Always the Critic Movie Podcast

On Episode 267 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we head back to spice world of Arrakis for a review of Dune: Part 2, starring Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Javier Bardem, Josh Brolin, Austin Butler, and Florence Pugh.  Rico and Jess discuss this masterful sequel from prestige director Denis Villenueve, talking through the haunting anti-hero story, the world building and culture building, the performances and characters (justice for Chani!), the amazing score from Hans Zimmer, the most impactful scenes, 2024 Oscar predictions (what could have been had Dune 2 premiered in November 2023!), and more in spoilers. *Check out our review for Dune (2021) here. For episodes with similar movies, click belowDramaAction Adventure Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 266 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we're back to look at some of the movies we saw over the last few weeks. Rico and Jess take turns talking about movies they have watched recently, including Argylle, Anatomy of a Fall, American Fiction, Bob Marley: One Love and The Beekeeper. For episodes with similar movies, click belowVariety Shows Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 265 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we head to WWII Germany to review The Zone of Interest, starring Sandra Hüller and Christian Friedel.  Rico and Jess discuss this Oscar Best Picture contender from director Jonathan Glazer, talking through the haunting story, the performances and characters, the audacious sound design (also Oscar nominated), the most sickening and impactful scenes, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click belowDrama Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 265 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we're looking forward to the 2024 movie slate and we chat about 10 movies we're excited to watch. Rico and Jess take turns naming 2024 movies that they want to watch. Although they share a few in common, of course the surprise each other with what they left off the list. They also talk about Ariana Grande. For episodes with similar movies, click below Variety Shows Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 264 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we're back from our holiday break to look back at the year 2023 and rank our top 10 movies of the year. Rico and Jess take turns naming their top 10 movies of the year. Although they share a few in common, the co-hosts surprise each other with their picks. They also talk about the year 2023 in movies, most memorable scenes/moments in film, the best performances of the year, and the movies that just missed the list. For our original Most Anticipated Movies of 2023 episode, listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. For episodes with similar movies, click belowVariety Shows Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 263 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we're back from our Thanksgiving break to review all the in-theater releases we watched recently, including Saltburn, starring Barry Keoghan, Jacob Elordi, and Rosamund Pike.  Rico and Jess discuss Emerald Fennell's wild dabaucherous romp Saltburn, the latest from Hayao Miyazaki The Boy and the Heron, Dream Scenario with Nic Cage, and the triumph that is Godzilla Minus One. For episodes with similar movies, click belowAnimatedAction AdventureDramaThriller Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 261 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we're back in the Panem to review The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, starring Tom Blyth, Rachel Zegler, Viola Davis, and Peter Dinklage.  Rico and Jess discuss this prequel release from Hunger Games franchise director Francis Lawrence, talking through the plot, the performances from Zegler and Blyth, the ~ballad~ singing, some context missing in the book-to-screen adaptation, the best and most surprising parts of the film, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click belowAction Adventure Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 259 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we're back in the MCU to review The Marvels, starring Brie Larson, Teyonah Parris, and Iman Vellani.  Rico and Jess discuss the SAG-AFTRA strike ending, the Mean Girls musical trailer, what they've been watching since their last episode before diving into this late 2023 release from director Nia DaCosta, talking through the scattered plot, the female relationships at the center of the film, Iman Vellani's scene-stealing performance as Kamala Khan/Ms. Marvel, the singing and the cats and a wasted Park Seo-joon, the predictable third act woes, the overall state of the phase 5 MCU, that mid-credits scene, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click belowSuperhero Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 260 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we sing our hearts out and discuss Taylor Swift: The Era Tours! Rico and Jess discuss the blockbuster concert film. We chat about our favorite moments, what we wished to have seen in the movie and how it stacks up to concert movies we've seen before. For episodes with similar movies, click below Variety Shows Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 259 of the Always the Critic podcast, Jess and Rico continue the mini Spooky SZN with another Daebak K-Rambles Podcast crossover episode to review of Ballerina, starring Jun Jong-Seo and Kim Ji-Hoon. Jess and Rico discuss this Netflix original film from writer-director Lee Chung-Hyun, talking through its derivative nature, the revenge plot and the performances, the action scene editing à la Christopher Nolan, the cinematography and bisexual lighting, Kim Ji-hoon's thirst trap scenes, what's missing from the movie, and more! Rate and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, follow us on all the socials, and be sure to let us know what you want to see in Season 5! Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 258 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we to New Asia to review The Creator, starring John David Washington, Gemma Chan, Allison Janney, and Madeleine Yuna Voyles.  Rico and Jess discuss this 2023 release from director Gareth Edwards, talking through the genre of sci-fi A.I. robot movies, the stunning and impressive visuals, John David Washington's track record, the performance from child actress Voyles, the predictable plot beats and most compelling scenes, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click belowDrama Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 257 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we're finally back in time to review Dumb Money, starring Paul Dano, Shailene Woodley, Pete Davidson, America Ferrera, Seth Rogan, Sebastian Stan, and more. Rico and Jess discuss what they've been up to and watching since their last episode before diving into this rare late-2023 release based on a recent true story, talking through the pandemic setting, workplace dissatisfaction theme, the experience of living through this story in real time, the performances and most compelling storylines, Pete Davidson, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click below Drama Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 256 of the Always the Critic Podcast, on the eve of Hurricane Idalia, we queue up our list of best storm movies. Rico and Jess take turns listing their top 5 storm movies, producing two vastly different lists based on slightly different criteria, citing movies like Twister, The Wizard of Oz, The Day After Tomorrow, Groundhog Day, and more! For episodes with similar movies, click below Variety Shows Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 255 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we each list out favorite movies in ABC order, one movie for each letter of the alphabet. Rico and Jess discuss and list 26 of their favorite movies in ABC order. Rico mentioned movies like The Dark Knight and Moneyball, while Jessica listed out Bridesmaids and The Mummy, among others. For episodes with similar movies, click belowVariety Shows Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 254 of the Always the Critic Podcast, it's Blindspots: Volume 3, where we discuss some movies (classic or not) that we watched for the first time. Rico and Jess discuss and remove a wide range of movies from their shame lists. Rico got around to movies like Chinatown and The Big Short, while Jessica knocked out Waiting to Exhale and Kick-Ass, among others. Check out the other Blind Spots episodes! Movie Blindspots: Volume 2 / Ep. 126 Movie Blindspots / Ep. 71 For episodes with similar movies, click belowVariety Shows Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 253 of the Always the Critic Podcast, it's a double feature as we review two hotly anticipated movies that won the weekend (possibly the year), Greta Gerwig's Barbie and Christopher Nolan's Oppenheimer.  Rico and Jess first talk about Barbie and how much they connected with the clever, beautiful story and commentary, mentioning the excellent comedy, its celebration of women, the resurgence of the color pink, America Ferrera's monologue, and the killer OST. Later in the show, Rico and Jess discuss Oppenheimer, (1:01:43) including the stacked cast, the questionable nudity and flawed women characters, the best scenes and most compelling bits of plot, the musical score from Ludwig Göransson, and more. For episodes with similar movies, click belowComedyDrama Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 252 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we survive a car chase through the streets of Rome on our review of Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning - Part 1, starring Tom Cruise, Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, Rebecca Ferguson, Hayley Atwell, and more.  Rico and Jess discuss the 6th MI installment, talking through the plot, the retcons, the practical stunts, Esai Morales's villain, the excellence of all the ladies in the MI franchise, our top sequences in all of the Mission Impossible movies, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click belowAction Adventure Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 251 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we hit pause on reviewing a new movie and look back at the year 2023 so far, ranking our top 10 movies. Rico and Jess examine the 2023 movie outlook, comparing it to previous years and discussing what we can expect heading into the latter half of the year, rank their top 10 movies of 2023, and touch on what they're anticipating most for new releases. For episodes with similar movies, click belowVariety Shows Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 250 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we put on our fedora (again) on our review of Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, starring Harrison Ford, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Mads Mikkelsen, and more.  Rico and Jess discuss the 5th Indie installment, talking through the awesome and terrible, uncanny valley CGI, the new themes explored, Mikkelsen's villain, the best and worst sequences, the third act that left us a bit stunned, the state of the Indiana Jones franchise, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click belowAction Adventure Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 249 of the Always the Critic Podcast, it's a double feature as we review the R-rated comedy No Hard Feelings and Wes Anderson's Asteroid City, before the non-spoiler section of our Daebak K-Rambles Past Lives review.  Rico and Jess first talk about No Hard Feelings and how much they've missed Jennifer Lawrence, mentioning the rather tame nature of the movie (despite that ONE scene, you know the one), how it succeeded in being heartfelt, newcomer Andrew Barth Feldman's comedic chops, the welcome addition of Matthew Broderick, and the post-Judd Apatow comedy landscape. Later in the show, Rico and Jess discuss Asteroid City, (XX:XX) including the stacked cast, the strength of the younger cast members, how sucky they found the movie with its incoherent plot, a revelation from Rico about Edward Norton, and Wes Anderson as part of the pop culture zeitgeist, and more. *Check out our full review of Past Lives on our spin-off podcast Daebak K-Rambles! For episodes with similar movies, click belowComedyDrama Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 248 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we suit up and enter a new dimension (again) on our review of The Flash, starring Ezra Miller, Michael Keaton, Sasha Calle, and more.  Rico and Jess discuss the latest DC movie, talking through the terrible, uncanny valley CGI, the return of Keaton's Batman, the divisive figure of Ezra Miller, the state of the DCEU, Barry's now Hispanic background, Calle's Supergirl and how we wished we had more of her, the dizzying final act and all the surprising cameos, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click belowSuperhero Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 247 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we MAXIMIZE on our review of Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, starring Anthony Ramos, Dominique Fishback, Ron Perlman, Peter Dinklage, Pete Davidson, and so many more.  Rico and Jess discuss the latest in the Transformers franchise, talking through the cast list, Anthony Ramos and his rising star power, Pete Davidson's voice acting for Mirage, the overt 90s OST, favorite scenes, THAT ending, and more. For episodes with similar movies, click below Action Adventure Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 246 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we suit up and enter a new dimension on our review of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, starring Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Oscar Isaac, and so many more.  Rico and Jess discuss the sequel to 2018's Into the Spider-Verse, talking through the Hispanic representation, the ethical and moral quandaries along with the emotional touchpoints, the emphasis on Steinfeld's Gwen Stacy and her world's art style, the portrayal of Oscar Isaac's Miguel O'Hara, the insane OST, the cliffhanger ending, theories, predictions, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click below AnimatedFamilySuperhero Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 245 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we swim fathoms below for our review of The Little Mermaid, starring Halle Bailey, Jonah Hauer-King, Melissa McCarthy, Javier Bardem, Awkwafina, Daveed Diggs, and more.  Rico and Jess discuss the latest Disney live-action remake, talking through how perfect Halle Bailey was as Ariel, the Aquaman-esque approach to the underwater CGI, Melissa McCarthy's Ursula and the “Poor Unfortunate Souls” number, thoughts on Jonah Hauer-King's endearing Prince Eric, the Vanessa player who stole the show with her insane heat check, the numerous changes from the original 1989 film, including the song lyric changes, cuts, additions, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click below Family Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 244 of the Always the Critic Podcast, it's all about family on our review of Fast X, starring Vin Diesel, Jason Momoa, Michelle Rodriguez, Ludacris, Tyrese Gibson, Charlize Theron, John Cena, and so many more.  Rico and Jess discuss the first movie in the possible Fast X trilogy, talking through how stacked the cast is and how the franchise seems to lure in Oscar winners, their favorite Fast saga movie, the best and most ridiculous moments and lines, thoughts on Jason Momoa's new villain, the cliffhanger ending, how [REDACTED] is back, the mid-credits scene, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click below Action Adventure Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 243 of the Always the Critic Podcast, in honor of Mother's Day, we queue up our list of best movie moms! Rico and Jess take turns listing the movie mothers who teach, inspire, or just plain kick ass, citing moms like Sarah Connor (Terminator), Queen Ramonda (Black Panther), Mrs. Incredible (The Incredibles), Molly Weasley (Harry Potter franchise), and more! For episodes with similar movies, click below Variety Shows Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 242 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we're back with a brand new playlist on our review of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, starring Chris Pratt, Dave Bautista, Bradley Cooper, Karen Gillan, Pom Klementieff, and so many more.  Rico and Jess discuss the final movie in the Guardians trilogy, talking through how James Gunn decided to go for the emotional jugular (why are we crying over an otter?), the best moments and music, thoughts on the new villain and Will Poulter's Adam Warlock, how Mantis got to finally shine, the underlying political messages of the film, the mid-credits and end credits scenes, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click below Superhero Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 241 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we go on a high fantasy adventure on our review of Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, starring Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez, Justice Smith, Sophia Lillis, Hugh Grant, and more.  Rico and Jess discuss the D&D adaptation, talking through how approachable the plot and characters were (since they have no prior experience playing the game), Chris Pine and his endless charisma, how silly and great Hugh Grant is, the resistance to the overabundance of CGI, the cameo that might have been the best part of the movie, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click below Action Adventure Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 240 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we're back and in a brand-new suit for our review of John Wick: Chapter 4, starring Keanu Reeves, Ian McShane, Donnie Yen, Bill Skarsgård, more.  Rico and Jess discuss the latest film in the John Wick franchise, talking through how the John Wick movies rank among the greatest action franchises, the newcomers and how they stacked up, the unassailable action sequences, Skarsgård's French accent, Keanu's lack of lines, the future of John Wick, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click below Action Adventure Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 239 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we're back in Philly for our review of Shazam: Fury of the Gods, starring Zachary Levi, Djimon Hounsou, Rachel Zegler, Lucy Liu, Helen Mirren, and more.  Rico and Jess discuss the most recent DC release, talking through how it stacks up to the first movie, the character arcs that impressed and the ones that didn't, the new additions of Zegler, Liu, and Mirren, third act qualms, THAT demigod's appearance, both the mid-credits and post-credits scene, the state of DC movies, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click below Superhero Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 238 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we recap and comment on the 95th Academy Awards. Rico and Jess talk through the telecast, going over some of their predictions and their experience watching the broadcast at an Oscars party. They recap the historic Everything Everywhere All at Once sweep, delight in Ke Huy Quan (who effectively won the whole evening), the emotional speeches, the unique musical performances (including Lady Gaga's stripped back “Hold My Hand” and the energetic “Naatu Naatu”), Jimmy Kimmel as host again, Will Smith slap references, Jenny the donkey, Cocaine Bear, and so much more. For episodes with similar movies, click below Variety Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 237 of the Always the Critic Podcast, it's a double feature as we review Creed III, starring Michael B. Jordan, Jonathan Majors, and Tessa Thompson, and R-rated comedy Cocaine Bear, starring Keri Russell, Alden Ehrenreich, O'Shea Jackson Jr., and Ray Liotta. Rico and Jess first turn toward the ring, talking about Michael B. Jordan's directorial debut, the creative and stylistic choices he made, the tangible absence of Sylvester Stallone's Rocky and the reasons behind it, comparisons to the previous two movies in the Creed trilogy, favorite moments in the film, and more. Later in the show, Rico and Jess discuss the wild Cocaine Bear, (1:04:55) including how entertaining and campy they found the movie, hysterical performances from the cast, how this is Ray Liotta's final performance, and more. For episodes with similar movies, click below Comedy Drama Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 236 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we visit the quantum realm on our review of Ant-Man & the Wasp: Quantumania, starring Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Michelle Pfeiffer, Jonathan Majors, and more. Rico and Jess discuss the most recent MCU release, talking through the dizzying CGI bonanza, the underwhelming utilization of Lilly's Wasp and Bill Murray, the impressive performance from Majors, the pure lunacy of MODOK, the general disappointment of the entire film, both the mid-credits and post-credits scene, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click below Superhero Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On the latest episode of Always the Critic podcast, we get together with special guest Tasha Jones to induct a second class into the romantic comedy hall of fame! We are joined by our friend Tasha Jones, aka the official hype girl for John Williams, to nominate eight actors/actresses who we would induct into our Nora Ephron Romantic Comedy Hall of Fame. We thought there would be some no-brainers but we were wrong. Check out the final list by listening, and tell us your picks! Check out our initial induction episode here! GUEST: Tasha Jones TikTok @tashajonesss Instagram @tashajonesss For episodes with similar movies, click below Variety Shows Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 233 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we catch a few grasshoppers and contend with the apocalypse on our review of Knock at the Cabin, starring Dave Bautista, Jonathan Groff, and Ben Aldridge. Rico and Jess discuss this M. Night Shymalan thriller, talking through Dave Bautista's amazing performance, the shooting style that created a sense of unease, the biblical references, the common theme we've seen in other Shymalan projects, the movie's different ending from the source material, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click below Thriller Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 233 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we hit up the Philippines for a destination wedding on our review of Shotgun Wedding, starring Jennifer Lopez and Josh Duhamel. Rico and Jess discuss this direct-to-Amazon Prime 2023 action rom-com, talking through J.Lo's place in the annals of rom-com royalty, the pass-the-baton casting that landed Josh Duhamel the role, the wildly entertaining Jennifer Coolidge, nitpicks with the storytelling, the funniest scenes, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click below Action Adventure Romantic Comedy Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 232 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we queue up our list of most anticipated 2023 movies! After talking through their 2023 movie resolutions, Rico and Jess take turns listing 2023 release movies they're excited to see, citing movies like Barbie, Oppenheimer, Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning Part 1, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, and more! For episodes with similar movies, click below Variety Shows Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 231 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we're back from our holiday break to look back at the year 2022 and rank our top 10 movies of the year. Rico and Jess take turns naming their top 10 movies of the year. Although they share a few in common, the co-hosts surprise each other with their picks. They also talk about the year 2022 in movies, biggest disappointment, biggest surprise, most memorable scenes/moments in film, the best performances of the year, and the movies that just missed the list. For our original Most Anticipated Movies of 2022 episode, listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more. For episodes with similar movies, click below Variety Shows Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 230 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we return to the world of Pandora on our review of Avatar: The Way of Water, starring Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, and Sigourney Weaver. It's the last episode of 2022, and Rico and Jess discuss this James Cameron sequel 13 years in the making, talking through their theater experiences, the ridiculously stunning cinematography, major themes in the movie, disappointing plot gymnastics, best moments, a little Titanic déjà vu, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click below Action Adventure Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 229 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we celebrate Christmas by answering the question, Is this a Christmas movie? Rico and Jess discuss the a slew of movies that can be considered Christmas movies, like Gremlins, The Nightmare Before Christmas… and Iron Man 3? Listen in to hear us state our cases, saving the best for last—Die Hard. For episodes with similar movies, click below Variety Shows Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 228 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we get our ho-ho-ho back on our review of Violent Night, starring David Harbour and John Leguizamo. Rico and Jess discuss this bloody 2022 Christmas movie, talking through their unique theater experiences, the wildly entertaining David Harbour as Santa, how they nailed two different tones in the movie, the goriest deaths, the possibility of a sequel, potential titles for said sequel, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click below Action Adventure Thriller Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 227 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we celebrate Thanksgiving by dedicating an entire episode to prolific writer Nora Ephron. Rico and Jess talk through Ephron's early life and how she got into Hollywood as a screenwriter, discussing her biggest works, like When Harry Met Sally…, Sleepless in Seattle, and You've Got Mail, including fun facts, favorite moments, and Nora's impact on the films. For episodes with similar movies, click below Romantic Comedy Variety Shows Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 226 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we visit the ancestral plain on our review of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, starring Letitia Wright, Angela Bassett, Lupita Nyong'o, Tenoch Huerta, and more. Rico and Jess discuss the most-anticipated MCU release this year, talking through the impressive performances from Letitia Wright and Angela Bassett, the portrayal of Namor and the Mesoamerican representation, the amazing new music from Ludwig Göransson, the issues with a few new characters and the third act, *that* mid-credits scene, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click below Superhero Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 225 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we prep for the upcoming Wakanda Forever release by doing a snake draft with friend of the pod Jake Christie from the MCUniversity Podcast and Dalbin Osorio from Badlands/TOJ and Murphy's Multiverse. Rico, Jess, Jake, and Dalbin go 10 rounds in a serpentine draft, drafting non-MCU movies with at least two members of the MCU! Find out what each picked and why, and stick around to hear what just missed the cutoff! For episodes with similar movies, click below Superhero Variety Shows Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 224 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we hit pause on reviewing a new movie and each rank our top 5 spooky SZN movies. Rico and Jess share their respective lists, which end up (of course) being wildly different. Jess chooses more comfort movies that evoke the spirit of the season, while Rico goes full horror and thriller. Listen to find out what they chose and what just missed their lists! For episodes with similar movies, click below Variety Shows Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 223 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we surrender to no one on our review of Black Adam, starring Dwayne Johnson. Rico and Jess discuss a movie that's been in the works since 2007, talking through the startlingly bad storytelling, the charmless performance from Johnson, some preachy characters, Zack Snyder aesthetic, *that* mid-credits sequence, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click below Superhero Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 222 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we ditch the new releases and rewind it back to 2006 to cover The Prestige, starring Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman. Rico and Jess discuss this oft-forgotten Christopher Nolan flick, talking through how Nolan managed to snag the film rights, the major themes and brilliant writing, what else was competing in theaters in 2006, the incredible supporting cast, which includes Michael Caine, David Bowie, Andy Serkis, and Scarlett Johansson, the best scenes and lines, and more. For episodes with similar movies, click below Drama Rewind Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 221 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we sing to a corpse on our review of Amsterdam, starring Christian Bale, John David Washington, and Margot Robbie. Rico and Jess talk through one of Rico's most anticipated movies of 2022, discussing the bizarre plot and writing, the preachy themes, awful acting from Washington and Taylor Swift, and more in spoilers. For episodes with similar movies, click below Drama Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 220 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we put a spell on you—again—on our review of Hocus Pocus 2, starring Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy, and Sarah Jessica Parker. Rico and Jess discuss the Disney+ sequel, including the recycled plot, the good and bad comedy, and terrible writing, before transitioning into Rico's first impressions of the Netflix release Blonde with Ana de Armas and getting into a small argument over the best Disney Channel Original Movies (DCOMs). For episodes with similar movies, click below Family Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 219 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we wake up in a male utopia (ironically located in the desert) for our review of Don't Worry Darling, starring Florence Pugh, Harry Styles, Chris Pine, and Olivia Wilde. Rico and Jess discuss the Wilde's sophomore film and the number 1 movie at the box office, including the complex and entertaining-as-hell press tour, the faltering themes of the movie (ahem, feminism), Harry Styles's acting, the horrendous final act, comparisons to the original spec script ending, and more in spoilers! For episodes with similar movies, click below Thriller Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message

On Episode 218 of the Always the Critic Podcast, we visit the kingdom of Dahomey on our review of The Woman King, starring Viola Davis, Thuso Mbedu, and Lashana Lynch. Rico and Jess discuss the number 1 movie at the box office, including the complicated history surrounding the portrayal of this African state, Viola Davis's powerhouse performance, the intense themes of the movie, comparisons to Black Panther, the best and most emotionally evocative scenes, and more in spoilers! For episodes with similar movies, click below Action Adventure Become a Subscriber! Monthly Subscription Listen To Us! Spotify Apple Podcasts Anchor Follow us! Patreon Instagram Twitter Facebook Rico's Youtube Rico's Letterboxd Jessica's Letterboxd --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/alwaysthecritic/message