Hosts: J.R. and Stacie

Welcome to another exciting episode of Sparrows UnderReview! This summer, we’re diving into the hot releases and upcoming blockbuster hits. From superhero crossovers to adaptations of bestselling novels, there’s a lot to unpack. Buckle up as we explore the latest in movie magic!

**1. Deadpool vs. Wolverine:

• Overview: We discuss the highly anticipated crossover of Deadpool and Wolverine, marking Marvel’s first rated-R film in the MCU.
• J.R.’s Take: Excitement around Deadpool’s unique style and its potential to reignite interest in superhero movies.
• Stacie’s Insight: The buzz about potential cameos (like Taylor Swift) and how Deadpool’s popularity compares to other characters like Spider-Man.

**2. It Ends With Us:

• Overview: A deep dive into the adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel. Stacie shares her thoughts on the book and the upcoming movie.
• Discussion Points:
• Colleen Hoover’s impact and comparisons to authors like Danielle Steel.
• The book’s emotional depth and how it might translate to the screen.
• Stacie’s personal journey with the book and its adaptation.

**3. Alien: Romulus:

• Overview: A look at the new addition to the Alien franchise, aimed at bringing a fresh perspective while keeping the essence of the series.
• J.R.’s Thoughts: The movie’s attempt to cater to both new and long-time fans and how it compares to past reboots.

**4. Beetlejuice 2:

• Overview: Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder return for the sequel to the cult classic. We discuss what makes Beetlejuice a nostalgic favorite.
• Stacie’s Take: The movie’s appeal and the role of nostalgia in attracting viewers.

**5. Venom 3:

• Overview: Excitement around the third installment of Venom and the potential for Spider-Man to make an appearance.
• J.R.’s Thoughts: How the Venom movies have stood out and what fans can expect from the next chapter.

**6. Other Notable Mentions:

• Upcoming Releases: A brief look at other films to keep an eye out for, including new Disney releases and other sequels.
• Stacie’s Recommendations: Highlighting films and TV shows to watch if you’re a fan of the genres discussed.

• Website: Sparrows UnderReview
• Social Media: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram
• Email: [email protected]

Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review! We appreciate your support and can’t wait to hear your thoughts on this summer’s big releases.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Intro

• Stacey: Hey everyone, welcome to Sparrows UnderReview! I’m Stacey.
• JR (Mr. Nostalgia): And I’m JR. Today, we’re diving into the much-anticipated sequel to the 1996 classic, Twister.

Nostalgia for Twister

• JR: Let’s take a trip down memory lane. Twister was a phenomenon when it came out. With a budget of around $88-92 million and grossing nearly $500 million worldwide, it was a blockbuster hit. The film featured unforgettable performances by Bill Paxton and Helen Hunt, and let’s not forget Philip Seymour Hoffman.

Twisters – The Sequel

• JR: Fast forward to now, Twisters has hit theaters with a significantly higher budget of $155-200 million. It’s already made $43.2 million as of its US release on July 19th. That’s a promising start!

Production and Legacy

• JR: The script for Twisters was in development for over 20 years, and it’s finally made its way to the big screen. It’s great to see it not just as a remake, but as an entirely new movie with its own story arc. The visuals are stunning, and the CGI is top-notch. The film captures the essence of the original while introducing fresh elements.

Character Highlights

• JR: Daisy Edgar-Jones plays Kate, a role reminiscent of Helen Hunt’s character from the original. No appearances from the original cast, but the new cast has stepped up. Glen Powell’s character, Tyler, adds depth to the film with his complex role. The movie has suspense, humor, and memorable moments.

Critique and Appreciation

• JR: As a movie buff, I’d say Twisters is one of the best films of 2024 so far. The suspense is gripping, and the plot twists keep you on the edge of your seat. While there are minor critiques, such as the development of the villains, the overall experience is a win. It’s a solid film that could be a classic of the 2020s.

Technical Aspects

• JR: The technical aspects are impressive. The tornado scenes are created using real footage and high-quality effects, referencing actual tornadoes for realism.

Final Thoughts

• JR: So, if you haven’t seen Twisters yet, make sure you catch it in theaters. It’s a great film for all ages and worth the trip. Support your local theaters, and when it hits digital, grab a 4K copy for the ultimate experience.

Wrap-Up

• Stacey: Absolutely! Don’t forget to check out our Instagram, TikTok, and drop us a message at [email protected]. Like, follow, and share if you enjoyed the episode!
• JR: That’s it for today’s episode. I’m JR.
• Stacey: And I’m Stacey. Thanks for tuning in!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosts: J.R. and Stacey

Episode Summary: In this lively episode of the Sparrows UnderReview Podcast, J.R. and Stacey dive into the latest installment of the beloved Despicable Me franchise. From discussing the franchise’s legacy to sharing their personal cinema experiences, they leave no stone unturned. Join them as they analyze Despicable Me 4, its character development, plot, and 3D experience, while also sharing their thoughts on movie theater etiquette and local recommendations.

Key Topics:

• Franchise Longevity: J.R. and Stacey discuss the success of the Despicable Me series and how it has maintained its charm over the years.
• Despicable Me 4 Review: Detailed analysis of the movie, including character development, plot points, and favorite moments.
• Cinema Experience: A review of the Athena Grand in Athens, Ohio, highlighting its affordability and features.
• 3D Experience: Thoughts on the effectiveness of the 3D elements in Despicable Me 4.
• Theater Etiquette: A humorous yet poignant rant about the frustrations of movie theater seating choices.
• Local Recommendations: Shout-outs to local eateries and stores in Athens, Ohio, including Texas Roadhouse and Dunham's.

Discussion Highlights:

• Despicable Me Series: The hosts reflect on the series' vibrant music by Pharrell Williams and its impact on the franchise.
• Fresh Take: J.R. appreciates how Despicable Me 4 introduces new elements without recycling old content.
• Character Evolution: The duo discusses Gru's transformation and the introduction of new characters.
• Nostalgic References: The importance of 80s music and adult humor in making the movie enjoyable for all ages.
• Movie Theater Rant: Stacey’s amusing and relatable rant about inconsiderate moviegoers.
• Future Viewing: Plans to revisit the earlier Despicable Me movies and explore the Minions spin-off for a comprehensive understanding.

Connect with Us:

• Instagram: @sparrowsunderreview
• Email: [email protected]

Listener Engagement:

• Have thoughts on Despicable Me 4? Share them with us on Instagram or via email!
• Have a movie, book, TV series, or restaurant you think we should review? Let us know!

Shout-Outs:

• Athena Grand: Affordable movie-going experience in Athens, Ohio.
• Texas Roadhouse: Great food and excellent service.
• Dunham's: For great deals on sports and outdoor equipment.
• Special shout-out to baby Asher and his dad Mason.

Don't Miss:

• Our next episode, where we'll explore another exciting review!
• Follow us on Instagram and join the conversation.

Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Listen on Google Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

3.5

Episode Title: If - Movie Review

Introduction

• JR and Stacey dive into their latest movie review on If, directed by John Krasinski.
• They discuss their unique approach to reviewing movies and the variability in movie releases during the summer.

Movie Review: If

• JR shares his initial impressions of the movie, noting its unique storyline and emotional depth.
• Stacey offers a contrasting view, mentioning the movie's potential appeal for different audiences.

Discussion Highlights

• The hosts reflect on their multiple viewings of If, highlighting its ability to capture different emotions and the viewer's need to fill in narrative gaps.
• They discuss the movie's ability to resonate with those who have experienced loss, emphasizing its heartwarming aspects despite some repetitive elements.

Personal Insights and Opinions

• JR candidly shares why the movie didn't fully engage him, citing personal preferences and early predictions about the storyline.
• Stacey elaborates on the movie's strengths, particularly its ability to serve as a comforting family watch.

Conclusion

• The hosts wrap up their discussion, reaffirming their commitment to honest reviews that respect diverse viewer perspectives.
• They announce that this episode will be split into two parts due to the depth of their discussion and the desire to avoid spoilers.

Outro

• JR and Stacey sign off with their signature sign-off, inviting listeners to join them next time for part two of their Ifmovie review.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosts: J.R. and Stacey

Release Date: July 13, 2024

Episode Summary: Join us for a special birthday episode of the Sparrows UnderReview Podcast! This week, Stacey and J.R. reflect on J.R.'s 39th birthday and their recent trip to Virginia. From heartfelt family reunions to nostalgic stories, this episode is filled with laughter, memories, and future plans. Plus, get a sneak peek into our experience at the Empowered Podcasting Conference in Charlotte, NC.

Key Topics:

• Birthday Reflections: J.R. shares his thoughts on turning 39 and the fun (and funny) moments that come with it.
• Virginia Adventure: Recapping our trip to Virginia, meeting family, and revisiting old memories.
• Family Stories: Nostalgic tales from J.R.'s past, including his interactions with Aunt Florence and her giant dog.
• Tech Talk: Helping J.R.'s mom transition from an iPhone 7 to an iPhone 14.
• Gaming Chat: J.R.'s retirement from certain video games and his continued love for Street Fighter.
• Podcasting Tips: Advice for podcasters and a shout-out to our lavalier mics – join our Facebook group to learn more!
• Wrestling Updates: Our thoughts on WWE’s Money in the Bank event and John Cena’s upcoming retirement.
• Future Plans: Exciting announcements, including a possible appearance at Evo and more about our podcasting journey.
• Empowered Podcasting Conference: Insights and highlights from the conference in Charlotte, NC.

Connect with Us:

• Instagram: @sparrowsunderreview
• Facebook Group: Networking for Podcasters
• Email: [email protected]

Shout-Outs:

• Thanks to everyone for the birthday wishes!
• Special mention to the family and friends we visited in Virginia.
• Shout-out to WWE and John Cena fans – stay tuned for more wrestling content!

Listener Engagement:

• Have any thoughts or stories to share? Send us a message on Instagram or email us at [email protected].
• Interested in our lavalier mics? Join our Facebook group and check out our Amazon affiliate link.
• Love video games or wrestling? Share your favorite moments or predictions with us!

Don't Miss:

• Our next episode where we dive into a review of the Wood Grill Buffet in Virginia.
• More birthday celebrations and behind-the-scenes stories from our adventures!

Subscribe & Review:

• If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us grow and reach more listeners.

Tune in now and celebrate with us! 🎉

Listen on Spotify | Listen on Apple Podcasts | Listen on Google Podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Summary: In this episode of Sparrows Underreview, JR and Stacey tackle two topics: the movie "The Strangers: Chapter 1" and their latest visit to Long John Silver's. They delve into their expectations versus reality for the third film in The Strangers series, discussing plot holes, character development, and overall execution. Plus, they share their honest opinions on their recent fast food experience.

Key Discussion Points:

• Introduction:
• JR and Stacey discuss their busy summer schedules and how it affects their movie-watching habits.
• Commentary on the hot weather and why they decided to stay indoors this week.
• Movie Review - "The Strangers: Chapter 1":
• Background on the movie's release date and its quick transition to digital release.
• Overview of "The Strangers: Chapter 1" as the third film in the series.
• JR's and Stacey's thoughts on the lack of character development and background story.
• Analysis of the movie's beginning, pacing, and the overall execution of suspense.
• Discussion on how the movie's ending sets up potential sequels and their hopes for future installments.
• JR compares the movie to the "Jeepers Creepers" series in terms of potential for improvement.
• Spoiler Alert Segment:
• JR and Stacey provide a detailed breakdown of the movie's plot and critical moments.
• Discussion on the logical inconsistencies in the movie, such as the use of old technology and character decisions.
• Personal Ratings and Final Thoughts:
• JR and Stacey give their final ratings and discuss whether they would watch the sequels.
• Reflection on the movie's box office performance and runtime.
• Concluding thoughts on "The Strangers: Chapter 1" and its place in their movie collection.
• Food Review - Long John Silver's:
• Nostalgic discussion on their past experiences with Long John Silver's and the decline in quality.
• Detailed recount of their recent visit, including issues with overcooked food and missing "crunchies."
• Comparison of Long John Silver's to Captain D's and other fast food seafood options.
• Final verdict on whether they'll return to Long John Silver's in the future.

Quotes from the Episode:

• "The movie had zero character development. I need to know what's going on." - JR
• "I expected to learn more about the history, like why are they the way that they are?" - Stacey
• "I love KFC's coleslaw. Sometimes you have to mix and match to get the best meal." - JR

Call to Action:

• Watch "The Strangers: Chapter 1": For a full experience, watch the movie before tuning into our review to avoid spoilers and engage with our discussion.
• Share Your Thoughts: Let us know your opinions on the movie and your experiences with Long John Silver's on our social media platforms.

Follow Us:

• Instagram: @sparrows_underreview
• Twitter: @sparrows_review
• Facebook: Sparrows Underreview
• Email: [email protected]

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Sparrows UnderReview! In this episode, J.R. and Stacey take a deep dive into the world of The Sims, sharing their personal experiences and insights into the popular simulation game. From its humble beginnings with SimCity to the evolution of The Sims franchise, they discuss the game's impact on their lives and gaming preferences.

J.R. fondly recalls his introduction to SimCity and The Sims, highlighting the game's versatility across different platforms and its enduring appeal over the years. Stacey reflects on her childhood memories of playing The Sims on an old PC and how she rediscovered her love for the game with The Sims 4.

The duo explores the challenges of playing The Sims on various devices, from touchscreen computers to gaming consoles, and the importance of finding the right setup for optimal gameplay. They discuss the benefits of custom content and downloadable expansions, as well as the affordability of purchasing discounted packs.

Throughout the conversation, J.R. and Stacey emphasize the game's accessibility to players of all ages and skill levels, noting its wide-ranging appeal and endless creative possibilities. They encourage listeners to explore The Sims universe and discover the joy of building, decorating, and storytelling in this beloved simulation game.

Key Points:

• Introduction to SimCity and The Sims franchise
• Personal experiences with The Sims on different platforms
• Challenges and benefits of playing on touchscreen computers, gaming consoles, and PCs
• Importance of custom content and downloadable expansions
• Affordability and accessibility of The Sims universe
• Endless creative possibilities and storytelling opportunities
• Encouragement for listeners to explore and enjoy The Sims

Conclusion: Join J.R. and Stacey on their journey through The Sims universe as they share their love for the game and invite listeners to experience the magic of simulation gaming. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to The

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this outdoor episode of Sparrows UnderReview, J.R. and Stacy share their thoughts on the movie "Challengers." While enjoying the ambiance of nature, they dive into a discussion about the intricacies of the film, exploring its plot twists, character dynamics, and overall impact.

The movie revolves around the complex relationship between two former tennis player partners, whose lives become intertwined with a woman named India. J.R. and Stacy discuss the challenges of navigating the film's non-linear narrative and the importance of paying close attention to unravel its layers.

While both hosts appreciate certain aspects of the movie, such as its humor and suspenseful moments, they also express reservations about certain plot elements and the overall execution. Despite their mixed feelings, they acknowledge the film's unique storytelling approach and its ability to evoke different reactions from viewers.

Throughout the episode, J.R. and Stacy offer insights into the movie's themes, character motivations, and unanswered questions. They ponder the significance of the ending and speculate about potential sequel possibilities.

Key Points:

• Discussion of the movie "Challengers" and its non-linear narrative
• Exploration of the film's themes, character dynamics, and plot twists
• Appreciation for the movie's humor, suspense, and unique storytelling
• Mixed feelings about certain plot elements and overall execution
• Speculation about the significance of the ending and potential sequel possibilities

Conclusion: Join J.R. and Stacy in this outdoor edition of Sparrows UnderReview as they share their candid thoughts on the movie "Challengers." Whether you've seen the film or are curious about its storyline, this episode offers valuable

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosts:

• J.R.
• Stacy

Episode Summary: In this episode, J.R. and Stacy dive into the fascinating yet sometimes frustrating experience of watching "Godzilla Minus One" on Netflix. With J.R. reluctant to spend on a streaming service and Stacy grappling with the nuances of dubbed versus original versions, this episode explores the pros and cons of watching a Japanese Godzilla movie in an Americanized format.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Introduction:

• J.R.'s hesitation to spend money on Netflix for just one movie.
• The choice of "Godzilla Minus One" and its unique appeal.

1. Dubbed vs. Subtitled:

• The differences in watching a Japanese movie dubbed in English.
• Stacy's take on how the Americanized voices impacted her connection to the film.
• The potential benefits of subtitles for a more authentic experience.

1. The Godzilla Universe:

• Clarification on the different Godzilla series: MonsterVerse vs. traditional Japanese Godzilla.
• The unique elements of "Godzilla Minus One" compared to Americanized versions.

1. Viewing Experience:

• The challenges of watching a two-hour movie with limited attention spans.
• The pacing of the film and how the action scenes compared to the dialogue-heavy parts.

1. Visual Arts and Special Effects:

• The impressive visual arts that earned the film an Academy Award.
• How the visual portrayal of Godzilla differed from other versions and added to the film's realism.

1. Lack of Backstory:

• The missing elements in the film's plot, particularly the backstory of Godzilla's motives.
• Speculations and thoughts on why Godzilla attacked Tokyo.

Conclusion:

• Final thoughts on "Godzilla Minus One."
• Acknowledging the film's strengths and weaknesses.
• Personal reflections on the viewing experience and preferences for future films.

Call to Action:

• Share your thoughts on "Godzilla Minus One" with us! Did you watch the dubbed or subtitled version? How did it impact your experience?
• Follow us on social media for more updates and discussions.
• Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast for more movie reviews and fun discussions!
• 
  

Support Us:

• If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving us a review on your favorite podcast platform.
• Check out our Patreon page for exclusive content and early access to episodes.

Thank you for tuning in! Join us next time for another exciting episode where we explore the world of movies, TV shows, and more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Sparrows UnderReview Podcast, JR and Stacy dive into their nostalgic and adventurous experiences with Chinese food, spanning from Lynchburg, Virginia to various spots in West Virginia. They explore the significance of word-of-mouth recommendations, the unique charm of local Chinese restaurants, and their personal favorite dishes. Join them as they recount stories of their favorite Chinese eateries, from drive-thru gems to bustling buffets.

1. The Magic of Word-of-Mouth Recommendations:

• The importance of local recommendations for finding the best Chinese food.
• Why JR trusts personal endorsements over online reviews.

1. Favorite Chinese Restaurants:

• Shanghai Express, Lynchburg, VA:
• The nostalgic drive-thru experience.
• Favorite dishes: Sesame Chicken (AR 20), fried rice, and egg rolls.
• Stir Fry 88, Parkersburg, WV:
• The joys of mall Chinese food.
• Perfect for leftovers: Bourbon Chicken, Beef and Broccoli.
• Main Kwong, Charleston, WV:
• The evolution of JR’s go-to Chinese spot in Charleston.
• China One, Charleston, WV:
• Affordable lunch specials and friendly service.
• Recommended dishes: Sweet and Sour Chicken, Mixed Vegetables, and extra brown sauce.

1. Chinese Buffets:

• The ups and downs of buffet experiences.
• The significance of busy versus slow buffet times.
• Kanawha City Buffet, Charleston, WV:
• The ultimate buffet experience with a variety of Chinese and American dishes.

1. Memorable Moments:

• Childhood memories with JR's father at Shanghai Express.
• Funny anecdotes and specific details about different dining experiences.
• The importance of customer service and feeling valued at local Chinese restaurants.

• "You cannot give me a review of Chinese food because I'm not going to believe you. I got to go there and see what it's like."
• "Leave my freaking Chinese restaurants alone. It don't matter what the health code is, as long as the food tastes good."

• Share Your Chinese Food Stories: We want to hear from you! What are your favorite Chinese restaurants and dishes? Do you have any memorable experiences with Chinese food?
• Visit the Featured Restaurants: If you're in Lynchburg or Charleston, check out our recommended spots and let them know WV Uncommonplace sent you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.