Zealots of Nerd Entertainment

What if the X-Men movies we love and loathe are more interconnected than we realize? Join us as we dissect the X-Men prequels and reboots, including "X-Men: First Class," "Days of Future Past," "X-Men: Apocalypse," "X-Men: Dark Phoenix," and "The New Mutants". We'll share our thoughts on the highs and lows of these films, from the masterful character development in "First Class" to the more questionable creative choices in the later movies. Expect a lively discussion on standout moments, including the unforgettable Wolverine cameo, and the complex relationships between beloved characters like Charles Xavier and Magneto.

Ever wondered which mutants could join the Marvel Cinematic Universe next? We speculate on the future of the MCU, diving deep into the potential introduction of key storylines like Onslaught and House of M. Will James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender reprise their roles as Professor X and Magneto? How might their inclusion impact the MCU's expansive narrative? We also reflect on "X-Men: First Class," its replay value, and the nuanced dynamics between Magneto and Mystique, offering both thoughtful insights and a few laughs along the way.

Finally, we'll critique the handling of iconic characters and story arcs in "X-Men: Days of Future Past," from the enhanced abilities of the Sentinels to the controversial alteration of key roles like Kitty Pryde's. Plus, we tackle the "trilogy curse" in movies and analyze the shortcomings of "The New Mutants." Was "Dark Phoenix" doomed from the start? Tune in to find out as we explore the cinematic rollercoaster that is the X-Men franchise and debate what the future holds for our favorite mutants.

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Support the show

We thank everyone for listening to our podcast! We hope to grow even bigger to make great things happen, such as new equipment for higher-quality podcasts, a merch store & more! If you're interested in supporting us, giving us feedback and staying in the loop with updates, then follow our ZONE Social Media Portal!

DISCLAIMER: The thoughts and opinions shared within are those of the speaker. We encourage everyone to do their own research and to experience the content mentioned at your own volition. We try not to reveal spoilers to those who are not up to speed, but in case some slips out, please be sure to check out the source material before you continue listening!

Stay nerdy and stay faithful,
- J.B.

Subscribe to "Content for Creators" on YouTube to listen to some of the music used for these episodes!

Ever wondered how a goofy anime about magical battles turned into an emotional rollercoaster? Join us as we explore the captivating world of "Zatch Bell," an anime and manga series that cleverly combines humor, action, and deep emotional themes. We'll break down the Mamodo battles, where 100 mystical creatures land on Earth every 1,000 years to duke it out for the throne, guided by their human partners and spell books. You'll meet Zatch and Kiyo, an unlikely duo with contrasting personalities, and we'll explore how their journey to end these cruel battles brings out the best in each other. Plus, get to know memorable characters like Brago with his gravity powers, and why the manga-exclusive King's Festival deserves its moment in the animated spotlight.

Feeling nostalgic for the early 2000s, the golden age of anime? We compare "Zatch Bell" and "Medabots," two gems that never quite got the recognition they deserved. We'll discuss how "Zatch Bell" evolved from its whimsical beginnings into a compelling narrative and ponder how it might have fared better if released today. Drawing parallels with "Medabots," we reflect on its unique charm and unfortunate decline, sharing personal stories of how these shows impacted our childhoods. The early 2000s were truly a magical time for anime, and we can't help but imagine what could have been if these series had reached their full potential.

Get ready for a broader critique and analysis of animated shows and video games that might just blow your mind. From the surprising maturity and dark themes of "The Amazing World of Gumball" to the underrated humor and intricate spell mechanics of "Zatch Bell," we'll leave no stone unturned. We'll also critique the pacing and content structure of modern series, comparing them to long-running giants like "One Piece" and "Naruto." Wrapping up, we explore the entertainment industry's highs and lows, from movie critiques to video game comparisons, and share our hopes for future adaptations of iconic series. This episode is a rollercoaster of pop culture insights, gaming opinions, and candid discussions that you won't want to miss!

Text us for feedback and recommendations for future episodes!

Support the show

We thank everyone for listening to our podcast! We hope to grow even bigger to make great things happen, such as new equipment for higher-quality podcasts, a merch store & more! If you're interested in supporting us, giving us feedback and staying in the loop with updates, then follow our ZONE Social Media Portal!

DISCLAIMER: The thoughts and opinions shared within are those of the speaker. We encourage everyone to do their own research and to experience the content mentioned at your own volition. We try not to reveal spoilers to those who are not up to speed, but in case some slips out, please be sure to check out the source material before you continue listening!

Stay nerdy and stay faithful,
- J.B.

Subscribe to "Content for Creators" on YouTube to listen to some of the music used for these episodes!

Can a mecha anime be both a political thriller and an emotional rollercoaster? Join us as we dissect the classic 2006 series "Code Geass" and uncover the layers of its intricate plot that resembles a grand chess game infused with political intrigue, giant robots, and the machinations of a corrupt royal family. We focus on Lelouch V Britannia, whose quest for revenge against his tyrannical family sets the stage for a gripping narrative, all while leading the resistance group known as the Black Knights in an alternate history setting where Britannia has conquered America, China, and Europe. From the impact of his mother's murder to his sister Nunnally's trauma, we explore the emotional complexities driving Lelouch's rebellion.

Ever been confused by alternate timelines in an anime series? We'll guide you through the tangled web of "Code Geass," shedding light on how key events and character developments differ between the original timeline and the alternate ones introduced in the three-film compilation and "Lelouch of the Resurrection." Discover how pivotal moments like Lelouch's staged death and surprising resurrections impact the story. We also delve into the emotional turmoil and guilt surrounding characters like Ash and Jugo, ensuring our discussion stays engaging with unexpected twists and deep character interactions.

How do characters like Lelouch measure up against other anime icons? We debate Lelouch's strategic mind, comparing him to Ayanokoji from "Classroom of the Elite" and Eren Yeager from "Attack on Titan." Our conversation dives into the ethical dilemmas and emotional consequences of Lelouch's actions, scrutinizing the fine line between genius and overextension. Additionally, we touch upon the representation of dark-skinned characters in anime, giving "Code Geass" a nod for its inclusivity. Our episode wraps up with musings on the themes of fame, money, and privilege, examining how they shape the motivations and arcs of the characters in this multifaceted series. Tune in for a rich and captivating discussion that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

Text us for feedback and recommendations for future episodes!

Support the show

We thank everyone for listening to our podcast! We hope to grow even bigger to make great things happen, such as new equipment for higher-quality podcasts, a merch store & more! If you're interested in supporting us, giving us feedback and staying in the loop with updates, then follow our ZONE Social Media Portal!

DISCLAIMER: The thoughts and opinions shared within are those of the speaker. We encourage everyone to do their own research and to experience the content mentioned at your own volition. We try not to reveal spoilers to those who are not up to speed, but in case some slips out, please be sure to check out the source material before you continue listening!

Stay nerdy and stay faithful,
- J.B.

Subscribe to "Content for Creators" on YouTube to listen to some of the music used for these episodes!

What if you could transport yourself back to the magical worlds that once captivated our imaginations? In this episode of the Zone Podcast, join me, Jet Black Xtreme (JB), as we take a nostalgic journey through the enchanting anime "MÄR" (Märchen Awakens Romance or MÄR Heaven). We'll rediscover the spellbinding story of Ginta, a 14-year-old otaku who gains superhuman abilities and wields a powerful ARM in a magical world. Meet unforgettable characters like Dorothy, Jack, Snow, and Alviss, and confront formidable antagonists such as Queen Diana and Phantom, each with their unique backstories and pivotal roles. Despite its initial popularity, "MÄR" has faded from the spotlight, and this episode encourages both old fans and new audiences to revisit this hidden gem. Drawing insightful comparisons to other beloved series like "Zatch Bell" and "Hitman Reborn," we remind listeners of the significant impact "MÄR" had on the anime community.

As the episode wraps up, I share heartfelt parting words, urging everyone to stay optimistic and embrace their inner nerd. Regardless of whether you're tuning in during the morning, afternoon, or night, great things are on the horizon. This episode is a heartfelt call to action for all anime enthusiasts to revisit the forgotten series that once sparked our passions and to continue supporting the stories that have shaped our love for the genre. So, take it easy, stay true to your passions, and let's keep the spirit of anime alive together.

Text us for feedback and recommendations for future episodes!

Support the show

We thank everyone for listening to our podcast! We hope to grow even bigger to make great things happen, such as new equipment for higher-quality podcasts, a merch store & more! If you're interested in supporting us, giving us feedback and staying in the loop with updates, then follow our ZONE Social Media Portal!

DISCLAIMER: The thoughts and opinions shared within are those of the speaker. We encourage everyone to do their own research and to experience the content mentioned at your own volition. We try not to reveal spoilers to those who are not up to speed, but in case some slips out, please be sure to check out the source material before you continue listening!

Stay nerdy and stay faithful,
- J.B.

Subscribe to "Content for Creators" on YouTube to listen to some of the music used for these episodes!

Ever wondered why Zoids still holds a special place in the hearts of so many mecha enthusiasts? Join me, Jet Black Xtreme (JB), as I share my journey through the iconic Zoids franchise in this episode of the Zone Podcast. From the intense storyline of Chaotic Century, set amidst the fragile ceasefire between the Gylos Empire and the Helic Republic, to the unforgettable characters like Van, Zeke, and Fiona, this episode is a heartfelt homage to a series that captured my young imagination. I'll share my favorite moments and characters, and why those animal and dinosaur-like mechs left an indelible mark on me as a fan.

But that's not all! I'll also delve into the evolution of the Zoids series, including my mixed feelings about the enclosed arena battles in Zoids New Century, the unique setting and challenges in Zoids Genesis, and the fresh twist brought by Zoids Wild with its AI-enhanced Zoids. You'll hear about the dynamics between RD, Sweet, and Amy, and the enduring appeal of Zoids toys and video games. Plus, get a sneak peek at future plans for an extended review. This episode is a blend of nostalgia and critique, perfect for both long-time fans and newcomers alike. Don't miss out on this trip down memory lane!

Text us for feedback and recommendations for future episodes!

Support the show

We thank everyone for listening to our podcast! We hope to grow even bigger to make great things happen, such as new equipment for higher-quality podcasts, a merch store & more! If you're interested in supporting us, giving us feedback and staying in the loop with updates, then follow our ZONE Social Media Portal!

DISCLAIMER: The thoughts and opinions shared within are those of the speaker. We encourage everyone to do their own research and to experience the content mentioned at your own volition. We try not to reveal spoilers to those who are not up to speed, but in case some slips out, please be sure to check out the source material before you continue listening!

Stay nerdy and stay faithful,
- J.B.

Subscribe to "Content for Creators" on YouTube to listen to some of the music used for these episodes!

What if the X-Men trilogy you cherished as a kid isn't as flawless as you remember? Our latest episode dives deep into the original X-Men movies, with special guest Talos Gundam, to explore how these films that once shaped our childhoods hold up today. We start with X-Men 1, which was revolutionary in its time but now feels somewhat mid-tier. Moving forward, we celebrate X-Men 2 as the gem of the trilogy, while we can't help but pick apart the storytelling missteps of X-Men 3, often humorously referred to as "The Last Damn." We'll also ruminate on the potential for future remakes and the crucial need for Marvel to stick to established storylines and character integrity.

Next, our conversation shifts to a critical examination of character development, starting with Cyclops. We critique how the films portrayed him as weaker and less significant compared to his comic book counterpart. Other powerhouses like Nightcrawler, Quicksilver, and Xavier also get scrutinized for their diminished roles, leading to narrative inconsistencies. Rogue's character portrayal sparks a heated debate about missed opportunities and the creative decisions that left fans wanting more. Additionally, we touch on the attempt to rectify Cyclops' untimely death in Days of Future Past, positioning it as an unofficial fourth installment of the trilogy.

Finally, we spotlight X-Men 2, praising iconic scenes while lamenting the underutilization of characters like Colossus. Wolverine's portrayal and the complex power scaling of mutants, including the Omega and Alpha levels, come under the microscope. This leads us to the disappointing execution of the Dark Phoenix saga and the mishandling of character abilities, such as Kitty Pryde's role in Days of Future Past. We wrap up by reflecting on the trilogy's highs and lows and previewing upcoming discussions on the prequel quadrilogy, Wolverine movies, and Deadpool films. Tune in for a nostalgic yet critical exploration of the X-Men universe!

Text us for feedback and recommendations for future episodes!

Support the show

We thank everyone for listening to our podcast! We hope to grow even bigger to make great things happen, such as new equipment for higher-quality podcasts, a merch store & more! If you're interested in supporting us, giving us feedback and staying in the loop with updates, then follow our ZONE Social Media Portal!

DISCLAIMER: The thoughts and opinions shared within are those of the speaker. We encourage everyone to do their own research and to experience the content mentioned at your own volition. We try not to reveal spoilers to those who are not up to speed, but in case some slips out, please be sure to check out the source material before you continue listening!

Stay nerdy and stay faithful,
- J.B.

Subscribe to "Content for Creators" on YouTube to listen to some of the music used for these episodes!

Ever felt like the pacing of your favorite anime just didn't do justice to the emotional moments? We totally get it. This week on the ZONE Podcast, we're diving into the highly anticipated English Dub of "Sailor Moon Cosmos" on Netflix. While some of us found the two-part movie's speed a tad jarring, others appreciated its unwavering faithfulness to the manga. Usagi, MJ, and I share our thoughts on the nostalgic elements, progressive aspects, and our mixed reactions to the film's narrative and pacing.

Remember Tuxedo Mask's evolution from the original "Sailor Moon" series to "Sailor Moon Crystal"? We sure do, and we had a blast comparing his character development and contributions across both iterations. From his often-criticized minimal presence in the original to a more active role in Crystal, Tuxedo Mask's journey is worth exploring. Plus, we couldn't help but draw fun parallels between him and Yu Yu Hakusho's Kurama, considering their creators' shared history. And who could forget Usagi's lovable, relatable humor in the original series? We certainly miss it in the more somber tones of "Sailor Moon Cosmos."

But that's not all! This episode also dives into the sibling dynamics and family favoritism within Sailor Moon, spiced up with our own personal anecdotes. We discuss our favorite Sailor Scouts, from Sailor Jupiter's inspiring strength to Sailor Pluto's enigmatic charm, and even confess our anime crushes, including the universally adored Levi from "Attack on Titan." To wrap things up, we tease some exciting upcoming projects and remind you to stay connected with us on social media. Stay nerdy, everyone!

Text us for feedback and recommendations for future episodes!

Support the show

We thank everyone for listening to our podcast! We hope to grow even bigger to make great things happen, such as new equipment for higher-quality podcasts, a merch store & more! If you're interested in supporting us, giving us feedback and staying in the loop with updates, then follow our ZONE Social Media Portal!

DISCLAIMER: The thoughts and opinions shared within are those of the speaker. We encourage everyone to do their own research and to experience the content mentioned at your own volition. We try not to reveal spoilers to those who are not up to speed, but in case some slips out, please be sure to check out the source material before you continue listening!

Stay nerdy and stay faithful,
- J.B.

Subscribe to "Content for Creators" on YouTube to listen to some of the music used for these episodes!

What makes true leadership? Is it strength, wisdom, or something deeper? Join us as we explore the complex world of "Katekyo Hitman Reborn" with J.B. and Kokugatsu, diving into the core arcs of the series and discussing the intricate dynamics of the Vongola Family. From the hilarious beginnings of the Daily Life arc to the high-stakes confrontations in the Mukuro Arc, Jeff offers his passionate insights into character development, distinctive art, and the soundtrack that brings it all to life.

Discover the intense battles of the Boreal Arc and the evolution of Tsuna's leadership, drawing intriguing parallels to iconic characters like Thor and Captain America. J.B. and Kokugatsu engages in a spirited conversation about the authenticity of the Vongola Rings and the trials faced by Tsuna and his Guardians. Reflecting on unresolved plot points and the complexities of integrating future memories, we also debate the evolution of alien themes in anime, from "Dragon Ball Z" to "Tenchi Muyo."

Celebrate the character growth in Reborn's arcs, particularly Tsuna's transformation from a clumsy student to a respected leader. J.B. and Kokugatsu delve deep into the final arc, revealing the secrets behind the Arcobaleno curse and the thrilling battle against Checker Face and Bermuda. With heartfelt reflections and lively debates, we invite you to explore the "Reborn" series and share it with your friends. We believe that this series deserves a second chance, either in the form of a remake, or adapting the last two arcs of the manga into an animation!

Stay nerdy, and look forward to more great content ahead!

Text us for feedback and recommendations for future episodes!

Support the show

We thank everyone for listening to our podcast! We hope to grow even bigger to make great things happen, such as new equipment for higher-quality podcasts, a merch store & more! If you're interested in supporting us, giving us feedback and staying in the loop with updates, then follow our ZONE Social Media Portal!

DISCLAIMER: The thoughts and opinions shared within are those of the speaker. We encourage everyone to do their own research and to experience the content mentioned at your own volition. We try not to reveal spoilers to those who are not up to speed, but in case some slips out, please be sure to check out the source material before you continue listening!

Stay nerdy and stay faithful,
- J.B.

Subscribe to "Content for Creators" on YouTube to listen to some of the music used for these episodes!

What happens when Keanu Reeves takes on the role of Shadow in Sonic the Hedgehog 3? You won't want to miss our breakdown of the electrifying trailer and all the latest buzz on movie releases, including the comic-accurate portrayal of The Thing in the upcoming Fantastic Four film and the futuristic thrills of Predator: Badlands. We've also got the scoop on the Deadpool and Wolverine movie, including a deleted scene featuring Gambit that promises to be a fan favorite. Join us as we weigh in on the mixed reception of the Borderlands movie and our anticipation for a slew of upcoming films.

Anime fans, we've got you covered! Get the latest updates on the highly anticipated Overlord: The Sacred Kingdom film and the final chapter of Attack on Titan. Plus, we take you through the exciting announcements from D23, with everything from Incredibles 3 and Toy Story 5 to a sneak peek at the live-action Stitch. Our conversation touches on the nostalgia and mixed feelings surrounding these franchise continuations, along with our thoughts on the critical reception of previous sequels like Freaky Friday and The Lion King.

From TV revivals to gaming updates, this episode is packed with news you need to know. Hear our thoughts on Frozen 3, Avatar sequels, and the potential for more Cyberpunk animations. We're thrilled about The Amazing World of Gumball's return, Ranma 1/2's reboot, and new seasons for Jujutsu Kaisen and Family Guy. Plus, stay tuned for some exciting chatter about James Spader's return as Ultron and the latest developments in the world of One Piece. Wrapping up, we tease our plans for the upcoming year, including new YouTube channels and more nerdy news specials. Stay nerdy and have a great day!

Text us for feedback and recommendations for future episodes!

Support the show

We thank everyone for listening to our podcast! We hope to grow even bigger to make great things happen, such as new equipment for higher-quality podcasts, a merch store & more! If you're interested in supporting us, giving us feedback and staying in the loop with updates, then follow our ZONE Social Media Portal!

DISCLAIMER: The thoughts and opinions shared within are those of the speaker. We encourage everyone to do their own research and to experience the content mentioned at your own volition. We try not to reveal spoilers to those who are not up to speed, but in case some slips out, please be sure to check out the source material before you continue listening!

Stay nerdy and stay faithful,
- J.B.

Subscribe to "Content for Creators" on YouTube to listen to some of the music used for these episodes!

What if you mixed DC's notorious villains with anime tropes? This episode starts with a lively critique of various Suicide Squad adaptations, from the 2016 flick to James Gunn's 2021 reboot. We also dive into the new "Suicide Squad Isekai" series. Initially skeptical, both Talos and J.B. were pleasantly surprised by its fresh take on villains in another world. Talos even bumped his rating from a zero to a seven! We discuss how characters like Clayface shine in this new setting, bringing an anime-like excitement to their arcs.

We explore a shocking revelation where a character is unmasked as the Joker, analyzing how it compares with the subtle foreshadowing found in the Spider-Verse series. This chapter also dives into the hypothetical powers of the Joker and transitions into our thoughts on the "Peacemaker" series. John Cena's performance and the show's blend of comedy and action get the spotlight, especially memorable moments like Peacemaker's ridiculous elf disguise.

We wrap things up with a deep dive into Harley Quinn's evolution and character transformations. From her complex relationships with the Joker to her newfound independence, we leave no stone unturned. We also touch on missed opportunities in character arcs like Clayface and King Shark, reflecting on the broader trend of isekai evolution in anime. As we gear up to launch our YouTube channel next year, we give you a sneak peek of what's to come. Stay connected on social media, and get ready for even more nerdy content!

Text us for feedback and recommendations for future episodes!

Support the show

We thank everyone for listening to our podcast! We hope to grow even bigger to make great things happen, such as new equipment for higher-quality podcasts, a merch store & more! If you're interested in supporting us, giving us feedback and staying in the loop with updates, then follow our ZONE Social Media Portal!

DISCLAIMER: The thoughts and opinions shared within are those of the speaker. We encourage everyone to do their own research and to experience the content mentioned at your own volition. We try not to reveal spoilers to those who are not up to speed, but in case some slips out, please be sure to check out the source material before you continue listening!

Stay nerdy and stay faithful,
- J.B.

Subscribe to "Content for Creators" on YouTube to listen to some of the music used for these episodes!