In this episode of the Never Seen It podcast, the hosts delve into the 2012 film Chronicle, exploring its unique take on the superhero genre through a found footage lens. They discuss character development, the impact of power on individuals, and the film's unexpected success. The conversation also touches on the director Josh Trank's journey and the mysterious alien object that grants the characters their powers, drawing parallels to classic superhero tropes and the evolution of cinematic storytelling. In this conversation, the hosts delve into the film 'Chronicle,' exploring its themes of teenage power, identity, and the unique found footage style. They discuss the mysterious alien crystal that grants powers, the grounded connections between characters, and the evolution of superhero storytelling. The conversation also touches on the concept of superhero fatigue, character development, and the film's impact on the genre. Through their reflections, the hosts highlight the film's flaws while appreciating its originality and relevance in today's cinematic landscape.

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Takeaways

• Chronicle offers a unique take on the superhero genre.
• The film's found footage style enhances its realism.
• Character arcs are central to the film's narrative.
• Andrew's transformation reflects the consequences of power.
• The film was ahead of its time in its themes.
• Josh Trank's direction showcased potential but faced challenges later.
• The alien object serves as a catalyst for character development.
• The film's success was unexpected given its budget.
• Michael B. Jordan's performance was a standout.
• The film's ending parallels classic superhero tropes. The alien crystal's origin is left to the viewer's imagination.
• The film's grounded approach to powers enhances the connection between characters.
• Modern superhero movies often skip detailed origin stories.
• Superhero fatigue may stem from poor storytelling rather than the genre itself.
• Chronicle explores the consequences of teenage power and responsibility.
• The found footage style can work in genres beyond horror.
• Character flaws are relatable and reflect real teenage experiences.
• The film's reception highlights its impact and originality in a saturated market.
• The importance of character development in storytelling is emphasized.
• The film serves as a cautionary tale about identity and authenticity.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Chronicle and the Podcast

00:05NEWCHAPTER

01:22Choosing Chronicle: A Unique Superhero Perspective

03:50Chronicle's Timeliness and Cultural Impact

05:06Initial Impressions and Reactions to Chronicle

08:05Character Development and Themes of Power

11:27Josh Trank's Direction and Career Trajectory

15:03Box Office Success and Industry Context

16:37The Possibility of a Sequel and Creative Control

20:48Max Landis and Hollywood Dynamics

23:32The Legacy of Chronicle and Its Director

26:26Character Dynamics and Philosophical Undertones

29:26Found Footage Technique: Pros and Cons

34:37Teenage Tropes and Storytelling

35:46The Mysterious Alien Object and Its Implications

39:08Superhero Mythology and Modern Storytelling

43:43Final Thoughts and Movie Reception

51:19Movie Review and Character Development

53:19Final Thoughts and Ratings

55:02Themes of Identity and Authenticity

58:29The Impact of Cringe Culture

01:02:42Lessons from Teenage Experiences

01:05:04Parental Guidance and Self-Worth

01:06:01The Role of Powers in Teen Life

01:11:13Marketing and Legacy of Found Footage Films

This week on Never Seen It, we’re taking a hyperspace trip back to 1997 with Luc Besson’s The Fifth Element. Joined once again by Amber Wyatt (aka that Denver girl of Millennial Matrix Media), the crew breaks down one of the most eccentric, stylish, and endlessly debated sci-fi films of the 90s.

We cover everything from:

Leeloo’s look: why Milla Jovovich’s orange-haired, bandage-suited heroine remains an icon of sci-fi fashion.

Comedy done right: how the film’s visual humor and surreal tone outclass modern superhero quip-fests.

Futuristic promises we never got: where are our flying cars, pneumatic tubes, and Jetsons-style upgrades?

Casting surprises: from Bruce Willis and Gary Oldman to Chris Tucker’s unforgettable Ruby Rhod—and even a cameo connection to Björk’s ex, Tricky.

Behind-the-scenes magic: miniature cityscapes, Jean-Paul Gaultier’s legendary costumes, and the made-up language Jovovich helped create.

Villain talk: why Zorg never actually meets Korben Dallas, and what that says about evil as an abstract, political force.

Themes of love and power: Leeloo’s role as more than a love interest, Zorg’s greed as a metaphor for corporate corruption, and the parallels to other “stone-seeking” villains like Thanos and Doctor Doom.

Of course, we veer off into personal stories (Comic-Con antics, wild Coachella parties, and kettle-corn-induced sugar crashes) because that’s what we do. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a first-time watcher, this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and a reminder of why The Fifth Element remains unlike anything else.

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We are back with returning guest Amber al,ong with Alex, Arnold, and Justin to take on Kevin Costner’s massive western project, Horizon: An American Saga Chapter 1. The pick was Amber’s. She wanted a western ,and the reactions are… well, let’s just say no one is exactly riding off into the sunset with this one.

Justin kicks things off by appreciating some of the gorgeous landscape shots that bring the Old West to life, but he quickly admits some sequences felt oddly cheap. Adrian has gripes of his own, pointing out how the score feels like a knock-off Hans Zimmer soundtrack and how the costumes look suspiciously like they were pulled straight off the racks at a western-themed Anthropology store. Amber, meanwhile, didn’t mince words: the movie felt like a slog to her, dragging out scenes without much payoff.

Even Alex, who usually digs deep into the thematic and artistic elements of movies, admits he just couldn’t muster much interest in the story. That says a lot. Arnold, on the other hand, pulls out his signature “z-rating” or snooze-o-meter review, and surprisingly, he stayed awake more than expected.

The crew also dives into the off-screen controversies surrounding Horizon. Adrian brings up reports of a lawsuit involving Kevin Costner’s alleged predatory behavior toward a male cast member, plus the shocking fact that the production skipped hiring an intimacy coordinator, something that has become standard in modern filmmaking.

And then there’s the elephant in the room: the length. At just over three hours, Justin jokes that the whole thing feels like one really long first act. The entire table is stunned to learn that Costner not only intends this to be the first of four parts but that the sequel might not even make it to release given the film’s disastrous box office performance.

Is Horizon: An American Saga Chapter 1 a misunderstood epic or a misguided vanity project? You’ll have to listen to find out where the gang ultimately lands. Saddle up for this episode, because even if the film was a slog, the conversation sure isn’t.

San Diego Comic-Con 2025 is officially in the history books — and the Never Seen It crew has lived to tell the tale. Four jam-packed days of fandom, spectacle, corporate hype, indie gems, and more than a few unexpected curveballs left us with stories you won’t find in the press releases. This year’s con was a whirlwind of excitement, chaos, and a little bit of sweat (okay… maybe more than a little), and we’re here to break down every chaotic, bizarre, jaw-dropping, and occasionally smelly moment from the show floor.

In this deep-dive postmortem episode, we go far beyond the surface-level coverage. We take you inside the convention center and beyond, from the first badge scan to the final, exhausted shuffle out the doors — dragging swag bags, sore feet, and overloaded brains along the way. We’re covering:

Our boots-on-the-ground perspective from packed panels, buzzing parties, and immersive pop-up experiences that ranged from jaw-dropping to head-scratching.

The biggest reveals and surprise announcements, including the ones that genuinely blew our minds… and the ones that left us wondering, “That’s it?”

Exclusive merch madness — the drops that had fans camping out at ungodly hours, the ridiculous price tags, and the rare treasures worth the wait.

Cosplay highs and lows — from screen-accurate perfection that deserved its own Hall H slot to the endearingly questionable “bless their heart” attempts.

Celebrity encounters, both magical and awkward, plus the art of surviving the human traffic jams of the autograph lines and photo ops.

How SDCC 2025 stacks up to past years, from the overall hype to crowd control, accessibility, and whether the con is still living up to its legendary status.

Behind-the-scenes moments you won’t see in the official highlight reels — the small, strange, and hilarious interactions that make SDCC an experience like no other.

Whether you were in San Diego soaking in the madness, watching the livestreams from your couch, or simply living vicariously through memes and hashtags, this is the unfiltered, brutally honest, and occasionally ridiculous recap you didn’t know you needed. We’ll laugh at the absurdities, gripe about the gripes, and maybe even get a little sentimental about why Comic-Con continues to hold such a special place in the pop culture calendar.

So grab your lanyard, slip into your most comfortable walking shoes, pack a portable charger, and maybe keep a travel-sized deodorant handy — we’re taking you right back into the thick of SDCC 2025. Let’s relive the madness together.

In this episode of The Never Seen It Podcast, we sit down with Kyle Mabson — the wildly creative mind behind our theme song, “Don’t Think I Can Stay,” and part of the project Burn Cycle. Kyle talks about how he builds music that sounds like no one else’s, how he and Alex first crossed paths, and his hilariously strange Instagram page @selfies_food_and_pets, where pop culture gets twisted into something new (and usually unhinged).

We talk artistic process, meme aesthetics, internet chaos, and why Kyle’s approach to sound and humor stands out in a noisy world.

👉 Like what you hear? Don’t forget to like, follow, and drop us a comment!
And definitely check out Kyle’s work on Instagram: @selfies_food_and_pets

In this laid-back but surprisingly deep episode of the Never Seen It podcast, we roll into the world of The Big Lebowski — the 1998 cult hit from Joel and Ethan Coen. From ferrets in bathtubs to White Russians, toe conspiracies, and one hell of a rug, we explore what makes this stoner-detective-comedy so unforgettable.

For Arnold, it's a first watch, and that fresh perspective kicks off hilarious tangents about mistaken identities, the film's nihilist philosophy, and the true meaning behind bowling alleys, flying rugs, and rogue coffee cans full of ashes. Is The Big Lebowski a story about nothing, or a deceptively complex tale about character, chaos, and finding peace in absurdity?

We debate whether “The Dude” is a passive protagonist or a chill philosopher, examine Sam Elliott’s cowboy as a possible manifestation of the Dude’s subconscious, and dive into deep-cut fan theories about schizophrenia, symbolism, and Coen Brothers meta-commentary.

Of course, we also get personal: White Russians, late-night pie binges, VHS memories, and how John Goodman’s unforgettable Walter might be the Redditor we all secretly fear. With meme culture breakdowns, behind-the-scenes trivia, and shoutouts to Grand Theft Auto V, Ghost Story, American Pie, and even True Romance, this episode is an eclectic celebration of all things Lebowski.

Whether you're a diehard fan or new to the film, this episode will have you laughing, thinking, and probably craving a Sprouts apple pie or a drink from The Jesus. So pour yourself a White Russian, kick back, and press play — because the Dude abides, and so do we.

In this special edition of the Never Seen It podcast, the crew trades their usual movie deep dive for a free-form, fast-paced, laughter-filled convo on all things pop culture, Comic-Con, and nostalgia 🧃🧋🎬.

We kick things off with some cheeky boba banter 🥭 and quickly veer into a breakdown of the latest dino-disaster, Jurassic World: Rebirth 🦖🔥. Is it terrible? Kind of. But is it the best terrible one yet? Possibly. The guys roast the franchise's refusal to evolve and pitch their own wild reboot ideas—including a post-apocalyptic dinosaur society twist that sounds... suspiciously brilliant 🧬👀.

Then it's off to the heart of geekdom: San Diego Comic-Con 💥🌴. Longtime attendee Alex spills the beans on immersive “activations” (yes, that’s a thing), merch madness, three-hour waits for FX photo ops, and near-death by boba dehydration 😅🧢. We hear behind-the-scenes stories of Scott Pilgrim parties 🎸, elevator awkwardness with Aubrey Plaza & Michael Cera 🚪, and the good, bad, and cringe of celebrity encounters. Plus: thoughts on the return of indie creators and why Funko Pop might be going the way of the landfill 🗑️🧸.

Also discussed:
🎮 The fall of E3 and rise of indie game devs
🎥 James Gunn’s Superman and why we desperately need fun superhero movies again
🎭 Media literacy, hot takes, and the gang’s beef with military propaganda
💬 Fact-check corner, where we confront our sins (looking at you, Saving Private Ryan)

This episode is one part Comic-Con hype, one part Hollywood cynicism, and one part friendship-powered podcast chaos 🎤👾💚. If you’ve ever waited in line for a con exclusive or had a parasocial crisis about pop culture, this one’s for you.

🎧 About This Episode:
This week on The Never Seen It Podcast, we're diving into the bold, brutally honest world of The Substance — joined by our special guest Kyle Mabson (aka @selfies_food_and_pets), the brilliant mind behind our theme music, “Don’t Think I Can Stay.”

We go deep into the film’s commentary on bodily autonomy, the relentless pressure on women to stay young, and how Hollywood tosses aside aging actresses like they’re past their expiration date. The Substance doesn’t hold back — and neither do we.

We also spotlight the film’s powerhouse director, Coralie Fargeat, and talk about why she’s absolutely one to watch. This is feminist horror with bite — stylish, savage, and seriously unforgettable.

🎧 Hit play and stick around for Kyle’s thoughts on the movie, the music, and all the weird in-between.

👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and follow — it helps keep the pod alive and weird, just how we like it.

Let me know if you'd like a shortened version for Spotify or Apple Podcasts listings!

This week on The Never Seen It Podcast, we’re talking Pan’s Labyrinth — Guillermo del Toro’s haunting 2006 masterpiece where fairytales collide with fascism.

Set in 1944 Spain, the story follows young Ofelia, sent to live with her ruthless stepfather, Captain Vidal — a man so terrifying, he makes the actual monsters look kind. At night, Ofelia meets a fairy and an ancient faun who tells her she’s a lost princess — if she can survive three brutal, otherworldly tasks.

We break down Del Toro’s unmatched ability to build these grim, mythic worlds, his cooler, grown-up-Tim-Burton energy, and why this story still hits so hard. We also dig into some incredible behind-the-scenes trivia:

📓 Del Toro lost his notebook of years worth of sketches and ideas for the film in the back of a cab — and was miraculously reunited with it.
📽️ He gave up his entire salary to make sure the film got made the way he envisioned.
🧛‍♂️ Stephen King squirmed next to him during the Pale Man scene, and Del Toro said it felt like winning an Oscar.
📝 Oh, and Del Toro personally wrote the English subtitles — he doesn’t trust anyone else with his words anymore.

🎧 Hit play to hear why Pan’s Labyrinth is still one of the most powerful dark fantasy films ever made — and how sometimes the scariest monsters are the ones that wear a uniform.

👉 Don’t forget to like, follow, and share the podcast — it really helps us out and keeps the stories flowing!

#PansLabyrinth #GuillermoDelToro #NeverSeenItPodcast #DarkFantasy #SpanishCinema #MoviePodcast #TimBurtonVibes #FilmDiscussion #CultCinema #FairyTaleForAdults #CreepyMovies #FantasyFilm #Ofelia #CaptainVidal #ThePaleMan #SupportIndiePods #CinemaLovers

This week on The Never Seen It Podcast, we enter the shadowy, hypnotic labyrinth that is David Lynch’s Inland Empire — and honestly, we’re still trying to find our way out.

In true Lynch fashion, this one’s a full-on fever dream: fragmented timelines, identity blurring, eerie rabbits, haunted Hollywood lots, and more emotional dread than you can shake a handheld digital camcorder at. We unpack the film’s lo-fi, almost ghostly aesthetic and how it heightens the surreal, nightmarish mood of the story.

We dive into the heavy themes of abuse, domestic violence, and trauma that bubble beneath the surface. Though even that feels like an understatement, because some parts are so abstract and experimental, they’re almost beyond analysis. Even the cast didn’t fully know what they were filming at times... and that somehow makes it even more Lynchian.

Oh, and we couldn’t talk about Inland Empire without mentioning David Lynch standing in downtown Hollywood with a cow and a sign campaigning for Laura Dern’s Oscar nom. Iconic.

🎧 Give it a listen, and let us know what you think this movie is about (we’re genuinely curious).

👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and follow the show — it really helps us out and keeps the weird conversations flowing.