This Seats Taken

Send us Fan Mail

Brandon Cole joins us once again to tackle the audacious turn taken by "Joker 2," now a musical. With Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga leading this bold sequel, we break down the film's polarizing reception and the seismic shift in its storytelling approach. Can you imagine the Joker's world expressed through song and dance? We question how this creative gamble impacts the film's emotional gravity and narrative coherence while reflecting on the strengths and weaknesses that define it.

As entertainment news takes a backseat this week, we celebrate a quieter milestone—"Saturday Night Live" turning 50. Reminiscing about iconic moments from past seasons, we spotlight Chris Rock and Andy Samberg's unforgettable performances. Meanwhile, Disney stirs excitement with whispers of "Princess Diaries 3" and even "The Princess Bride 2." Does Hollywood's nostalgia binge signify a creative drought? We dive into this trend, pondering its implications for the industry's future.

Netflix's bold foray into live events, including acquiring WWE Monday Night Raw, signifies a strategic shift in content delivery. Amidst this landscape, we critique Renee Zellweger and Rachel Zegler's recent roles, dissecting the creative hurdles of upcoming films. With discussions on live-action adaptations like a potential "Bambi" movie, we weigh in on the ongoing reimagining of beloved tales. Join us for a candid conversation that captures the heartbeat of today's entertainment scene, filled with critical insights and engaging perspectives.

https://msha.ke/thisseatstaken

Send us Fan Mail

Ever felt like you're drowning in a sea of movies and shows? We sure have! Join us as we navigate the chaos of September releases, from theatrical hits to streaming sensations. Kyle and I vent our frustrations about Netflix's household restrictions and explain why movies have taken precedence over TV shows for us. Plus, we have exciting news: Kyle Clifford is back and ready to shake things up as the new co-host of "After Credits" with Spencer Cook. We take a play from their playbook and bring it to This Seats Taken. We have a movie draft of best movies that take place within 24 hours. 

Curious about the most talked-about movie endings lately? We spill the tea on "The Substance," dissecting its jarring transition from a promising start to a horror-filled conclusion. You'll also laugh out loud at our recount of an elderly couple's shocking reaction to a graphic scene in the theater. Looking ahead, we're buzzing about the new Apple TV film "Wolves" and have high hopes for Amazon Prime's "RoboCop" reboot as a TV series.

But that's not all! We dive into the latest Hollywood buzz, from the anticipation surrounding "The Last of Us" Season 2 and the "John Wick" spin-off "Ballerina," to the potential live-action debut of Cal Kestis in the "Star Wars" universe. We also discuss Netflix's collaboration with 50 Cent for a documentary on P Diddy's downfall and rave about our favorite single-day movies. Don't miss our thoughts on the comedic genius of Brad Pitt and George Clooney in "Wolves," and our excitement for upcoming blockbusters like "Joker: Folie à Deux" and "Gladiator 2." Tune in for a jam-packed episode filled with humor, insights, and plenty of movie magic!

Send us Fan Mail

Anthony Miranda returns! Ever wondered what it’s like to experience "Coraline" on the big screen again for its anniversary? Anthony dives into his cinematic adventures, sharing his fresh takes on the new Deadpool and Wolverine movie, the latest Alien installment, and even the upcoming Alien series on Hulu. We also weigh in on the brutal yet mesmerizing stunt choreography in "Alien vs. Predator" and muse on the potential of crossover universes like Predator and Alien, following in the footsteps of hits like "Prey."

Our theater escapades didn’t end there. We also celebrated Coraline's anniversary with a revisit and got hyped over the new Transformers animated flick. Comparisons with landmark movies like the first Avengers from 2012 made for a lively discussion. We caught up on Hollywood updates, including the buzz around Bong Joon-ho’s "Mickey 17" starring Robert Pattinson, and the latest production news on "Batman 2" and "The Penguin" series. Robert Pattinson’s involvement in these projects stirs up a lot of excitement, and we discuss its potential impact.

From movie sequels to voice acting, our conversation runs the gamut. We speculate on John Cena’s new Matchbox-themed movie and critique the newest Transformers installment, discussing everything from its pacing to character development. Voice actors like Chris Hemsworth as Optimus Prime and Brian Henry as Megatron come under our scrutiny, as do the casting choices of notable actors like Laurence Fishburne and Steve Buscemi. We wrap up with a reflection on the Marvel Cinematic Universe's legacy, particularly its intricate character development and interconnected storytelling that made the Avengers movies so iconic. Join us for a dynamic episode full of movie critiques, Hollywood gossip, and franchise fantasies!

https://msha.ke/thisseatstaken

Send us Fan Mail

Ever wondered what makes Tim Burton's films so mesmerizingly peculiar? Join me, Rob Miranda, and Tim Burton superfan Meg Rivera as we navigate the eccentric corridors of Burton's cinematic universe. From the timeless charm of "Beetlejuice" to the haunting beauty of "Edward Scissorhands," we dissect Burton's signature style and storytelling magic. Alongside our nostalgic journey, we bring you the latest Hollywood buzz, spotlighting the ever-expanding Alien franchise with "Alien: Romulus" and the upcoming "Alien Earth" series on Hulu.

Prepare for a trip down memory lane as we reminisce about childhood favorites like Barney and contrast them with modern hits such as Bluey. With the revival of "Barney's World" on the horizon, we explore how animation might reshape our beloved purple dinosaur's appeal. Our chat meanders through the rocky terrain faced by child stars transitioning into adult roles, touching on Jenna Ortega and Sabrina Carpenter's journeys. And what's Hollywood without sequels? We share our candid thoughts on the "Wizards of Waverly Place" sequel and the trend of reviving old shows.

As the grand finale, we plunge into our review of the highly anticipated Beetlejuice sequel. From the return of iconic characters to the introduction of new ones, we analyze the film’s continuity, marketing genius, and the delightful nostalgia it evokes. You'll hear all about the theater experience, the lively fan reactions, and our final ratings. Wrapping up, we also muse over Tim Burton's "Edward Scissorhands," the potential for future movie reboots, and upcoming releases that have us counting the days. Whether you are a die-hard Tim Burton fan or a casual movie buff, this episode promises a rollicking good time packed with insights and laughter.

https://msha.ke/thisseatstaken

Send us Fan Mail

Can Sigourney Weaver's entry into the Star Wars universe redefine iconic roles in Hollywood? Join me, Robert Miranda, as I bring you the latest buzz with some surprising twists in our Hollywood Updates segment. From Gwyneth Paltrow's quirky return to acting with a ping-pong twist to Nikki Glaser's upcoming stint as the Golden Globes host in 2025, there’s plenty to discuss. I also cover James Spader's return as Ultron, the much-anticipated remake of "La Bamba," and an intriguing casting choice involving NFL star Travis Kelsey in an action comedy. Plus, get the scoop on a fresh Jurassic World trilogy that's sure to leave fans roaring!

Shift gears with my reviews of two contrasting films: Zoe Kravitz’s intense thriller "Blink Twice," featuring a tech billionaire and a cocktail waitress dealing with dark themes of trauma and abuse, and Amazon Prime's "Jackpot," a light-hearted, futuristic comedy with big names like John Cena, Awkwafina, and Simu Liu. With powerful performances from Channing Tatum in "Blink Twice" and a fun, escapist vibe in "Jackpot," there’s something for every movie lover. Wrapping up, I share some exciting updates about my Instagram movie reviews and TikTok content, hinting at a special upcoming episode featuring a favorite co-star to chat about "Beetlejuice." Don't miss out on this loaded episode!

https://msha.ke/thisseatstaken

Send us Fan Mail

Can a modern remake truly honor the legacy of a cult classic, especially one intimately tied to the tragic death of its star? Join us as we unravel this provocative question in our discussion of the 2024 remake of "The Crow." I'm Rob Miranda, your host, and I'm thrilled to welcome back the fiery Jen Z, who is vocally opposed to this new iteration. Together, we dissect whether the original 1994 film's emotional impact was magnified due to Brandon Lee's untimely passing and whether Bill Skarsgård's commendable performance can redeem the remake in the eyes of long-time fans.

Our conversation takes a deep dive into the theater experience and the lukewarm reception of the new Crow movie. Despite its tough competition from Channing Tatum's "Blink Twice," the film's ambiguous setting, unrealistic moments, and deviations from the original are all laid bare. We ponder if the film would have garnered better feedback had the beloved original never existed. From analyzing specific scenes and the protagonist's new superhuman abilities to the convoluted and baffling plotlines involving Shelly's rehab escape and pink jumpsuited escapades, there's plenty of critique to go around.

Shifting gears to a lighter topic, we revisit the 1999 classic "Office Space" and celebrate its enduring charm and humor. We break down why Mike Judge's satirical take on office life continues to resonate, sharing our favorite scenes and contemplating the potential for a sequel. From the iconic printer destruction to Jennifer Aniston's memorable role, we explore how the film captured the essence of workplace frustrations and why it remains a cult favorite. Whether you're here for the heated debate on "The Crow" remake or the nostalgic trip back to "Office Space," this episode is packed with thoughtful analysis and plenty of laughs.

https://msha.ke/thisseatstaken

Send us Fan Mail

Get ready to journey through the cosmos with "This Seat's Taken" as we unlock the secrets of the Alien franchise, featuring our returning guest, Brandon Knight! This episode promises to deliver a deep dive into sci-fi classics, with a spotlight on the 1986 masterpiece "Aliens" and the latest installment, "Alien Romulus." We explore the evolution of these beloved films, from Ripley's iconic battles to the intricate spaceship designs that have captivated fans for decades. If you’ve ever wondered how these films stack up against modern CGI or want to hear some fun speculation about future crossovers with franchises like Predator and Marvel, you won’t want to miss this.

Brandon brings his expertise to the table, building on his last appearance where we got into the nitty-gritty of "Dungeons and Dragons." Together, we critique the portrayal of military characters in the Alien franchise, highlight standout performances, and share our nostalgic first experiences watching these sci-fi horror marvels. The conversation is rich with insights on how practical effects compare to today’s digital wizardry, and we even delve into the elements that make these movies timeless gems. From the seamless transitions between films to Fincher’s directorial touch, and Ripley's motive-driven actions, we cover it all.

Intrigue continues as we analyze Fede Alvarez’s latest film, discussing its balance of homage and originality. The decision to feature a younger cast, the significance of chest-burster scenes, and the nods to Prometheus are just a few of the highlights we delve into. We also tease upcoming episodes focusing on horror classics like "The Crow," and share our excitement for future movies from "Nosferatu" to "Beetlejuice." Whether it's the thrill of potential new entries in the Alien saga or our mixed feelings about the latest xenomorph designs, this episode is packed with engaging discussions that sci-fi and horror fans will not want to miss.

https://msha.ke/thisseatstaken

Send us Fan Mail

What makes video game adaptations so challenging? Tune in to our latest episode where we sit down with Fox Sizemore, a software engineer from Blind Squirrel Games, who brings his extensive experience from projects like "Mortal Kombat 11" to dissect the new "Borderlands" movie. Fox provides an insider perspective on the technical intricacies of game development and shares his thoughts on the movie’s star-studded cast and why it might not have hit the mark despite high expectations.

We also celebrate the latest announcements from D23, including potential blockbusters like "Toy Story 5," a live-action "Lilo & Stitch," "Moana 2," and "Frozen 3." Our conversation shifts to the timeless appeal of Disney animated classics and the ever-growing universe of superhero films, particularly the buzz around the upcoming "Spider-Man Homecoming" show. Join us as we debate the merits and pitfalls of transitioning beloved video games into cinematic experiences, with examples like "Uncharted," "Tomb Raider," and the surprising reception of the "Super Mario" movie.

Finally, we critique the complexities and shortcomings of the "Borderlands" adaptation, from underwhelming comedic relief and confusing plotlines to inconsistent acting and editing. We highlight standout moments, such as Jack Black’s unique voiceover for Claptrap, while noting the film's missed opportunities. Wrapping up, we share our excitement for upcoming releases like "Smile 2" and the next "Warhammer" game, "Space Marine 2," while reminiscing about the lasting cultural impact of the original 1979 "Alien" film. Don't miss this episode filled with passionate discussions and expert insights!

https://msha.ke/thisseatstaken

Send us Fan Mail

What happens when you mix a pop concert, a father-daughter duo, and a serial killer plot? In this thrilling bonus episode," I, Rob Miranda, am joined by Brandon Cole to dissect M. Night Shyamalan's latest film, "Trap." We kick things off by sharing our mutual love for Shyamalan's "Knock at the Cabin," despite its mixed reviews, and explore the signature twist that keeps us coming back for more. From discussing Josh Hartnett’s compelling performance to our varied reactions to the movie’s ending, we leave no stone unturned.

Despite our initial excitement, "Trap" had its fair share of letdowns, particularly from the over-revealing trailers. We dive into the film's pacing, acting, and dialogue, especially critiquing the underwhelming performance by Shyamalan's daughter. Our conversation touches on the promising premise but also the implausible elements like the unrealistic police operations and out-of-place celebrity cameos, making us question the film's overall direction. What could have been an edge-of-your-seat thriller sometimes fell flat due to these missed opportunities.

Brandon and I also break down the movie's most absurd scenes, from a convoluted hostage situation to character inconsistencies that left us scratching our heads. We even speculate on whether the film's ending could spark a new serial killer franchise, despite its flaws. Join us as we balance the entertaining aspects with the logical pitfalls and share some laughs over the film's more ridiculous moments. And, don't miss our excitement for next week’s episode with a special guest who’s sure to bring fresh perspectives to our discussion!

https://msha.ke/thisseatstaken

Send us Fan Mail

What happens when you pair insightful retrospectives with a passion for cinematic critiques? Join us as Kyle Clifford returns for an engrossing episode that revisits some of our best discussions, from "King Kong vs. Godzilla" to "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes." We look back at memorable moments, especially Kyle's hot takes on Spencer Cook's podcast "After Credits," and share our excitement for upcoming films like "Harold and the Purple Crayon" with Zachary Levi and Zoey Deschanel. August is here, and we've got plenty to ponder about this year's unique movie release schedule.

Curious about the aftermath of last year's strike on movie releases? We explore how it's led to a backloaded year filled with forgettable flicks and postponed blockbusters. Amidst this chaos, Jake Johnson's "Self Reliance" on Hulu stands out, and we predict it might just be a cult classic in the making. We analyze the on-screen chemistry between Johnson and Anna Kendrick, debate unconventional film dynamics, and even discuss the intriguing career trajectories of actors like Glenn Powell, who shines in Netflix's "Hitman."

From horror to comedy, we share our takes on recent trends and industry shifts. Together, we critique biopics, reminisce about theater experiences, and even weigh in on the buzz around Robert Downey Jr.'s surprising casting as Dr. Doom. Expect lively debates, personal anecdotes, and critical insights into the films we love and those that left us wanting more. Tune in for a rich, multifaceted discussion that's sure to entertain and inform any movie enthusiast.

https://msha.ke/thisseatstaken