Podcast by Peter A DeLuca AKAPAD
The Film Buff is furious! The Last Showgirl embodies the essence of exceptional filmmaking, yet the Academy Awards snubbed it entirely. Pamela Anderson delivered a career-defining performance worthy of an Oscar, and Jamie Lee Curtis shone brilliantly as her co-star. Tragically, their remarkable work was overlooked, failing to keep pace with the global acclaim it deserved.
On rare occasions, AKAPAD The Film Buff has been known to abandon a film before finishing it, and recently, Mickey 17, unavailable on HBO Max, joined that list. In today's episode, Peter discusses the illustrious career of writer-director Bong Joon-ho, explores Robert Pattinson's potential Oscar-worthy performance, and reveals why he immediately disconnected from the movie after just one scene. Those who brought us Mickey 17 Cast: Robert Pattinson – Mickey Barnes (Mickey 17/Mickey 18) Naomi Ackie – Nasha Steven Yeun – Timo Mark Ruffalo – Kenneth Marshall Toni Collette – Ylfa Anamaria Vartolomei – Kai Katz Daniel Henshall – Preston Patsy Ferran – Dorothy Michael Monroe – Matthew Cameron Britton – Arkady Christian Patterson – Chainsaw Guy Lloyd Hutchinson – Underboss Samuel Blenkin – Delinquent Borrower Ian Hanmore – Darius Blank Sabet Choudhury – News Reporter Tim Key – Pigeon Man Rose Shalloo – The Supporter Steve Park – (Role not specified) Holliday Grainger – (Role not specified) Angus Imrie – (Role not specified) Thomas Turgoose – (Role not specified) Edward Davis – (Role not specified) Bronwyn James – (Role not specified) Milo James – (Role not specified) Jude Mack – (Role not specified) Sam Woodhams – (Role not specified) Kayla Meikle – (Role not specified) Haydn Gwynne – (Role not specified) Theo Ogundipe – (Role not specified) Jamila Wingett – (Role not specified) Spike White – (Role not specified) Afolabi Alli – (Role not specified) Anna Mouglalis – (Role not specified) Laura Mickiewicz – (Role not specified) Chris Straessle – (Role not specified) Jason Knox-Johnston – (Role not specified) Christine Lois – (Role not specified) Chelsea Davison – (Role not specified) Paul Savulescu – (Role not specified) Jan Gronczewski – (Role not specified) Christine Neumann – (Role not specified) Saado Abou-Khazaal – (Role not specified) Crew: Bong Joon-ho – Director, Writer, Producer Edward Ashton – Writer (based on the novel Mickey7 by) Darius Khondji – Cinematographer Fiona Crombie – Production Designer Jang Hee-chul – Creature Designer (Creepers) Dan Glass – Visual Effects Chris McLaughlin – Visual Effects
The Thin Red Line: A Masterpiece Explored by Peter A. DeLuca For Memorial Day 2025, film enthusiast Peter A. DeLuca, known as AKAPAD The Film Buff, reflects on what he considers the greatest war movie of all time: The Thin Red Line (1998). Directed by Terrence Malick, this cinematic gem stands out for its profound exploration of war, humanity, and sacrifice. DeLuca delves into the historical context of the film, its competitive landscape during its release, and its enduring significance. Set against the backdrop of the Battle of Guadalcanal in World War II, The Thin Red Line transcends traditional war narratives with its philosophical depth and poetic visuals. DeLuca highlights how the film's release alongside other 1998 war epics, like Saving Private Ryan, sparked debates among critics and audiences. Yet, its introspective storytelling and stellar ensemble cast cemented its legacy. For history buffs and cinephiles alike, The Thin Red Line remains a vital work, offering timeless insights into the human cost of conflict. DeLuca's passion for this masterpiece underscores why it continues to resonate, making it a fitting tribute for Memorial Day reflection.
On a hectic, rainy day in Philadelphia, I made a dedicated trek to the theater to bring you a review of Mission: Impossible – Final Reckoning, the thrilling conclusion to Tom Cruise's Ethan Hunt saga. This film serves as a direct sequel to the original 1996 Mission: Impossible, delivering a nostalgic yet explosive finale.
Today, The Film Buff guides you through the 2021 Amazon Studios film The Tomorrow War, which may be the most straightforward and logically consistent time-travel movie ever made.
In 2000, Tom Cruise propelled Mission: Impossible into uncharted territory, transforming it into what would become the ultimate showcase for visionary directors. It all began with this film, directed by John Woo, setting the stage for an iconic franchise.
Today, AKAPAD The Film Buff explores a rare cinematic achievement: a director remaking his own film. In this limited but fascinating category, Peter delves into the career of John Woo, examining the impact of his work and questioning why this particular remake didn't garner a larger release.
Recalling the Thrill of Mission: Impossible's 1996 Premiere – A Film Buff's Perspective by AKAPAD In 1996, the cinematic landscape shifted with the electrifying debut of Mission: Impossible. As a wide-eyed film buff, I vividly remember the anticipation swirling around its premiere. Directed by Brian De Palma and starring Tom Cruise as the daring Ethan Hunt, the film blended high-octane action, intricate espionage, and a pulse-pounding score that left audiences gripped. From the iconic Langley heist to the explosive train chase, every frame oozed tension and innovation. For AKAPAD, this wasn't just a movie—it was a cultural moment that redefined the spy thriller genre, sparking a franchise that still captivates. Reliving that premiere feels like stepping back into a time when cinema dared us to accept the impossible.
This Monday morning, AKAPAD The Film Buff dives into the missed potential of Amazon's latest cancellation, The Bondsman, and explores why this show could become a future obsession for viewers. Despite its abrupt end, the series' unique premise and compelling narrative suggest we may see more of it someday.
In this weekend's Animation Spotlight episode, The Film Buff dives into what makes Stitch! The Movie a standout universe-expanding sequel, holding its own against Disney's ambitious follow-ups like Star Wars and the MCU.
It's Animation Saturday, and The Film Buff is dropping a bombshell from his in-depth Hellboy study! Is Hellboy: Blood and Iron the ultimate portrayal of the character across all its many media incarnations? To dive deeper, AKAPAD poses a bold question: Should Hellboy stick to one-hour animated adventures? Is this the format that best showcases our favorite horned hero?
Novocaine showcases Jack Quaid's meteoric rise, propelled by what may be Hollywood's most original publicity stunt in film history. However, beyond its bold high-concept premise, Novocaine lacks dynamic action sequences and a compelling creative hook.
Discover why movie tropes captivate audiences in this engaging episode! The Film Buff dives into Netflix's latest release, Nonnas, exploring its charm and appeal.
One of the most cherished aspects of the filmgoing experience explored on the AKAPAD Film Buff Podcast is the magic of experiencing a movie as if for the first time. Tonight's episode captures that rare phenomenon, a moment so uncommon it has occurred only a handful of times in the podcast's history. In this episode, AKAPAD passionately argues why Kevin Smith's impact on the 1990s indie film scene was as transformative as George Lucas's influence on cinema in the 1980s. Those who brought us Mallrats. Cast Jason Lee as Brodie Bruce Jeremy London as T.S. Quint Shannen Doherty as Rene Mosier Claire Forlani as Brandi Svenning Ben Affleck as Shannon Hamilton Joey Lauren Adams as Gwen Turner Renée Humphrey as Tricia Jones Jason Mewes as Jay Kevin Smith as Silent Bob Ethan Suplee as Willam Black Stan Lee as Himself Priscilla Barnes as Miss Ivannah Michael Rooker as Mr. Jared Svenning Carol Banker as Security Guard Steven Blackwell as Arresting Cop #2 Kyle Boe as Pull Toy Kid David Brinkley as TV Executive #1 Walter Flanagan as Fan Boy Ethan Flower as Guy Contestant #1 Chelsea Frye as Girl with Easter Bunny Jeff Gadbois as Kid Ed Hapstak as Mall Shopper Terry Hempleman as Cop Art James as Game Show Host Mikey Kovar as Kid David Klein as Mall Shopper Scott Mosier as Kid Sven-Ole Thorsen as La Fours Crew Director: Kevin Smith Writer: Kevin Smith Producers: James Jacks Sean Daniel Scott Mosier Cinematographer: David Klein Editor: Paul Dixon Music: Ira Newborn Casting Director: Don Phillips Production Companies: Gramercy Pictures Universal Pictures Alphaville Films Production Designer: Dina Lipton Costume Designer: Dana Allyson Sound Designer: James L. Venable
Kicking off the work week, Peter dives into an emerging film genre he's recently begun exploring. The latest addition to this deep dive, Summer of '69, just dropped on Hulu. Breaking conventions in everything from casting to plot, this film enriches the cinematic experience for all moviegoers.
Animation Weekend: How Lilo & Stitch Redefined Disney This Animation Weekend, AKAPAD The Film Buff dives into Lilo & Stitch, the Disney B-movie that became a cultural phenomenon and reshaped the studio's creative trajectory. Join us as we explore how this quirky, heartfelt tale of an unconventional ohana transformed Disney animation.
The Studio, now streaming on Apple TV+, joins a storied tradition of Hollywood turning the camera on itself, yet it stands out as a testament to the industry's storytelling prowess. This series exemplifies the creative strength of modern television, blending sharp wit with incisive commentary. Seth Rogen, who stars in and co-created the show, reaffirms his place as one of today's most compelling storytellers. His ability to weave humor with heartfelt narrative demands attention, marking The Studio as a must-watch and Rogen as a creative force to follow closely. Those who brought The Studio to The Film Buff. Main Cast: Seth Rogen as Matt Remick (head of Continental Studios) Catherine O'Hara as Patty Leigh (former studio head, Matt's mentor) Ike Barinholtz as Sal Seperstein (Matt's colleague and best friend) Kathryn Hahn as Maya (head of marketing at Continental Studios) Chase Sui Wonders as Quinn (creative executive, Matt's assistant) Bryan Cranston as Griffin Mill (CEO of Continental Studios, guest star) Keyla Monterroso Mejia as Petra (Matt's secretary, guest star) Dewayne Perkins as Tyler (marketing team member, guest star) Rebecca Hall as Linda (Matt's girlfriend, pediatric oncologist) Notable Guest Stars (Appearing as Themselves or in Cameo Roles): Martin Scorsese Anthony Mackie Charlize Theron Zack Snyder Zoë Kravitz Ice Cube Paul Dano Zac Efron Quinta Brunson Ziwe Greta Lee Adam Scott Ron Howard Ted Sarandos Antony Starr Aaron Sorkin Devon Bostick Steve Buscemi Lil Rel Howery Peter Berg David Krumholtz Nicholas Stoller Matt Belloni (voice cameo) Key Crew: Seth Rogen (Creator, Co-Writer, Co-Director, Executive Producer) Evan Goldberg (Creator, Co-Writer, Co-Director, Executive Producer) Peter Huyck (Creator, Executive Producer) Alex Gregory (Creator, Executive Producer) Frida Perez (Creator, Executive Producer) James Weaver (Executive Producer) Alex McAtee (Executive Producer) Josh Fagen (Executive Producer) Production Companies: Point Grey Pictures Lionsgate Television
From Netflix comes a film crafted to captivate. Has the world rediscovered the joy of simply enjoying a movie, or does a feverish, cynical mindset still strip away the ability to immerse in a story as lives hang in the balance? AKAPAD, The Film Buff, does what he does best: dives into a new Netflix release and breaks it down for you.
Didi (2024), streaming on Hulu, delivers a poignant American drama that revitalizes the genre. This immensely significant film deserves acclaim for its authentic portrayal of the complex, often elusive teenage experience—a theme that has challenged filmmakers across generations. Cast Izaac Wang as Chris Wang (Dìdi) Joan Chen as Chungsing Wang (Chris's mother) Shirley Chen as Vivian Wang (Chris's older sister) Chang Li Hua as Nai Nai (Chris's grandmother) Mahaela Park as Madi (Chris's love interest) Raul Dial as Fahad (Chris's friend) Aaron Chang as Soup (Chris's friend) Chiron Cillia Denk as Donovan Sunil Mukherjee Maurillo as Cory (credited as Sunil Maurillo) Montay Boseman as Nugget Alysha Syed as Jade Alaysia Simmons as Ellie Tarnvir Kamboj as Hardeep Shiu Fang Wang as Shiu Fang Jayden Chiang as Max Joziah Lagonoy as Josh Joshua Hankerson as Mack Georgie August as Georgia (credited as Dalila George August) Crew Director: Sean Wang Writer: Sean Wang Producers: Sean Wang Carlos López Estrada Josh Peters Chris Columbus Executive Producers (under AntiGravity Academy, Spark Features, and Maiden Voyage Pictures banners): Carlos López Estrada Josh Peters Chris Columbus Music Composer: Giosuè Greco Music Supervisor: Toko Nagata Cinematographer: Not explicitly listed in provided sources, but credited on IMDb as Sam A. Davis (Director of Photography) Editor: Not explicitly listed in provided sources, but credited on IMDb as Arielle Zakowski Production Companies: AntiGravity Academy, Spark Features, Maiden Voyage Pictures Distributor: Focus Features
Revenge of the 5th - Star Wars Visions - Sith
MAY THE 4TH BE WITH YOU - STAR WARS (1977)
THE GOOFY SCENARIO - how Disney lost a huge segment of it's audience by AKAPAD Peter A DeLuca
What are the greatest remakes in American cinema? What began in 1987 comes full circle in 2024 with the artistry of Ryan Kruger. Street Trash is a film that shines with clarity in its intent, and because of that, it delivers an unforgettable experience.
Today AKAPAD The Film Buff discusses the 2020's film, Monster Hunter.
The 2025 Wolf Man, directed by horror maestro Leigh Whannell, is a gripping and masterfully crafted thriller that delivers chilling suspense and standout performances.
Gareth Evans and Netflix deliver a gritty, unrelenting masterpiece with Havoc, a dark, visceral love letter to the action-cop genre. This blood-soaked thrill ride, where corruption taints every soul and no one escapes unscathed by the credits, is a raw, pulse-pounding triumph. The Film Buff is all in for this chaotic, adrenaline-fueled delight! The Film Buff is grateful to those who brought us Havoc. The Cast: Tom Hardy as Walker Jessie Mei Li as Ellie Timothy Olyphant as Vincent Forest Whitaker as Lawrence Beaumont Justin Cornwell as Charlie Quelin Sepulveda as Mia Luis Guzmán as Raul Yeo Yann Yann as Tsui's Mother Sunny Pang as Ching Michelle Waterson as The Assassin Richard Harrington Jeremy Ang Jones as Tsui Fong Gordon Alexander as Hayes Tom Wu Narges Rashidi Jill Winternitz Serhat Metin as Cortez Xelia Mendes-Jones Jim Caesar Sharon D. Clarke Alan Leong The Crew: Gareth Evans – Director, Screenwriter, Producer Tom Hardy – Producer Ed Talfan – Producer Aram Tertzakian – Producer Scott Frank – Additional Literary Material (uncredited) John Lee Hancock – Additional Literary Material (uncredited) Matt Flannery – Director of Photography Tom Pearce – Production Designer Siân Jenkins – Costume Designer Aria Prayogi – Music Sara Jones – Editor Matt Platts-Mills – Editor Gareth Evans – Editor Jude Poyer – Action Designer & Stunt Coordinator Kelly Valentine Hendry – Casting Henry Engelhardt – Executive Producer Diane Briere de L'Isle – Executive Producer Nick Spicer – Executive Producer Nate Bolotin – Executive Producer Andrew Eaton – Executive Producer
EVEREST - one hell of a story by AKAPAD Peter A DeLuca
Today, Peter A. DeLuca, The Film Buff, dives into Halina Reijn's latest film, Babygirl, a must-see that shouldn't be missed or overlooked, now available on HBO Max.
For many families in the '90s and 2000s, A Goofy Movie was a staple of the home video library—so much so that an entire generation forgot it was ever released in theaters, remembering it only as a home-viewing classic. On its 30th anniversary, AKAPAD: The Film looks back at a uniquely heartfelt era of Disney animation—one we may never see again.
AKAPAD The Film Buff was there for the original release of Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, experiencing a very different world for Star Wars fans twenty years ago. Today, he reflects on how much has changed since that pivotal moment in the saga's history.
Happy almost-Friday, AKAPAD'ers! The Film Buff is back with another gem sidelined by the pandemic: North Hollywood (2021). This vibrant coming-of-age skate flick would've been a thousand times more celebrated, watched, and loved if COVID hadn't thrown its release off course. Trust us, this one deserves way more hype! #NorthHollywood #HiddenGem North Hollywood is a coming-of-age comedy-drama directed by Mikey Alfred. It follows Michael (Ryder McLaughlin), a high school graduate in North Hollywood, California, who dreams of becoming a professional skateboarder. Torn between his father Oliver's (Vince Vaughn) expectations of pursuing a conventional career or joining the family construction business, Michael faces tension with his friends and family as he chases his passion. After connecting with professional skaters, he drifts from his childhood friends, who don't share his ambition, and navigates a budding romance. The film explores themes of self-discovery, independence, and balancing personal dreams with familial pressures, set against the vibrant skate culture of Los Angeles. Cast: Ryder McLaughlin as Michael Vince Vaughn as Oliver Miranda Cosgrove as Rachel Nico Hiraga as Jay Aramis Hudson as Adolf Angus Cloud as Walker Tyshawn Jones as Isiah Bob Worrest as Nolan Gillian Jacobs as (uncredited role, noted in reviews) Andrew Reynolds as (cameo, table scene) Louie Lopez as (cameo, table scene) Kader Sylla as (cameo, ticketer) Davonte Jolly as (cameo, skate filmer) Sunny Suljic as Clark (cameo, two appearances) Na-Kel Smith as (cameo, multiple appearances) Zach Saraceno as (cameo, skater) Kevin White as (cameo, skater) Crew: Director: Mikey Alfred Writer: Rusty Johnson Producers: Mikey Alfred, Pharrell Williams, Noah Centineo, Yuri Shulga, Malcolm Washington, Katelin Espitia, Jus Ske Cinematographer: Ayinde Anderson Editor: Mikki Lovitch Production Companies: Illegal Civilization, First Try Productions, Happy Place Music Supervisor: Hal Williams Soundtrack Contributors: (Various artists, noted for complementing skate culture visuals) The film, loosely based on Alfred's life, premiered at SoFi Stadium in March 2021 as a drive-in event and runs for 1 hour and 33 minutes. It's unrated and features a mix of established actors and real professional skaters, reflecting the authentic skateboarding scene.
Few films bring together all the elements as seamlessly as The Order—a standout that earns its place as a top-tier pick for AKAPAD The Film Buff. Those who brought us The Order Cast Jude Law as Terry Husk (FBI agent) Nicholas Hoult as Robert Jay Mathews (leader of The Order) Tye Sheridan as Jamie Bowen (local deputy) Jurnee Smollett as Joanne Carney (FBI agent) Alison Oliver as Debbie Mathews Odessa Young as Zillah Craig Marc Maron as Alan Berg (radio journalist) Sebastian Pigott as Bruce Pierce George Tchortov as Gary Yarbrough Victor Slezak as Richard Butler Phillip Forest Lewitski as David Lane Matias Lucas as Tony Torres Bradley Stryker as Sam Stinson Morgan Holmstrom as Kimmy Bowen Daniel Doheny as Walter West Daniel Yip as Engineer Vanessa Holmes as Bank Teller #1 Bryan J. McHale as Bank Manager Rae Farrer as Bank Teller #2 Philip Granger as Sheriff Loftlin Ryan Chandoul Wesley as Willie Bowen Huxley Fisher as Clinton Mathews Geena Meszaros as Bonnie Sue West Sean Tyler Foley as Tony Bentley Sarah Haggeman as Connie Pierce Judith Buchan as Birdie Lane David LeReaney as Donald Lane Stafford Perry as FBI Agent Chantal Perron as Jean Craig The Crew Director: Justin Kurzel Screenwriter: Zach Baylin Producers: Bryan Haas, Stuart Ford, Justin Kurzel, Jude Law Executive Producers: Zach Baylin, Alastair Burlingham, Stephen Fuss, Ben Jackson, Sean Patrick O'Reilly, Miguel A. Palos Jr., Gary Raskin, Eric Rebalkin, Jeremy Saulnier, Kate Susman, Anant Tamirisa, Paul Weinberg Cinematography: Adam Arkapaw Editor: Nick Fenton Music Composer: Jed Kurzel Casting Directors: Rhonda Fisekci, Avy Kaufman Production Designer: Karen Murphy Costume Designer: Rachel Dainer-Best Hair Department Head: Eva Baulackey Makeup Department Head: Sharon Toohey Stunt Coordinator: Steven McMichael Script Supervisor: Ben Saracini Main Title Designer: Jeremy Chen
The Film Buff does not know where to go with this one because 2025's Companion now availanle on HBO MAX offers muliple avennues of disscussion points. This is not a bad problem to have iand is what AKAPAD strives for, Companion is an important film that lends itself as a front runnrer of the greatest AI film ever made. Those who brought us Companion Cast Sophie Thatcher as Iris Jack Quaid as Josh Lukas Gage as Patrick Megan Suri as Kat Harvey Guillén as Eli Rupert Friend as Sergey Jaboukie Young-White as Teddy Matthew J. McCarthy as Sid Marc Menchaca as Deputy Hendrix Ashley Lambert as Josh's Car (voice) Crew Director & Writer: Drew Hancock Producers: Zach Cregger Roy Lee Raphael Margules J.D. Lifshitz Richard Brener (Executive Producer) Jamie Buckner (Executive Producer) Pete Chiappetta (Executive Producer) Andrew Childs (Executive Producer) Andrew Lary (Executive Producer) Josh Mack (Executive Producer) Adam Ridley (Executive Producer) Ryan Ridley (Executive Producer) Tracy Rosenblum (Executive Producer) Paulina Sussman (Executive Producer) Anthony Tittanegro (Executive Producer) Cinematography: Eli Born Editing: Brett W. Bachman, Josh Ethier Music: Hrishikesh Hirway Casting: Nancy Nayor Production Design: Scott Kuzio Art Direction: John Duhigg Cox, Naomi Munro Set Decoration: Kendall Anderson Costume Design: Vanessa Porter
Today AKAPAD The Film Buff talked about the real point and what's really happening with HBO's The Last of Us.
Continuing The Film Buff's complete and in-depth study of Hellboy, we now arrive at the 2019 self-titled reboot. Those who brought us HellBoy 2019 Cast David Harbour as Hellboy / Anung Un Rama Milla Jovovich as Vivienne Nimue / The Blood Queen Ian McShane as Professor Trevor "Broom" Bruttenholm Sasha Lane as Alice Monaghan Daniel Dae Kim as Ben Daimio Thomas Haden Church as Lobster Johnson Stephen Graham as Gruagach (voice) Douglas Tait as Gruagach (on-set) Sophie Okonedo as Lady Hatton Alistair Petrie as Lord Adam Glaren Brian Gleeson as Merlin Penelope Mitchell as Ganeida Mark Stanley as King Arthur Emma Tate as Baba Yaga (voice) Troy James as Baba Yaga Mario de la Rosa as Esteban Ruiz / Camazotz Ava Brennan as Alice's Mother Anthony Delaney as Alice's Father Nadya Keranova as Sister Maria Tepavicharova as Sister Ana Tabakova as Sister Terry Randal as Priest Christopher Mata as Referee Atanas Srebrev as Agent Madison Dawn Sherrer as Agent Strode Michael Heath as Butler Crew Neil Marshall - Director Andrew Cosby - Screenplay Mike Mignola - Based on the Dark Horse Comic Book "Hellboy" created by Lawrence Gordon - Producer Lloyd Levin - Producer Mike Mignola - Producer Carl Hampe - Producer Matt O'Toole - Producer Les Weldon - Producer Yariv Lerner - Producer Benjamin Wallfisch - Music Lorenzo Senatore - Cinematography Martin Bernfeld - Editor Paul Kirby - Production Design Stephanie Collie - Costume Design Joel Harlow - Special Effects Makeup
Today, The Film Buff explores the responsibility of watching films like 2073 and appreciating them as presented, without letting personal politics influence the viewing experience.
It's TGIF and The Film Buff is ready for action with Amazon's newest drop G20 Those who brought is G20 Cast: Viola Davis – President Danielle Sutton Anthony Anderson – Derek Sutton Marsai Martin – Serena Sutton Ramón Rodríguez – Agent Manny Ruiz Antony Starr – Corporal Edward Rutledge Douglas Hodge – Prime Minister Oliver Everett Elizabeth Marvel – Treasury Secretary Joanna Worth Sabrina Impacciatore Clark Gregg Christopher Farrar – Demetrius Sutton Crew: Patricia Riggen – Director Caitlin Parrish – Screenplay Erica Weiss – Screenplay Noah Miller – Screenplay, Story Logan Miller – Screenplay, Story Andrew Lazar – Producer Viola Davis – Producer Julius Tennon – Producer David Fliegel – Executive Producer Rob Williams – Executive Producer Danny Sherman – Executive Producer Janine van Assen – Co-Producer Emma E. Hickox – Editor More about G20 In G20 (2025), Viola Davis dominates as U.S. President Danielle Sutton, a war hero turned commander-in-chief thrust into chaos when terrorists, led by a crypto-obsessed ex-soldier (Antony Starr), hijack a G20 summit in Cape Town. With her family and global leaders at risk, Sutton unleashes her military grit in a relentless battle to save them and avert economic disaster. Directed by Patricia Riggen, this action-packed thriller is a great fun flick in the style of Air Force One, delivering high-octane thrills and geopolitical stakes with Davis' magnetic star power front and center.
Today, AKAPAD The Film Buff dives into the vital role of the romantic comedy, using Netflix's latest release The Life List as a lens—and spotlighting the underrated legacy of writer-director Adam Brooks, an unsung hero behind some of Hollywood's most dependable studio hits. Those who brought us The Life List Director: Adam Brooks Screenplay: Adam Brooks Based on the Novel by: Lori Nelson Spielman Producers: Liza Chasin Adam Brooks (Executive Producer) Margaret Chernin (Executive Producer) Kerry Orent (Executive Producer) Hutch Parker (Executive Producer) Music: Will Bates Cinematography: Florian Ballhaus Editing: Peter Teschner Main Cast: Sofia Carson as Alex Rose Kyle Allen as Brad Connie Britton as Elizabeth Rose Sebastian de Souza as Garrett José Zúñiga Jordi Mollà as Johnny Dario Ladani Sanchez as Lucas Federico Rodriguez as Julian Marianne Rendón as Zoe Michael Rowland as Finn Chelsea Frei Luca Padovan Rachel Zeiger-Haag Maria Jung Donnetta Lavinia Grays
Daredevil: Born Again has officially wrapped on Disney+, and AKAPAD The Film Buff is ready to break down what worked, what didn't, and whether it lived up to the hype.
Fresh from 2024 and now streaming on HBO Max, AKAPAD The Film Buff dives into Y2K — a throwback horror flick that channels the wild energy of the AOL era, featuring some of the most original creature designs in modern cinema. Those who brought is Y2K. Director: Kyle Mooney Writers: Kyle Mooney Evan Winter Producers: Matt Dines Alison Goodwin Jonah Hill Christopher Storer Cooper Wehde Evan Winter Cast: Jaeden Martell as Eli Rachel Zegler as Laura Julian Dennison as Danny Daniel Zolghadri as CJ Lachlan Watson as Ash Eduardo Franco as Farkas Fred Durst as himself Kyle Mooney as Garrett Mason Gooding as Jonas The Kid Laroi as Soccer Chris Miles Robbins as Nugz Alicia Silverstone as Robin Tim Heidecker as Howard Jacob Moskovitz as Trevor Lauren Balone as Raleigh Ellie Ricker as Madison Kevin Mangold as Cool Blue Music by: Danny Bensi Saunder Jurriaans Cinematography: Bill Pope Editing: David Marks Casting: Jessica Kelly Production Design: Jason Singleton Art Direction: Rosa Callejas Kristina Porter Set Decoration: Katy Porter Costume Design: Katina Danabassis
Now streaming on Hulu: AKAPAD The Film Buff breaks down Winner, a must-see biopic based on the true story of Reality Winner, the whistleblower who leaked classified government documents." Cast: Emilia Jones as Reality Winner Connie Britton as Billie Winner Kathryn Newton as Brittany Winner Zach Galifianakis as Ron Winner Danny Ramirez as Agent Garrick Leah Gibson as Jennifer Solari Stephanie Sy as Anne McCoy Shannon Berry as KayLee Thompson Sam Duke as Taylor Crew: Director: Susanna Fogel Writers: Kerry Howley (based on the article "Who Is Reality Winner?"), Susanna Fogel Producers: Susanna Fogel, Amanda Phillips, Shivani Rawat, Julie Goldstein, Scott Budnick, Ameet Shukla Executive Producers: Daniel Bekerman, Michael B. Clark, Connor Flanagan, Daniele Tate Melia, Peter Saraf, Alex Turtletaub, Ben Yano Cinematographer: Steve Yedlin Editor: Joseph Krings Casting Director: Deanna Brigidi Production Designer: Sara K. White Set Decorators: Mary Kirkland, Sara McCudden Costume Designer: Anastasia Magoutas Makeup Department Head: Kristy Greig Key Hair Stylist: Lexy Fabiano Original Music Composer: Heather McIntosh
Travel back to 1993 with AKAPAD as he breaks down why this might be the greatest year in American cartoon syndication, spotlighting three iconic series: Mighty Max, SWAT Kats, and Exo-Squad.
This Animation Weekend, AKAPAD The Film Buff continues his deep dive into the Hellboy media franchise with Hellboy Animated: Sword of Storms—a 2006 straight-to-DVD feature that strengthens the case for Hellboy's true potential being fully realized in the world of animation.
TGIF Film Buffers – AKAPAD dives into Holland (2025) today, the second film from Mimi Cave. With his love for spoilers, Peter explores how to classify this film—less of a psychological thriller and more of a mystery-comedy farce. When the story pivots, the audience buys in, a feat not easily achieved from a filmmaking standpoint.
Luca Guadagnino delivered two films in 2024, and The Film Buff is all in. Given the strength of his previous works, AKAPAD decided to give Challengers another shot—and it did not disappoint. By the end, what unfolds might just be the greatest tennis film ever made. Those who brought us Challengers Main Cast Zendaya as Tashi Duncan Josh O'Connor as Patrick Zweig Mike Faist as Art Donaldson Darnell Appling as New Rochelle Final Umpire Shane Harris as Art's Security Guard Nada Despotovich as Tashi's Mother AJ Lister as Lily Donaldson Naheem Garcia as Tashi's Father Jake Jensen as Finn Larsen Hailey Gates as Helen Crew Director & Writing Director: Luca Guadagnino Writer: Justin Kuritzkes Producers Amy Pascal Luca Guadagnino Zendaya Rachel O'Connor Cinematography & Editing Cinematographer: Sayombhu Mukdeeprom Editor: Marco Costa Music Composer: Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross Production Design Production Designer: Merissa Lombardo Costume Design Costume Designer: Jonathan Anderson Casting Francine Maisler
Those who brought us Asphalt City Director Jean-Stéphane Sauvaire Writers Shannon Burke Ryan King Ben Mac Brown Main Cast Tye Sheridan as Ollie Cross Sean Penn as Gene Rutkovsky Michael Pitt as Lafontaine Mike Tyson as Chief Burroughs Gbenga Akinnagbe as Verdis Raquel Nave as Clara Katherine Waterston as Nancy Kali Reis as Nia Brown Producers Shannon Burke Eric Gold Warren Goz Ryan King Christopher Kopp John Ira Palmer Music Composers Nicolas Becker Quentin Sirjacq Cinematographer David Ungaro Editors Saar Klein Katie McQuerrey Casting Director Lori Eastside Production Designer Robert Pyzocha
Today, The Film Buff explores the mastery of director Luca Guadagnino and his ability to construct films that culminate in powerful final shots. This technique aligns so closely with Pete's recent viewings that he insists the film must have been reverse-engineered to achieve this effect. Queer is recently available on HBO MAX. Those who brought us Queer. Daniel Craig as William Lee Drew Starkey as Eugene Allerton Jason Schwartzman as Joe Guidry Lesley Manville as Dr. Cotter Henrique Zaga as Winston Moor Drew Droege as John Dumé Andra Ursuța as Mary Ariel Schulman as Tom Weston Andrés Duprat as Dr. Hernandez Omar Apollo as Chimu Bar Guy David Lowery as Jim Cochran Lisandro Alonso as Mr. Cotter Michaël Borremans as Doctor Ronia Ava as Joan Vollmer Crew Director: Luca Guadagnino Screenwriter: Justin Kuritzkes Producers: Lorenzo Mieli, Luca Guadagnino Executive Producers: Christian Vesper, James Grauerholz, Peter Spears, Elena Recchia, Maria Teresa Monaco Cinematographer: Sayombhu Mukdeeprom Editor: Marco Costa Music: Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross Production Designer: Inbal Weinberg Costume Designer: Jonathan Anderson Casting Directors: Luis Rosales, Maurilio Mangano, Valentina Materiale
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