and Danny Trejo, the discussion highlights how the movie fails to capture the essence of the beloved original Crow film. The trio reflects on the absurdity of the film's premise, where a cult seeks to resurrect Satan, leading to a series of laughable moments that transform the viewing experience into a dark comedy. As they dissect the film's themes, they ponder how the narrative could have benefitted from a more cohesive script and a deeper understanding of the source material, ultimately concluding that even the absurdity of the film does not redeem it from being a complete failure.

Takeaways:

• The Crow Wicked Prayer is widely regarded as one of the worst films ever made, earning a 0% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
• The characters in Wicked Prayer lack depth and development, with the villains overshadowing the protagonist.
• The film's cinematography fails to capture the essence of the original Crow movies, lacking any stylistic flair.
• Tara Reid's performance as a satanic cult member was criticized for lack of authenticity and skill.
• The plot of Wicked Prayer was so disjointed that even the hosts struggled to summarize it coherently.
• The discussion highlighted how the film's poor writing and direction detracted from its potential as a cult classic.

Have you been saved? Kyle, Seth, and Drew delve into the third installment of "The Crow" series, "The Crow: Salvation," highlighting its surprisingly positive reception compared to its predecessor, "City of Angels." The hosts discuss how the film successfully redeemed itself even with its straight-to-DVD status, with interesting character arcs and some standout performances, particularly from then-unknown Walton Goggins and Tim Decay. They explore the film's unique approach to the crow's resurrection powers, noting the creative twist with the character's mask and the overall aesthetic choices that set it apart from the earlier entries. Despite some criticisms regarding the lack of depth in the villains and the film's pacing, the hosts appreciate the entertaining moments and the thematic elements of revenge and justice. Ultimately, they conclude that "The Crow: Salvation" offers a refreshing take within the franchise, even if it doesn't reach the heights of the original film.

A captivating dissection of 'The Crow: Salvation' unfolds as the hosts of the Movie Wars podcast — Kyle, Seph, and Drew — embark on an exploration of this sequel's narrative and thematic depths. The conversation kicks off with a focus on the film's central character, Alex Corvus, as portrayed by Eric Mabius. The hosts examine his journey from wrongful execution to seeking vengeance, discussing the moral implications of resurrection and revenge. They highlight the performances of young Kirsten Dunst and Walton Goggins, noting how their talent brings a level of gravitas to the film that elevates it despite its flaws. The hosts admire Goggins’ portrayal of a corrupt cop, offering a nuanced perspective on the character's motivations and the film's critique of systemic corruption.

As the dialogue progresses, the hosts delve into the film's visual presentation, contrasting it with the original Crow and its sequel. They critique the cinematography, particularly the color grading and overall aesthetic, which they feel detracts from the film's potential. The discussion brings to light how the film's lower budget may have limited its creative execution, leading to a less engaging visual experience. They also reflect on the film’s pacing and structure, acknowledging the struggle to maintain tension and interest in the latter half of the film. This analysis is punctuated with humor and shared anecdotes, making for an entertaining and enlightening listening experience.

Toward the conclusion of the episode, the hosts ponder the legacy of 'The Crow: Salvation' within the franchise. They express a shared hope for a future reboot, one that could potentially reconcile the narrative and aesthetic inconsistencies of the sequels while honoring the original's legacy. This episode stands as a testament to the hosts' ability to blend critical analysis with humor, providing listeners with a rich understanding of the film and its place in cinematic history. Their engaging banter and thoughtful reflections ensure that fans of the series will find this discussion both informative and entertaining.

Takeaways:

• The podcast discusses the evolution of the crow franchise, highlighting the differences in tone and quality among the sequels.
• Listeners learn about the creative decisions behind the crow's mask design, which deviates from previous films.
• The hosts express their enjoyment of the unexpected car crash scene, praising its execution and impact.
• There's a strong emphasis on character development, particularly in the portrayal of villains across the series.
• The discussion reveals insights into the actors' performances, noting how they handled their roles despite a weak script.
• The hosts critique the lack of cohesive world-building in the third installment, arguing it affects the overall narrative.

The latest episode of the Movie Wars podcast dives deep into "The Crow: City of Angels." Just two years after Brandon Lee's tragic death, does Tim Pope and David S. Goyer's(Batman Begins writer) follow-up hit 1994's watermark? Or does it serve as a cash grab, obliterating the legacy of Brandon Lee? With a new set of villains, a tunic-wearing gang leader, and a grown-up Sara, how does Vincent Perez's Crow fare in this orange haze-filled setting? With another rocking soundtrack and the much-delayed casting of Iggy Pop, City Of Angels does what it can to extend the cult love of The Crow.

This episode delves into the controversial sequel, The Crow: City of Angels, analyzing its attempt to follow up on the cult classic that was The Crow. The hosts express their disappointment, particularly highlighting how the film fails to capture the essence of its predecessor. They discuss the film's lack of character development, especially for the new protagonist, Ash, played by Vincent Perez. The conversation reflects on how the absence of Brandon Lee's charisma and physicality significantly diminishes the film's impact. The hosts lament the film's reliance on clichés and uninspired dialogue, which leads to a lack of genuine emotional connection with the characters. They dissect the film's attempts at revenge and how the method of retribution feels unearned and poorly executed compared to the first film, ultimately labeling it as a missed opportunity that does not resonate with fans of the original.

Takeaways:

• The podcast hosts express strong disappointment in 'The Crow: City of Angels', highlighting its lack of coherence and character development.
• The discussion emphasizes that no character stood out in the sequel, making it difficult for viewers to engage with the story.
• The hosts compare the film unfavorably to the original 'Crow', noting the absence of Brandon Lee's compelling performance and physicality.
• They discuss the poor execution of flashbacks in this sequel, which ultimately detracted from the overall narrative flow.
• The hosts lament the missed potential of the sequel, mentioning that it felt rushed and poorly constructed, akin to a cash grab.
• The critique includes how the villains lacked depth and uniqueness, failing to provide any memorable or interesting dynamics.

We're excited to start our The Crow series! This episode of the Movie Wars podcast dives deep into the cult classic "The Crow," highlighting its unique blend of revenge, tragedy, and artistry. Kyle invites Nashville comedians and film auteurs Drew Davis and Seth Kays to guest host The Crow series. The hosts discuss the film's impact, particularly focusing on Brandon Lee's iconic performance and the hauntingly atmospheric setting that contributes to the story's emotional weight. With insightful commentary on the supporting cast, including memorable villains and their creative deaths, the conversation reveals how each character's demise resonates with their crimes. The episode also explores the significance of the film's aesthetic choices, from the deliberate color palette to the use of miniatures, which give the city a character of its own. Listeners can expect a mix of comedy and thoughtful analysis as the hosts reflect on what makes "The Crow" a timeless piece of cinema that continues to resonate with audiences today.

Also, this episode utilized Kyle's new War Card formula for the new and improved MWP 2.0 format!

Takeaways:

• The podcast discusses the cultural impact of 'The Crow' and its tragic backstory, including Brandon Lee's untimely death during filming.
• The hosts highlight the unique and memorable villains in 'The Crow', emphasizing their one-dimensionality yet effective portrayals.
• There is a focus on the film's soundtrack, especially how it enhances emotional moments and complements the visuals.
• The setting of 'The Crow' is analyzed as a character in itself, with its gritty and dark atmosphere contributing significantly to the story.
• Brandon Lee's involvement in the makeup and wardrobe choices is praised for adding authenticity to his portrayal of Eric Draven.
• The episode concludes with a discussion on how the themes of revenge and justice are timeless, resonating with audiences even today.

A vibrant discussion unfolds as Kyle reunites with his comedian co-hosts, Drew Davis and Seth Kays, to dissect the cult classic, The Crow. Kyle's passion for the film is palpable as he recounts its significance in his life, ranking it among his top 50 films and expressing dismay over the 2024 reboot. The episode dives into the heart of the film, exploring Brandon Lee's impactful performance and the tragic circumstances surrounding his death, which adds a layer of poignancy to the viewing experience. Each co-host shares their unique perspectives on the film, with Drew and Seth bringing humor and insight into the narrative's themes of loss and revenge.

As the conversation progresses, the trio analyzes the memorable supporting characters, highlighting the performances of actors like Michael Wincott and David Patrick Kelly. They discuss how these characters contribute to the film's overall atmosphere, each embodying distinct traits that make them unforgettable. The hosts also delve into the film's soundtrack, emphasizing how it enhances key moments and adds emotional depth to the storytelling. The discussion flows seamlessly between analysis and personal anecdotes, creating an engaging dynamic that keeps listeners entertained.

The episode culminates in a thoughtful examination of revenge as a central theme in The Crow, with the hosts debating the moral implications of Eric Draven's journey. They explore how the film's portrayal of an anti-hero resonates with audiences, allowing for a complex discussion about the nature of justice and vengeance in cinema. Kyle, Drew, and Seth wrap up the episode by reflecting on the impact of The Crow on the genre, expressing their hopes for the upcoming reboot while celebrating the original's legacy. This lively and insightful discussion is a treat for fans of The Crow and anyone interested in the deeper themes of film.

Takeaways:

• Kyle expresses his excitement about discussing 'The Crow', a film that ranks in his top 50, and shares his dismay over the upcoming 2024 reboot.
• The podcast emphasizes how the unique villains in 'The Crow' contribute significantly to the film's overall impact and storytelling.
• Drew highlights how the film's flashbacks serve as effective exposition, enhancing the viewer's understanding without overwhelming the narrative.
• Seth discusses the importance of the film's setting, noting how it acts as a character itself, filled with grit and atmosphere.
• The panel agrees on the effectiveness of the film's soundtrack, linking emotion and scene to create a lasting impression.
• Listeners are reminded of Brandon Lee's tragic death and its impact on the film's legacy, making 'The Crow' a poignant viewing experience.

Our Mad Max series continues! Hosts Kyle and Matthew explore the profound impact of Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior on the action genre. Delving into its groundbreaking stunts, Western film influences, and director George Miller's rise to prominence, the hosts celebrate the movie's transformation into a potential cinematic masterpiece. Tune in to discover why The Road Warrior is more than just an action film, but a revolutionary classic that continues to influence the genre. But how will it fair on the War Score?

Stay tuned as we see this series through to the end. We've got Beyond Thunderdome, Fury Road, and Furiosa in the pipe! Make sure you share with the Mad Max fan in your life.

In this episode from the Patreon archives, Kyle interviews the legendary Mic Rodgers, a celebrated stunt coordinator, director, and long-time stunt double for Mel Gibson. With over 40 years in the industry, Rodgers has revolutionized the world of action cinema. They delve into his groundbreaking invention, the Mic-Rig, which has become a game-changer for high-octane films like the 'Fast & Furious' series, transforming how car stunts are filmed and experienced on screen.

Rodgers has left his mark on a plethora of iconic films, including his work as Mel Gibson's double in classics like 'Lethal Weapon,' 'Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome,' and the Academy Award-winning 'Braveheart.' Beyond his work with Gibson, he has contributed to the success of action-packed blockbusters such as 'Twister,' 'Hacksaw Ridge,' 'John Wick,' 'The Expendables,' and 'Avatar.'

Notably, Rodgers' innovation with the Mic-Rig earned him a Technical Grammy Award, recognizing his groundbreaking contribution to the field of film production technology. His invention has set new standards in the industry, enabling filmmakers to capture more dynamic and immersive action sequences.

Tune in as Mic shares behind-the-scenes stories, his approach to stunt coordination, and the technical innovations that have set new benchmarks in filmmaking.